The largest animal shelter in Philadelphia is facing a huge crisis and is pleading for the public’s help.
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The largest animal shelter in Philadelphia is facing a huge crisis and is pleading for the public’s help. ACCT Philly says it is running out of space, and the overcrowding is forcing the shelter to make difficult decisions.
Sarah Barnett, the executive director of ACCT Philly, said the issue is too many dogs are coming in and not enough are leaving. There’s not enough space or resources to keep the dogs, which is why some are being euthanized – which right now is happening within three to four weeks after their arrival.
“We would like to be able to go back to a time when we were only euthanizing dogs that were behaviorally or medically needing it,” said Barnett. “Right now, it’s closer to eight dogs out of every 10 come out alive. So it’s not the majority of our dogs being euthanized, but honestly, one dog being euthanized for space is too many.”
There are some things the community can do to help. Barnett says if you see a stray pet in the neighborhood, try to reunite them with their owner before bringing them in.
And if you lost your pet, come to ACCT Philly and check as soon as you can.
All animals are $10 to adopt through Oct. 15. All dogs and cats are vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed/neutered before going home.
If you don’t have room to adopt or foster a pet, you can always volunteer your time at the shelter, Bennett says.
