LOWCOUNTRY, S.C. (WCIV) — Lowcountry animal shelters are asking the community to do their part to help clean up the shelters.

Three county animal shelters are teaming up to address an overcrowding crisis by waiving adoption fees for this weekend only.

charleston animal society,Berkeley Animal Centerand Dorchester legs They are coming together to “United Lowcountry Legs“an effort to make room in the three shelters for more stray and surrendered dogs and cats.

READ MORE | “Lowcountry shelters band together for free pet adoption amid overcrowding crisis”.

“Usually this time of year shelters are not as overcrowded as they are now,” said Aldwin Roman, vice president and chief operating officer of Charleston Animal Society.

Each shelter will be offering FREE adoptions over the holiday weekend for all cats and dogs ages 1 year and older. Adoption plays a critical role in helping community shelters relieve the stress of overcrowding, ensuring animals in need find a safe, loving home.

“These are the animals of the community. They are here because they are lost in the community. So we really need the community’s help to get them out of the shelter,” Roman said. “We have a space limit here. We cannot prevent stray animals from entering. “So if we don’t get people to adopt them, it becomes more and more overwhelming for us.”

Tri-County Shelters say with limited space, resources and staff, shelters are struggling to provide the necessary care and attention each animal needs. When you adopt you save two lives, the one you bring home and the space you open at the shelter.

READ MORE | “Behind the badge: Charleston Co. K9 goes from shelter to patrol”.

Bringing home a cat or dog will also benefit the owner.

“There are countless studies that show the benefit of having animals,” Roman said. “You don’t need to look at a study if you’ve ever spent time with or had a pet, you know the feeling it gives you. “

Roman says adopting an animal will brighten your life.

When you adopt a pet this weekend, not only will you receive the adoption fee waived, but all animals will be spayed or neutered and vaccinated. Charleston Animal Society says they will even send you home with the necessary items, like food, collars, and toys, to get you started.

Adoptable pets can be found. here.