The Canyon County Animal Shelter has set an impressive goal — getting 200 shelter dogs and cats adopted this weekend and emptying the shelter.

The group holds its "1st Annual Empty-The-Shelter Adoptathon" Friday through Sunday.

Thanks to sponsorships, most dogs and cats 6 months or older can be adopted for free, and kitten and puppy adoption fees will be half price ($12.50 and $39, respectively).

Shelter director Barb Hutchinson said she's heard from people who plan to camp out at the shelter Thursday night so they'll be first in line.

The shelter, at 5801 Graye Lane in Caldwell, will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

The event will feature live music by the Jessica Michelle Jazz Quartet, Little You/Little Me, and the Kuna High School String Ensemble. Jesse James of WOW 104.3 FM will broadcast from the shelter on Friday afternoon. Food and beverages will be available.

A complete schedule of entertainment is available at www.canyoncountyshelter.org. Holman Transportation in Caldwell is sponsoring the event.

For more information call 455-5920.