SPECIAL CHOICES

The owner doesn’t choose the dog. The dog chooses you.

That’s according to Brett Ebbitt, a rescue dog owner who said being chosen is a unique feeling.

For example, Mr. Ebitt was looking at shelter dogs a few years ago when an energetic pit bull sprinted to him and immediately leaned against his knee.

“As soon as he did that, I knew,” said Mr. Ebitt, of Imperial.

Saturday afternoon, Mr. Ebitt was one of many seeking that special connection at the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh shelter on the North Side, one of two locations in the city holding a “Mega Adoption Event” — a region-wide effort to find homes for hundreds of pets this holiday season.

Mr. Ebitt didn’t take one home Saturday, but he and dozens of other hopeful owners visited the shelter on Western Avenue, where about 20 dogs and seven cats were available for adoption. Humane Animal Rescue’s location in Homewood also saw several prospective pet owners, according to employees and volunteers.

By Saturday evening, there were a combined 39 adoptions at both locations — 26 cats, 11 dogs and two bunnies.

“It’s been a good turnout,” said employee Rachel Baran.

Those looking to adopt had to fill out a two-page survey that inquired about their living situations. Then they leafed through binders filled with photos of the animals. If one caught their eye, a shelter worker took them to a private room to meet their potential pet.

If it’s love at first sight, pets can go home that day — as long as they’re up to date on vaccinations, flea protection, microchipped, and are spayed or neutered — for a one-time fee of $35.

The event was part of a collaboration that spanned four states, dubbed the Brandywine Valley SPCA, or BVSPCA, Mega Adoption Event, which was put on in partnership with the companies Petco Love, BOBS from Skechers, and Discover. Shelters in Delaware, New Jersey and Maryland are all holding similar events throughout the holiday season.

“Our Megas are such an important lifesaving experience to give pets who have lost so much a chance to find families eager to give them a life full of love and care,” said Adam Lamb, CEO of Brandywine Valley. “We are looking to save more lives, reach more local adopters, and open space to more animals in need in our region and beyond.”

Casey Meredith started volunteering at Humane Animal Rescue as a dog walker about 18 months ago. On Saturday, she led animals into rooms to meet their potential adopters; she said days like these give her fulfillment.

“[The animals] are safe, they’re warm, they’re fed,” she said. “I love it.”

The event continues from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at 6926 Hamilton Ave. in Homewood and 101 Western Ave. on the North Side.