WESTAMPTON, NJ — The Burlington County Animal Shelter is holding a "Clear the Shelter Open House" on Saturday in order to help a few four-legged friends find new homes.
Families will be able to enjoy kids' activities, music, and food while being introduced to available dogs and cats from noon to 4 p.m. at 35 Academy Dr.
During the open house, there will be no adoption fees for animals 6-months and older, according to the shelter, making it easier to avoid monetary hurdles that may be in the way of making future memories.
"One of the shelter's happy tales involved a 2-year-old Cane Corso named Maxxis," Burlington County Animal Shelter Director Ericka Haines shared with Patch. "He came to the shelter in January after being dumped on the side of the road with a fanny pack around his neck."
According to Haines, staff later learned that his previous family abandoned him just due to not being able to handle a dog of his size and strength.
"A month later, he was adopted by an amazing family that adores him and shares his adventures on his very own social media site," Hanes added. "He's living the life that every dog deserves, and we are proud to have been part of it."
One of the dogs that will be available is Rafiki, a 3-year-old Pitbull Terrier that was brought in after someone found him alone and tied to a guardrail of an exit ramp on Interstate 295.
While he is still undergoing medical treatment, his well-being has improved to a point where he is ready to go home to a new family.
Haines pointed out that one of the most common misconceptions about the shelter is that they only have Pitbull Terriers or dogs with behavior problems.
"Currently, the shelter even has a pet bird that's available for adoption," said Haines. "There are pets available for all lifestyles."
Around 800 cats and dogs have been adopted so far from the shelter in 2026, according to Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo.
"Every adoption is a win, and we will continue to do everything we can to help more pets find their forever homes," Brolo added.
Learn more about Rafiki and the other available animals by visiting the shelter's website.
First-time adopters, Haines said, should have a written-down list ready that includes lifestyle habits for staff at the shelter to be able to read and match with potential suitors.
Community members can also learn how to volunteer, make a financial donation, or give the facility supplies it needs from a wish list.
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