PAWS Chicago Holiday Adopt-A-Thon event underway as pet intake surges citywide
CHICAGO (WLS) -- PAWS Chicago kicked off their Holiday Adopt-A-Thon on Friday.
It comes as they city is seeing more pets being dropped off due to the economy.
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Animal Care and Control says they are receiving close to 40 to 50 pets a day, so the Adopt-A-Thon at PAWS Chicago is critical. They have a goal of 125 adoptions by the end of the weekend during the event at the shelter, located at 1997 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago, IL 60614
"I'm looking for to adopt a dog," Caleb Gulbro said. "I've been living on my own for a little bit, so i think I'm ready for roommate."
Gulbro was one of many who braved the cold to bring home a furry friend, something that is needed this holiday season.
"There is a crisis in animal welfare, and we certainly are feeling it here in Chicago," said Celene Mielcarek with PAWS Chicago.
A spokesperson for Animal Care and Control says just this past week they processed 41 cats and 20 dogs in one day alone, and 422 cat and dog owners surrendered their furry friends in November.
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"We are there seven days a week, trying to support in many different ways," Mielcarek said. "We're pulling animals as often as we can, but we need the community's help."
That help also includes fostering a pet with the hope that it becomes a permanent decision, like it did for the Riley family, who took home "Sprinkle Belly."
"It's really important to give them that start, where they get to interact with people and even other animals, so that when they ultimately are ready to go home and be adopted," Lori Riley said.
It's a team effort. PAWS Chicago includes a compatibility quiz, so whether you're looking for a fellow marathoner or someone more relaxed.
"We are ready for her and all of her puppies to come amazing homes," PAWS Chicago volunteer Franny Freund said.
It's a way to help those like Gulbro and his newly-adopted dog, "Pine," find a new home in each other.
"She was climbing all over me, jumping on me, and I think that, that instantly to me, tells me, like, oh, I think she likes me," Gulbro said.
PAWS Chicago extended hours until midnight Friday, and they will be open to continue their Holiday Adopt-A-Thon Saturday and Sunday.
