EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) \u2014 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Shelter staff encourages prospective adopters to choose a dog based on its temperament, energy level, and compatibility with their lifestyle rather than its breed.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Since its launch in 2016, the program has helped more than 300,000 pets find permanent homes.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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