July 10, 2026
By: Sarah A. Neikam, SPCA Albrecht Center Marketing Director

If you’ve been thinking about adding a pet to your family, there may never be a better time than right now.

The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare is excited to once again partner with BISSELL Pet Foundation for its nationwide Empty the Shelters adoption event. Through July 25, adoption fees for all adult cats, kittens, and adult dogs (with very few exceptions) are completely waived, making it easier than ever to change a life – both theirs and yours.

Every adoption creates space for another homeless animal that needs our help. During the summer months, our shelter and others continue to see a steady stream of stray animals, owner surrenders, and litters upon litters of kittens, arriving almost daily. By adopting one pet, you’re not only giving that animal a loving home, you’re also helping us say “yes” to the next one that walks through our doors.

Every adoptable pet in our shelter receives the care they need to get them off to a healthy start. They are spayed or neutered, microchipped, up-to-date on age-appropriate vaccinations, and go home with a small starter pack to help make the transition a little easier.

And though we have dozens of pets to choose from, no two pets are alike. Some are energetic adventure buddies ready to hit the hiking trails. Others are content to curl up beside you while you watch a movie or read a book. Some will make you laugh every day with their goofy personalities, while others simply want a quiet home, maybe a lap, and someone to love.

Take Pozole, for example. This young smooth-coated Border Collie mix is full of brains, energy, and personality. He’s eager to learn, loves to play with other dogs, and is always ready for his next adventure. With training and an active lifestyle, Pozole has all the makings of an outstanding companion for someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, or even on a farm where he can put his intelligence and work ethic to good use. And after a busy day? He’s more than happy to curl up and relax beside his favorite people.

If a slower pace is more your style, you might find your perfect match in Norie. This gentle, shy cat enjoys the company of other felines but is happiest in a peaceful home where life moves a little more quietly. Independent yet affectionate in her own subtle way, Norie would be a wonderful companion for a senior or anyone looking for a calm, comforting presence to share their days.

The perfect pet isn’t defined by breed, age, or appearance – it’s the one whose personality fits your family and your lifestyle.

Since its launch, BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters program has helped hundreds of thousands of shelter pets find loving homes across the country. The program partners with shelters nationwide to reduce or eliminate adoption fees, removing one of the barriers that sometimes keeps families from choosing adoption.

Of course, bringing home a pet is a lifelong commitment, and we encourage anyone considering adoption to think carefully about the responsibility involved. But if you’ve been waiting for the right time to adopt, this event offers a wonderful opportunity to meet your new best friend while also helping countless other animals still waiting for their chance.

We invite you to stop by, meet the wonderful pets in our care, and discover just how much love is waiting for you.

The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare is located at 199 Willow Run Road in Aiken. Adoption hours are Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with extended hours until 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Browse available pets anytime at LetLoveLive.org/adopt, but remember – new animals arrive every day, so if you don’t see the perfect match online, come visit us in person. Your next family member may be waiting just around the corner. 🐾

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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.