Free Pets: Where To Adopt On Clear The Shelters Day In NoVA, DC

WASHINGTON, DC — Adoption fees will be waived at many animal shelters on Saturday, Aug. 18, around the DC metro for the fourth annual Clear the Shelters pet adoption drive. The event sponsored by NBC helps shelters nationwide find permanent and loving homes for homeless animals during a time of year when adoptions are needed.

While shelters will waive adoption fees on all pets available, regular adoption requirements will apply. Plan to bring a photo ID and any other necessary paperwork to qualify to adopt.

Among the northern Virginia shelters participating in the day is the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, which takes in animals needing shelter and finds them homes. Doors opened early at 11 a.m. to accommodate potential adopters. The shelter will be open from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Aug. 18.

Nearly 70 animals found homes during last year's event. AWLA expects to have rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, and of course dogs and cats available this year. See all of the animals available for adoption and learn about the adoption process.

If you can't make it to the event, AWLA is asking for donations to help defray the costs of medical treatment, food, microchipping for the animals and more. These donations also help to "clear the shelter."

The Fredericksburg SPCA said of the day: "If you are looking to add a furry friend to your family, today is 100% adoption fee waived! And Sunday... well, Sunday we are just going to sleep in with our newly adopted animals!"

Here are some of the locations waiving fees:

• Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
• Animal Welfare League of Arlington
• City of Manassas Animal Shelter
• Fairfax County Animal Shelter
• Fredericksburg SPCA
• Homeward Trails Animal Rescue
• Humane Rescue Alliance (New York Avenue)
• Humane Rescue Alliance (Oglethorpe Street)
• Humane Society of Loudoun County
• Loudoun County Animal Services
• Paws for Seniors
• Prince William County Animal Shelter
• Prince William Humane Society
• Stafford County Animal Shelters

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Check the Clear the Shelters campaign page to see which animal shelters around the country are participating in the adoption drive with fees waived on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018.

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