July 27, 2026
By: Sarah A. Neikam, SPCA Albrecht Center Marketing Director

The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare recently celebrated another successful Empty the Shelters adoption event, sponsored by the BISSELL Pet Foundation. Over the course of the nationwide campaign, held July 5–25, hundreds of shelter pets across the country found loving homes, including 123 right here at the SPCA Albrecht Center – 90 cats, 30 dogs, and 3 rabbits!

A few very notable adoptions included long-term shelter pets Betsy Jo and Magic, with us since 2024 and 2021.

Long-time shelter pet, Betsy Jo was adopted during Empty the Shelters.

Betsy Jo arrived at the SPCA Albrecht Center as a stray in February, 2024. She’s only six years old, and very affectionate, but suffers from a chronic respiratory condition that was difficult for her past two adopters to manage. Thankfully, Betsy Jo was adopted this time by a very experienced and cat-loving staff member who has already given Betsy Jo everything she needs to thrive in her new home.

Magic came to us in 2021 and unfortunately went through a few adoptions that didn’t work out for various reasons, despite her being a great dog. We’re confident that this adoption will stick, since her new forever family has been fostering for her the last several months, and fallen in love with Magic’s very own magic.

Since its launch in 2016, Empty the Shelters has helped more than 350,000 pets find families by removing one of the biggest barriers to adoption: cost. By sponsoring reduced or waived adoption fees, the BISSELL Pet Foundation makes it easier for more people to experience the joy of welcoming a shelter pet into their lives.

While we’re thrilled to celebrate these and every adoption, the work doesn’t stop when an animal leaves our building. In many ways, that’s where the real journey begins.

Magic was adopted after being in the shelter since 2021!

Bringing a new pet home is exciting, but it’s also a major life change for them. Imagine suddenly leaving the environment you’ve known for the past few weeks or months – those people, smells, sounds, and routines – and entering a completely new world. Even though they’ve found a loving home, it’s normal for newly adopted pets to feel overwhelmed during their first days or weeks of adoption.

That’s why we encourage every adopter to remember the 3-3-3 Rule, a simple guideline that helps set realistic expectations during your pet’s transition.

The first three days are all about decompression. Your new dog may seem timid, sleep more than expected, or have little interest in eating. A cat may hide under the bed or avoid interaction altogether. These behaviors are completely normal as they process a tremendous amount of change. Give them a quiet, comfortable space, avoid overwhelming them with visitors or too much activity, and allow them to approach you on their own terms.

The first three weeks are when your pet begins learning the household routine and settling into daily life. This is often when their personality starts to emerge, and sometimes when a few unwanted behaviors appear as well. Consistent feeding schedules, regular exercise, enrichment, and positive reinforcement go a long way toward helping them feel safe and confident. Introduce other pets gradually, keep expectations realistic, and remember that patience is part of the process.

By the first three months, most pets have truly begun to understand that they’re home. Trust grows, routines become familiar, and the bond between pet and family deepens. This is an excellent time to continue training, establish regular veterinary care, and enjoy activities that strengthen your relationship. Whether it’s teaching basic commands, taking daily walks, or simply relaxing together on the couch, these shared experiences build the lifelong connection every adopter hopes for.

The most important thing to remember is that every pet adjusts at their own pace. Some settle in within days, while others may need weeks or even months before they fully relax. That’s okay. The love and patience you invest during those early days will pay dividends for years to come.

Although the Empty the Shelters event has ended, the need for adopters certainly hasn’t. As of the event’s conclusion, 145 animals were still waiting at the SPCA Albrecht Center for someone to give them the same opportunity.

If you’ve been thinking about adopting, there’s never a bad time to visit. Our adoption staff is here to help match you with a pet that fits your lifestyle and answer questions before and after adoption. You can browse available pets anytime at LetLoveLive.org or visit us at 199 Willow Run Road in Aiken. Adoption hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Wednesday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Every adoption changes two lives: the one going home, and the one who now has an open kennel waiting for their own second chance. Thanks to the BISSELL Pet Foundation, our adopters, and our incredible community, that cycle of hope continues every day. 🐾

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Sarah Neikam is the Marketing Director for the SPCA Albrecht Center in Aiken, SC. She has been with the organization since 2012, holding various roles including Volunteer Coordinator and Director of Operations & HR. A Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA), Sarah is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. She resides in Aiken with her husband and several beloved cats.