Orange County Animal Services is aiming to reduce shelter populations by offering a promotion on adoption fees for cats and dogs. From October 14 to 18, 2026, individuals can adopt pets that are four months or older for just $5. No appointments are necessary, and potential adopters can view available animals on the shelter's website or visit in person.
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Typically, adoption fees range from $50 to $80, depending on whether the animal is a cat or a dog. The low fee covers spay/neuter surgery, initial vaccinations, microchip identification, the first deworming treatment, and a heartworm test for dogs six months and older.
To adopt, individuals must bring a valid photo ID and can pay with cash, credit or debit cards, or checks.
The shelter is hosting this promotion in celebration of its return to normal operations following temporary closures due to the construction of a new facility. In a social media post, the shelter emphasized that the lower fees do not reflect the value of the animals or a reduction in standards for adopters; rather, it seeks to eliminate barriers for these animals to find loving homes.
The new animal shelter, which is currently under construction next to the existing facility near the Mall of Millenia, will measure 123,000 square feet and house 265 dogs and nearly 200 cats. It is expected to open in the fall of 2027.
In 2025, over 15,000 animals were brought to Orange County Animal Services, with an adoption rate between 88% and 91%. The shelter accepts animals year-round, with many being strays or surrendered. Unlike other states that experience seasonal surges in kitten populations, Florida shelters see a steady intake of kittens throughout the year.
Information for this report was obtained from a press release and social media posts by Orange County Animal Services, as well as the shelter's website and its 2025 Yearly Summary Report.