ANIMAL CONNECTION: 113 pets find homes in three weeks during Albrecht Center’s adoption events | Features

The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare recently celebrated a significant achievement with the adoption of 113 pets over two major adoption events held over three weeks. These events, the nationwide Empty the Shelters adoption event sponsored by the Bissell Pet Foundation, and the statewide Pick Me! SC initiative led by No Kill SC 2024, have brought second chances and new beginnings to numerous animals.

Empty the Shelters: July 8-19

The Empty the Shelters event has brought hope to homeless pets since its inception in 2016. Sponsored by the Bissell Pet Foundation, this initiative aims to remove financial barriers to adoption by waiving fees, thus encouraging more families to open their hearts and homes to pets in need. Over the 11-day event, the SPCA Albrecht Center found loving homes for 23 cats, 20 dogs and two guinea pigs, totaling 46 adoptions.

Despite the joy of each adoption, the reality of overcrowding remains a constant challenge. Economic hardships and housing instability contribute to the rising number of animals needing shelter. On July 7, the shelter was home to 240 animals, highlighting the ongoing struggle shelters face. Every adoption not only provides a second chance for one pet, but also frees up space to rescue another.

Pick Me! SC: July 20-27

Following the success of Empty the Shelters, the SPCA Albrecht Center participated in the Pick Me! SC event, a week-long statewide initiative aimed at finding homes for thousands of pets across South Carolina. Spearheaded by the No Kill SC 2024 project, this event saw shelters, rescues and Petco stores across the state offering free or low-fee adoptions.

The results were astounding: 45 cats and 22 dogs found their forever homes, totaling 67 adoptions in just one week. Shelter Manager Allison LaBorde praised the event’s success, noting, “This event was wildly successful. In spite of some staff and supply shortages, it all worked out really well and our staff pulled together wonderfully.”

Among the many heartwarming stories from these events are the adoptions of several medium to large adult dogs, who typically face longer stays in the shelter. Notable adoptions include Kazimir, who had been in the shelter for over a year; Cat, who stayed for two months; and Dumpster Dan, who spent three months in the shelter. For cats, the sheer number of adoptions was the most significant success. Particularly heartening was the adoption of Bub and Lil Sis, a bonded pair of senior cats who had been in the shelter for two months and had experienced a brief adoption and return.

While these events have ended, the need for loving homes continues. As of the event’s conclusion on July 27, the shelter still had 207 animals in its care. The SPCA Albrecht Center remains committed to its mission of finding homes for every animal. Interested adopters can view adoptable pets at LetLoveLive.org or visit the shelter in person at 199 Willow Run Road. Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday.

The success of Empty the Shelters and Pick Me! SC events underscores the importance of community support and innovative initiatives in addressing the issue of pet homelessness. Each adoption not only transforms the life of a pet but also alleviates the burden on shelters, allowing them to continue their vital work. The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare extends heartfelt thanks to all who participated and encourages continued support and involvement in their ongoing efforts to Let Love Live.