BARC Houston and BISSELL Pet Foundation Partner to Reduce Adoption Fees in May

BISSELL Pet Foundation, an organization dedicated to ending pet homelessness, is initiating its “Empty the Shelters” reduced-fee adoption event from May 1 to 15. Over 410 shelters across 43 states, including BARC, Houston’s Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, will participate.

During the event, BARC will waive adoption fees for all adult dogs and cats, as well as puppies and kittens, from May 1 to 15. Additionally, the shelter will open on Mondays, May 6 and 13, from noon to 5 p.m. for adoptions.

Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation, emphasized the importance of adoption in light of shelters facing a capacity crisis due to slowed adoptions and increased owner surrenders. Adopting a pet not only saves a life but also creates space for more animals in need.

BARC’s adoption center, located at 3300 Carr St., will operate during regular hours from Tuesday to Sunday and extended hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays. On Mondays, May 6 and 13, adoptions will be available at the 3200 Carr St. entrance from noon to 5 p.m.

BARC Shelter Director Jarrad Mears expressed gratitude for the Empty Shelters Campaign, noting its critical role in finding forever homes for BARC animals amidst increasing intake.

Since its inception in 2016, the “Empty the Shelters” event has facilitated over 226,000 adoptions, making it the largest funded adoption event in the country. It partners with over 700 animal welfare organizations to reduce adoption fees and promote pet adoption nationwide.

BISSELL Pet Foundation and BARC Houston urge families to research the pet they are interested in adopting, as well as adoption requirements. For more information on adopting or donating to “Empty the Shelters,” visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org/empty-the-shelters and www.houstonbarc.com.