KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A new campaign launching this week is encouraging citizens to adopt a shelter dog or cat, and is offering reduced adoption fees to do so.
The BISSEL Pet Foundation (BPF) announced Tuesday that 170 shelters in 35 states are participating in the Empty the Shelters – Holiday Hope adoption event. The event will run from Wednesday, December 9 through Saturday, December 12.
As part of the campaign, BPF requires that adoption fees do not exceed $25, although fees may vary by location. County licensing and microchip registration fees may also apply.
Participating shelters have the choice to hold a 5-day event or choose the days that work best for them. Interested participants should check their local listing on the official website, where a map is available.
In Kalamazoo, the participating agency is listed as Kalamazoo Animal Rescue, located at 2938 Business One Drive. The listing says pre-approval is required, and is due by December 9. Other nearby participants are listed in Allegan, Hartford and South Haven.
“It’s so important to choose adoption,” Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation Cathy Bissell said in a statement. “So many people want to bring a pet into their home at this time of year. With the overwhelming number of pets in shelters, why not give them a chance? Without you, there really is no tomorrow so please consider adoption first.”
However, BPF reminds prospective pet parents that bringing a pet during the holidays is a long-term commitment. It’s important to make sure everyone in a participating household understands the new furry family member is a permanent addition.
All adoptable pets available during this promotion are required to be microchipped and spayed/neutered to prevent further pet homelessness.
Participants are also reminded to check what each local shelter’s COVID-19 policy is before visiting, as they may vary by location.
The announcement of this campaign marks BPF’s seventh Empty the Shelters event in 2020 alone, according to officials. Since the program’s inception in 2016, BPF has helped 40,550 shelter pets find forever homes.
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