July 5, 2022 10:00 a.m.

Saving Grace Pet Adoption Center will have an “Empty Our Shelter” event Thursday and Friday.

Executive Director Megan Gram said this is being made possible by a group of businesses and supporters that are sponsoring the adoption fees for 44 animals that are waiting to find a home. Gram said, “Shelters across the country are over capacity, this is one of the largest crises the animal welfare world has seen in recent years”. Gram said the fee waived event really encourages people to consider adopting a new family member.

Saving Grace has taken in 210 more dogs and nearly 200 more cats this year than they had at the same last year. The biggest contributor to this rise in intake numbers is people losing housing. Courtney Davenport, Operations Director for Saving Grace, said “People are surrendering pets after trying to live with them in their cars. It seems like it may be possible at first, but after months in a car with two 90-pound dogs, it becomes very stressful for everyone”.

A release said in addition to taking in more animals, the nonprofit also has more animals in foster care than ever before. Over 250 cats are currently in foster homes as they await the chase to come into the shelter to be adopted. Cats and dogs can be adopted directly from foster care with an appointment.

Saving Grace is working to put together a list of pet friendly housing in Douglas County. Those who own a pet friendly rental or know of a pet friendly management company should reach out immediately at: mgram@savinggrace.info.