Hundreds line up for free adoption event in Putnam County held after nearly 200 dogs found at Interlachen home

PALATKA, Fla. – Hundreds of people lined up to participate in a free adoption event aimed at finding the nearly 200 dogs that were removed from a residence in Interlachen a new forever home.

A total of 41 dogs were adopted at the Friday event in Palatka.

“My little sister wants a puppy,” Ashley Lattimore said.

Everyone who showed up had a reason to walk away with a furry four-legged friend.

“Finding a forever pet because I lost my baby a year and a half ago to a snake bite,” Nicole Buttler said.

RELATED | Donations needed after finding nearly 200 dogs in Putnam County residence

Every dog at this event was either rescued from a home in Interlachen earlier this week or was already housed in the overcrowded Putnam County animal shelter.

Putnam County Deputy Administrator, Julianne Young said before the event, animal advocates volunteered their time to prepare the dogs for adoption.

“We’ve got great community turnout from all different aspects of the community. Our rescues, our veterinarian care, our groomers have shown up to the shelter for the past two days and volunteered their time and efforts to get these animals into a comfortable state,” Young said.

Although adoption fees were waived, adoptees were still required to sign waivers. And, although veterinarians were on-site, adoptees would still have to take their new dog to their veterinarian for medical follow-ups.

An overwhelming majority of the animals at Friday’s adoption event were part of the nearly 200 dogs that were rescued from a home on Wednesday and Thursday.

“That’s a lot of dogs to have at your house,” Lattimore said.

Although the animals were not neglected, they were too much for the elderly owner because they were not spayed or neutered. The woman agreed to sign them over to animal control, and this is why the county decided to hold this free adoption event, in hopes of freeing up space at the shelter.

Donations can be brought to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office headquarters at 130 Orie Griffin Boulevard. Donations are also welcome at any of the local fire stations.

Here are some of the items needed:

• Hygiene products (dog shampoo, laundry detergent to wash linens, sheets, towels and blankets)

• Food for small breeds, puppies

• Leashes, collars, harnesses

• Toys

There is also an Amazon wish list that has specific items requested that are needed for the dogs.