Attention pet lovers of Jacksonville: the opportunity to adopt a new furry family member is coming up this weekend, and it promises to be huge. The city's Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS) is teaming up with 11 other Northeast Florida shelters for what's billed as the "Petco Love Mega Adoption Event." Set to take place at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds, the event runs on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29 from 10 AM to 6 PM, as reported by the City of Jacksonville.
Coordinated by the Florida Leaders in Lifesaving initiative, the Jacksonville Humane Society,, and Petco Love, the goal is to see 2,000 shelter pets find homes over the weekend. "The Mega Adoption Event is hands down one of the coolest things we do all year," ACPS Chief Michael Bricker said in a statement obtained by the City of Jacksonville. "It’s a chance to completely change the lives of hundreds of amazing dogs and cats—and the people who adopt them."
For those looking to adopt, there's more good news: All adoption fees are being waived for the duration of the event. Adopters will only need to cover a $20 city license fee if they reside in Duval County. Each pet up for adoption has been spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated up to date. ACPS is contributing a substantial number of animals to the mix, with plans to bring about 80 dogs and 40 cats each day. The staff and dedicated volunteers will be ready to facilitate these pet adoptions and assist prospective owners with any questions they might have.
The shelters involved understand the importance of these events, not just for the animals but for enhancing the lives of new pet owners as well. "There's nothing like watching a family meet their new best friend for the first time. It’s emotional, it’s exciting, and it’s worth being, a part of," Bricker continued in his statement to the City of Jacksonville.
