EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — National Mutt Day, observed on Friday, July 31, will highlight the value of mixed-breed dogs by giving El Paso residents an opportunity to adopt a mixed-breed pet of their own at no cost.
El Paso Animal Services is participating in the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s nationwide “Empty the Shelters” campaign, offering free adoptions through July 31 at all shelter locations.
According to El Paso Animal Services, mixed-breed dogs are often the animals that remain in shelters the longest, not because of behavior issues, but because many adopters focus on breed over personality.
Shelter staff encourages prospective adopters to choose a dog based on its temperament, energy level, and compatibility with their lifestyle rather than its breed.
The organization noted that mixed-breed dogs may benefit from greater genetic diversity, which can reduce the risk of some inherited health conditions commonly associated with certain purebred dogs.
The free adoption event is part of the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters initiative, a national program designed to help shelters find homes for adoptable pets while easing overcrowding.
Since its launch in 2016, the program has helped more than 300,000 pets find permanent homes.
National Mutt Day is observed twice each year to celebrate mixed-breed dogs and raise awareness about the many adoptable pets waiting in shelters, including those at El Paso Animal Services.
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