It’s National Dog Day! Huntsville celebrates ‘pawsome’ holiday by slashing adoption fees

Published on August 26, 2021

Today is National Dog Day, and Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) is marking the occasion by drastically reducing adoption fees on available animals. The kennels at HAS are exceeding capacity and officials are desperately trying to find potential companions for homeless canines.

Through Saturday, Aug. 28, adoption prices for most adult dogs are now only $10, though some exclusions apply. The fee to adopt puppies is $35-50.

The adoption package includes vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, microchip, a City license and a free bag of dog food. If you’re unable to adopt a pet, consider fostering an animal through the shelter’s foster program. Click here to see photos, ages and descriptions of available animals.

National Dog Day was founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, an author and animal rescue advocate. The day is celebrated each year on Aug. 26 to note the anniversary of the date she adopted her first dog, “Sheltie,” from a local animal shelter when she was 10 years old. The goal is to raise public awareness about shelter animals and encourage fostering and adoption.

“So many people think the dogs at a shelter are broken or have severe health or behavioral issues, and that is far from the case,” said HAS Director Dr. Karen Sheppard. “We have so many dogs that were family members and just need a new family. We provide a two-week trial that can be extended to four weeks. Sleepovers and fostering are also great options.”

Not a dog person? HAS also has plenty of cats and kittens available for adoption. Adult cats can be adopted for as little as $10, while kitten adoption fees range from $35-50.

Located at 4950 Triana Boulevard in Huntsville, the shelter is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Call 256-883-3783, visit HuntsvilleAL.gov/Animal or check us out on Facebook to learn more.