Across the nation, thousands are helping Empty the Shelters — and that includes some in Broome County.

Bissel Pet Foundation sponsors the event that waives adoption fees at animal shelters.

For The Broome County Humane Society, it couldn't have come at a better time. 

"We are so full; we've been so full all summer, basically running at maximum capacity since June. So today is a wonderful thing because all of these animals will get out of here, which allows us to help more animals for the community," said Broome County Humane Society Manager Amberly Ondria

For many, the waived adoption fee is the final push they needed to bring home a new pet.

"I don't see anything wrong with the fee, but I feel like you can't be getting a free cat that's all up to date on its shots and spayed and neutered and so it really encouraged us to make our decision," said Binghamton resident Mariah Marcotte

Dozens came looking for pets Saturday.

James White and Jessica Schlep adopted Romeo, a dog that's been with the shelter for more than a year.

"We found out about the sponsored event and we came in yesterday, filled out the paperwork and were here to get him today," said White.

And having so many people come to the shelter allows workers to educate the public about the importance of spaying and neutering animals.

"Because you can see when it doesn't happen, shelters become very full and it just turns into this huge snowball effect. The communication is huge, just getting to talk to the general public, it's a great thing,” said Ondria.

Every animal up for adoption is up to date with shots, micro-chipped and deflead.