Broward County waives pet adoption fees through Sept. 30 during Empty the Shelters campaign
Broward County, Florida – For Broward County residents thinking about adding a four-legged member to the family, the next few days come with an unusual incentive: the normal adoption fee is being taken off the table.
Broward County Animal Care has joined BISSELL Pet Foundation’s national Empty the Shelters campaign, offering free dog and cat adoptions through Wednesday, September 30.
The limited-time effort is aimed at finding homes for animals already waiting at the county shelter while creating space for others that may need help next.
Under the campaign, BISSELL Pet Foundation will cover adoption fees for eligible pets. Adopters will still be responsible for Broward County’s required pet registration fee.
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The financial savings are only one part of the effort. County officials say every animal that leaves the shelter for a permanent home creates room to care for another vulnerable dog or cat entering the system.
“Every adoption changes two lives – the life of the pet going home and the life of the animal that can be helped because space has opened at the shelter,” said Doug Brightwell, Director of Broward County Animal Care.
“Through our partnership with BISSELL Pet Foundation, we are removing a financial barrier and making it easier for residents to welcome a deserving dog or cat into their family.”
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That additional shelter capacity can make a noticeable difference behind the scenes. With fewer animals housed at the facility, stress among the remaining pets can be reduced, while staff members and volunteers have more opportunity to give individual animals attention and care.
The Empty the Shelters campaign also gives residents who may have been considering adoption an opportunity to move forward without the usual upfront adoption cost.
Broward County Animal Care is encouraging prospective adopters to consider more than appearance when choosing a pet and instead look for an animal that fits their household, daily routine and ability to provide long-term care.
That could mean an energetic dog for an active household, a quieter companion for someone seeking a more relaxed pet, or a cat content to spend its days close to its new family.
The offer remains available only through September 30, making the coming days the final window to participate in this round of the national campaign.
Residents can browse dogs and cats currently available for adoption through the county’s online pet listings. Additional information about adoption services and Broward County Animal Care is also available at Broward.org/Animal.
