Mapp proclaimed Aug. 18, 2018, as International Homeless Animals’ Day in the Virgin Islands

Gov. Kenneth E. Mapp issued a proclamation designating Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018, as International Homeless Animals’ Day in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The proclamation said the observance was intended to raise awareness of pet overpopulation and to promote spaying and neutering of companion animals.

It also cited the effects of the 2017 hurricanes on the territory’s pet population, stating that hundreds of animals were airlifted from the U.S. Virgin Islands on a private chartered jet after the storms.

In the proclamation, Mapp called on residents to be responsible pet owners, include pets in emergency and disaster planning, and keep only the type and number of pets for which they could provide food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/international-homeless-animals-day-proclamation-by-governor-mapp/