TOWSON, Md. (WBFF) — An empty big-box store at Towson Place Shopping Center will soon be filled with wagging tails and hopeful adopters as local animal shelters transform the former Walmart into a large-scale pet adoption event.
On Sunday, March 15, from 12 to 4 p.m., the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) will host “Find Your Lucky Charm,” a multi-shelter mega adoption event sponsored by Petco Love.
The event will take place inside the vacant storefront at 1238 Putty Hill Ave., #5, a space provided by Kimco Realty.
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For one afternoon, the former retail space will serve as a pop-up adoption center, bringing together more than 100 adoptable animals from shelters across the region.
Dogs, cats, puppies, kittens and small companion animals will all be available, and adoption fees will be waived for every animal in attendance.
Participating organizations include BARCS, the Maryland SPCA, Baltimore County Animal Services, the Humane Society of Carroll County and the Humane Society of Harford County.
“Events like this allow shelters to work together and create a much larger adoption experience for the public,” said Bailey Deacon, Chief Philanthropy and Communications Officer at BARCS, via press release. “Instead of visiting shelters one by one, families can meet many animals from multiple organizations in one place and hopefully find the perfect match.”
Animal welfare groups nationwide have increasingly turned to adoption promotions and community-based events as a strategy to move more pets out of shelters and into homes.
Research and program data from organizations such as Maddie’s Fund and the ASPCA indicate that fee-waived events and special adoption promotions can significantly increase adoption rates while maintaining positive outcomes for pets.
Hosting the event in a public retail space also allows potential adopters to meet animals outside of the traditional shelter environment, which organizers say can help create stronger connections.
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Those planning to adopt must be at least 18 years old and present a valid photo ID and proof of current address. Organizers ask that owned pets not be brought to the event; adoption counselors will provide guidance on safely introducing new pets to animals already in the home. Cat carriers, leashes and collars will be available for purchase on site.
Each participating shelter will follow its own adoption procedures, and some animals may be able to go home the same day.
With a large turnout expected and a wide variety of animals available, organizers encourage prospective adopters to arrive early for the best chance to meet their “lucky charm.”
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