WSLS 10's Clear the Shelters campaign has seen remarkable success, achieving a total of 956 adoptions across twelve partnering animal shelters and rescue organizations in the region. This monthlong initiative resulted in 651 adoptions of cats, 297 of dogs, and eight of other types of animals. Additionally, two shelters joined the campaign during its run.
Read More
Many participating organizations experienced strong outcomes from special adoption events tied to the campaign. For example, the Roanoke Valley SPCA managed to adopt out 20 pets in a single day, drawing significant crowds. The Montgomery County Animal Care and Adoption Center reported over 125 adoptions throughout the month, while the Lynchburg Humane Society recorded more than 280.
The campaign also highlighted individual animals, such as Peepers, the longest-sheltered cat at Angels of Assisi, who was adopted after 316 days in care. Throughout the month, WSLS 10 featured at least one adoptable pet daily and even organized staff-drawn portraits to showcase the animals' personalities, encouraging potential adopters to reconsider common misconceptions about shelter pets.
Shelter leaders noted that adoptions not only benefit the animals that find homes but also create space for other animals needing assistance. Melinda Rector from the Regional Center for Animal Care and Protection emphasized that adopting from various rescues opens opportunities for animals in municipal shelters.
Although the campaign has concluded, shelters and rescue organizations continue to seek adopters, foster families, volunteers, and donations. Julie Rickmond stated that there is a prevailing stereotype suggesting shelter pets may have issues, which is not true. For more information on adoptable pets and how to assist, individuals are encouraged to contact local shelters and rescue organizations.