Every animal adoption has a ripple effect that goes far beyond one happy pet finding their forever home. At the York County SPCA (YCSPCA), we see this every day: when a dog or cat is adopted, not only does that pet’s life change forever, but space and resources open up for the next animal waiting for their second chance. This chain reaction is called The Rescue Effect—and it’s the driving force behind a nationwide effort to save more lives.
The York County SPCA Joins the ASPCA’s Rescue Effect Campaign
The York County SPCA is proud to join animal shelters and rescues across the country in participating in the ASPCA’s Rescue Effect campaign. This initiative raises awareness about the importance of pet adoption and helps place more animals into loving homes.
As part of this effort, the YCSPCA will host two additional Free Adoption Fridays presented by the ASPCA on:
- October 3
- October 10
During these special adoption events, fees will be waived for available adult dogs (older than six months).
Like many shelters nationwide, the YCSPCA is facing high intake numbers, particularly strays. “Thanks to the Rescue Effect from the ASPCA, we can eliminate an adoption barrier and get pets into loving, permanent homes,” said Kristen Dempwolf, YCSPCA Communications Director.
What Is The Rescue Effect?
The Rescue Effect is a national campaign launched by the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) and proudly supported this year by Chewy. Running from August through Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month in October, the campaign highlights the lifesaving impact of pet adoption.
With nearly six million dogs and cats entering shelters and rescues across the U.S. in 2024, shelters are fuller than ever. Many animals, especially dogs, are spending longer periods in shelters before being adopted. By choosing adoption, you’re not just giving one pet a forever home—you’re helping shelters like ours save even more animals.
As ASPCA President & CEO Matt Bershadker explains:
“When we work together, we save more lives. When you choose pet adoption, you make a lifesaving impact that benefits more than one animal.”
This year, the ASPCA is providing $2 million in grants to shelters and rescues across 43 states, including more than 100 organizations holding fee-waived adoption events. These grants help cover adoption fees and support shelters’ operating costs so that more animals can find loving homes.
Free Adoption Fridays at the YCSPCA
Our Free Adoption Fridays are designed to make pet adoption accessible while creating space for more animals in need.
What to Know Before You Come:
- First come, first served – no appointments accepted and not for pre-scheduled adoptions.
- The list of available dogs will be shared Friday mornings on our social media and posted in the shelter lobby.
- Foster dogs are not included—only dogs onsite at the YCSPCA are eligible.
- Please bring your own collar and leash if you plan to adopt (limited supplies available for purchase).
- Most dogs can go home the same day, though some may require a follow-up pickup.
- This opportunity is for dogs only, and only during the listed Free Adoption Friday events.
👉 Learn more at: ycspca.org/series/free-adoption-fridays-presented-by-aspca
How You Can Be Part of the Rescue Effect
Even if you aren’t able to adopt right now, there are many ways to create a ripple of positive change:
- Foster a Pet – Providing temporary care opens up space in the shelter for more animals.
- Donate Supplies or Funds – Your support helps us provide food, medical care, and enrichment.
- Advocate – Encourage local leaders to support animal shelters in your community.
- Spread the Word – Share adoption events, success stories, or use the hashtag #TheRescueEffect to inspire others.
Why Adoption Matters
When you adopt, you save two lives: the pet you welcome into your home and the one who takes their place in the shelter. It’s a cycle of compassion that strengthens our entire community of animal lovers.
At the York County SPCA, every adoption means another wagging tail, another purr of contentment, and another chance for us to help the animals still waiting. That’s the Rescue Effect in action.
About the York County SPCA
The York County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing long-term human and animal services to residents of York County through programs that find permanent, loving homes for displaced and stray animals, help control animal population growth, investigate and prosecute cruelty offenders, and educate the public about animal wellness and safety. We do not receive funding from the national ASPCA. We are a community resource supporting all York County residents and their animals—learn more at www.ycspca.org.
About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America and today serves as the nation’s leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org.
