In an effort to “Clear the Shelters,” the Castaic Animal Care Center along with the rest of the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control’s animal care centers offered discounted adoptions Saturday.
For the day, the center reduced their adoption fee to $20, helping pet owners welcome new members into the family.
Karen Stepp, the center’s manager, said this event comes at a great time as it is kitten season, which means they’ve got a lot of kittens who are looking for homes.
“This is such a great event, and we do it every year,” Stepp said. “It helps make people aware that we’re here … people that might not have thought about coming to adopt … and gives everyone the opportunity to find a new, forever friend.”
Rita Hayworth and Becca Hofman traveled from Lancaster to visit the center for the event.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t find a pup, but we’ll keep trying,” Hayworth said. “We love coming to these things … Even though we didn’t find one, it makes my day to see everyone who did and see how excited the animals and families are to meet each other. It just warms my heart.”
Less than two hours into the event, 10 pets had been adopted with many more still available.
Staff from Veterinary Centers of America’s Adler location were also in attendance, answering any of the new pet owners’ questions about veterinary care.
“We like to help get pets into a nice, happy and loving home, so this great day that we can help support those individuals who are looking to bring a pet into their home,” said Hospital Manager Melissa Zeal. “We’re hoping to get all of our little furry friends into as many homes as possible.”
Each person who adopted an animal received a VCA goodie bag, complete with a Healthy Start Certificate for a free check-up, toys, a lint roller and more.
“There’s a lot of great animals here, but we had a senior adoption this morning, and those are the ones that are really special,” Stepp added. “When people want to make the last years of that senior animal’s life count, it’s very special.”
The department partnered with NBC and Telemundo stations across the country for this annual event, which aims to reduce the number of euthanized animals by helping more people adopt instead of purchase pets.
The Castaic Animal Care Center is located at 31044 North Charlie Canyon Road in Castaic. For more information, visit animalcare.lacounty.gov or call 661-257-3191.