Animal shelters across the state are overwhelmed and in desperate need of people to come to adopt or foster the pets. The Monmouth County SPCA is asking for the public’s help. As part of its “Home for the Holidays” event, all pets 1-year-old and older will have a donation-only adoption fee.

"We really need to move animals out of the shelters," said Ross Licitra, executive director of MSPCA. "It's not good for them to be here. Even in a beautiful shelter like the Monmouth County SPCA, that is really second to none, it's really the best place for them is in someone's home."

Adoption counselors will work with potential pet parents to ensure they are picking the right animal for them and their families.

During this time of year, some may consider gifting an animal.

"Your adoption counselors will ask you all the questions they need to ask and to figure out what your gift should be," Licitra explained.

Before anyone decides to do that, it is important to remember a few things.

"You know animals are always exciting during holiday times and we always see this," Licitra said. "People don't realize this is an animal that needs constant care just like a child would."