Free Pet Adoptions In RivCo This Weekend

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — The county's shelters are waiving all adoption fees on Saturday in observance of the second annual California Adopt-a-Pet Day.

In Riverside County's overcrowded shelters, more than 1,000 dogs are waiting to go to their forever homes, Animal Services said. The statewide initiative aims to place 5,000 shelter animals into loving homes.

Riverside County is joining more than 50 participating shelters across California in the event, organized by the California Animal Welfare Association, the San Francisco SPCA, and the ASPCA.

READ MORE: RivCo Animal Shelters To Adopt 'No-Kill' Policy

“We have so many wonderful animals that have lost their homes and are looking for a new one,” said RCDAS Director Mary Martin. “Please help us make room for those in need by adopting and fostering.”

Riverside County's Animal Services is operating at more than 220 percent kennel capacity, officials said. Some dogs, such as Myers —a two-year-old shepherd mix — have been in the shelter system for more than 235 days.

The fee-waived adoptions will be available at the following locations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday:

• Western Riverside County/City Animal Shelter: 6851 Van Buren Blvd., Jurupa Valley
• San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus: 581 S. Grand Ave., San Jacinto
• Coachella Valley Animal Campus: 72-050 Pet Land Pl., Thousand Palms

All adoptions include spay/neuter services, age-appropriate vaccinations, and microchips.

Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez urged families to participate.

“As a dog owner, I cherish all the joy and love our furry friends give us. We need loving families to help us give these pets the lives they deserve,” he said.

Interested in fostering? Sign up here.