Front Street Animal Shelter is waiving all dog adoption fees through Oct. 31 as kennels remain at capacity and more stray dogs arrive.
Dogs of various ages, sizes and personalities are available, including dogs already spayed or neutered who can go home the same day they are adopted.
Adoption counselors can help potential adopters find a match for their home and lifestyle. All dogs receive spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations and a microchip before going home.
“Each dog adopted creates space for another dog who needs care,” said April Stevenson, Front Street Animal Shelter manager. “Even if you can’t adopt, taking a dog on an outing or helping spread the word can make a difference.”
Residents who cannot adopt can help by sharing information about available dogs or participating in programs that give dogs time outside the shelter. Front Street is also inviting the community to remember pets who have died through a public display at the shelter.
Community ofrenda honors pets
In collaboration with the Latino Center of Art & Culture, Front Street is creating a community pet ofrenda, a traditional display honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed.
The ofrenda provides a space for community members to remember family pets, shelter animals and other animal friends who have been part of their lives.
Community members can contribute a copy of a photo of a pet or another animal they would like to honor. Frames are welcome, but participants should choose one they are comfortable potentially leaving behind. Food offerings and candles are not permitted for safety reasons.
The ofrenda is open to visitors through Nov. 2 during regular shelter hours, noon to 5 p.m. Visitors do not need to contribute a photo to participate.
Participants may collect their photos and frames from noon to 5 p.m. Nov. 3.
Outings offer shelter dogs a break
Community members who cannot adopt or foster long term can still spend time with shelter dogs through several Front Street programs:
- Doggie Day Out: Participants can take an adoptable dog on an outing around Sacramento or spend time relaxing together at home. Whether exploring a local park or visiting a dog-friendly location, these field trips give dogs an opportunity to decompress and show their personalities outside the shelter.
- Pups & PJs: This overnight program gives shelter dogs the opportunity to spend a night in a home environment. Participants provide a comfortable place to rest while learning more about the dog’s behavior and preferences outside the shelter.
- Jog-a-Dog: This program pairs volunteers with shelter dogs for morning exercise. Participants can stay active while helping dogs get exercise, enjoy time outdoors and take a break from the kennel environment.
In addition to providing enrichment, these outings can help staff learn more about the dogs in their care. Participants’ photos, videos and observations can be shared with potential adopters to help them understand each dog’s personality and behavior outside the shelter.
Helping lost dogs return home
Community members who find a stray dog can help by temporarily caring for it, if they can safely do so, while trying to locate its owner. Many pets can be reunited with their families within 24 to 48 hours. The shelter offers tips for finding a pet’s owner.
For more information about shelter services and ways to get involved, visit frontstreetshelter.org.
