The animal shelter operated in west Ceres by the Stanislaus Animal Services Agency (SASA) is temporarily dropping adoption fees until Sunday, April 7 to reduce the 239 dogs being sheltered there.

While the shelter has made significant progress in bringing down those numbers from peak numbers through pet adoptions, the shelter said keeping them is “unsustainable in the long run.”

The shelter is sized to only care for 183 dogs comfortably.

In an effort to alleviate overcrowding and find loving homes for the remaining dogs, SASA is holding a special adoption event with donors covering the adoption fees for every adoptable dog. Each dog will be spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and ready to be taken home.

“We recognize the importance of finding permanent homes for these dogs, and we are grateful for the generosity of our donors in making this event possible,” said Vaughn Maurice, executive director of SASA.

The shelter was recently inundated with a total of 327 dogs after 87 dogs were rescued from a home on Hollister Way in Ceres. Publicity surrounding the abuse and animal cruelty case caused the shelter to receive community support for adoptions.

“We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support from animal lovers near and far,” said Maurice. “The response from individuals, rescue groups, volunteers and donors has been truly inspiring and instrumental in our efforts to provide care and find homes for these animals.”

For residents who are unable to adopt, the shelter encourages folks to consider becoming a foster home for a dog, volunteering at the shelter, or making a donation to support ongoing costs.

“We are all part of a compassionate community that cares for its furry residents. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of shelter pets and ensure they receive the love and care they deserve.”

For more information about the adoption event or to learn how to help, visit www.StanislausAnimalServices.com.