Broward County Animal Care launches holiday adoption event with waived fees to help overcrowded shelters find homes for pets
Broward County, Florida – As animal shelters nationwide face unprecedented demand, Broward County Animal Care is taking bold steps to find homes for the hundreds of pets currently in its care. In partnership with the Bissell Pet Foundation, the county has launched a two-week holiday initiative, “Empty the Shelters: Holiday Hope,” running from December 1 through December 15, during which adoption fees for all dogs and cats will be waived.
The program is designed to remove financial barriers for potential pet owners while easing the growing strain on crowded shelters. Although the foundation covers the cost of adoptions, families will still be required to pay the county’s standard $25 pet registration fee. Interested adopters can browse available animals at PetAdoptions.Broward.org before visiting the shelter.
Doug Brightwell, director of Broward County Animal Care, emphasized the urgency of the initiative. “Empty the Shelters allows us to remove financial barriers while highlighting the incredible pets waiting patiently for a second chance. Every pet adoption signals a life instantly changed. It frees room for the next animal in crisis, strengthens our community, and showcases compassion. If you’ve been thinking about adopting—this is your moment,” Brightwell said.
Shelters in Broward County have been operating at capacity, with new animals arriving daily. The high intake combined with limited space has made it critical for the county to encourage adoptions during the busy holiday season. Every adoption not only gives a pet a loving home but also creates room for the next animal in need, allowing staff to continue rescuing those at risk.
All pets available during the event come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, and are ready to go home the same day. Shelter staff work closely with prospective adopters to ensure a suitable match, whether families are seeking a calm, easygoing companion or an energetic, playful pet. This guidance helps ensure long-term success for both the pet and the adopter.
The adoption event is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Broward County Animal Care, 2400 SW 42nd Street in Fort Lauderdale. Staff members will be on hand to answer questions, provide guidance, and assist families through the adoption process.
Beyond adoptions, Broward County Animal Care encourages the community to consider fostering or supporting pets in other ways, including volunteering or donating supplies. More information on these opportunities is available at Broward.org/Animal or by calling 954-357-9758.
With the holiday season in full swing, officials hope the program will not only find homes for pets in need but also inspire the community to consider the long-term benefits of adoption. Every adoption represents a chance to save a life, reduce shelter overcrowding, and give a deserving animal a fresh start in a loving home.
As the county works to empty its shelters, the message is clear: there has never been a better time to welcome a pet into your life. Whether seeking companionship, joy, or a new furry friend to brighten the holidays, Broward County’s “Empty the Shelters: Holiday Hope” initiative offers residents the perfect opportunity to make a lasting difference.
