PHOENIX — The Pinal County Animal Shelter is sounding the alarm as it struggles to care for an overwhelming number of dogs, urging the public to step up as overcrowding reaches a crisis point.
Though the shelter operates as a no-kill facility, staff say they’re approaching a difficult tipping point. With 149 kennels and around 360 dogs, the shelter is operating far beyond capacity.
“We’re currently housing two to four animals per kennel, with dogs that get along. Very few kennels have just one dog,” said Audra Michael, Director of Pinal County Animal Care & Control. “We can only do so much.”
The shelter has taken in 60 additional dogs since the Fourth of July, putting even more pressure on an already packed facility.
Michael says the surge in surrenders and strays is driven by financial strain and housing issues, including restrictions on certain breeds. As resources stretch thin, the shelter may soon have to make difficult decisions — especially for dogs with behavioral issues or special needs, such as those who don’t walk on a leash, have a bite history, or can’t socialize well with other dogs.
Community Support Makes a Difference
The shelter is calling on the public to help through adoption, fostering, or volunteering.
Susan Gregg recently adopted a dog and praised the shelter: “I’ve been trying to do this for a while. I’m glad I finally pulled the trigger and came down and did this. They have a great facility here.”
Even if adoption isn’t possible right now, the shelter encourages locals to volunteer — take a dog on a walk, a field trip, or just spend some time with them.
“We’re taking this dog out on a field trip. We’re going to take him home for the afternoon. It’s our first time volunteering,” said Lane Herridge, who is helping with the shelter’s enrichment program.
Fostering is another way to ease the pressure, offering a temporary home to a dog until space becomes available. “If they’re able to foster, do it,” said volunteer Kimberly Perez. “The dogs deserve a good, loving home, and it’s really rewarding to help.”
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old, but younger children are welcome with a parent or guardian.
If you’re interested in helping, the shelter says now is the time. Every little bit makes a difference for the dogs who are waiting for a second chance.
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