Burlington County Animal Shelter’s Longest Resident Adopted During Special Open House

WESTAMPTON – A lucky dog from the Burlington County Animal Shelter finally found his forever home.

Rebel, a Pit Bull terrier mix, was surrendered to the shelter over a year ago. He is one of eight dogs and 16 cats that were adopted Saturday during the animal shelter’s annual Clear the Shelter Open House.

The event is organized in partnership with the Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter to help showcase many of the animals available for adoption or fostering. This year it featured a “Pawradise Luau” theme.

Rebel was featured on 6ABC Action News’ latest “Shelter Me” segment last week with Meteorologist Cecily Tynan and was adopted by Philadelphia resident Christina Viggiano and her family, who came to the open house to meet him. They quickly connected and Rebel became the first adoption of the day.

“Every dog has its day, and Rebel’s was definitely Saturday. While he received tons of love and attention from our shelter staff and volunteers, we were ecstatic to see him go home with a family of his own,” said Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Dan O’Connell, the liaison to the animal shelter. “Helping animals get adopted is an essential part of the shelter’s mission but they can’t do it alone. We are incredibly grateful for families like the Viggiano family who are willing to open their hearts and homes to adopt an animal, along with all the other caring residents who volunteer, foster or perform other services to support the shelter. Things like donating supplies and sharing spotlights about available animals can make a huge difference.”

Burington County Commissioner Allison Eckel was also present at the shelter during Rebel’s adoption and thanked the Viggiano family with Commissioner O’Connell.

“Rebel’s story shows that no matter how long the wait, a happy ending is possible,” said Eckel. “Our thanks go out to all the adopters, staff and volunteers who helped make Saturday’s event such a big success.”

Clear the Shelter is a national animal adoption promotion that began on Aug. 10 and runs through Sept. 10. During that period, all adoption fees are waived.

“A total of 879 cats and 342 dogs have been adopted from the shelter so far this year, including more than 156 cats and 40 dogs during the last month,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “That’s an amazing total and we’re so thankful for all who adopted, but we won’t rest until we find new homes for all our adoptable pets.”

Learn more about all the available animals at the shelter online at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1446/Available-for-Adoption .

Animal lovers can volunteer their time to help with shelter tasks, make financial donations or gift the shelter needed supplies. For more information, including a wish list of items, visit https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1290/Donation-Wish-List .