
CALIFORNIA, Md. — Announced this morning, St. Mary’s County Animal Services is issuing an urgent plea for adopters as the shelter reaches a breaking point with kennels and cages filled beyond capacity.
Officials said the shelter began the week caring for 244 animals, with nearly three dozen more scheduled to be surrendered in the coming days. Staff described the situation as “drowning in critters” and said immediate adoptions are critical to prevent overcrowding.
To ease the strain, the county is waiving all adoption fees from Friday, Oct. 17, through Sunday, Oct. 19. More than 100 animals — including puppies, kittens, cats, and dogs — are available to go home the same day.
“This is one of the most crowded periods we’ve ever faced,” a shelter representative said. “Every adoption helps us make room for the next animal that needs care.”
The shelter, located at 22975 FDR Blvd. in California, will be open from noon to 6 p.m. during the event. Adopters are encouraged to arrive early, as demand is expected to be high.
Photos and profiles of adoptable pets are available at stmaryscountymd.gov/AnimalShelter/Adoptable.
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