Pet adoption fees waived in Clay County

Green Cove Springs, Fleming Island shelters open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – Empty the shelter. That's not just the name of the event Clay County Animal Care and Control is having this weekend, that's their goal.

Officials say they have far more animals than they can care for.
And they want to see those animals in homes with people who love them.

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This was inspired by an event in Dallas where more than 2000 animals were adopted.

Now their goal this weekend isn't that big, they want to see 100 animals adopted and they've added some great incentives to make that happen.

Listening and looking around Clay County Animal Care and Control in Green Cove Springs... its not hard to tell that it's packed.

"We are definitely overcrowded right now. The summer is busier last Monday, we had 345 animals in our care and we should really only have about 200," said Dr. Jennifer Broadhurst who works with the Clay County Animal Care and Control services.

A plea for help last week got 70 animals adopted, but this week they took in nearly 60 more.

Without adoptions, their open admission facility could be faced with the possibility of euthanizing animals.

"We don't have the option to turn away, so if we don't get any animals going out through adoption and foster eventually that's going to be the ultimate reality," said Broadhurst.

That's why they decided to host the "Empty the Shelter Event."

They are extending hours and waiving adoption fees through Sunday.

The goal is to get 100 pets adopted.

That would mean the center will have saved 1,000 animals from June to August.

Broadhurst said there are cats, kittens and dogs of all sizes; something for everyone.

She hopes families looking to adopt will consider one of these animals

"They should consider going to a shelter rather than purchasing an animal because we have a lot of amazing animals here they're all current on their vaccines, they've been spayed and neutered and they could make a great addition to their family," said Broadhurst.

There are two locations available:

Green Cove Springs shelter, located on 3984 Florida 16, that will be open on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fleming Island shelter, located on 1809 Town Center Boulevard will be open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

All adoption fees are waved this weekend.