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The Pike Animal Shelter is waiving adoption fees to reduce the animal population amid the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak.

“Because we are understaffed and typically overwhelmed with a  steady intake process, we are waiving adoption fees until further notice,” said Jacob Fannin, director. “The adoptions will still be pending the approval of the adoption application.”

Within six hours of posting the news on the shelter’s Facebook page, the shelter had already had five adoptions on Thursday, which Fannin said is relatively high.

While residents need to come to the shelter to adopt the animals, Fannin said only those people serious about adopting a dog or cat will be allowed to come inside.

There must be less than 25 people total in the shelter under the state’s most recent order to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.

“We don’t have more than four or five people come in at a time,” Fannin said. “Our employees are always implementing universal precautions no different than a doctor’s office because we don’t want to cross-contaminate diseases for animals. We’re doing the same with the public as a precautionary measure.”

And Fannin said pets are one of the things people can take joy in during the social distancing and shutdowns going on during this situation.

“As far as we know, cats and dogs are not able to transmit the Coronavirus,” Fannin said. “We have had no recommendations from veterinarians or the state department of health. Now that you’re stuck at home, what better time than to spend time with your animal? If somebody is trying to distance themselves socially or quarantining themselves, having a companion at home will be helpful.”

The adoption fee is usually $100, so Fannin said this is a great time to adopt. Residents can call the shelter for more information at 334-674-2422.