Fairfax County Government employees can now enhance their well-being and offer a loving home to a pet through a new benefit offered in partnership between Fairfax County Animal Shelter and LiveWell, the County’s award-winning employee wellness program. Employees are now eligible for one free pet adoption per calendar year with a valid employee ID.

“There’s such a natural connection between pets and wellness,” said Reasa Currier, Director of Fairfax County Animal Shelter. “Bringing a pet into your life can improve mental and physical health. This new benefit reflects the County’s commitment to supporting the well-being of both people and animals.”

Research supported by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) shows that the human-animal bond plays a powerful role in promoting mental and physical wellness. Scientific studies have found that pet ownership can:

• Lower stress and anxiety
• Promote heart health and reduce blood pressure
• Increase physical activity levels
• Reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation
• Provide emotional support and a sense of purpose

Employees can visit the Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax or the Lorton Campus to meet adoptable pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits and more. Adoption fees are waived once per year for merit and non-merit employees with valid ID; standard adoption processes apply.

For more information about the adoption process and to see pets available for adoption, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

About the Fairfax County Animal Shelter: 

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is the open-access municipal shelter for Fairfax County, committed to providing the highest quality of care to pets. Last year, the shelter accepted nearly 4,000 companion animals and impacted the lives of thousands more through community-based programs and services. With a consistent live release rate of over 90%, the shelter prioritizes the well-being and happiness of every animal in its care.