Animal welfare workers say despite social distancing, adoption rates at local shelters are through the roof.

Volunteers at PAWS in Norwalk say social distancing for them means getting as many animals out of the shelter as possible, so fewer caretakers have to be in the building.

Executive director Ellen Simmonds says even though adoptions are being done by appointment only, foster and adoption rates have skyrocketed.

She says a month ago, there were more than 90 animals at PAWS, and now less than 25 of them are still looking for homes.

"We have an amazing foster list that people are still looking for companion animals. And this is not surprising, right, because in these times of isolation, people want a companion. And companion animals help people, and this is one of the joyous things to come out of this crazy time," said Simmonds.

Adoption activist Cathy Kangas says she's making it cheaper and easier than ever to save an animal. The Cathy Kangas Foundation is handling adoption fees at PAWS and other shelters across the country.