Lafayette Reporter

Lafayette, LA – The Lafayette Animal Shelter & Care Center is collaborating with the BISSELL Pet Foundation for the Fall National Empty the Shelters event. This initiative aims to encourage pet adoption across the country from October 1-15, 2024. More than 390 shelters in 44 states are participating.

During this period, all animals at the Lafayette Animal Shelter & Care Center can be adopted for a $0 fee. These animals are fully vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed or neutered. The shelter is located at 410 N Dugas Road and operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation, stated, “Right now, our nation’s animal shelters are in crisis with too many pets coming in and not enough adoptions to keep up. Euthanasia rates have hit a 3-year-high, and healthy, adoptable pets are at risk due to space constraints.” She emphasized that the event offers an opportunity for communities to save lives through adoption while creating space for more pets in shelters.

Shelter Supervisor Shelley Delahoussaye commented on the variety of pets available for adoption at their facility. “We have never had such a variety of pets available for adoption,” she said. “Our shelter has such a variety of dogs and cats, both in colors and ages. There’s a pet for every lifestyle.”

The Empty the Shelters event by BISSELL Pet Foundation is noted as the largest funded adoption event nationwide since its start in 2016. It has helped over 283,000 pets find homes by partnering with numerous animal welfare organizations across North America.

Both organizations encourage potential adopters to research thoroughly before adopting any pet and familiarize themselves with adoption requirements. Further information about adopting or donating can be found on their respective websites.