News Summary
Columbia Animal Services is urgently appealing for community assistance due to severe overcrowding at its shelter, which has reached capacity. Over the past week, more than 89 animals, including 15 dogs in one day, have been admitted. To help, adoption fees have been waived during the ‘Pick Me! SC’ promotion, encouraging quicker placements into loving homes. Many animals are showing signs of stress, exacerbated by a pneumovirus outbreak that has led to temporary restrictions on new intakes. The shelter needs immediate support from the community to ensure the well-being of these animals.
Columbia – Columbia Animal Services is issuing an urgent call for community involvement as it faces a severe overcrowding crisis at its shelter. Currently, the facility has surpassed its capacity limits, necessitating immediate adoptions or foster homes to provide relief for the animals in care.
Since the beginning of the week, officials report that more than 89 animals have been taken into the shelter, including a notable influx of 15 dogs admitted just on Thursday alone. This rapid increase in animal intake has prompted serious concerns for the well-being of the residents in the shelter.
To encourage adoptions, Columbia Animal Services has waived all adoption fees for the duration of the “Pick Me! SC” promotion. The goal of this initiative is to facilitate quicker placements of animals into loving homes, thereby alleviating the stress of overcrowding.
Staff at the shelter have observed that many dogs are showing signs of stress due to the high population density. Symptoms include excessive barking, pacing, and withdrawal behavior. Mental well-being can be remarkably enhanced with proper adoption into stable environments, which is essential for these animals’ health.
Shelter Location and Contact Information
The shelter is located at 127 Humane Lane. Interested individuals can contact the facility at 803-776-PETS for more information regarding the adoption process or to inquire about fostering opportunities.
Current Restrictions and Resources
Amidst the ongoing overcrowding situation, the shelter has encountered a pneumovirus outbreak, which has further complicated the ability to take in new animals. As a precautionary measure, the shelter has implemented temporary restrictions on new intakes. Only emergency intakes will be permitted, specifically for cases involving sick or injured animals or instances of animal cruelty.
During this challenging time, the shelter is unable to accommodate pet relinquishments from owners. However, they are offering resources for pet owners who may need assistance in rehoming their pets. This includes access to vetting services and food to help those in need.
Additional Information
For additional details about the current situation at Columbia Animal Services, resources for pet owners, or information on how to adopt, individuals can visit their website at www.animalservices.columbiasc.gov or reach out via email at casinfo@columbiasc.gov and rescue@columbiasc.gov.
The call for immediate community engagement is critical. By opening their hearts and homes to a furry friend, residents can make a significant impact on the lives of the animals currently sheltered in Columbia.
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Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia: Columbia Animal Services Over Capacity
- WLTX: Adoption Fees Waived at Columbia Animal Services
- WACH: Columbia Animal Shelter Over Capacity
- The State: Issues at Local Animal Shelters
- KOMU: Columbia Shelter Conditions Report
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
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