In Southern California, pet lovers have something to bark about this weekend. According to Riverside County Animal Services, all shelter pets will be up for free adoption on September 7 in support of the international Clear the Shelters campaign. This event, marking its 10th anniversary, aims to raise awareness for pet homelessness and the need for adoptive families at government and nonprofit animal shelters.
The adoption event is the culmination of a month-long push, spearheaded in the region by NBCLA and Telemundo 52, to find homes for animals in need. Riverside County Animal Services has been a steady participant since its inception in 2015, boasting more than 1,000 animals finding new homes or foster care in the first three weeks of this year's effort alone, with 851 in foster care and over 200 through adoptions, the department's record shows.
Supervisor Karen Spiegel expressed her support for the campaign. "Reducing cost barriers encourages more adoptions, which will help alleviate overcrowding in our shelters. This campaign is a step towards ensuring that more pets find loving homes. We are deeply grateful to the Department of Animal Services for their commitment to the well-being of our shelter animals," Spiegel told Riverside County Animal Services. Echoing this sentiment, Fifth District Supervisor Gutierrez, a rescue dog owner himself, underscored the companionship that pets bring into lives.
Director Erin Gettis expressed gratitude for the media promotion, acknowledging the role it plays in encouraging the community to adopt. "We are very hopeful to see another strong showing on Sept. 7," said Gettis, noting the shelters are currently at capacity and in need of the public's support. With adoptions free of charge at the county's shelter locations in Jurupa Valley, San Jacinto and Thousand Palms, the upcoming event shapes up as a potential win-win, for families and pets alike.
Interested adopters can view available pets at the Riverside County Animal Services' website, providing a chance to find a new furry friend without the burden of adoption fees.
