Austin Animal Services is yet again calling on the community to provide foster and adoptive homes to relieve overcrowding at the shelter.
The department sent out a press release with the request on Thursday. As of Monday evening, the center’s intake page showed that it was 38 medium and large dogs over capacity.
When it comes to small dogs, the center had space for four more. That means they can only take small dogs in emergencies. The only chart in the green was the one for cats, which showed 40 open spaces.
According to the press release, the overcrowding occurred after the shelter took in 22 dogs from a single situation. More than 30 dogs had to be housed in temporary crates due to the volume.
“The sudden intake has left the shelter out of available kennels and operating beyond capacity,” the press release states. “With every kennel full, staff are working around the lock to ensure animals receive proper care, but the reality is clear: The shelter needs adopters and foster homes now.”
It continues, “Shelter life is stressful for animals. The noise, close quarters, and unfamiliar environment can take a toll on their physical and emotional well-being. A home doesn’t have to be perfect or large; it just needs to be safe and full of care.”
Learn more about fostering and adopting by visiting the center’s website. Reunite with a lost pet by visiting the Lost and Found Pets page. The center also welcomes donations to support animal care.
Additionally, pet owners can help by ensuring their pets are spayed and neutered.