Clear the Shelters campaign offers fee‑free adoptions at Maryland shelter

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter in Prince Frederick, Maryland will waive all adoption fees for dogs, cats, rabbits, roosters, pigs and other animals from Aug. 1 through Aug. 29 as part of the nationwide Clear the Shelters 2026 campaign. The shelter is also joining the Maryland 3,000 Adoption Challenge, which aims to place at least 3,000 animals in homes during August. All adoptions include spay or neuter surgery, microchipping, age‑appropriate vaccinations and a starter care package.

St. Francis Animal Rescue of Venice, Florida, is also participating in the Clear the Shelters effort, which runs Aug. 1‑31. The organization provides adoptions, education on responsible pet ownership, a trap‑neuter‑vaccinate‑return program, and a pet‑food pantry for families caring for feral cats. Director of Operations Constance Paras highlighted a $100‑per‑year cat‑sponsorship program that lets supporters fund the care of a resident cat.

Both shelters aim to reduce pet homelessness, increase community awareness, and connect animals with permanent homes throughout the month‑long campaign.