(Des Moines, IA) -- The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is offering $25 adoption fees this weekend to help ease overcrowding at all of its facilities.
"This summer has been even more challenging than usual. We're seeing an overwhelming number of dogs in need of homes, hundreds at each of our locations, just waiting for a second chance," said Tom Colvin with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.
The ARL reports massive overcrowding, with over 400 more dogs entering the shelter compared to this time last year.
"We've been called into action more often lately, and that's why we urgently need to adopt out animals—to make room for others coming from neglectful situations," Colvin explained.
The 'Be Their Hero' adoption event aims to make pet adoption more accessible. Colvin says the reduced fee is meant to help those who may not have been able to afford adoption in the past, in hopes that more animals will find loving homes.
"We figured $25 might be a price the general public could afford, not just to adopt a pet, but also to cover the ongoing costs of care," said Colvin.
All adoptable pets are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Adopters will also receive discounts on ARL training classes and Animal House store purchases.
The 'Be Their Hero' adoption event runs July 31 through August 3, 2025 at all ARL locations in Iowa. The event includes only dogs and cats six months or older, puppies and kittens are excluded.
More information is available at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.