Maryland SPCA waives adoption fees in August as part of statewide ‘Maryland 3K’ challenge

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — The Maryland SPCA is joining animal shelters across the state in waiving adoption fees throughout August as part of the statewide “Maryland 3,000” adoption challenge.

Hosted by the Baltimore Animal Welfare Alliance (BAWA), the initiative encourages families to adopt shelter pets by eliminating adoption fees for the entire month.

While adoption fees are waived, shelters said all standard adoption procedures will remain in place.

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The Maryland SPCA is encouraging prospective adopters to visit its website to learn more about the adoption process and what is included when bringing home a new pet.

“Our shelter is excited to be part of this life-saving statewide initiative,” Katie Flory, the Maryland SPCA’s director of community care and advocacy, said in a statement. “We’ve seen firsthand how impactful these events are—not just for the animals, but for the families who welcome them home. Our team is ready to help adopters find their perfect match this August.”

The Maryland 3,000 challenge was launched more than a decade ago by BAWA and has grown into one of the state’s largest collaborative pet adoption initiatives.

After returning in 2025 following a brief hiatus, the campaign helped 3,152 pets find homes, surpassing its goal of 3,000 adoptions.

Organizers hope to build on that success this year with shelters across Maryland participating in the monthlong effort.

A full list of participating shelters is available at maryland3000.org, and more information about adopting from the Maryland SPCA can be found at mdspca.org.