BISSELL Pet Foundation, a national animal welfare organization dedicated to ending pet homelessness, is prompting a national call for adoption once again this spring with its "Empty the Shelters" reduced-fee adoption event. The initiative began on May 1 and will run through Wednesday, May 15.

The Animal Rescue League (ARL) of Berks County is participating along with more than 410 shelters in 43 states. At the ARL, all cats and dogs over 6 months of age will have a reduced adoption fee, and senior dogs and cats over 8 years will be free to adopt.

All adopters must go through the ARL's regular process to adopt, including the completion of an adoption pro_fi_le and speaking with an adoption counselor to ensure that the pet they select is a good match for their home, family and lifestyle.

Adopters are encouraged to bring their family members and other house dogs to meet the pet they are interested in before completing the adoption. Dog adopters should bring cash or a check to purchase a dog license, which is required at the time of adoption under Pennsylvania law. Adopters should also bring a cat carrier or a dog collar and leash; these items may also be purchased from the ARL.

During the last BISSELL adoption event, held in December 2023, 52 pets found a home through the ARL.

All interested adopters can visit http://www.berksarl.org/pets to view the available pets.