J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is asking the community for help as animal surrenders continue to rise while adoptions remain significantly lower than needed.
Throughout August, the Neenah-based exotic pet rescue will host four Clear the Shelters events designed to help more animals find safe, caring homes. Adoption fees will be waived for qualifying animals placed through these events. Approved applications and appointments are still required.
“When adoptions slow down while surrenders increase, our habitats fill very quickly,” said John Moyles, Director at J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. “These events give people a chance to meet animals in need, learn about their care, and help us create space for the next pets that need somewhere safe to go.”
Saturday, August 1, 2026
9 a.m.–noon
Petco Appleton
711 N. Casaloma Drive
Appleton, WI 54913
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue will begin Clear the Shelters Month with an event focused on hamsters. Adoption fees will be waived for all hamsters placed through the event.
Hamsters may be small, but they require suitable housing, enrichment, bedding, healthy food, clean water, gentle handling, and regular care. Rescue representatives will be available to answer questions and help families understand what hamsters need to thrive.
An approved adoption application and appointment are required.
Facebook event:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1816358116411996
Saturday, August 8, 2026
9 a.m.–noon
Petco Appleton
711 N. Casaloma Drive
Appleton, WI 54913
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue has taken in more than 100 parakeets so far this year. Adoption fees will be waived for all parakeets placed through this event.
Parakeets are intelligent, social birds that need safe housing, daily attention, fresh food, clean water, toys, enrichment, and time with their people. The rescue team will be available to discuss their care and help potential adopters decide whether a parakeet is a good match for their household.
An approved adoption application and appointment are required. Bird placements may require additional visits.
Facebook event:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1199531785689680
Saturday, August 22, 2026
9 a.m.–noon
Petco Appleton
711 N. Casaloma Drive
Appleton, WI 54913
This event will focus on the many leopard geckos currently waiting at J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. Adoption fees will be waived for all leopard geckos placed through the event.
Leopard geckos need a secure habitat, proper heating, fresh water, a suitable diet, hiding places, regular cleaning, and access to appropriate veterinary care. Rescue representatives will be available to answer care questions and help approved applicants prepare for their new pet.
An approved application and appointment are required for all placements.
Facebook event:
https://www.facebook.com/events/28332761006320840
Saturday, August 29, 2026
2–6 p.m.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue
976 American Drive, Suite 1
Neenah, WI 54956
The month will conclude with a Clear the Shelters event featuring all types of adoptable pets at the rescue center.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue cares for fish, reptiles, birds, small mammals, invertebrates, and other exotic pets. Adoption fees will be waived during the event. Instead, adopters will be asked to make a donation to help provide food, clean habitats, supplies, veterinary care, and support for animals still waiting at the rescue.
An approved adoption application and appointment are required for all adoptions. Some animals may require additional visits before placement.
Facebook event:
https://www.facebook.com/events/3024578777874178
From August 1 through August 29, all used equipment and pet supplies at J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue will be offered on a name-your-price basis.
Shoppers may choose what they are able to pay for qualifying used items. Purchases and donations will help the rescue care for animals during a time when more pets are arriving than leaving.
Community members who cannot bring home a pet can still help by shopping the used-supply sale, donating, sharing the events, or encouraging approved applicants to schedule an appointment.
View adoptable pets:
https://www.jraar.org/pets
Complete an adoption application:
https://www.jraar.org/adoption
Questions may be directed to adoptions@jraar.org or 920-419-8839.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is a Wisconsin-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit exotic pet rescue located in Neenah. The organization provides responsible alternatives for unwanted exotic pets, places animals in suitable homes, educates the public about responsible pet ownership, and helps prevent the release of non-native pets into Wisconsin’s environment.
Its mission is Rescue, Rehab, Rehome.
Media Contact:
John Moyles
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue
adoptions@jraar.org
920-419-8839
https://www.jraar.org