TUSTIN, Calif. — OC Animal Care is sponsoring another month of free adoptions for dogs 25 pounds or more, hoping to capitalize on a strong January.

The shelter is waiving adoption fees for February following a similar promotion last month, which helped usher out 119 dogs.

The shelter encourages the adoption of larger dogs that could struggle to find homes. While some large dogs are energetic and require outdoor spaces, others are content with apartment living.

The shelter also tries to target the adoption of certain dogs with personalities or needs that may require more careful placement. This month, the shelter is highlighting 8-year-old Nathan, a dog that first arrived as a stray. With a year at OC Animal Care, he has had the longest stay of any animal at the shelter, making him a priority in the promotion. He is one of about 14,500 animals the shelter brings in each year.

The promotion waives all fees, which cover vaccinations and micro-chipping.

About 23 million households adopted or otherwise acquired a pet during the pandemic, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The organization also found that many of those pets remained in their homes.

But new animals regularly find their way to the shelter when owners become overwhelmed by the responsibility, can no longer afford the cost or are not the correct fit for the pet.

The promotion is available to residents with about 400 open appointment slots available each week. The shelter suggests making an appointment ahead of time by calling 714-935-6848. Walk-ins are also available but on a first-come, first-served basis.