Burlington Review

A dog from the Burlington County Animal Shelter has found a new home after being its longest resident.

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

The event, organized in partnership with the Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter, aims to showcase animals available for adoption or fostering. This year's theme was “Pawradise Luau.”

Rebel had been featured on 6ABC Action News’ “Shelter Me” segment last week with Meteorologist Cecily Tynan. Philadelphia resident Christina Viggiano and her family saw Rebel on the segment and attended the open house to meet him. They quickly connected, making Rebel 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, who is also 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.”

Burlington County Commissioner Allison Eckel was also present at Rebel’s adoption and thanked the Viggiano family alongside 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 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 this 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.”

More information about available animals at Burlington County Animal Shelter can be found online at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1446/Available-for-Adoption.

Animal lovers can volunteer their time for shelter tasks or make financial donations or gift needed supplies by visiting https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1290/Donation-Wish-List.