PAWS Chicago is hosting its annual Adopt-a-Thon this weekend with the goal of finding new homes for 120 pets.
The Spring Adopt-a-Thon runs throughout the weekend at the PAWS Chicago Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center, 1997 N. Clybourn Ave. in Lincoln Park. The shelter will extend its hours and add additional adoption appointments Friday-Sunday for the event.
Here are the hours for the weekend:
- Friday: noon-midnight
- Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
- Sunday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
It is recommended that people looking to adopt schedule an appointment, although walk-ins are welcome. The Adopt-a-Thon will include a variety of cats and dogs to adopt with the hope of matching the personality of each animal to their new home, according to a PAWS news release.
Spring is “kitten season” in Chicago as cats — but also dogs — flood shelters, putting a strain on their resources and space. Already, shelters, including Chicago Animal Care and Control, are experiencing overcrowding and higher than normal rates of euthanasia.
The goal of PAWS’ Adopt-a-Thon is to mitigate this and decrease the risk that pets will face euthanasia at open-admission facilities, according to PAWS.
“As the days grow warmer, countless litters are born with nowhere to go, and too many end up on the streets or in overcrowded shelters,” Celene Mielcarek, head of operations at PAWS, said in a press release. “Every adoption is a lifeline — not just for the pet going home, but for the next one we can save. It’s a powerful reminder that giving a homeless pet a home can change their world — and yours.”
During adoption appointments, prospective adopters can meet with staff and volunteers about the adoption process, as well as all available animals. PAWS provides resources after the adoption process to help animals seamlessly adjust to their new home. The shelter also provides a safety net for pets, in case something happens to their adopter.
