Posted: March 21, 2009, 5 a.m. EDT
In an effort to promote shelter adoptions and reduce retail purchasing of dogs from puppy mills, North Shore Animal League just recently launched its ninth annual Tour For Life. At the helm, Kathryn Erbe of TV’s “Law and Order: Criminal Intent” will serve as spokeswoman for the event.
For one month, two of North Shore Animal League America’s mobile adoption units will travel two cross-country routes simultaneously and help over 100 shelters and rescue groups find homes for orphaned pets. The Tour For Life ends with a grand finale at FAO Schwarz in New York City on April 25, where celebrities will pose with puppies in the windows of the renowned toy store.
Erbe, whose own Mixed Breed Lila was adopted from North Shore Animal League America, hopes this initiative will also raise awareness of the ever-present need for adopting Mixed Breeds — a featured aspect of this year’s Tour For Life.
“As a pet owner and animal lover, this life-saving tour is truly close to my heart,” Erbe says. “Adopting from a shelter is the right choice.” Every pet adopted during Tour For Life will receive a free gift from Purina.