You still have time in Manatee County adopt a new dog or cat for free. Here’s how

With a week to go in the national Clear the Shelters campaign, 99 dogs and cats have found forever homes as part of the no-fee adoption program at Manatee County Animal Services.

On Wednesday, or National Dog Day no less, MCAS said the event lasts through Aug. 31 and there are still plenty of pets seeking loving homes.

They include Fabio, a 4-year-old orange tabby cat and Bella, a 7-year-old Dogo Argentino, as well as Frank, an 8-year-old mixed breed, and more.

MCAS waived adoption fees for the month of August in lieu of a donation to Friends of Manatee County Animal Services, which works to enrich the lives of shelter animals and provides critical preventative medical care.

All pets are spayed or neutered before adoption, vaccinated and micro-chipped. It’s a $300 value and your only cost through Aug. 31 is a donation plus a $20 licensing fee.

Choose a new pet that is considered to be a long-term shelter animal, and you’ll also walk away with a complimentary gift bag of toys and supplies.

MCAS has two locations: 305 25th St. W. in Palmetto and Manatee Cat Town at 216 Sixth Ave. E. in Bradenton.

Due to the current coronavirus pandemic, you must make an online appointment before visiting by going to mymanatee.org/pets and fill out an adopter profile in order to reserve your appointment.

Almost 100 fur babies finding new forever homes is a great start, but MCAS takes in on average about a dozen new animals per day. This sixth annual event is critical to help ease the overburdened area shelters.

For more information, call 941-742-5933 or visit Friends of Manatee County Animal Services at fomcas.org.

This story was originally published August 26, 2020 at 1:54 PM.