Riverside, CA – Fee-waived adoptions will continue at all Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) shelter locations as the department aims to “Clear the Shelters: Unleash Your Superpower and Adopt a Hero,” during the final weekend of August. Special pets like Bruno are finding their forever homes with families showing up from far and wide.

Bruno (previously Astro) came into the Western Riverside County/City Animal Shelter as a stray on August 7, 2025. At just 11-weeks old, staff noticed something extra-special about the shepherd-mix puppy. Bruno is blind, but he did not let that stop him from gaining the attention of a resident looking for a best friend and companion.

“As I walked by he barked at me, and when I kept walking, he kept barking. I went over to him and asked, ‘Do you like me?’ and he started licking his cage to get me to pet him,” said Diane Slaughter of her first interaction with Bruno. “I knew he was the one for me, and when the staff told me he’s blind I said that was perfectly fine because I will always be by his side.”

Diane lost her 16-year-old Miniature Schnauzer, Baby, six months ago, and she was ready to find a new pet to keep her company. She has the time and energy to give Bruno the attention and affection he needs, which all available pets at RivCo shelters are patiently waiting for.

“Bruno’s adoption success is the reason we show up for these pets every single day, and there are hundreds who just need a chance to be seen,” said Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “Please consider opening your hearts and your homes to a shelter pet who will unconditionally pour their love and loyalty into you. These animals really possess the power to change your life for the better.”

With over 1,000 dogs and 200 cats across all RivCo shelters, there are plenty of adoptable pets ready to go home with their new families today. All adoptions include spay/neuter services, age-appropriate vaccinations, microchips and engraved ID tags.

“RivCo animals deserve our best, and free adoptions make it that much easier to connect people with pets,” said Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez. “Dogs like Bruno are counting on us to show up to give them the life they deserve.”

For people considering adding a new pet to their family, RCDAS also offers a short-term foster option where people can foster a pet until they’re ready to fully commit. Staff are available on site to answer questions and match a pet that will fit the family’s lifestyle.

To view adoptable pets, visit www.rcdas.org/adoptable-pets. For hours and locations, visit www.rcdas.org.