Denver Animal Protection: Celebrate Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

Fetch some love and joy by giving a homeless dog or cat their forever home during Adopt a Shelter Pet Day today.

Denver Animal Protection (DAP), a division of the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment, encourages the community to open their hearts and homes to one of the millions of animals at shelters each year.

In 2023, Denver Animal Shelter (DAS) recorded a 30% increase in animals they took in compared to numbers before the pandemic in 2019, while the number of animals surrendered by their owners in 2023 jumped 92% compared to 2019.

Adopt a Shelter Pet Day serves as a reminder of the importance of adoption and how a single person can make a world of difference in bringing love to an animal longing for a loving family.

And starting tomorrow, DAS makes it even more affordable to grow your family with its adoption special, Mile High Mutts. Through May, all dogs, 6 months and older, are just $52.80. Normal fees range from $100 to $170, depending on a dog's age.

Here are three homeless pups waiting to experience love and companionship, a warm bed and the security of family:

Zuko is a 1-year-old American pit bull at DAS for 88 days today. The 68-pound pup is sweet and energetic and loves treats and walks.

Chuka is a nearly 3-year-old Siberian husky mix who adores strolls and exploring the world around him.

Dio is a 3-year-old Australian cattle dog. He's a gentle pup who is shy and sensitive at first but warms up quickly.

"Adopt a Shelter Pet Day is an opportunity for us to shine a spotlight on the countless animals waiting for a second chance at happiness," said DAP Director Melanie Sobel. "By choosing adoption, individuals not only save a life but also enrich their own lives in ways they never could have imagined."

DAS is an open-admission shelter which means it accepts every animal that comes through its doors 24/7, 365 days a year,regardless of space available, age, breed, health, temperament and physical condition.

Join DAS today and through the month of May to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals. View all adoptable animals and many lost animals at DAS, which will eventually become available.

Chuka, 3-year-old Siberian husky mix.

Dio, 3-year-old Australian cattle dog.