As we step into the month of May, the SPCA Albrecht Center finds itself facing an all too familiar and all too distressing challenge: Overcrowding. This is not an issue unique to our shelter alone; animal shelters across the country are dealing with a surge in intake, placing a huge strain on resources and space. With economic hardships, housing instability and a myriad of other factors contributing to the rising number of pets in need of homes.
As of Saturday, April 28, the shelter has a total of 209 animals in its care. While adoptions are greatly celebrated, the work never stops as it feels like for every animal that leaves the shelter, two more take its place.
Nevertheless, the Albrecht Center is looking forward to holding its fourth Bissell Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters event. Established in 2016, this initiative has been instrumental in finding loving homes for thousands of pets across the nation. The premise is simple yet powerful: waive adoption fees to remove barriers and encourage more adoptions. It's a testament to the belief that every animal deserves a second chance, and the impact it has had on countless lives cannot be overstated.
Caption: Latke one of the adoptable dogs with a waived adoption fee during BPF Empty the Shelters. While she might seem a bit reserved at first, with a little time, she'll become your loyal buddy ready for any and all adventures.
Beginning Wednesday, May 1, the shelter will open its doors to the community; offering free adoptions on all available adult animals. It's an opportunity to find your perfect companion while also making a lifesaving difference for a shelter pet in need.
But what about those who are unable to adopt? We want to see you at an event. Your participation in upcoming events helps raise funds, awareness and ultimately contributes to the mission of providing care and compassion to animals in need.
So whether you're looking to add a furry friend to your family or simply want to lend a helping hand, we invite you to join us in our efforts to support shelter pets. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that every animal receives the love and care they deserve.
Upcoming events in May
• May 11: Thrift Store Second Saturday Sale, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the SPCA Thrift Store, 1589 Whiskey Road, Mitchell Shopping Center
Shop where shopping saves lives on the second Saturday of every month and enjoy special deals across the store while knowing that your purchases are supporting local animals in need.
• May 12: Purrs & Pours, 2-5 p.m. in The Alley Downtown Taproom
Kick back and relax at The Alley Downtown Taproom while enjoying good beer, quality cuddles and kittens galore. Adoption fees are waived, so you might just find your purr-fect match.
• May 15: Yappy Hour, 6-8 p.m. at the SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare, 199 Willow Run Road
The event features live music, raffle prizes, grilled burgers and hotdogs, a cash bar, open dog park, and free pet adoptions. It is sponsored by Tito's Handmade Vodka, Lulu's Car Wash and Hannah Swanson State Farm Agency.
• May 25: Pups 'n Suds Dog Wash, 9 a.m. to noon at the SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare, 199 Willow Run Road
Treat your canine companion to a spa day at our Pups 'n Suds Dog Wash. We'll take care of everything from baths to nail trims, leaving your pup squeaky clean and smelling fresh.
