The Arizona Humane Society said it reached a "breaking point" when it exceeded its capacity to care for pets. On Wednesday, the organization said 1,650 animals were in its care.
The society also issued a call to action towards Arizona residents to help mitigate the overcapacity issues.
Overcapacity problems stem from the cost of pet care, inaccessibility to that care, inability to get appointments and a lack of spaying and neutering services.
The number of pets means the shelters need to set up temporary kennels as staff continue their efforts to help the animals.
Despite the overwhelming number, the organization says it will find a way to take in pets.
The surge means calling on others to provide the services to support the various pets.
Steven Hansen is the CEO of the Arizona Humane Society.
“So we are drawing from our partners and our friends to try and get as much help as we can. Because the faster that we can spay and neuter them and get the animals to our adoption centers, the faster that we can open kennels and take more sick and injured animals in.”
Despite the overwhelming number, the organization says it will find a way to take in pets.
“We do not want any healthy pets coming to the shelter if it can be avoided. Right now the shelter needs to be for sick and injured animals and for animals that are heading for homes.”
Hansen says people can support the staff by volunteering or fostering. Adoptions are also available until July 7 at the organization’s three locations. The adoption schedule also comes in consideration of the Fourth of July holiday when many pets go missing.
