The non-profit group Friends of Rowlett Animals will host Adoptathon, a family-friendly pet adoption drive, this Saturday along with the City of Rowlett Animal Shelter. There will be discounts on adoptions, microchipping for pet safety, pet care tips and fun events and prizes for kids. The Rowlett drive is part of Pet Adoption 2010, a global effort to promote shelter animal adoptions.

Another purpose of this "Empty the Shelter Day" event is to raise awareness of Rowlett animals' need for financial support, volunteers and new homes. Like most city shelters, Rowlett's is not a no-kill facility. In 2009, 588 animals were euthanized because of a lack of space and resources to house them all.

CHECK OUT THE ADOPTABLE PETS HERE!

Details: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Microchip clinic 2-4 p.m.) -- at the Rowlett Animal Shelter, 4402 Industrial St., Rowlett -- 972-412-6219.