Riverside County Shelters Urgently Seek Adopters During National "Empty the Shelters" Campaign

With shelter kennels overflowing, Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) is calling on the community to help save lives by adopting pets during the nationwide “Empty the Shelters” event, running through May 15. Sponsored by BISSELL Pet Foundation, the campaign offers fee-waived adoptions at over 380 shelters across 43 states, including four Riverside County locations.

The local effort comes amid a critical overcrowding crisis, particularly involving large-breed dogs. RCDAS reports that more than 1,000 dogs are currently in their care, with more arriving daily than are being adopted or fostered.

“We are out of space, and we need to get as many dogs as possible out of our shelters as soon as possible,” said Jaclyn Schart, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations for RCDAS. “We are urgently asking for the community’s help to step up and save lives.”

Adoption fees are being waived at all participating RCDAS locations. Each adopted pet will come fully vaccinated, microchipped, spayed or neutered, and tagged with an ID—removing financial and logistical barriers for prospective pet parents.

Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez emphasized the importance of accessibility. “We are reducing barriers to lifesaving, and free adoptions plus new Sunday hours is a recipe for success,” he said. “These dogs deserve a fresh start.”

Shelters participating in the campaign include:

• Jurupa Valley Shelter – 6851 Van Buren Blvd.

• San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus – 581 S. Grand Ave.

• Coachella Valley Animal Campus – 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms

• Blythe Shelter – 245 S. Carlton

Most locations are open Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Blythe operates Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For those unable to commit to adoption, RCDAS is also seeking short-term foster caregivers, especially for large dogs and pets with medical or behavioral challenges. Interested individuals can sign up at www.rcdas.org.

To view adoptable animals or learn more, visit www.rcdas.org/adoptable-pets or email shelterinfo@rivco.org.