Front Street Animal Shelter is at critical capacity, and in an effort to place more dogs into loving homes and create urgently needed kennel space, all dog adoption fees are waived now through Sunday, May 17.
As the City of Sacramento’s municipal shelter, Front Street receives new stray animals every day. When kennels remain full, it becomes increasingly difficult to accommodate incoming animals in need of care and shelter.
Shelter staff say they are seeing a decline in dog adoptions compared to this time last year, leaving more dogs waiting in kennels for longer periods of time.
Between April 1 and April 30, 2026, Front Street recorded 255 total dog adoptions, compared to 283 during the same period in 2025, a 12% decrease overall. Adult-aged, large-breed dog adoptions also declined by 12%, while puppy-aged, large-breed dog adoptions dropped by 15%.
“There are many factors that affect adopter behavior and pet ownership, including the economy, housing insurance restrictions, adoption trends for particular breeds, rising pet ownership costs, and other factors,” said Interim Shelter Manager at Front Street Animal Shelter Ryan Hinderman. “The great thing about adopting is it’s one of the least expensive ways to get a pet. Our adoption fees are low, often free, and all animals come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, essential services that would cost over $1,000 at a private veterinarian.”
Many of the dogs currently waiting for homes are friendly, social, and ready to become part of a family.
“These are truly wonderful dogs who are simply waiting for someone to give them a chance,” Hinderman said. “We urgently need adopters to step forward and help us create space for the animals continuing to come through our doors every day. By adopting, you’re not only changing that dog’s life, but you’re also helping us save even more animals in need.”
Front Street staff say adoption promotions like this often encourage families who have been considering adding a pet to finally take that next step. The shelter has dogs of all sizes, ages, and energy levels available for adoption, both at the shelter and in foster homes.
Adoption counselors are available to help match adopters with a dog that fits their lifestyle, home, and experience level. All adopted dogs will be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before going home.
The shelter is located at 2127 Front Street and is open daily from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and to view available dogs, please visit Front Street Animal Shelter’s adoptable dogs page.
