Every dog, cat, and critter at Pasadena Humane can go home free on Saturday, July 18, as the shelter holds its second Free Adoption Day of the summer.

The one-day event runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the shelter, 361 S. Raymond Ave. No adoption fees apply. Two foundations are picking up the tab: the Pet Care Foundation and The Georgia B. Ridder Foundation, which have jointly funded free adoption programs at Pasadena Humane since at least 2014.

Chris Ramon, the shelter's president and CEO, said the timing is critical. Summer is peak intake season for shelters across Southern California, and the July 18 event is the organization's second free adoption push this summer.

"This event comes at an especially important time for us, as we are still in the height of kitten season," Ramon said. "Every adoption makes a real difference. When a pet goes home with a loving family, it not only changes that animal's life, but also creates space and resources so we can help the next pet in need."

What adopters get

Every animal adopted Saturday leaves with spay or neuter surgery completed, a microchip, and age-appropriate vaccinations. Adoption counselors will be on-site to help families find a pet that fits their home, lifestyle, and experience level.

Adoptions are first-come, first-served, and standard screening still applies. Residents can browse available animals in advance at pasadenahumane.org.

Beat the heat

The City of Pasadena issued an extreme heat advisory for the week, and the advisory remains in effect Saturday. Three city recreation centers will be open July 18 for residents seeking indoor relief: Robinson Park Recreation Center (1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave.), Victory Park Recreation Center (2575 Paloma St.), and Villa Parke Community Center (363 E. Villa St.). Adopters heading to the shelter should bring water and plan for sun.

Upcoming Pasadena community events

  • Saturday, July 18: Levitt VIBE Pasadena Music Series featuring Dave Barnes, Memorial Park, 85 E. Holly St., 6–10 p.m. Free.
  • Saturday, July 25: Levitt VIBE Pasadena featuring Julian Torres y Mariachi Cenzontle, Memorial Park, 6–10 p.m. Free.
  • Friday, July 31: Golden Hour: Music in the Garden, Norton Simon Museum, 411 W. Colorado Blvd., 4:30–6:30 p.m. Free with museum admission.
  • Through Sunday, August 2: "Mexodus" at Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave. Tickets at pasadenaplayhouse.org.