Home for the PAWlidays Adoption Special

Adoption fees are reduced for all pets during the Home for the PAWlidays Adoption Special in December 2024.

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MCAS is seeking to incentivize adoption and reduce the shelter population.

Before adopting, please consider the long-term expenses, commitment, lifestyle requirements, and health needs of a companion animal. Learn more.

Pets as Gifts

The holidays are a great time to add a new companion animal to your family. 

If adopting for friends or family, consider tips from the ASPCA on adopting and gifting responsibly.

Is Now the Right Time?

Think about whether the person you’re gifting a pet to can care for them now and in the future.

• Only gift pets to those who have expressed interest in having a new companion animal.
• If for a child, make sure parents consent and can assume care for the pet.
• Do they have time and energy to care for a new companion animal? Any allergies?
• Do they have the right supplies or resources?

If gift-giving time is hectic, consider giving a place-holder for the adopted pet, and introducing them when the environment is more calm.

Reducing Adoption Fees is Effective and Saves Lives

Reducing adoption fees as a practice is supported by multiple Animal Welfare industry leaders, including Maddie’s Fund, The Humane Society of the United States - Adopter’s Welcome Program, Best Friends, and the ASPCA. Reducing adoption fees provides an extra incentive to adopt, can reduce an animal’s length of stay in the shelter, and save lives.

Adoption Counseling Process

During a reduced-fee adoption, adoption counselors work to pair adopters with shelter animals compatible with their lifestyle in order to meet the respective needs of animals and adopters. Adopters complete applications which adoption counselors review, and they receive the same amount of counseling and resources as other adoptions to help them succeed.