BIDDEFORD — Puppies, cats and smiling faces — that was the scene Saturday and Sunday morning at PetSmart in Biddeford during the Animal Welfare Society’s National Adoption Weekend event.

By 6 a.m., families, locals and animal lovers had lined up outside the PetSmart entrance at the Shops at Biddeford Crossing, waiting to receive a ticket to ensure their chance to find a new, furry companion. On Sunday, most folks were looking to come home with a new pup, but Saturday saw an equal interest in both dogs and cats.

“I’ve found the focus is usually on dogs, Saturday was an even ratio though,” said Stephanie Delange, event and satellite coordinator at AWS. “There were 16 adopted dogs and cats, which was awesome because a lot of the time the puppies end up overshadowing the cats and older pets.”

Every animal brought to Petsmart from the AWS shelter on Saturday was adopted, and by 10 a.m. Sunday morning it was looking like Sunday would have a similar outcome. A litter of five Boxer-mixed puppies were garnering a lot of attention, as were some older dogs and cats.

Hopeful adopters were able to identify the cat or dog they were interested in before attending the event, as the animals’ pictures were posted on the AWS website. Once guests made their pick, the adoption paperwork was completed at PetSmart, and the new pet owners could walk out the door with their new family member. Those who did adopt found the process easy and efficient.

“We thought the whole thing was very convenient,” said Christina Muti of Old Orchard Beach, as her son Akeem cradled their newly acquired Boxer-mix puppy. “(AWS) named him Jessie James. I think we will keep the name,” added Akeem.

Delange said she was delighted to see older animals being adopted as well. She said the kittens did go quickly on Saturday, but even adult cats as old as 9, 10 and 11 were adopted by families.

“Things like that warm my heart, because you assume people are coming here to buy a kitten, but to see them walk off with an older pet is an awesome thing.”

The National Adoption Weekend event is put on by AWS each year during National Adoption Weekend. The event has always taken place at PetSmart, as PetSmart charities give AWS $35 for each adoption for holding the event during national adoption weekend. Additionally, Petsmart also gives out a book of coupons for to those adopting from AWS, so after getting their new pet, owners can receive a free bag of cat or dog food.

As couples and families got to know the animals Sunday, Delange said this event is always a fun time.

“I love these events because you see so many of different people,” said Delange. “It definitely reaches a lot more people and it’s really fun when you start the day and you see all of these animals, and you get to meet them one on one. It’s a great way to adopt.”

AWS, located at 46 Holland Road, Kennebunk, is a no-kill animal shelter serving all of York County. The organization offers adoption services, community programs and an in-house veterinary clinic. To donate to their cause, visit animalwelfaresociety.org.