Adoption Campaign and Shelters Struggle with Animal Intake

Animal shelters across the nation are experiencing unprecedented challenges that necessitate reduced adoption fees as part of a nationwide campaign.

• Higher stray and surrendered pet intake
• Limited resources
• Slower adoptions

These challenges, combined with the recent “kitten season,” have led shelters to seek alternative solutions to alleviate the situation.

A nationwide campaign, the “Clear The Shelters” initiative, aims to promote adoption and raise awareness about animal welfare.

“Unprecedented challenges facing animal shelters are increasing the need for adoptions. We are thrilled to be part of a nationwide campaign to make a difference in the lives of animals.” – DCHS Development & Communications Supervisor Lisa Bernard

The campaign, launched in 2015, has already helped nearly 1.2 million pets find new homes and raised over $5 million for shelters and rescues. In 2024, the campaign set a single-year adoption record and raised $500,000 for the 1,600 participating shelters across the United States. DCHS is participating in this nationwide campaign, which will help make a difference in the lives of animals in Dane County.

• DCHS is among the participating locations of the ‘Clear The Shelters’ campaign
• The campaign will start with 50% off all adoption fees on available cats
• The shelter is calling on the community to find new homes for every available animal

The adoption process is first come, first serve, and details about weekly adoption specials will be posted on the shelter’s website and social media pages. The shelter is at 5132 Voges Road in Madison, and its hours are posted on its website. “We’re so grateful to be part of a compassionate community that steps up for animals,” “We’re hopeful our community will help us find loving families for even more animals this year.” – Lisa Bernard

The “Clear The Shelters” campaign is a nationwide initiative that aims to promote adoption and raise awareness about animal welfare. As a participant, the DCHS will help make a difference in the lives of animals in Dane County. The shelter has already helped over 315 pets find new homes in previous campaigns, and this year, they hope to achieve an even better outcome. In a world where animals are often taken for granted, it’s essential to recognize the importance of adopting animals from shelters. Adoption is a rewarding way to add a new furry friend to your family while also saving a life. Highlights of the Campaign:

• 50% off all adoption fees on available cats
• 10% off all adoption fees on cats and dogs
• Unlimited free adoptions for seniors

• Senior citizens are eligible for unlimited free adoptions
• Adoption fees are waived for senior citizens

By participating in this nationwide campaign, the DCHS aims to promote awareness about animal welfare and encourage the community to find new homes for every available animal. The campaign’s goal is to help reduce the number of stray and surrendered pets by promoting adoption. As the nation’s animal shelters face unprecedented challenges, this campaign is crucial in making a difference. By adopting an animal from a shelter, you are not only saving a life but also opening a spot for another animal in need.