ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) — The Chemung County SPCA adjusted some of its adoption procedures because of COVID-19, but the number of animals that are going to a new home hasn't diminished. If anything, more animals are being adopted than ever.

"We were a little bit worried at first that that would deter people, but actually right as our announcement of that, we cleared the shelter. So back in March, the shelter was completely empty, dogs and cats. That doesn't even happen around Christmas time, so that was really incredible," said Arynn Brucie, communications and marketing manager at the Chemung County SPCA. 

When the pandemic began in New York State, Brucie says the staff was worried the rate of adoption would go down because they were forced to adjust to the restrictions of the pandemic. Some of the new policies include, coming in by appointment only, requiring everyone to wear face masks in the shelter and asking all visitors to sanitize their hands before and after they meet an animal. The staff at the shelter says that hasn't stopped people from bringing home a furry friend. According to Brucie, the response from the community has been extremely positive. 

"I mean I think people have been really cooperative with that for the most part. We're asking people to wear masks when they come in, sanitize when they come in, but, like I said, it hasn't really deterred people from making that appointment and coming in. If they're not ready to come in, we do have virtual meet and greets that we're offering and curbside kitten pickup," Brucie said.

Brucie says they're asking people to fill out their adoption application online before they come in to limit the number of people at the shelter, but she says the overall adoption process hasn't changed. 

"We do ask the additional questions of have you traveled, has anyone in your home been sick and if that's the case then they do have to wait to come in," Brucie said.

Since the shelter is operating a little differently, the staff has more time to care for the animals individual needs and help them find a forever home. 

"If anything with how quickly the animals are getting adopted out it gives them more time to spend with the animals on enrichment and making sure the dogs are getting trained, kitties are getting that mental stimulation. So, that's a plus, it's given us more of an opportunity to work with them rather than just making sure they're fed and watered and go about our day because we're just so busy," Brucie said.

According to Brucie animals that find their way to the shelter don't stay there long. She says this fast adoption trend began in March and hasn't slowed down since.

"I think the pandemic has given some people the opportunity to slow down and when you're at home and you have that extra time, what better way to spend it with a companion animal. Especially for those who had to quarantine or social distance themselves, a kitty or a dog is a great addition in that case," Brucie said.

Having a pet can be fun and it can also be expensive. For people who are in need, the Chemung County SPCA is still offering their pet food pantry for anyone who is in need of dog food, cat food and litter.