LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A Louisville animal shelter is sending an urgent plea to the community as it faces a critical turning point.
Louisville Metro Animal Services says this goes beyond any of their previous pleas, saying the shelter is in the worst shape it has ever been in and certainly at its highest capacity ever.
The situation is so bad that the shelter could lose its five-year status as a "no-kill" shelter as early as tomorrow. LMAS officials told WHAS11 that if more kennel space doesn't open soon, starting tomorrow it will have to begin euthanizing animals.
Last week, the shelter said it’s taken in more than 340 cats and dogs this month alone. Compared to this time last year, LMAS staff said the shelter has taken in close to 1,000 more animals.
Officials said at a time when Louisville's stray animal problem continues to grow, it's seeing little-to-no interest in adoption. There's a few reasons for this, officials say.
In 2020, LMAS suspended spaying and neutering animals, also during that time many people got what's called a "quarantine pet." LMAS says many of those animals were returned to the shelter as restrictions eased.
Another big problem they say is the economy -- people are struggling enough as it is and staff say adopting a pet just isn't in their budget.
LMAS staff said despite everything they've done to help alleviate the costs, the team says it's a desperate situation.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
1. Adopt
LMAS has waived all adoptions fees for approved adopters. Every adopted pet comes spayed-neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations. Staff will also give you a free goodie bag and a voucher for free food from Feeders Supply.
LMAS’s Animal House Adoption Center is located at 3516 Newburg Road. Walk-ins are welcome from 12-6 p.m. daily, but again, although fees are waived, there is still a review and approval process.
Jefferson Country residents will be required to purchase a one-year, renewable pet license for $10.
2. Foster
LMAS staff said if you’re not ready to adopt, but still want to help empty kennels this may be the best option for you.
For five days, even just a weekend, and at little-to-no cost you can help reduce the shelter’s capacity.
3. Reclaim lost pets
The shelter has also waived redemption fees for owners who have lost their furry friends. However, fees will only be waived for owners with no previous violations. Court fees and outstanding balances will not be waived.
4. Other ways to help
LMAS says at the very least, the best thing people can do is spread the word or consider making a donation.
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