Monday, March 9 Update: Our Match Madness Adoption Promotion is now extended through March 31! As our busiest season approaches, our goal is to celebrate these pets and make amazing matches with loving adopters like YOU! Every pet who goes home opens space for PAWS to rescue more animals who are waiting for their chance, so visit phillypaws.org/adopt now to see who’s waiting to meet you!

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This March, excitement isn’t just for the basketball court—there’s an adoptable pet waiting to be your MVP! PAWS (Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society) is excited to announce Match Madness, an adoption promotion running from Saturday, March 1 through Sunday, March 9. PAWS’ shelters are full, and with so many pets waiting for a home, adopters can name their own adoption fee and bring home a cat or dog who is ready to become their ultimate teammate. Even better, every adoption opens space for PAWS to rescue another pet in need. There’s a match out there for everyone—are you ready to score a new furry family member?

PAWS saves thousands of at-risk pets each year who have nowhere else to go. During Match Madness, adopters can name their fee for qualifying cats and dogs—those with longer stays or special needs, such as manageable age-related conditions, daily medication routines, or preferences for being the only pet. These animals are looking for the loving homes they deserve, and they have so much to give in return. Match Madness aims to celebrate these cats and dogs, match them with the right adopters, and create space for more animals who are waiting for the same chance.

Alongside rescue and adoption efforts, PAWS supports pet owners through vital programs such as affordable veterinary care at its two clinics, a pet food pantry, behavioral and training resources, and a safety net foster program that provides temporary housing for pets while their owners navigate periods of transition.

PAWS is encouraging animal lovers across the region to make a game-changing move by adopting a pet! Wonderful dogs like Kona (pictured above) are waiting. A 7-year-old mixed breed, Kona was surrendered when her previous owner could no longer care for her. Raised with other dogs, Kona could continue to thrive with canine companions, but she is looking for a cat-free home. Kona is working on her leash skills, since she can be excitable on walks when she sees other animals. At home, she enjoys playing with toys, initiating tug-of-war, or napping under a blanket. Her smiling face says it all: Kona is ready to show her team spirit and become part of a family once again.

Loving cats like Choco Taco (pictured above) are also ready to find their match. At 5 years old, Choco Taco has been with PAWS for over 500 days, making him our longest resident by far. This gentle, easygoing companion loves to relax, chat with a soft chirp, and follow his person around. He enjoys the company of others but is also content to nap on his own. Choco gets along well with mellow cats and is great with kids. Although he takes medication for asthma and a seizure disorder, it doesn’t affect his daily life. For anyone seeking a calm, loving companion, Choco Taco is ready to be an all-star member of one lucky family.

“Finding the right match is about more than just bringing home a pet—it’s about creating a lifelong bond,” says Tammy Miller, PAWS’ senior adoption and foster manager. “Through our Match Madness adoption promotion, we’re committed to helping every pet find the best family based on their individual needs, as well as ensuring the best match for families based on their home and lifestyle. Now is the perfect time to open your heart and home to a new best friend!”

PAWS has long specialized in great matchmaking, ensuring a good fit for humans and pets alike, and offers support, guidance, and training for adopters as they welcome a new pet into their lives. For more about PAWS’ adoption process, including Match Madness animals (marked with a Match Madness logo), visit phillypaws.org/adopt.