The Chautauqua County Humane Society said it is offering fee-waived adoptions in an effort to clear the shelter. Pictured is Goliath, one of the animals available at the humane society. Submitted photo

The Chautauqua County Humane Society said it is working hard to find homes for 20 cats and six dogs as a way to prepare for whatever repercussions may come from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beginning Wednesday and over the next few days the humane society said it will be offering fee-waived adoptions in an effort to clear the shelter.

“This is the perfect time to adopt, because there will be a week or two at home with your new pet for everyone to adjust and adapt,” said Brian Papalia, community relations director, “and if anyone has questions before or after our staff will be available to assist with those situations.”

Anyone interested in adopting is asked to visit chqhumane.org to fill out the adoption application form. Staff will being calling interested adopters to make appointments at 1 p.m. Wednesday.

“We are spacing out the adoption appointments to allow time to complete the standard adoption protocols and for proper cleaning of the facilities before the next adopter arrives,” Papalia said. “Appointments will be scheduled between 1 and 6 p.m. Wednesday. Appointments may be made through Friday.”

The effort to clear the shelter is to allow CCHS to prepare should the effects of the COVID-19 Virus create a situation where folks become sick and need emergency sheltering for their pets. This is the best way CCHS can prepare to serve the community and they are counting on the community to help come out and adopt to create that space.