Fort Worth Animal Care and Control is making an urgent plea for the community’s help as its shelters operate over capacity.
The city says more than 600 dogs and cats are currently in its care and is asking residents to consider adopting or fostering an animal to help ease overcrowding.
Cat occupancy has reached an alarming 253% capacity at the Silcox Animal Campus. The shelter is caring for 165 cats and kittens, despite having approximately 65 standard cat enclosures.
The Silcox Campus said a significant portion of the cat population consists of kittens younger than eight weeks old, many of whom are being housed in temporary accommodations not intended for long-term care.
56 additional cats and kittens are being cared for at Henry’s Animal Campus.
Fort Worth Animal Care and Control said the need is equally urgent for dogs and puppies.
Dog occupancy has been pushed to 137% capacity at Silcox. That shelter is housing 442 dogs, filling all 321 available short- and long-term kennels. Many dogs are being housed in temporary outdoor kennels, according to Fort Worth Animal Care and Control.
Henry’s Animal Campus is caring for 250 large-breed dogs.
Officials said people who choose to foster will receive food, supplies and other support from the shelter.
Those interested in helping can visit the Silcox Animal Campus or Henry’s Animal Campus to learn more about adoption and foster opportunities.