PHOENIX — The Arizona Humane Society (AHS) is grappling with unprecedented shelter capacity, prompting a decision to waive adoption fees for all pets from June 27 to July 7.
As the state’s largest animal welfare organization, AHS reports exceeding maximum capacity, urging residents to consider adoption, fostering, or volunteering. With over 1,600 pets currently under their care, this marks the highest level of overcrowding in the organization’s 67-year history.
Heading into the busiest month of the year and preparing for the Fourth of July, a time notorious for pet disappearances, AHS officials express deep concern over the current situation.
“To address the surge in demand, we’ve established temporary kennels at various locations, including our former Sunnyslope campus. We’ve also enlisted additional veterinarians and medical staff to manage the overwhelming influx of pets,” said Dr. Steven Hansen, President and CEO of AHS. “The strain is palpable across all our operations.”
Factors contributing to the spike in shelter population include suspended spay and neuter services, population growth, inflation, and challenges in accessing affordable pet-friendly housing and veterinary care. The wait time for owner surrender appointments has now extended to six months.
While adoption rates at AHS remain steady, the rate of pet admissions continues to outpace adoptions. A particular challenge noted by AHS is the longer adoption times for dogs over 50 pounds, who require more space and often take an additional week or more to find permanent homes.
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