3,000 free pet adoptions to be available

TOPEKA, Kan., Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Some 3,000 pets will be offered up for free adoptions at animal shelters throughout the United States on an upcoming day, the event's organizer says.

Hill's Pet Nutrition, a pet food chain based out of Topeka, Kan., has organized Change a Pet's Life Day for Jan. 24 to draw in individuals to adopt new pets and bring attention to the 300 participating shelters, USA Today said Wednesday.

"Eight million pets a year enter shelters," Janet Donlin of Hill's said. "We are hoping that people who have been thinking about adding a pet to their family will take this opportunity to do so."

The 3,000 free animal adoptions will represent the first 10 animals adopted at each of the 300 locations on Jan. 24. Hill's is paying all fees for those initial adoptions, which can range from $25 to $300.

A full list of the participating centers is available at feedingisbelieving.com.

USA Today said the event is being championed by "The Closer" star Kyra Sedgwick, who is promoting the event in a number of appearances this week.

"I hope people will at least consider the possibility of getting a shelter pet," the TV star offered.