Rochester Animal Services prepares for major shelter renovations with Free Dog Friday adoption event

Rochester, New York – Rochester Animal Services is preparing for a major round of facility upgrades, and before construction begins, the shelter is asking the community to step in and help in a very direct way—by adopting and fostering dogs who are currently in need of homes.

The upcoming renovations will bring 60 new, larger kennels to the facility, a change officials say will significantly improve comfort and care for the animals housed there. These upgrades are part of a broader capital investment that has already started to reshape the shelter, including improvements to animal care spaces and areas used by visitors. With construction approaching, staff say space will become tighter, and moving dogs into homes—whether temporary or permanent—has become a top priority.

To support that goal, Rochester Animal Services is organizing two community-focused events: a Free Dog Friday adoption event on June 12 and a Foster Information Session scheduled for June 25. Both events are designed to open up space in the shelter while also connecting residents with dogs who are ready for adoption or temporary care.

The first event, Free Dog Friday, will take place on Friday, June 12, from noon to 6 p.m. at the shelter located at 184 Verona St. During that window, adoption fees for dogs will be completely waived for approved adopters. Officials hope that removing the financial barrier will encourage more residents to consider bringing a dog home.

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Around 20 dogs are currently available for adoption or foster placement. Each one will go through the adoption process fully prepared for a new start, as they will be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Dogs that have already completed their procedures will be able to leave the same day they are adopted, making the process faster for families ready to commit.

Those interested in adopting are being asked to come prepared. A valid ID is required, along with a leash and collar to safely take a new pet home. Shelter staff will be on-site to help match families with dogs and guide them through the adoption process.

The second event, a Foster Information Session, will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 25 at the Thomas P. Ryan R-Center at 530 Webster Ave. This session is aimed at residents who may not be ready for permanent adoption but are open to providing temporary homes for dogs in transition.

During the session, current foster volunteers will share personal experiences about caring for shelter animals. Their stories are expected to give attendees a realistic view of what fostering involves, from short-term care to helping dogs adjust to home environments. Rochester Animal Services staff will also walk participants through the steps required to join the approved foster network.

Once approved, foster volunteers can be contacted whenever a dog needs temporary placement, both during the renovation period and beyond. Officials say building a strong foster network is essential, especially as kennel space becomes limited during construction.

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“As we prepare for this renovation, we are doing what we always do – putting our animals first,” said Rochester Animal Services Director Staci Papadoplos. “These dogs deserve the comfort, stability, and love of a home, and we’re holding these events to help connect them with families before construction gets underway. As our available space becomes more limited in the coming weeks, every adoption and foster not only changes the life of a dog but also helps ensure we can continue serving animals in need throughout our community.”

City leadership is also encouraging residents to take part in the effort, highlighting the impact that even a temporary foster placement can have during this transitional period.

“Doing something positive for your community doesn’t always come in the form of a new furry friend, but this time it does!” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “I encourage everyone to consider adopting or fostering a dog from Rochester Animal Services, especially while the kennel renovations are underway.”

The shelter emphasizes that both events are part of a broader effort to ensure animals are not overcrowded or stressed during construction. With space expected to tighten in the coming weeks, officials say community involvement is more important than ever.

Residents interested in viewing adoptable dogs or learning more about fostering can visit www.CityofRochester.gov/RAS for additional information and updates.