ST. LOUIS COUNTY,Mo. — This holiday season, several hundred shelter animals are ​finding their new “forever” ⁢homes thanks to a complimentary‌ adoption event.

During the recent weekend, 93 dogs and 25 cats ⁢found loving families at the St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center. This‍ marks the second occasion that the center has hosted a free adoption​ event ‍following ⁣the ‌approval of‍ new regulations by⁢ the⁣ St.‌ Louis ⁢County Council that allow for fee waivers.

The initiative not only alleviated overcrowding⁢ but also reduced stress ‍levels⁣ among animals while creating additional space for incoming pets in⁢ need of care, according to Sara Dayley,​ public‌ information officer for the ​Department of Public ‌Health.

“Free adoption events ​are a proven strategy to effectively lower shelter populations and enhance animal welfare,”​ she shared with Spectrum News.

“Equally critically important, thes events help relieve pressure on our⁤ dedicated staff and volunteers,‌ enabling them to devote more time and attention to the animals currently in our‍ care.”

As of​ Monday morning, ⁤there were still 100 animals residing at the st.⁣ Louis County Pet Adoption Center.