The Humane Society of Yuma (HSOY) is grappling with an overwhelming influx of pets, compounded by the lack of available space in partner shelters across Arizona. This strain is significantly impacting smaller, rural shelters in Yuma.
Currently, kennel space at HSOY is at maximum capacity, forcing the organization to make difficult decisions regarding animal care.
The aftermath of the Fourth of July celebrations has exacerbated the situation. “Since July third, we’ve taken in 94 stray animals,” said HSOY development manager Lauren Weinberg. Alarmingly, only 12 of these strays have been reclaimed by their owners.
“Right now we have between 350-400 animals in our care. On top of that, we have hundreds in foster care. So we are definitely at capacity when it comes to animals,” Weinberg added.
This issue is not confined to Yuma. Shelters statewide are also overwhelmed, leaving HSOY struggling to transfer out any pets. “We transfer on average up to 30-33 animals per week out to other rescues,” Weinberg noted, emphasizing that these transfers are crucial for giving pets exposure to potential forever homes.
Despite their best efforts to remain a no-kill shelter, HSOY has recently had to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize some animals. “We try our best to not have to euthanize anything that is adoptable and friendly,” Weinberg said.
In response to the crisis, HSOY is encouraging the community to consider adoption. Many pets have been in the shelter for several months, waiting for a chance at a permanent home.
To mitigate the problem, HSOY is offering free microchipping to help identify lost pets more efficiently. “Every time we get to see one place in a forever home, it’s just such a great ending to what’s sometimes a really hard story to see,” Weinberg expressed.
The Humane Society of Yuma continues to seek support from the community to help address this urgent issue and ensure the well-being of the animals in their care.
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