Minneapolis, MN – August 16, 2024 – Minneapolis Animal Care and Control (MACC) is offering free pet adoptions every Wednesday in August and September, thanks to a $2 million national grant from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals (ASPCA). the initiative aims to alleviate overcrowding at MACC and other shelters nationwide,as pet surrenders reach record highs.
“We do our best to keep them happy and healthy while they are with us, but the one thing they truly need is a loving home. And for that, we need the community’s help,” says MACC Supervisor Danielle Joerger.
The ASPCA’s “Rescue Effect” campaign is funding the waived adoption fees, and for Minneapolis residents, the grant also covers the cost of City-required pet licenses. Interested adopters can visit MACC at 212 17th Ave N, between 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays through September.
National Shelter Crisis and Local Impact
Shelters across the United States are experiencing a critical capacity crisis. The ASPCA reports that nearly six million dogs and cats entered U.S.shelters and rescues in 2024. Locally, MACC has seen a dramatic increase in surrendered animals, with the number doubling from 502 in 2021 to 1,001 in 2024.This surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including economic hardship, lifestyle changes post-pandemic, and a decrease in spay/neuter rates in surrounding areas.
The ASPCA’s Rescue Effect campaign provides financial support to participating shelters and rescue groups to remove adoption barriers. MACC is one of many organizations benefiting from this nationwide effort.
MACC currently houses a diverse range of animals, including dogs and cats of all ages, sizes, and temperaments. All adoptable pets are fully vetted, meaning they have been spayed/neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated. Potential adopters can view available animals online at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/animals-pets/pet-adoption/.
for further information regarding adoptions at Minneapolis Animal Care and Control, visit minneapolismn.gov and search “pet adoption.” Details about the ASPCA’s rescue Effect campaign can be found at ASPCA.org/TheRescueEffect.
