Over 10,000 Tennis Balls Released to Shelter Animals for Adoption Awareness in the Wake of Hurricane Sandy

NEW YORK - (BUSINESS WIRE) - After weeks of devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy, joy was brought to the dogs and cats of Animal Care & Control of NYC Manhattan & Brooklyn facilities this morning. Rock & Rawhide, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to increase adoption rates of dogs and cats in shelters, released just over 10,000 tennis balls with three lucky dogs (Huey, Emerald and Broadway) getting first dibs. The three beautiful, energetic and friendly dogs were let off their leashes and each got a turn to get in on the action. A portion of the tennis balls will also be donated to other shelter facilities in the tri-state area that were ravaged by Hurricane Sandy. The event was designed to raise awareness of the need for adoptions of dogs and cats that are available at facilities like these around the country just waiting for a furrever home.

Animal Care & Control of NYC Shelter dog Huey is treated to an early Christmas as pet charity Rock & Rawhide, in conjunction with Petco Foundation, releases over 10,000 tennis balls to shelter dogs and cats to raise awareness of the need for adoptions in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. (Photo: Business Wire)

The 10,000 tennis balls were a result of a program that took place in August at Petco Union Square. Rock & Rawhide, in conjunction with Petco Union Square and Petco Foundation, set out to raise 3,000 tennis balls however that goal was quickly achieved and then doubled within just a few days.

This event is part of a larger campaign the charity has been pushing for the last two weeks to help stem pet surrenders to shelters due to the aftermath of the super storm because of lack of food and ability to care for pets. In conjunction with partner organizations such as Petco Foundation and the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals, Rock & Rawhide has delivered over 75,000 pounds of much needed pet food and supplies to Staten Island, Long Island, Breezy Point, Far Rockaways and New Jersey. The campaign kicked off on Saturday, November 10^th with a pop-up concert the charity hosted in Union Square featuring several of New York's best singer/songwriter acts.