Bartow County Animal Control is facing a serious overcrowding problem, according to County Commissioner Steve Taylor. The shelter has been full or over capacity for two years and now may have to start euthanizing some animals.
“We never want to turn animals away, but we’ve had no choice at times,” said Taylor.
Attempts to move animals to nearby shelters haven’t worked, as those are also full. The overcrowding increases the risk of disease, injury, and stress for the animals, and limits the shelter’s ability to care for sick or dangerous pets.
The shelter is now reviewing “at-risk” animals—those that are sick, injured, aggressive, or unsafe—for possible euthanasia after their three-day holding period.
Taylor stressed how hard this has been for the staff, who are doing their best to avoid this outcome.
Despite current struggles, the shelter has maintained a strong 90% live release rate over the past six years, though it has dropped to 85% this year. Taylor remains hopeful it will improve again.
He also thanked Director Reggie Nation and the shelter team for their hard work, and encouraged the public to help by adopting, fostering, or donating.
For more info or to see adoptable pets, visit the Bartow County Animal Control website or stop by in person.
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