Free Puppy (And Kitty) Love

Puppies born from hoarded dogs in Bastrop are ready for adoption (Photo by Austin Humane Society)

This week we've got two super hot adoption specials from the Austin Humane Society, and a few details about a September paws-tastic event for dog lovers.

So you think it's hot outside, eh? Now imagine how hot you'd be if you had fur. Yikes! With the mercury expected to hit 107 on Friday, the Austin Humane Society is rolling out a super hot adoption special: On Friday, Aug. 5, the first 107 adoptions of all dogs (over six months), cats, and kittens will be free. That's right, free!

The AHS is hoping to move some of the animals who have been flooding the shelter this summer on to lives of love with their forever families. Indeed, the AHS reports the number of animals coming to the shelter this year has increased by 20% over last year – so far this year the shelter has taken in 2,019 animals, up from 1,628 in 2010.

Check out the cats and dogs up for adoption here and here.

Also, as you may recall, back in May the AHS took in nearly 150 dogs rescued from an animal hoarder in Bastrop; it was the worst case of hoarding the shelter has ever seen – many of the animals were crusted in feces, and none of the pets had been spayed or neutered. Indeed, at the time of the rescue, 10 of the females in the group were pregnant.

But, there is a furry and wiggly silver lining to the story: Not only are the rescued dogs doing well, but now the puppies born from those animals are ready for adoption. And, man, they're cute:

Awwww! On Saturday, Aug. 6, from noon to 7pm, the nearly 40 puppies – along with their mothers – will be available for a Puppy Love celebration adoption event at the group's North Austin shelter.

In other news: Mark your calendars now – and get yourself signed up – for the Sept. 6, Hound Hunt. Hosted by Party Animals (the Austin pet-party-planning company) and It's Pawsitively Irresistible (Austin's baker of wholesome dog treats), the city-wide dog-centric scavenger hunt will feature groups of owners and their canine buddies sniffing out clues at dog-friendly businesses across the city, with all proceeds benefiting the AHS.

Get the full deets on the event, and sign up, here.