SCRAPS offering free adoptions to make room in shelters

As shelters across the country continue to face challenges with full capacity and low adoption rates, the Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Service (SCRAPS) is taking action to address the issue. In an effort to ease its maxed-out shelter capacity, SCRAPS is waiving adoption fees on all animals through Saturday.

According to the organization’s Facebook page, there are over 100 adoptable animals available for adoption. The increase in pets being surrendered to shelters has been a growing concern throughout the year. J. Nick Hobbs Doyle, Shelter Operations Manager at SCRAPS, attributes this trend to financial instability among pet owners. With many people facing financial struggles, the ability to afford proper pet care has become a challenge for some.

Hobbs Doyle explained that SCRAPS has seen an uptick in owners questioning their ability to provide a safe and healthy life for their pets. While it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact reasons for this increase, he noted that it is a national issue affecting shelters across the country.

National data from Shelter Animals Count reveals that shelter capacity has increased by 4% since 2021, while shelter euthanasia has risen by 64% in 2023. This is largely due to a decrease in animal adoptions, with nearly 1 million fewer adoptions in 2022. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimates that 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters each year, putting a strain on resources and highlighting the need for innovative solutions.

Local shelters in Spokane, such as the Spokane Humane Society and SpokAnimal, are also facing capacity challenges. The Spokane Humane Society is at full capacity and is offering discounted adoption rates for animals that have been with the society for over 180 days. SpokAnimal is offering discounted adoption rates for kittens at its South Hill PetSmart location in alignment with PetSmart’s National Adoption Week.

In response to these challenges, shelters are relying on community engagement and support to help find loving homes for animals in need. Hobbs Doyle emphasized the importance of having space in shelters to maximize their ability to assist the community with animal enforcement.

Despite the national struggles faced by shelters, local organizations are remaining optimistic and grateful for the support they receive from the community. Kim Reasoner-Morin and Kristi Soto, executive director and director of marketing and communications at the Spokane Humane Society, expressed their gratitude for those who have adopted from them and contributed to their mission.

For those interested in adopting a pet, SCRAPS‘ website provides more information on available animals and the adoption process. The shelter is located at 6815 E. Trent Ave. in Spokane Valley and can be reached at (509) 477-2532 or scraps@spokanecounty.org. By adopting a pet, individuals can make a difference in the lives of animals in need and help alleviate the strain on local shelters.