PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y., June 19 2008 - Television actor, veteran stand up comic and author Richard Belzer has added another role to his impressive acting resume. He's now "Uncle Sam", star of a life-saving campaign, "We Want You...To Adopt," assuming the compelling glare of the iconic 1916 recruitment poster. In this role, as the centerpiece of a national shelter animal adoption Public Service Announcement being launched by North Shore Animal League America, Belzer's portrayal of the patriotic figure is seeking sign-ups to take a homeless animal into their lives.
The ads, featuring Belzer in Uncle Sam garb, surrounded by shelter pets, are intended to capitalize on the public's attention to the media's current surge of presidential campaign news. The copy announces a "Paws-i-dential" Year for all Republi-CANINES and Demo-CATS, underscoring the national urgency for adoption of homeless animals from shelters. To view the PSA visit www.animal-league.org.
Animal League spokesperson Devera Lynn says it is estimated that nearly 5 million pets are euthanized in the United States each year, while countless others are abandoned, neglected or abused.
"We are confident that this national PSA, featuring someone so instantly recognizable, and so sincerely concerned about animals in shelters, as Richard Belzer, will capture the attention of the media and public, and help us increase adoptions across the country. At the same time, we have the potential to make a significant impact on the euthanasia toll," adds Lynn.
Belzer, who has played Detective John Munch on a record-setting, ten different television series, and currently on NBC's Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, is a devoted pet parent. He's also a longtime supporter of shelter adoptions, and describes the Animal League Campaign as a "noble cause for which he has a strong affinity."
"My dogs bring me constant joy and incomparable companionship. Pets can make a remarkable difference in our lives, but we have to make a remarkable difference in theirs by going to a shelter and adopting. I am always steering friends and fellow actors to do this very thing, to adopt a homeless animal rather than buy a pet" said Belzer.
North Shore Animal League America is the world's largest no-kill animal shelter adopting more than 20,000 each year. For additional information about North Shore Animal League America or to find a shelter near you call 1-877-4SAVEPET or visit www.animal-league.org.
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