An "Empty the Shelter" program in North Texas has led to over 2,200 animals adopted in just one day. Thanks to the success, organizers hope to spread the program to other cities nationwide.

Why Empty the Shelter Was Started

Empty the Shelter Day was held on August 16^th, involving 38 shelters in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. These shelters allowed free adoptions of animals, so long as they were going to a good home. This was the largest-scale adoption event in North Texas.

Adoption fees for the animals were waived, but different shelters may have required other fees, such as city registration and other requirements. Many of the animals were already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, micro chipped, and licensed.

Waiving adoption fees has been proven to encourage adoptions. A few shelters in Arizona had over 2,000 pets adopted over a weekend after waiving adoption fees. While this may raise concerns about the seriousness of the pet owners seeking free adoptions, a 2012 study conducted by the University of Florida has stated that free adoptions do not increase the risk of poor animal care.

Forever Homes Found for Over 2,200 Animals

One Dallas animal center noted in July that it was forced to euthanize 50-60 animals per day due to space and funding issues. This same center had 149 of its 150 animals adopted into loving homes on Empty the Shelter Day. A shelter in Arlington, Texas claimed that on a good Saturday, 10 animals might be adopted. On Empty the Shelter Day, 133 animals at the facility were adopted.

Empty the Shelter Day served a dual purpose. Not only did it increase the visibility of animal shelters and the concerns they regularly face, but also saved the lives of many animals.

If you have recently adopted a pet, make sure to have your pet examined by a licensed veterinarian. Check out our directory for help choosing a veterinarian that fits your pet's needs!