From Waiting to Wanted—Here’s What You Made Possible
Our Community Showed Up and Showed Out
Every August, shelters across the country take part in Clear the Shelters, a nationwide adoption event with one goal: get as many pets into loving homes as possible. At SPCA Wake, we knew this year’s event would be big. But we had no idea just how big, until our community showed us.
On Friday, August 1st, we waived adoption fees and kept our doors open from 8am to midnight, determined to make the most of every hour. From the moment the sun came up until long after it set, our shelter was buzzing with joyful chaos—families meeting pets, volunteers cheering them on, and staff working tirelessly to make each match count.
By the end of Friday, 97 pets had found homes. We were stunned. And we weren’t done yet.
The momentum continued through the weekend with 50% off adoption fees on Saturday and Sunday, bringing our total to an incredible 127 adoptions in just three days. That’s 127 animals curled up on couches, chasing toys, and being loved.
A Long Wait and A Perfect Match: Bodie’s Story
One of those lucky pets was Bodie, a goofy, sweet-natured pup who had been with us for nearly two months. Despite his playful personality and loving heart, Bodie can be very shy at first and so he kept being overlooked. Another part of the reason for his long stay? Bodie was undergoing treatment for heartworm disease—a process that takes a while and can make adopters hesitant.
But Bodie waited patiently. He healed. He gained confidence. And he never gave up hope.
During Clear the Shelters, a couple whose beloved dog of 16 years had recently passed away walked through our doors. Their hearts were broken, but open. And when they met Bodie, something just clicked.
They saw past his long shelter stay, his medical history, and his initial shyness. They saw him.
They adopted him on the spot and renamed him Cooper. And now? He’s thriving. He’s found his people. And his people have found joy again.
Gratitude Beyond Words
Events like Clear the Shelters remind us of what’s possible when a community comes together. These 127 adoptions weren’t just numbers; they were new beginnings. They were proof that love is stronger than circumstance, and that there’s a perfect match for every pet.
From everyone at SPCA Wake, thank you.
Thank you to the volunteers who gave up their weekend.
Thank you to the adopters who opened their homes.
Thank you to the supporters who cheered us on, shared our posts, and made it all possible.
We’re still riding the wave of joy from this unforgettable weekend and we couldn’t be more grateful.