Free pet adoptions Saturday at two Stanislaus County shelters. Here’s where
Two animal shelters in Stanislaus County will waive adoption fees this Saturday as part of California’s third annual Adopt-a-Pet Day.
Over 200 adoption sites statewide are participating, including the Stanislaus Animal Services Agency and the Turlock Police Animal Services shelter.
“Whether you’re looking for a hiking buddy, couch companion, adventure partner, or a purring best friend, this could be the day you meet them,” reads a Facebook post from SASA.
SASA, on 3647 Cornucopia Way in Modesto, has 161 dogs and 137 cats on its website. Some dogs are in foster homes.
The first 10 dog and first 10 cat adopters at SASA will receive a bag full of goodies. Free pup cups for all adopted dogs will also be available, as well as treat bags for all who stop by on Saturday. There will also be a photo area for people to celebrate their new furry friends.
Adoption fees at SASA for dogs are usually $120 plus a license while cats are half that price. All adoptable pets will be spayed and neutered, receive a microchip and age-appropriate vaccinations.
Here’s the situation in Turlock
At Turlock Police Animal Services, 801 S. Walnut Road, there are three cats and 18 dogs available to adopt, according to its website. The shelter will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday.
Dog adoption fees at the Turlock shelter are typically $155 for city residents and $128 for nonresidents, while cats are $126. Pets are free for seniors and veterans. On Saturday, they will be free for all.
“Turlock Animal Services is excited to be joining Adopt-a-Pet Day again on Saturday, June 6th! All adoption fees will be waived for the day, made possible by the generosity of the [American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals]. Come find your new companion,” reads a Facebook post from Turlock Animal Services.
The California Adopt-a-Pet Day is managed by CalAnimals. It is supported by the San Francisco SPCA and ASPCA, which will provide grants to underwrite fees at most participating organizations.
The event launched in 2024, when 3,609 animals were adopted. Adoptions grew to 4,979 the year after. This year, the organization is hoping to reach 5,000 adoptions.
“The event comes as animal shelters nationwide continue to face ongoing capacity pressures from staffing shortages, limited pet-friendly housing, and a lack of affordable veterinary care,” reads a press release.
Last year, 5.8 million cats and dogs entered animal shelters and rescue organizations across the U.S.
“California Adopt-a-Pet Day was designed in part as a direct response to these challenges, removing cost as a barrier to adoption and drawing attention to the animals most in need of homes,” the press release continues.
