Adoption fees to be waived during "Home for the Holidays" event Dec. 20 and Dec. 21

Montgomery County's Animal Services and Adoption Center (MCASAC) is hoping to clear the shelters this holiday season with a “Home for the Holidays” pet adoption event on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 20 and Dec. 21. 

To help reduce wait times during the adoption event, MCASAC will use an appointment system on Saturday, Dec. 20. Walk-ins will be welcome on Sunday, Dec. 21, based on counselor availability and as space allows. MSASAC is open from noon to 5 p.m. both days. The Center is located at 7315 Muncaster Mill Road in Derwood.  

“We’ve seen an uptick in our animal population, and we hope this event will help us clear the shelters. We have so many wonderful pets and each of them deserves a warm, cozy home in time for the holidays,” said Caroline Hairfield, MCASAC executive director. 

Residents can schedule appointments on the MSASAC website in the “How to Adopt” section and on their Facebook and Instagram accounts.  

Walk-ins on Saturday will be accommodated as space permits, including in cases of cancellations or no-shows. Adopters are encouraged to check the website frequently to confirm the availability of pets they are interested in. For more information, visit https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/animalservices. 

Adopters should be prepared to take an animal home the same day by bringing a leash and collar for dogs or a carrier for cats or small animals. In the interest of finding as many homes as possible for pets, no holds will be placed. 

MCASAC is operated by the Montgomery County Office of Animal Services. It is the county’s only open-admission, municipal shelter. Through adoptions, education and outreach, MCASAC serves as a critical community resource to promote and advocate for responsible pet care. Animal Services officers are available 7 days a week /24 hours per day to investigate complaints and respond to animal emergencies.