AWLA Kennels At Full Capacity As Adoption Fees Get Reduced This Week

ARLINGTON, VA — Pet adoptions from the Animal Welfare League of Arlington and shelters across the nation surged during the first part of the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 23 million American households — nearly 1 in 5 nationwide — adopted a pet during the first year of the pandemic, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

But AWLA and other shelters are now starting to see their facilities filling up again as fewer people are on the lookout for a new family member.

AWLA issued a warning last week that every dog kennel it operates is occupied with an animal.

“Many of our dogs have been looking for their new families for months. They’ve been waiting so patiently,” AWLA said in a statement. “We need to make room for more dogs that need our help. There’s never been a better time to adopt, and there are so many adorable faces to choose from at AWLA.”

For residents seeking to adopt a dog or a cat, this is the perfect week to do it. The Animal Welfare League of Arlington is participating in the Bissell Pet Foundation's spring "Empty the Shelters" animal adoption event from Monday through Sunday.

All of AWLA’s cats and dogs will have a $25 adoption fee during the event. Typically, AWLA's adoption fees are $100 or more, depending on the animal.

"That extra seat on your couch sure would be a lot cuter with a furry friend curled up on it," AWLA said.

Visit AWLA's website to see the dogs available for adoption. If you can't make a long-term commitment, AWLA suggests fostering a dog. Visit its website to learn about the fostering process.

AWLA is located at 2650 S. Arlington Mill Dr., Arlington, VA 22206.

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