Share and Follow
PAWS Chicago launched its Holiday Adopt-A-Thon on Friday, marking the start of a crucial initiative amidst rising pet abandonment linked to economic difficulties. This festive event aims to address the growing number of pets being surrendered across the city.
Animal Care and Control has reported an alarming influx of animals, receiving up to 40 to 50 pets daily. In response, PAWS Chicago has set an ambitious target to facilitate 125 adoptions over the weekend. The Adopt-A-Thon is taking place at their shelter located at 1997 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago, IL 60614, and is seen as a vital effort to find new homes for these animals.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
The event has drawn many hopeful pet owners, like Caleb Gulbro, who braved the cold, eager to welcome a new companion. “I’m looking to adopt a dog,” Gulbro shared. “I’ve been living on my own for a bit, so I think I’m ready for a roommate.”
With the holiday season upon us, the drive to find homes for these pets is more urgent than ever. The Adopt-A-Thon represents a beacon of hope during challenging times, offering both animals and adopters the chance to find companionship and joy.
Gulbro was one of many who braved the cold to bring home a furry friend, something that is needed this holiday season.
“There is a crisis in animal welfare, and we certainly are feeling it here in Chicago,” said Celene Mielcarek with PAWS Chicago.
A spokesperson for Animal Care and Control says just this past week they processed 41 cats and 20 dogs in one day alone, and 422 cat and dog owners surrendered their furry friends in November.
SEE ALSO | Animal lovers step off from Montrose Harbor for 25th PAWS Chicago 5K fundraiser
“We are there seven days a week, trying to support in many different ways,” Mielcarek said. “We’re pulling animals as often as we can, but we need the community’s help.”
That help also includes fostering a pet with the hope that it becomes a permanent decision, like it did for the Riley family, who took home “Sprinkle Belly.”
“It’s really important to give them that start, where they get to interact with people and even other animals, so that when they ultimately are ready to go home and be adopted,” Lori Riley said.
It’s a team effort. PAWS Chicago includes a compatibility quiz, so whether you’re looking for a fellow marathoner or someone more relaxed.
“We are ready for her and all of her puppies to come amazing homes,” PAWS Chicago volunteer Franny Freund said.
It’s a way to help those like Gulbro and his newly-adopted dog, “Pine,” find a new home in each other.
“She was climbing all over me, jumping on me, and I think that, that instantly to me, tells me, like, oh, I think she likes me,” Gulbro said.
PAWS Chicago extended hours until midnight Friday, and they will be open to continue their Holiday Adopt-A-Thon Saturday and Sunday.
