MADACC launches 'Big Mutts' program, waives adoption fees for big dogs looking for homes

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission (MADACC) and Friends of MADACC are looking to find homes for approximately 50 dogs by announcing a "Big Mutts" promotion for the remainder of the month.

From now until May 29, 2022, adoption fees for big dogs at MADACC are waived on dogs that are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and ready to go home.

"These dogs have been sitting here. Some of them weeks, some of them less. They're ready to go," explained Kathy Shillinglaw, volunteer and outreach coordinator at MADACC. "While we do want to get these dogs into homes, we want to get them in the right homes so they can stay there for the rest of their lives."

Shillinglaw admits that big dogs can take a lot of time, patience and work. She says it's part of the reason that shelters across the country are seeing an increase in large dogs looking for new homes.

"Dogs take time," Shillinglaw said. "If you don't have a whole lot of time in your day to spend training a dog, walking a dog, exercising, feeding, etc., maybe a cat or a smaller animal would be better for you."

Sonia Gonzalez rescued her pit bull a few months ago and hasn't looked back.

"If I would have my own house, like a house I can say, 'This is mine,' I will have more dogs than this," Gonzalez said. "I want a rottweiler, I want another pit bull, I want a huskie. I want a bunch of dogs around, but all in due time."

For now, Gonzalez says she and her family are enjoying their time with their pup Segura.

"I do recommend them because they're really, they're like a family dog," Gonzalez said. "They will take your energy out, they will give you a positive vibe of motivation, basically, that's what they'll do for you."

People looking to adopt a dog from MADACC are encouraged to visit the shelter during adoption hours. They are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

"We have adoption counselors that are going to talk to them about what's the right fit for their home," Shillinglaw said. "If you are interested in a small dog, that doesn't exclude you from coming to MADACC to adopt. We do have small dogs that are available, they're just not part of the promotion."

Shillinglaw says many of the available dogs are ready to go home the same day. Folks looking to adopt are encouraged to have a large crate for when you're not home, dog food, treats, toys, and a leash or harness on hand before adopting. It is also encouraged to start looking for a vet that you want to work with.

"We are not unique here in Milwaukee, dealing with this. But we're up to the challenge," Shillinglaw said. "We're happy to find these guys homes. The best place for each of these dogs is in their forever home."

Available dogs are listed HERE and will be listed as "Big Mutt."