Knoxville Offers ‘Name Your Own Adoption Fee’ for Dogs

Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Dogs at the Young-Williams Animal Center waiting for adoption

News Summary

In an effort to combat overcrowding, the Young-Williams Animal Center in Knoxville, TN, is allowing potential adopters to choose their own adoption fees for adult dogs and puppies. With over 150 dogs currently in the shelter, this initiative aims to find loving homes for these animals while addressing the urgent capacity issue. Additionally, inspiring stories like Ralphie, a French Bulldog who overcame multiple adoption attempts, highlight the importance of compassion in pet adoption. Community members are encouraged to visit the shelter and help the furry residents find their forever homes.

Knoxville Opens Its Heart for Animal Adoption!

If you’re in Knoxville, Tennessee, and craving some furry companionship, now is the time to act! The Young-Williams Animal Center is waving a big, friendly banner saying, “Name Your Own Adoption Fee!” That’s right, folks! This unique initiative comes at a crucial time, as the shelter is bursting at the seams with over 150 dogs, while its maximum capacity is just 94.

Why the Special Adoption Fees?

Typically, if you wanted to adopt an adult dog, you’d be looking at an adoption fee of around $40, while puppies usually come with a price tag of about $150. However, due to the center’s current overcapacity situation, they’re letting potential adopters choose how much they want to pay to bring home a new best friend. This is a golden opportunity for those looking to expand their family while also doing their part to help ease the shelter’s pressing overcrowding.

Locals interested in adopting a lovable pup can visit the shelter located at 3201 Division Street in Knoxville. Just grab your shoes and head on over, as the friendly staff is eager to help you find your furry soulmate.

Meet Ralphie – The Fire-Breathing Demon

Ralphie’s early life was tough, filled with numerous moves and failed adoptions, but this resilient little fellow showed that he had a special spark waiting to shine. Since his adoption, which took place in Spring 2023, Ralphie has made significant strides in his emotional journey. He is becoming more trusting and sociable, shedding layers of insecurity with each passing day.

Training and Activities

The trainer who adopted him has crafted a mindful training plan focusing on Ralphie’s pace. The goal? To promote socialization through exciting trips to farmers markets and various parks across the city. Surprisingly, Ralphie even enjoys unique activities like skateboarding and has participated in 5Ks! He is so impressive that he has become a brand ambassador for a carpet-cleaning company, adding yet another feather to his cap.

Health Concerns at Young-Williams Animal Center

Young-Williams Animal Center encourages adoptions, they are currently facing some challenges. Recently, a case of canine distemper was reported, leading the shelter to temporarily pause dog adoptions and intake at their main location. Distemper can cause serious respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, especially in unvaccinated puppies. Given the circumstances, the shelter is only accepting emergency cases that pose a risk to public health and safety.

If you happen to spot a stray dog, the shelter advises you to refrain from picking it up and instead report its location. This ensures that animals get the proper care they need without any adverse effects from potential health concerns.

Young-Williams Animal Center is on a mission to find loving homes for its furry residents. Whether you’re naming your own adoption fee, following Ralphie’s inspiring journey, or helping strays find their way home, you can positively impact the well-being of these sweet souls. So, grab a friend, head down to the shelter, and be part of the solution in your community!