Humane Society of Carroll County Takes Pet Adoption On The Road

WESTMINSTER, Md. (WJZ)—National figures show that of the 6-8 million animals that find their way to a shelter, only about half get adopted. Shelters are always looking for ways to get more animals into permanent homes.

Mike Schuh shows us what Carroll County is doing.

Those who run the Humane Society of Carroll County would love to see all their animals in homes.

But the shelter is miles outside of Westminster. Someone coming there to adopt is on a mission.

So what would happen if they brought the animals to the people? Behold Humane Society of Carroll County's mobile pet adoption trailer.

The trailer is driven to fairs, stores and events.

Inside: a dozen special cages.

Michelle Fidler's job is to keep the animals healthy.

"Oh it's huge, it's huge. This is something we've wanted, and it's finally happened," she said.

The neat trick: the sides open to reveal the animals. So adopters will be able to see the pets from outside the trailer.

Once people see a cat or dog, they are much easier to adopt.

"Most people are thinking about adopting a cat to their house and seeing the face seals the deal," Fidler said.

"The kids help to encourage, but usually the parents are like 'you know you have to help care for the animal,'" said Debbie Maggitti, volunteer.

Most of the trailer's $50,000 cost was picked up by a single donor, Norelle Floreen.

And this trailer has helped to put more animals in permanent homes.

Besides cats, they also adopt out pocket pets, guinea pigs, rabbits, gerbils, rats you name it. They bring those out in this trailer too and have been quite successful, so if you're looking for a nice pet to adopt, find out where this trailer is going to be next week.

The cost to adopt in Carroll County is $50. On any given weekend, check their website to find out where their trailer will be.

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