DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. -- Throughout the month of September, DeKalb County Animal Services will offer free dog and cat adoptions.

Animal services director Susan Feingold said as many as 30 pets enter the shelter every day, creating an urgent need for public support.

"By waiving adoption fees, we hope to see a record number of people coming into the shelter and giving our wonderful animals a new life," Feingold said.

The "Fall in Love" adoption promotion allows DeKalb County residents to take home a dog or cat of any age. All animals are spayed and neutered, microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations.

Visit dekalbanimalservices.com for more information.

DECATUR, Ga. -- DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James will host an event next month to benefit pets in need of loving homes.

Paws for the Cause will be held Saturday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Glenlake Park. It is hosted by James' office as well as DeKalb County Animal Services & Enforcement, Animal Action Resue and Village Vets.

"Protecting animals from cruel and neglectful behavior is one of my top priorities," James said in a statement. "These partnerships are essential to combating animal cruelty in our community and promoting animal adoption."

In addition to music, food and other activities, Paws for the Cause attendees can take advantage of low-cost microchipping and immunizations. All creatures, two- and four-legged alike, are invited to attend.

Glenlake Park is located at 1121 Church Street in Decatur.

Summer in the south is officially here! With rising temperatures, it is important to take steps to protect those around us who might be vulnerable to the heat, like our children and pets.

Did you know that we lose heat by sweating? Water literally evaporates into the atmosphere and sucks the heat out of our bodies. Children produce even more heat than adults. This is because they have more body surface for their height. Children are also closer to the ground – and to hot pavement. They can easily become dehydrated or overheated.

Here are some tips to keep your children and pets safe in the heat.