LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Access to many pet-adoption centers has been restricted for months due to the coronavirus, but NBC4 and Telemundo will still hold a virtual Clear The Shelters event beginning Saturday to highlight the continuing availability of animals for adoption.
The adoption drive will continue throughout the month of August, highlighting online platforms to help families adopt pets during the pandemic.
“Through the power of technology and to maintain safe social distancing practices, we are proud to bring back the campaign for the sixth year and offer families the opportunity to find their pet and navigate the adoption process with a participating shelter virtually,'' Telemundo 52 President/General Manager Celia Chavez said in a statement.
The campaign will encourage families to plan their pet adoptions online, since most shelters have eliminated walk-in service and are requiring people to make appointments. Most shelters offer details about available animals on their websites, allowing people to choose one then make an appointment to meet and adopt their future pets.
As part of the adoption campaign, the stations will work with WeRescue and 24PetWatch to give residents another avenue for searching adoptable pets and even submitting adoption applications online. The drive will also encourage financial donations to shelters or rescue groups at ClearTheSheltersFund.org.
According to the stations, the Clear The Shelters campaign has facilitated more than 410,000 pet adoptions since 2015, with more than 17,000 pets adopted in Southern California last year.
“This year presents an increased demand on local animal shelters and families seeking pet companions,'' NBC4 President/General Manager Steve Carlston said. “NBC4 is committed more than ever to offer the community support and find forever homes for thousands of pets.''