Contra Costa County animal shelter waives adoption fees to ease summer overcrowding

The Contra Costa County Animal Services shelter in Martinez, California, announced that it will waive adoption fees for cats and kittens throughout the summer. The move aims to create space for the more than 150 animals currently awaiting permanent or temporary homes as the shelter experiences its highest stray intake during the season, compounded by an annual surge of newborn litters. Director Ben Winkleblack said each adoption frees capacity for another animal in need. While cat adoptions are free, a $25 licensing fee may still apply to dogs. All animals are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped before adoption, and the shelter also offers temporary foster opportunities. The adoption center remains open seven days a week, with extended hours on Wednesdays.