Animal Welfare Waiving Adoption Fees

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (November 14, 2023) – With kennels that are already full of adoptable pups, and more dogs arriving daily, Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW) needs your help. That’s why, beginning today, adoption fees are being waived.

MCAW serves as the only open-admission shelter for all of Manatee County, so maintaining available space is crucial for addressing strays and other urgent county situations. Like shelters across the nation, MCAW’s adoption rates have declined while intake numbers continue to rise. There are currently over 100 dogs at the Palmetto Adoption Center and more than 40 adoptable dogs at the Bishop Animal Shelter.

“We are working hard to create more space to help these animals,” said Manatee County Animal Welfare Chief Sarah Brown. “We are asking for folks to help in any way they can.”

Manatee County citizens can help in the following ways:

• ADOPT: Starting today, adoption fees are waived. While the dog population mainly consists of medium and large dogs, adoption counselors are confident you can find your perfect match. Discover all adoptable dogs at mymanatee.org/pets. New Palmetto Animal Shelter Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• FOSTER: While long-term fosters help immensely, even folks who can only take a pup for a few days are a big benefit. MCAW will provide all the necessary supplies help care for a foster pet. Get started by emailing [email protected]
• PARTNER: Rescue and transfer workers can help in so many ways. This sort of ongoing support is now more important than ever. If you haven’t collaborated with MCAW previously, reach out, staff will help you establish a partnership. Contact [email protected]
• SHARE: If you’re unable to foster or adopt, sharing this information will help MCAW—and the pups—by spreading the word to family and friends that they need help from our community now.