BROWARD COUNTY, FL – Technology is now helping dogs and cats find forever homes through Animal Care’s new online adoption program.
On Tuesday, March 24, Animal Care switched to a “virtual” adoption and foster process in response to COVID-19. The move was made in order to safeguard residents and staff from the spread of the virus.
Community response has been very positive and overwhelming with hundreds of applications received. Of those applications, 84 pets have found homes – totaling 28 cat and 28 dog adoptions, as well as 28 pet fosters. During this time, 2 pets were also reunited with their owners. Additional programs resulted in 22 pets rescues—17 were transferred to rescue partners, and 5 dogs were transported out of state to find homes in New Hampshire. In less than one week, 106 pets have been saved.
The new online process makes it very easy for residents for adopt. Rather than traditional visits to the shelter to view dogs and cats, prospective adopters or foster parents can instead view pictures of the pets on Animal Care’s website. If they see a pet they are interested in, they can then complete an Adoption or Foster Application. Once the application is submitted, the person receives a phone call from Animal Care to discuss the pet. If the applicant wishes to finalize the adoption or foster, a date and time is scheduled for the person to meet the dog or cat.
When the adopter arrives, they are able to interact with the pet. Adoption paperwork is finalized by their car, and the new adopter then leaves with their new dog or cat. Not only is contact with staff kept to a minimum, but more importantly, the process continues to help pets find forever homes despite the Coronavirus.
For residents who are interested in adopting or fostering a pet, or to see other available online services, please visit Broward.org/Animal.
DATE: March 30, 2020
MEDIA CONTACT: Lisa Mendheim, Program Coordinator
Animal Care and Adoption Division
PHONE: 954-359-1010
EMAIL: lmendheim@broward.org
About Animal Care
Broward County Animal Care and Adoption is dedicated to providing shelter for lost and homeless animals. The agency provides access to hundreds of shelter pets hoping for a new home. Please prevent unwanted animals and have your pet spayed or neutered. For more information about the agency, visit our website, or like us on Facebook.