AIKEN, S.C. () – Every year, the Aiken County Animal Shelter hosts its annual Clear the Shelter Event.

But they need your help, as there’s more animals at the shelter than places for them to stay. 

In 2024, the animal shelter took in more than 3,000 dogs and cats from across the county. 

Those numbers continue to climb, as the summer months are their highest intake time of the year.

“It’s a continuous flow of individuals bringing in dogs, cats, and kittens, and we are at capacity. There’s not a single available spot in the shelter at the moment,” explained Kathy Cagle, the Programs Coordinator for FOTAS.

Many are coming to the shelter through animal control, but she also says they’re seeing a lot more stray pets found by homeowners. 

“These little ones are incredibly special—they have a wonderful mother, yet found themselves alone. We’re feeling quite discouraged right now watching the situation in our community,” Cagle mentioned.

That’s why they want to get the word out about this annual event, offering free adoptions for cats and dogs as part of a nationwide effort. 

“There are misconceptions that by providing animals for free, we’re doing something wrong, yet our intention is to highlight the problem. Shelters across the country are overflowing, and adopters are urgently needed,” Cagle said.

With kids back in school now, families may have concerns about the finances involved with adopting a pet.

But Cagle says that’s what sets the Aiken County Animal Shelter apart.

“If you’re getting a dog from elsewhere, you’ll face significant expenses for necessary procedures—it’s several hundred dollars nowadays,” she commented. “By adopting from us, the animals are already spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated. They’re ready to join your home. This significantly reduces the financial burden for anyone considering pet adoption from our shelter.”

The Clear the Shelter Event is Saturday morning, August 9th, at the shelter on Wire Road from 11 AM to 3 PM.

For more information on the event, learn more at Friends of the Animal Shelter’s website.