The Burlington County Animal Shelter will host a special end-of-summer open house this month to help find loving forever homes for the dogs and cats that reside there.
The shelter is also continuing to waive all adoption fees throughout the month of August to try to help encourage individuals and families to adopt.
“Burlington County families have opened their hearts and provided homes for hundreds of dogs and cats in need, but for every animal adopted out, there’s more coming in,” said Burlington County Commissioner Dan O’Connell, the liaison to the shelter. “We want all the adoptable animals to find their forever homes and events like the upcoming open house are a proven way to connect individuals and families with a loving dog or cat. We’re also waiving the shelter fees again this month to make it easier for families to adopt.”
This year’s Clear the Shelter Open House will be held Saturday, Aug. 26, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM at the Burlington County Animal Shelter, 35 Academy Drive. The event will feature food, music, games, crafts, information tables and more for the whole family, including well-behaved pets on leashes.
The open house is being organized by Burlington County in partnership with Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter to raise awareness about the shelter’s mission and connect dogs and cats with new loving families.
This year’s summer open house comes at a critical time as the shelter continues to operate at max capacity due to the continuous influx of stray and surrendered animals.
From Jan. 1 through July 31, for more than 1,300 cats and over 780 dogs have entered the shelter, an increase of more than 12% compared to the same time period last year.
Among the animals currently available is Smokey, a 7-year-old pit bull terrier who was surrendered to the shelter in February after his previous owner passed away. He’s described as a little wary of strangers but very friendly and mild-mannered once he becomes familiar with new people and surroundings. He enjoys slow, calm walks and quiet time at home.
Also available is Jewel, a 2-year-old Rottweiler who was brought to the shelter in May after being found abandoned in a yard. Jewel has a manageable heart condition but enjoys walks and especially playing in water.
Families can learn more about Smokey, Jewel and dozens more pets available at the shelter by going online to https://24petconnect.com/
Foster families are also needed and the shelter and Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter offer free virtual training as support. Those interested can apply online at: www.bestfriends.org/Burlington-county .
“There are a lot of wonderful dogs and cats at the shelter who are waiting for the right companion or family. The open house is a great opportunity to meet them and learn more, but you don’t have to wait until August 26,” said Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “The shelter is open for visits most weekdays and weekends, so make a point to go there soon. Your next best friend is waiting for you.”
The shelter is open for walk-in visits from noon to 3:30 PM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and it has extended hours from noon to 6:30 PM on Thursdays. The shelter is closed on Wednesdays, except for pre-arranged appointments.