In an urgent response to the rising number of canines in their care, the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County has announced it will be waiving adoption fees for all dogs starting yesterday through Sunday. The no-cost adoption initiative comes as the shelter contends with severe overcrowding, according to KING5, they are currently ensuring close to 200 dogs are sheltered and fostered. The facility has seen a noticeable increase in intakes, with 400 more dogs compared to the same period in 2023.
The situation, described as a "crisis" by the shelter, has forced the organization to find alternative arrangements for the dogs. At the moment, the shelter houses 130 dogs and nearly 70 in foster care, as affirmed by a statement in a press release highlighted by The News Tribune. Overwhelmed by the demand, pets have been moved into offices and temporary crates due to exceeding kennel capacity.
This is not the first instance of overcrowding at the shelter this year. In the summer, the facility experienced a similar influx, receiving over 500 pets in just two weeks. The decision to waive adoption fees is aimed at encouraging more adoptions and easing the strain on the shelter’s resources. According to KOMO News, each dog is given a wellness exam, spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before being made available for adoption.
With the current spike in dog intakes this year, the shelter is looking towards the community for support. "Since the shelter has gone over its kennel capacity, dogs have had to be moved into offices or temporary crates," explained Leslie Dalzell, chief executive officer at the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County, in a press release referred by The News Tribune.
