Central KY animal shelters ‘pushed to the brink’ with overcrowded facilities, lack of space
Central Kentucky animal shelters and rescues are facing an “unending battle” this summer with an influx of animals in their care, and a lack of space to keep them. The situation has become so dire that they are pleading with the public to help in any way it can.
The Lexington Humane Society had 500 animals in its care as of Aug. 20, and Lexington Fayette Animal Control and Care is housing over 100 — numbers that keep climbing. Last week, Lexington animal control took in 26 homeless dogs and cats. In one night, 10 puppies arrived, bringing the total to 36 animals in a single day.
Homeless animal intake has risen by 13 percent this summer, according to the Lexington Humane Society, pushing it to the brink, it said in a post on Facebook. It is using any space available to try and keep pets.
“We are beyond full,” the program shared on social media. “We’re scrambling to find extra kennels, squeezing them into office spaces — using every inch we have. But how do we make room for the animals society has discarded?”
The facility’s efforts, resources and hearts are stretched to the limit, it said. The organization pleaded for people to adopt or foster a pet, even if it is just for a week. This allows the staff time to find space and homes for the animals.
Jessamine County Animal Care and Control has admitted 74 dogs and puppies to its facilities with few reclaims, according to a Aug. 24 post on social media. The situation has put the facility into a “critical situation” with adult dogs.
“Our adoption and stray areas are full, and we are looking for rescues to pull some if they can,” the facility posted on social media.
Even if people are unable to adopt or foster, shelters are asking for donations. With so many animals in their care, expenses are increasing.
“We need our community to understand and help today,” the Lexington Humane Society posted. “These animals are counting on us, and we’re counting on you.”
