Stanislaus County animal shelter giving away dogs. Here’s how to get one

The Stanislaus Animal Services Agency is adopting out 50 dogs for free, thanks to an anonymous donor who covered the fees.

The shelter has 241 dogs — a diverse mix of sizes, ages and breeds. It is well over its capacity of 168 dogs. According to the agency’s Facebook post about the free dog adoptions, there are so many dogs housed in the same kennels that they hardly have room to move.

As a county shelter, ASA is obligated to accept all animals brought in by animal control and police officers, often leading to many overcrowded kennels.

The campaign kicked off Tuesday and will continue through Saturday or until the 50 dogs have found their forever families.

New to dog adoption? Do not worry if your new pet does not immediately warm up to its new space. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has what it calls the “adoption 3’s”: It typically takes three days for your new dog to begin warming up to you, three weeks for the dog to start feeling as though it’s fitting in, and three months for the dog to truly feel at home.

If you have other dogs at home, remember to introduce your new family member slowly. Having both dogs on a leash the first time can be helpful, giving more slack the more comfortable they get with one another.

Bruno is available for adoption. He is 2 years old and weighs 59 pounds. If you are interested in bringing him home, he is in kennel 510 ID#A575235.
Bruno is available for adoption. He is 2 years old and weighs 59 pounds. If you are interested in bringing him home, he is in kennel 510 ID#A575235.

In a news release, Animal Services Agency Executive Director Vaughn Maurice said he appreciates the “exceptional generosity” of the anonymous benefactor. “Their benevolent spirit is turning dreams into reality for our beloved furry companions and the families fortunate enough to welcome them. This gesture arrives at a pivotal juncture, given that the shelter’s capacity, designed for 168 dogs, is currently housing 241 dogs.”

The shelter is at 3647 Cornucopia Way in Modesto. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

For more information on dogs available for adoption, visit www.StanislausAnimalServices.com or just go to the shelter.

Blanca is available to add to your family. She is 4 years old and 40 pounds. If you are interested in adopting Blanca, she is in kennel 707 ID#A575201.
Blanca is available to add to your family. She is 4 years old and 40 pounds. If you are interested in adopting Blanca, she is in kennel 707 ID#A575201.
These are among the dogs available for adoption at the Modesto shelter.
These are among the dogs available for adoption at the Modesto shelter.