Free Adoption Event Hoped to Ease Shelter Overcrowding

Pasco Country residents hoping to kick off the new school year with a new furry family member are in luck. Dogs and cats are free this week at Animal Services.

The county agency is running a no-adoption-fee promotion at its Land O’ Lakes shelter that will culminate with a back-to-school adoption bash Saturday from noon until 4 p.m. at 19640 Dogpatch Lane. The event features entertainment courtesy of belly dancers and an appearance from Selena, a 9-year-old author.

While the all-day event is set for Saturday, Animal Services staff says there’s no reason to wait to adopt.

“We are waiving adoption fees all week,” Andrea Ciesluk, the agency’s spokeswoman, told Patch.

Ciesluk said the shelter is “extremely crowded” because of high volumes of animals brought in over the summer and during the recent flooding.

As of Monday, there were more than 150 dogs onsite and 72 cats. Another 101 cats and dogs are also in foster care, awaiting permanent adoptions.

Potential pet owners just need to stop by the Land O’ Lakes shelter to check out the available cats and dogs. Some of the animal available may also be viewed on the county’s website. No adoption fees apply this week for cats and dogs, but the $10 licensing fee remains in place.

For more information, visit the county’s website.