Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center (MRSPAC) is participating in the national adoption campaign, "Empty the Shelters – Holiday Hope," organized by the BISSELL Pet Foundation. The event, aimed at tackling the national pet homelessness crisis, offers reduced adoption fees and runs from December 1 to 17.
The local adoption center, located at 6165 Industrial Ave., is among over 380 shelters in 43 states participating in this initiative. During the event, the adoption fees for dogs over five months old are reduced to $50 and $20 for cats and kittens. These fees include spaying/neutering, microchipping, and age-appropriate vaccinations.
Molly Shannon, Marketing and Communications Manager for MRSPAC emphasized the importance of adoption, especially during this time of high need. "With a significant number of pets awaiting adoption, each adoption not only provides a home to an animal in need but also frees up space for others awaiting rescue," she said.
Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation, called this a crisis, stating, "The nation's shelters are experiencing an unprecedented overcrowding crisis due to a rise in owner surrenders and stray intakes. Our 'Empty the Shelters – Holiday Hope' event is a critical opportunity for community members to make a meaningful impact."
MRSPAC's participation in this campaign is part of BISSELL Pet Foundation’s broader "Empty the Shelters" initiative, the largest funded adoption event in the country since its inception in 2016. The program has successfully placed over 204,000 pets in loving homes and works in partnership with 730 animal welfare organizations across 49 states and Canada.
