Time and space to help dogs at City Animal Control is running out, but there is still an opportunity to change course.
With the rise in dogs taking residence at City Animal Control (AC) and a decrease in adoptions, overcrowding has become a concern and euthanasia could be one of the next steps to create space if nothing changes. Some dogs, such as Xena, have called the facility home for close to a year with little to no interest from would-be adopters.
Since late 2015, city AC has made concerted efforts to avoid euthanasia. Under the management of David Denton, the criteria for euthanasia was shifted only to dogs who were sick, gravely injured or extremely aggressive and making the dog unsafe to adopt out. In spite of working with rescues and organizations who transport dogs from high-density shelters to those in northern states with greater demand, spots for City AC dogs have dwindled as post-COVID adoptions dry up country-wide.
“I have been volunteering here for about two years now, ever since HAWC dispersed,” said volunteer Hollie Cox. “I enjoy getting to get the babies out for the day to socialize and stretch their legs. I help with adoption screenings and getting the dogs into foster care. We really need people to foster or adopt. None of the dogs except one have had any interest and they are great dogs. It breaks my heart.”
Cox indicated, per city AC director Keith Boren, six extra kennels are expected to arrive mid-January, but it does not address the pressing need for space now.
“I’m glad for the new runs they are getting, but reality is, they will get full in no time. This is a code red,” Cox said. “The number of owner surrenders have gone up and then you have all the strays coming in. Until people start taking responsibility for their animals' wellbeing and people get their pets fixed, the numbers will keep going up.”
Those who wish to foster a dog for City AC will have a dog bed, food and supplies provided to them. To inquire about the process of becoming a foster, Cox can be reached at (931) 235-8538 and prospective adopters should contact Boren at (931) 473-2553.
Unless sponsored, adoptions are $97 which includes the cost of the dog being fixed and its rabies vaccination. City AC is located at 1266 Belmont Dr.
