Meet Your Best Friend This Weekend At The Detroit Zoo

ROYAL OAK (CBS Detroit) – If you're in the market for a new companion and can't decide between big dogs, little dogs, old dogs, new dogs -- or a cat -- you're in luck: The largest off-site adoption event in the country is happening this weekend.

The Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak is hosting the 19th annual Meet Your Best Friend at the Zoo from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

"This year's event is going to be even bigger and better, with more groups participating than ever before. If you're looking for a furry best friend, Meet Your Best Friend at the zoo is the place to be," said Michael Robbins, vice president of marketing and communications at the Michigan Humane Society.

Hundreds of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens from MHS and more than 20 animal welfare groups will be available for immediate adoption. In addition, 10 breed-specific rescue groups will be on-hand providing information to potential adopters about the breeds they represent – from cocker spaniels to shih tzus. (These groups will not have same-day adoptions.)

There is no charge for admission or parking for the event, which will be held under large tents in the front parking lot.  The Detroit Zoo is located at 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak.

Because puppies are often in high demand, "puppy passes" will be given each morning to the first 25 adoption event guests who are looking specifically to adopt a puppy. Those with puppy passes will be allowed to enter the adoption tents at 9:45 a.m. Doing so will prevent a "puppy rush" and ensure that all adopters – and the adoptable animals – will have a wonderful experience. A get acquainted area will be available to give guests an opportunity to spend time with an animal before adopting.

Adoption fees and policies are set by each participating group and not by event sponsors. Animals will be adopted only to qualified homes. Adopters must present a driver's license or state ID card. All dogs and cats will have received a medical check-up and age-appropriate vaccinations. For health and safety reasons, please leave current companion animals at home. For more information, please call 1-866-MHUMANE (648-6263).

The Michigan Humane Society (MHS) is a private, nonprofit organization which cares for more than 100,000 animals each year, while working to end companion animal homelessness, provide the highest quality service and compassion to the animals entrusted to our care, and to be a leader in promoting humane values.