SPCA Florida Launches Statewide 2013 Spokescat Contest

LAKELAND, Fla., June 18, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- SPCA Florida announced today the launch of the SPCA Florida 2013 Spokescat Contest, a free online competition to showcase our special relationship with fabulous felines, promote adopting homeless cats from shelters, and ultimately select the star of SPCA Florida's new humane education campaign.  Starting June 18, 2013, participants can submit a photo or video along with a compelling story about their adopted cat at www.spokescat.org during the nomination period of the contest.  The first round of public voting for the contest starts July 9^th to select 10 semi-finalist cats.  Voting for the ultimate winning 2013 Spokescat begins on July 30^th.  All winners receive a one year supply of Revolution® feline heartworm prevention and flea control medicine and a supply of premium cat food.  The grand prize winning SPCA Florida 2013 Spokescat will participate in a photo shoot and public service announcement campaign that promotes adopting homeless cats from shelters and spaying or neutering cats to prevent homeless kittens.  

"As we seek to elevate the status of cats in our homes and families, promoting the benefits of the human-animal bond, we are reaching out through social media channels to further engage the entire community in the welfare and well-being of animals," said Sean Hawkins, SPCA Florida CEO. 

"The alarming statistics showing an increase in cat populations coupled with a decline in veterinary visits for cats, means we have to re-double our efforts to promote adoptions and spaying or neutering of our feline friends. Promoting the 2013 Spokescat contest through Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Pinterest is a way for everyone to participate in creating awareness for our fun feline friends," said Hawkins.

Other animal welfare organizations throughout Florida have been invited to promote the contest through their social media channels. The educational campaign featuring the winning 2013 Spokescat will be made available to animal shelters and rescue organization across Florida this fall to promote adopting homeless cats and the importance of responsible animal guardianship. 

For those publicity hounds, the SPCA Florida 2013 Spokesdog Contest will launch in October. Visit www.spokesdog.org for details and to receive updates on the campaign.

About SPCA Florida
Founded in 1979, SPCA Florida exists to eliminate animal suffering and engage the entire community in the welfare and well-being of animals. SPCA Florida will help and heal 70,000 dogs and cats through its McClurg Animal Medical Center and provide direct care for 6,500 animals through its Adoption Center this year.  Ani-Meals, which provides food and medical care for animals of homebound families, helps thousands more dogs and cats each year. Find out more about SPCA Florida or support Humane Florida by visiting www.spcaflorida.org.

Contact:
Jessica Lawson, Community Relations Manager
O: (863) 577-4607
C: (386) 986-8093 
[email protected]

SOURCE SPCA Florida