HOUSTON – BARC Animal Shelter and Adoptions is joining the BISSELL Pet Foundation to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its nationwide “Empty the Shelters” event, offering reduced adoption fees from May 1–17, 2026.
The initiative spans more than 335 shelters across 39 states, aiming to connect pets with families while easing overcrowding in shelters.
Lower Fees, More Opportunities
During the event, adoption costs at BARC will drop significantly:
- $55 for puppies four months or younger
- $30 for dogs five months and older
- $10 for all cats and kittens
All adopted pets come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, along with additional services like flea prevention and city registration.
Extended Hours for Adopters
To increase access, BARC will open daily from noon to 5 p.m., including Mondays — a day the shelter is typically closed. Officials say the expanded hours and lower fees are designed to remove barriers for families considering adoption.
A Nationwide Impact
Since launching in 2016, “Empty the Shelters” has helped nearly 400,000 pets find homes across the U.S. and Canada. Organizers say the milestone highlights the growing need for adoption as shelters continue to face high intake numbers.
Local leaders emphasize that every adoption not only gives an animal a second chance but also frees up space and resources to help more pets in need.
Residents interested in adopting are encouraged to visit BARC in person or check available pets online during the event.
For more animal welfare efforts, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.