AIKEN, S.C. () – Every year, the Aiken County Animal Shelter hosts its annual Clear the Shelter Event.

But they need your help, as there’s more animals at the shelter than places for them to stay. 

In 2024, the animal shelter took in more than 3,000 dogs and cats from across the county. 

Those numbers continue to climb, as the summer months are their highest intake time of the year.

“It is a nonstop stream of people coming in, dropping off dogs, cats, kittens, and we are absolutely full. There’s not an open space in the shelter right now,” said FOTAS Programs Coordinator Kathy Cagle.

Many are coming to the shelter through animal control, but she also says they’re seeing a lot more stray pets found by homeowners. 

“These guys are precious—they have a really nice mom, and they were all on their own. We’re just kind of disheartened right now by what we’re seeing in the community,” Cagle said.

That’s why they want to get the word out about this annual event, offering free adoptions for cats and dogs as part of a nationwide effort. 

“Sometimes people think we’re doing something wrong by giving free animals away, but really what we’re doing is calling attention to the need. Nationwide, these shelters are full, and we need adopters,” said Cagle.

With kids back in school now, families may have concerns about the finances involved with adopting a pet.

But Cagle says that’s what sets the Aiken County Animal Shelter apart.

“If you get a dog anywhere else, you’re looking at high expenses for those costs to get the animal fixed—it’s hundreds of dollars right now,” she added. “But, anybody who adopts from us, they’re already spayed and neutered, they’re microchipped, they’re vaccinated, they’re ready to roll. So, it really takes a huge expense off somebody who wants a pet to adopt from our animal shelter.”

The Clear the Shelter Event is Saturday morning, August 9th, at the shelter on Wire Road from 11 AM to 3 PM.

For more information on the event, learn more at Friends of the Animal Shelter’s website.