As the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County continues renovations on a section of its dog kennels, the organization is waiving adoption fees for all dogs to help relieve pressure on its already full kennels. The fee-waived event will run ahead of and through Memorial Day weekend, from Wednesday, May 21, through Sunday, May 25.
With 14 kennels temporarily out of service through the end of the month amid construction, the shelter’s dog kennels are at capacity, foster homes are occupied, and the need for space is growing. Since May 1, 301 dogs have entered the shelter, including 101 just last week—30 in a single day. The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County is urgently seeking adoptive homes to help relieve the strain and make space for incoming animals.
“Even during renovations, our role as an essential community resource and open-admission shelter does not stop,” said Lauren Green, director of marketing and communications at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. “By adopting, individuals and families can not only change a dog’s life, but they can play an active role in animal welfare in our community by helping our shelter maintain space and resources for incoming animals with no other options who need our services.”
The kennel renovations, which began May 1, are partially funded by the ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and an anonymous community donor. Upgrades include the installation of portals that allow dogs more space and flexibility in their housing, essential to those with behavioral challenges or extended stays.
“This fee-waived dog adoption promotion comes at an opportune time for individuals and families considering bringing home a new pet,” added Green. “Memorial Day weekend often provides extra time to settle in with a new companion.”
Currently, over 135 dogs are under the organization’s care in foster homes and in the shelter, of which 55 are available for adoption. More dogs become available each day as they are assessed, spayed/neutered, and/or mandatory stray holds expire. To view available dogs and learn more about the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County’s adoption process, visit www.thehumanesociety.org.
Adoption Event Details: Location:
The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County
2608 Center St. Tacoma, WA 98409
Dates/Times:
Wednesday, May 21, through Sunday, May 25 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
What’s Included with a Fee-Waived Adoption?
While adoption fees are waived, every dog comes with:
- A wellness exam by shelter staff
- Initial vaccines
- Microchip with national registration
- Spay or neuter surgery
- A starter bag of food, courtesy of Hill’s Pet Nutrition (while supplies last)
Please note, hold and licensing fees still apply and may vary by jurisdiction.
More Ways to Support:
Foster: Provide a short-term safe space for a dog in need. The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County provides all supplies and ongoing veterinary care. Learn more and sign up to foster at www.thehumanesociety.org/get-involved/foster.
Donate: Support the organization’s life-changing medical efforts and ongoing care for pets in need by donating. To donate, visit: www.thehumanesociety.org/donate.
