Dozens of Franklin County shelter dogs spent the holidays with families

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Dozens of adoptable dogs got a break from the stress of shelter life over the holidays.

According to the Franklin County Dog Shelter, 100 dogs got to take part in a holiday sleepover event, getting to sleep in local homes for the holidays. Now, the shelter says many of the dogs are in the process of being adopted.

"We've seen studies done that just an overnight out of the shelter environment lowers a dog's stress levels, they sleep better and really get to see the true personality the dog has," Animal Care Manager Hannah Henschen said.

People could pick up a pup between Dec. 19-21, and were able to return them from Dec. 26-28. For people who weren't ready to give them back yet, there was also an option to extend the sleepover until Jan. 2. For the families who decided their guest needed to become a permanent addition, all adoption fees were waived, costing participants just $18 to adopt, the price of a Franklin County Dog License.

"In the shelter, it's stressful, there's a lot happening," Henschen said. "They may not have the day-to-day schedule that they need, so even getting out for a couple of days is super helpful for everybody."

The shelter hosts sleepovers several times a year for different holidays. It also has a "Foster to Adopt" program for those who are interested in getting a dog, but want to do a trial run first.