Free Pet Adoptions Available In August At Prince George's Shelter

LARGO, MD — Winter may seem eons away, but in reality, it's just a few calendar page flips in the future. One of the perfect ways to stay warm in the winter would be to cuddle up with a new furry friend.

The Prince George's County Animal Services Facility and Adoption Center announced it will be participating in two of the nation's largest pet adoption initiatives: NBC4's Clear the Shelters campaign and Maryland's statewide Maryland 3,000 Challenge - both offer free pet adoptions in August.

Running now through Aug. 31, these life-saving campaigns unite animal shelters across the country, including those in Maryland, with a shared goal of finding loving, permanent homes for thousands of shelter pets.

Since its launch in 2015, NBCUniversal Local's Clear the Shelters campaign has helped nearly 1.2 million pets find homes while raising more than $5 million to support animal shelters and rescue organizations nationwide.

The Maryland 3,000 Challenge, coordinated by the Baltimore Animal Welfare Alliance (BAWA), brings together shelters across the state to place at least 3,000 homeless animals into loving homes during August. Last year, participating shelters exceeded that goal, demonstrating the incredible impact communities can make when they come together for animals in need.

Throughout August, adoption fees at ASFAC will be waived for eligible animals, making it easier than ever for families to adopt a new companion. While adoption fees are waived, all standard adoption procedures, counseling and licensing requirements will remain in place to ensure every pet is matched with the right family.

"We're excited to once again partner with NBC4's Clear the Shelters campaign while also joining animal welfare organizations across Maryland for the Maryland 3,000 Challenge," said David Fisher, chief and administrator of the Prince George's County Animal Services Division. "These initiatives save lives by creating opportunities for more pets to find their forever home. Whether you're looking for a playful puppy, a loyal senior dog, a curious cat or a small companion animal like a rabbit or guinea pig, our team is here to help families find the perfect match."

In addition to adopting, residents can support ASFAC in several ways throughout the campaign by:

• Fostering a shelter pet.
• Volunteering their time.
• Donating to support shelter programs.
• Sponsoring the care of homeless animals.
• Ensuring their own pets are properly tagged and microchipped.

Community members also are encouraged to attend ASFAC's Drive-Up Pet Vaccination Clinic Aug. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help keep pets healthy and protected.

Support doesn't end with adoption. Through Sept. 15, animal lovers can donate to ASFAC through the Clear the Shelters Fund, led by Greater Good Charities. Donations may be directed to the shelter's general fund or designated to support local shelter operations, helping provide medical care, food, enrichment and lifesaving services for animals awaiting adoption.

Virtual pet adoptions also are available through WeRescue, allowing prospective adopters to browse adoptable pets and submit applications online. Hill's Pet Nutrition returns as the national sponsor of the Clear the Shelters campaign for the eighth consecutive year.

To view adoptable pets, learn about the adoption process, make a donation, or explore upcoming events, visit www.princegeorgespets4Us.com.

For more information about the statewide Maryland 3,000 Challenge, visit www.Maryland3000.org.

For information about NBC4's Clear the Shelters campaign, participating shelters, and donation opportunities, visit ClearTheShelters.com.