Are you on the hunt for a furry companion to welcome into your home? Look no further! Arlington’s very own animal shelter is ready to help you find the perfect pet. But this isn’t just about finding a new friend; it’s about making a difference in the lives of animals in need.
From August 1 to August 23, Arlington Animal Services is hosting a special pet adoption event where you can adopt a furry friend for just $5! This incredible deal comes shortly after the city halted voluntary surrenders, which means the shelter’s capacity is still stretched thin.
Typically, adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $90 for cats, so this event presents a fantastic opportunity for families looking to add a new member to their household. Michelle Patchett, the shelter’s marketing and social media manager, emphasizes that the timing of this event is crucial.
In June, Arlington announced that the animal shelter would pause voluntary surrenders due to overcrowding, a situation that persists today. The shelter is designed to accommodate up to 159 animals but has been caring for more than 200 dogs daily since May, as highlighted in reports by the Arlington Report.
Patchett mentions, “If we could get 100, 150, even maybe 200 adoptions, it would just give us more breathing room.” The shelter’s goal is to reduce the number of animals in its care, making it an essential initiative for both the facility and the community.
What’s Included in the Adoption Fee?
This isn’t just a bargain adoption; it’s a comprehensive care package for your new pet. The $5 adoption fee includes spaying and neutering, a city license, microchipping, core vaccines, rabies vaccination, and testing for heartworm, Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
For those who prefer a more modern approach to pet adoption, virtual adoptions are also available through a partner app called WeRescue. This platform allows users to find adoptable pets nearby, submit applications, and ask questions directly to the shelter, making adoption more accessible than ever.
Saving Lives—One Adoption at a Time
Adopting from the Arlington shelter goes beyond just adding a pet to your home; it saves lives. Patchett notes, “When you adopt a pet, you’re not only providing a new home for that animal, but you’re also creating space for another homeless animal in need.” This ripple effect of compassion is crucial, especially during times of overcrowding.
The goal for this year’s adoption drive is to place 150 animals in loving homes. Normally, this number reflects the shelter’s total capacity, but due to current overcrowding, it serves as a necessary target to help restore balance.
Among the many adorable pets available for adoption, Tarzan, a playful German shepherd mix puppy, stands out. After recovering from a knee injury, he has returned to the “adoption mall,” a special area at the front of the shelter designed for facilitating adoptions. Patchett anticipates that he’ll find his forever home soon, given his friendly demeanor and curious nature.
Cowboy, another charming pup looking for a home, is an Australian cattle dog mix who eagerly greets every visitor at his kennel. His friendly and energetic personality makes him a standout candidate for adoption.
Patchett is encouraging everyone interested in adopting a pet to visit the shelter in person or check online to see the animals available for adoption. The shelter is also open to supporting those interested in fostering pets temporarily. For individuals unable to adopt, volunteering is another fantastic way to help; the shelter always welcomes assistance with walking dogs, socializing with animals, and general support around the facility.
Mobile Pet Adoption Unit
For those who prefer to meet pets in diverse locations, the mobile pet adoption unit will be roaming around Arlington every Saturday of the month, visiting various local businesses.
- The Arlington Animal Shelter, located at 1000 S.E. Green Oaks Blvd., is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Note that the shelter remains closed on Sundays.
- Saturday, Aug. 2 – The mobile unit will be at PetSmart in Arlington Highlands from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 9 – The mobile unit will visit Petco at 4001 W. Green Oaks Blvd., Suite 159, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 16 – You can find the mobile unit at Petco located at 2717 W Park Row Drive, Arlington, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 23 – The mobile unit will be at Starbucks on 1225 W Bardin Road from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This discounted adoption event is part of the broader Clear the Shelters initiative, which aims to increase pet adoptions while also raising funds through Greater Good Charities. The event showcases not only the importance of pet adoption but also emphasizes the enriching bond between humans and their animal companions.
Got a tip? Email James Hartley at jhartley@kera.org. You can follow James on X @ByJamesHartley.
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