Rescue effect campaign brings free adoptions to Snake River Animal Shelter

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Snake River Animal Shelter has partnered with the ASPCA to offer free adoptions on August 28 and 29, September 25 and 26, as well as October 30 and 31.

Their goal is to find loving homes for the pets in their shelters as well as make space for more animals in need. Over 6 million dogs and cats went into shelters in 2025, causing many to reach capacity. The ASPCA is hoping to help shelters from becoming too full and not being able to help other pets in need.

"So ASPCA has done this for the past three years," Sally Solis, the Development Director for the Snake River Animal Shelter, said. "It's the Rescue Effect campaign. In an effort to get animals into loving homes and free up space in shelters."

When looking through the catalog of cats and dogs, there is one group that is often overlooked: senior pets.

A dog or cat is considered senior once they're over the age of 7. They can be more lethargic and could require more medical care, which may cause potential adopters to hesitate. But older pets come with a lot of benefits and may already have some training.

"They go into senior housing or hospice care. We do get quite a few animals in that way. People just can't care for them anymore," Solis explained. "But many times they come in, and they're already house trained, crate trained. Have some manners. Sit and stay."

For anyone with a slower and quieter lifestyle, an older pet may fit your household's vibe. Many times, these seniors are just looking for a comfortable lap to nap on.

"We try to find the perfect fit depending on what somebody wants in an animal. If they have children, a fenced yard, that type of thing. So take the characteristics of the animal and try to match it to the home."

If you plan to go to the shelter, consider what type of pet may be most suited for your household.