The Empty The Shelters Holiday Hope is happening this weekend (December 1,2018) and is sponsored by Bissell Pet Foundation. Winnebago County Animal Services is participating in the nationwide event happening this Saturday.

Responding to overcrowding in shelters across the country, BPF added an additional Empty the Shelters event in 2018. On December 1, pet lovers will have the opportunity to adopt a pet for $20 and BISSELL Pet Foundation will sponsor the remaining cost at 81 participating organizations in 14 states.

Both the foundation's website and Winnebago County Animal Services want to make sure everyone who plans to participate in their adoption event knows this -

All potential adopters are screened by qualified adoption counselors at every participating shelter to ensure each pet is matched with the right family.

To get your adoption application filled out and approved ahead of time, which is recommended, head to this link. You can visit and purchase cats and dogs that are at least 6 months of age from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Winnebago County Animal Service's shelter on 4517 N. Main St. in Rockford. The shelter hopes to get as many pets home for the holidays as they can.

Listen to MJ on 97ZOK every morning 5:30 to 10 AM.  Follow her on Instagram and Facebook.  

More From 97 ZOK