PAWS Chicago’s Adopt-a-Thon Aims to Find Homes for 125 Animals Before the Holiday
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As temperatures likely dip below zero this weekend, the city’s largest no-kill shelter is hoping 125 of its animals will soon be in warm, forever homes just in time for the holiday.
PAWS Chicago’s annual Adopt-a-Thon kicked off friday at its Lincoln Park shelter, with more than a dozen people lined up outside the center’s doors.
Inside, some of the animals were dressed in holiday outfits. Some zoomed around, playing with toys. Other animals were napping.
“Having a companion animal is so rewarding, and bringing that pet into your home, it’s life-changing,” said PAW’s Chief Program Officer Celene Mielcarek. “It gives you such joy, such unconditional love. And this is such a great time of year to do it. The holidays are a time of joy and festivity.”
The adoption center at 1997 N. clybourn Ave. is open till midnight on Friday and between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.on Saturday and Sunday. The center accepts both appointments and walk-ins.
For 18 years, the center has hosted an adoption drive each December.
this year, there’s been an uptick in the number of animals in the care of the city’s Animal Care and Control. Mielcarek said it’s risen to around 50 intakes per day. PAWS frequently take animals from the city’s shelter to help them avoid euthanasia, she said.
“We can only rescue more animals if we have the community fostering and adopting, so that space clears up in our shelter for more,” she said.
Some of the people who came to PAWS adoption center on Friday were looking for a new pet. Others brought fosters they hoped to adopt.
Volunteer Maggie Zalewski carries a kitten during the Holiday Adopt-a-Thon at PAWS Chicago in Lincoln Park on Friday. Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
A cat sits on a shelf during the Holiday Adopt-a-Thon at PAWS Chicago in Lincoln Park on Friday. Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
Cowboy sits during a media preview for the Holiday Adopt-a-Thon at PAWS Chicago in lincoln Park on Friday. Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
Mousse stands in the lobby of PAWS Chicago in Lincoln Park during a media preview for the Holiday Adopt-a-Thon on Friday.
Chicago Animal Shelters Face Overpopulation Crisis, Urge Adoption
Chicago animal shelters are experiencing a surge in pet intake, leading to overcrowding and a critical need for adopters. Chicago Animal Care and control (CACC) and other public shelters are struggling with capacity as more animals enter the system. Advocates emphasize that adoption is the most effective way to save lives during this challenging time.
Rising Intake & Shelter Overpopulation
According to shelter staff, the increase in animal intake is a nationwide trend. Chicago Animal Care and Control is particularly impacted, with limited space and resources stretched thin.
“We are seeing intake increase across the country. That means public shelters, like Chicago Animal Care and Control, are overpopulated,” said a CACC representative. “It’s so vital that adopters come in, adopt these pets, and that’s really the only way we can save more lives.”
This overpopulation puts a strain on shelter resources, including staff time, medical supplies, and available space. It also increases the risk of illness spreading among animals and can negatively impact their well-being.
A Special Case: Ambrosia and Her Siblings
Amidst the challenges, heartwarming stories emerge. Ambrosia, a 2-month-old terrier mix currently at CACC, recently captured attention. She and her five siblings are uniquely named after different apple varieties – a charming detail that highlights the individuality of each animal awaiting a home.Ambrosia was even sporting a festive red cape as a holiday outfit.
Local news coverage showcases Ambrosia and her siblings, hoping to attract potential adopters.
Why Adoption Matters
adopting a pet from a shelter directly addresses the overpopulation crisis.It frees up valuable space and resources, allowing shelters to take in and care for more animals in need.Beyond alleviating overcrowding,adoption offers numerous benefits:
* saves a Life: You’re giving a deserving animal a second chance at a loving home.
* Supports a Valuable Community Resource: Adoption fees help fund shelter operations and care for other animals.
* Often More Affordable: Adoption fees are typically lower than purchasing from a breeder,and often include initial vaccinations and microchipping.
* Adult Animals might potentially be Already Trained: Many shelter animals are already house-trained and know basic commands.
How to Help
If you are considering adding a pet to your family, please consider adoption. Here’s how you can help:
* Visit Chicago Animal care and Control: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cacc/supporthowto.html
* Explore other Local Shelters & Rescues: Numerous other organizations in the Chicago area are dedicated to animal welfare. A comprehensive list can be found at https://www.bringfido.com/adoption/state/illinois/.
* Foster an Animal: If you can’t commit to adoption, fostering provides temporary care for an animal in need.
* Donate to Local Shelters: Financial contributions help cover the costs of food, medical care, and shelter maintainance.
* Spread the Word: Share adoptable animals on social media to help them find their forever homes.
Key Takeaways:
* Chicago animal shelters are facing a critical overpopulation crisis.
* Adoption is the most effective way to save lives and alleviate the strain on shelters.
* Numerous resources are available for those looking to adopt, foster, or support local animal welfare organizations.
The ongoing influx of animals into shelters requires a community-wide effort. By choosing to adopt, foster, or donate, you can make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable animals and help ensure a brighter future for animal welfare in Chicago.
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