CHICAGO (WLS) — PAWS Chicago launched its Holiday Adopt-A-Thon on Friday, a timely initiative as the city grapples with an increasing number of pets being surrendered due to economic hardships.

Local Animal Care and Control facilities report receiving nearly 40 to 50 pets daily, highlighting the urgent need for adoption events like PAWS Chicago’s. The shelter, situated at 1997 N. Clybourn Ave., aims to find new homes for 125 animals by the close of the weekend.

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Among those eager to adopt was Caleb Gulbro, who expressed his excitement about welcoming a new companion. “I’m looking to adopt a dog,” he shared. “I’ve been living alone for a while, and I think I’m ready for a roommate.”

Braving the winter chill, Gulbro joined others who are eager to provide a warm home for pets this holiday season, a gesture that offers hope amid current challenges.

“There is a crisis in animal welfare, and we certainly are feeling it here in Chicago,” noted Celene Mielcarek of PAWS Chicago, emphasizing the critical nature of their mission during these trying times.

“There is a crisis in animal welfare, and we certainly are feeling it here in Chicago,” said Celene Mielcarek with PAWS Chicago.

A spokesperson for Animal Care and Control says just this past week they processed 41 cats and 20 dogs in one day alone, and 422 cat and dog owners surrendered their furry friends in November.

“We are there seven days a week, trying to support in many different ways,” Mielcarek said. “We’re pulling animals as often as we can, but we need the community’s help.”

That help also includes fostering a pet with the hope that it becomes a permanent decision, like it did for the Riley family, who took home “Sprinkle Belly.”

“It’s really important to give them that start, where they get to interact with people and even other animals, so that when they ultimately are ready to go home and be adopted,” Lori Riley said.

It’s a team effort. PAWS Chicago includes a compatibility quiz, so whether you’re looking for a fellow marathoner or someone more relaxed.

“We are ready for her and all of her puppies to come amazing homes,” PAWS Chicago volunteer Franny Freund said.

It’s a way to help those like Gulbro and his newly-adopted dog, “Pine,” find a new home in each other.

“She was climbing all over me, jumping on me, and I think that, that instantly to me, tells me, like, oh, I think she likes me,” Gulbro said.

PAWS Chicago extended hours until midnight Friday, and they will be open to continue their Holiday Adopt-A-Thon Saturday and Sunday.