SPCA Reduces Animal Adoption Fees In Response To Coronavirus

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — With the support of the Bissell Pet Foundation, the SPCA of Fredericksburg is holding an "Empty the Shelters" event where adoption fees are reduced to $25 for animals seven months or older. The event, which runs through next Wednesday, is being held in response to the new coronavirus, or COVID-19, which is placing increased demands on animal shelters and rescue groups.

The Bissell Pet Foundation wants to assist animal shelters that are struggling with fewer volunteers and staff to care for their animals. The foundation hopes the reduced adoption fee will encourage families to add an animal to their home.

Many shelters have already been forced to eliminate all in-person traffic in their facilities and few people are coming to adopt. Organizations are scrambling to find fosters to take pets in during the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Some pet owners are giving up their pets to shelters because they've lost their jobs due to the coronavirus and can't afford to take of the animals.

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In Virginia, the Bissell Pet Foundation is partnering on this adoption event with the Fredericksburg SPCA and the Pittsylvania Pet Center.

In the Fredericksburg area, residents should email Matchmakers@Fredspca.org to make an adoption appointment. Animals up for adoption can viewed online at Fredspca.org/adopt. The SPCA's address is 10819 Courthouse Road, Fredericksburg.

The Fredericksburg SPCA said it is continuing to closely monitor the coronavirus crisis and is taking precautions to protect its staff and the public. The nonprofit also said it is in great need of financial help and is welcoming donations.

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