Nevada Humane Society free adoptions pair people and pets together this weekend

It usually happens once a year — a big, community wide, fee-waived pet adoption event. The goal? To get a large number of animals into loving homes all at one time while freeing up much needed space in the shelters.

Not only have we done this here in Washoe County, but shelters all across the nation have hosted free pet adoption events—and all of us have the same success, which is a win for everyone.

This Saturday, June 25, for one day only, Washoe County shelters have teamed up for Community Adoption Day with the goal of pairing people and pets together — so come one, come all! For this one day, pet adoption fees will be waived on all dogs and cats. Yes, that means puppies and kittens too! Our community has told us that you want this—that you know that working together we can save even more lives. Community Adoption Day on June 25 is for you.

Once it was conventional wisdom that fee-waived adoptions were bad for shelter pets — many in the animal welfare community were concerned that doing this may devalue pets in the eyes of the adopter, compromise their care and reflect badly on their shelter. In 1998, shelters — including us — began to see the real facts — that there were more animals being killed than saved.

It was then that communities decided to make a difference, so fee-waived adoptions were introduced. The result? Success. Animals are going home faster, therefore making room for other pets in need. As more studies highlight the success of fee-waived adoptions, we find that they have the same outcomes as for-fee adoptions and are the right thing nationwide — and we are big believers.

Studies by Maddie’s Fund and ASPCA Professional reveal some interesting details:
• Waiving adoption fees does not devalue an animal in the eyes of the adopter
• Free programs dramatically impact the lives of thousands of shelter pets who would otherwise reside there for long periods of time or possibly be euthanized
• Multiple high-profile shelters have implemented fee-waived adoptions successfully
• A fee-waived adoption does not equal giving away a pet to just anyone; adoption standards are not lowered and the same process as regular adoptions is implemented

So if you’ve been considering adding to your family, now is the time. Community Adoption Day is this Saturday, June 25 — all dogs and cats are free! Nevada Humane Society, the SPCA of Northern Nevada, Pet Network Humane Society and Canine Rehabilitation Center and Sanctuary (CRCS) are participating. Between us, hundreds of pets are waiting for you. You’ll find all ages, personalities, looks and traits — but we know you will find someone! See you at our Community Adoption Day!

For specific details about each participant and adoption requirements, please contact them directly:
• Nevada Humane Society 775-856-2000
• SPCA of Northern Nevada 775-324-7773
• Pet Network Humane Society 775-832-4404
• Canine Rehabilitation Center & Sanctuary (CRCS) 775-800-1906

Featured Pet: I’m Nala, a big, goofy, confident gal! As a senior, I’ve got years of experience in dating and I love everyone. My only goal in life is that I aim to please! Won’t you meet me today? I’m at Nevada Humane Society in Reno.

— Kimberly Wade is the Senior Manager of Communications and Events for Nevada Humane Society. She has been with the organization for over 6 years but her passion for animals has existed her entire life. Kimberly lives with her husband, 2 cats (Newton is pictured), 3 dogs and a fish.