Marion County Dog Shelter Opens Event to Public for First Time since COVID-19

Posted on November 29, 2023

Salem, Ore. — The holidays will be a little brighter for the dogs at Marion County Dog Services (MCDS) in Salem. The shelter is hosting a holiday adoption event on Thursday, November 30 from 1:00pm to 5:00pm. They hope to find homes for many of their canine residents.

This is the first time since 2020 that the shelter’s adoption kennels will be open to the public. Guests are welcome to walk the kennels and meet adoptable dogs. The shelter closed its adoption kennels during the COVID-19 pandemic in favor of conducting adoptions by appointment.

“Our shelter has been at critical capacity for a majority of the year,” said MCDS Shelter Director, Lauren Thielke. “With this many dogs, our staff and volunteers are spending most of their time cleaning kennels and making sure the dogs are healthy, socialized and exercised.”

MCDS accepts and cares for all lost and stray dogs within Marion County. Like many shelters across the country, MCDS has been dealing with an influx of homeless, lost and stray dogs.  Recently, adoptions have slowed.

If the holiday adoption event is successful, the shelter plans to host similar adoption events in the future.

Adoption fees range from $100- $350. The adoption fee includes spay/neuter, microchip, current vaccinations, flea/tick treatment, deworming, and a goody bag of treats, toys and other basic supplies. Additionally, Marion County residents who adopt will receive a dog license for their new dog.

Share the word with your friends, and consider dropping by to see all the lovable and adorable pets in our care.

About Marion County Dog Services:

Marion County Dog Services operates the county dog shelter whose mission is to provide shelter and care for stray dogs until they are reunited with their families or adopted; enforcing Marion County dog licensing and control ordinances; promoting humane treatment of dogs; and educating residents on quality dog care.

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