Fresno Animal Center says that it will waive adoption fees on Saturday as part of the second annual California Adopt-a-Pet Day.

The event is part of a statewide effort involving more than 150 animal shelters, coordinated by the California Animal Welfare Association, the San Francisco SPCA, and the ASPCA. The goal is to find loving homes for hundreds of shelter animals across the state.

Each adoption at Fresno Animal Center will include spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, a microchip, and flea and tick treatment.

Shelter officials say adopting from a local shelter has long-term benefits for both pets and their new families. Animals are given basic veterinary care before adoption, and staff work to match pets with homes suited to their needs.

For more information about available animals and adoption hours, visit the Fresno Animal Center website.

Even though adoptions are free, be advised that the average cost of owning a dog can range $1,390 to $5,295 per year, according to Rover. Rover also reported that an annual cost for owning a cat could range from $830 to $3,095.

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