Tacoma Humane Society Faces Record Crowding: How You Can Help
Tacoma, Wash. – The Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County is calling on the community to help address an unprecedented crisis after taking in over 60 animals rescued from a single home in Roy earlier this month. The influx has pushed the shelter's capacity to a breaking point, with staff caring for 264 dogs – the highest number they've housed in seven years.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department suspects the animals were victims of neglect due to illegal breeding and cruelty. This has left the shelter not only struggling to care for so many animals but also facing an urgent need for adoptions and foster homes.
Lauren Green, the shelter’s marketing director, expressed the gravity of the situation:
"It’s certainly not a record we wanted to break, nor the way we hoped to close out the year. We’re asking for the community’s help to ensure these animals find homes."
Currently, the shelter is seeing more animals arrive than leave for new homes, intensifying the strain on resources. To encourage adoptions, the shelter is waiving adoption fees for dogs aged one year and older from January 2-5.
But adoptions alone won’t solve the problem. Green emphasized the importance of foster homes and community action:
"Beyond adoptions and foster homes, we’re really turning to the community to play an active role in keeping healthy animals from entering the shelter."
This approach not only helps families but also eases the burden on overcrowded shelters.
How You Can Help
The Humane Society encourages anyone considering adopting or fostering to act now. Here’s how you can contribute:
Adopt a Pet: Browse available animals on the shelter’s website and take advantage of waived adoption fees for eligible dogs.
Become a Foster: Provide temporary care for animals while they await permanent homes.
Support Community Efforts: Help reunite lost pets with their families by caring for them locally instead of bringing them to the shelter.
Donate: Financial contributions and supplies are always welcome to help manage daily care needs.
For more information about adopting, fostering, or supporting the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County, visit their official website.
This crisis highlights the ongoing challenges animal shelters face and the vital role communities play in supporting animal welfare. By stepping up together, the community can ensure every pet has a chance at a loving home.
