MSPCA-Angell, Shelter Partners Look to Clear the Shelters During Fee-Waived Adoptathon

Groups Hope to Build on Momentum as Summer Adoption Series Comes to a Close

BOSTON, August 19, 2026 – The MSPCA-Angell and six of its Massachusetts Animal Shelter Support (MASS) coalition partners are hosting a three-day, fee-waived adoption event for dogs aged one year and older, the groups announced today.

Clear the Shelters is the third and final adoption event in the MSPCA-Angell’s summer series—a campaign aimed at finding homes for more dogs during a historically slow adoption season. The event, sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, will be held on Friday, August 21 through Sunday, August 23.

Through the events already held this summer, including an emergency adoption event held in June, 183 adult dogs have been adopted across participating organizations.

“We’re really excited about the success of these events so far,” said Jamie Garabedian, Project Manager in the MSPCA-Angell’s Animal Protection Division. “Not only have they helped so many great dogs find loving homes, but every adoption has opened up space for the next animal who needs us.”

“We’re hoping to build on this momentum with Clear the Shelters, especially as families return from summer vacations and prepare for the school year. Many may find they’re in a better spot to welcome a new family member home.”

Add a Little Sunshine to Your Life

According to Garabedian, fee-waived adoption events can be particularly impactful in drawing attention to some of the shelter’s longest-stay dogs.

“Sometimes all a dog needs to find the right adopter is a little extra visibility,” Garabedian explained. “These events help with that by bringing more people into the shelter and increasing our longer-stay dogs’ chances of making that connection.”

“Just last month, for example, a dog named ‘Jade’ found her family during one of our adoption events after spending 304 days in our shelter!”

“We’d love to see the same happen during this event for dogs like Sunshine, who’s been patiently waiting for a home since December.”

Sunshine is described by staff as a big, bright personality who prefers a solo spotlight, and is looking to be the only dog in her new home.

“Sunshine truly lives up to her name,” said Garabedian. “She’ll be your next cuddle bug, but is just as content entertaining herself by tossing toys into the air. She’s silly and has so much love to give—now she just needs to find the right family to share it with!”

Sunshine is waiting for a home at the MSPCA-Angell’s Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem.

Help Clear the Shelters—Come Adopt!

The Clear the Shelters adoptathon takes place Friday, August 21 through Sunday, August 23 at all four MSPCA-Angell adoption centers (in Boston, Methuen, Salem, and Centerville on Cape Cod), as well as Berkshire Humane Society, Boston Animal Control, Dakin Humane Society, Lowell Humane Society, Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center, and Worcester Animal Rescue League.

“With so many shelters participating, there’s really a dog for just about everyone,” Garabedian said. “And because the event takes place at shelters across the state, families can visit the location that’s most convenient for them, making adoption more accessible.”

MSPCA-Angell adoption fees are partially subsidized by Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

“Thanks to Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s generous sponsorship, we’re also able to remove another barrier for adopters by waiving fees. We hope this encourages anyone who’s been considering adoption to take the next step.”

Open adoption hours vary by location. More information may be found at mspca.org/feewaived.