The RSPCA is on a mission to Clear the Shelters this weekend with adoption fees reduced to $29 for all animals in care in the Illawarra, and across the country. The organisation aims to rehome as many animals as possible over the three-day adoption drive which starts on Friday. Last year, more than 2650 animals - representing 90 per cent of all animals in the RSPCA's care - found their 'furever' homes across the country. Illawarra RSPCA shelter manager Judith Wright said last year's adoption drive had been a great success, and she hoped for similar results on the weekend. "Last year we had just over 90 animals available for adoption, and over the three days of the drive all except three found new homes," she said. "This year so far we have around a dozen cats, nine dogs and 22 other animals - including rabbits, mice, birds and a pony - available. We expect that number to increase by the weekend as we process more animals." The animals will have already been desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and undergone veterinary checks and behavioural assessments. However while the adoption fees have been dramatically reduced, normal adoption procedures apply to ensure animals are matched with the right person/ family. "While we are very eager to rehome as many animals as possible, we want people to seriously think about adopting an animal," she said. "They need to understand it's a long-term commitment, and while the $29 fee is reasonable, there will be ongoing costs for food, veterinary treatment and so on. "We don't want people to adopt on a whim." Ms Wright said there was a range of animals, of different ages, suitable for a wide range of people. "We do get a lot of people looking for puppies and kittens," she said. "However some people don't want younger dogs because they don't want to deal with the puppy stage, and training. They may want a quieter animal that's not so active. "We do get generous-hearted people who are happy to adopt a dog which might only be with them for a couple of years; so they can provide them with the comfort and love they need for the remainder of their lives." One of the older animals at the Unanderra shelter is Bunny, a nine-year-old Australian cattle dog who does have some medical needs, due to a bit of arthritis. "Bunny, and others, have been with us for some time while we try to find the best match for them," Ms Wright said. "Far too many animals come into shelters - especially at this time of year being cat breeding season, and with more puppies tending to be born in the warmer weather. "We hope to get a good result this weekend." Click here for more information on the adoption drive. Click here to learn more about the animals at the Illawarra shelter. RSPCA Illawarra $29 adoption drive February 21-23, 2020 54 Industrial Road, Unanderra