Floyd County’s Public Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) is experiencing a surge in animal intake and mounting pressure on shelter capacity, according to newly released reports for May and June 2026. The data shows higher impound numbers, increased cruelty cases, and a noticeable rise in euthanasia, even as the agency maintains a strong live‑outcome rate.

Shelter Population Continues to Climb

PAWS reported 410 animals in its care at the end of June, up from 372 in May, reflecting a steady increase in both cat and dog populations.

The June report notes:

“Beginning Shelter Count Cats: 173… Ending Shelter Count Cats: 204.”

Dogs saw similar movement, with counts rising from 162 to 206 over the month.

Year‑to‑date totals show 1,800 animals have entered the shelter in 2026, surpassing the 1,739 recorded during the same period in 2025.

Intake Surges Across Key Categories

June brought one of the highest monthly intake totals of the year, with 314 animals entering PAWS — a sharp increase from May’s 226.

Notable June intake figures include:

  • Cat impound/stray: 88
  • Dog impound/stray: 81
  • Dog cruelty impounds: 18 (compared to zero in June 2025)
  • Owner surrenders: Up for both cats and dogs
  • Other species intake: 42 animals, including reptiles and small farm animals

The report also documents animals impounded following owner arrests, adding complexity to shelter operations.

Live Outcomes Remain High Despite Challenges

PAWS maintained a 91.99% live‑outcome rate in June, slightly below last year’s 95.44% for the same month. Year‑to‑date, the live‑outcome rate stands at 91.20%.

June live‑outcome highlights:

  • Dog adoptions: 43
  • Cat adoptions: 32
  • Dog rescues: 14
  • Cat rescues: 15
  • Fosters: 107 animals placed (56 dogs, 51 cats)

These placements continue to play a critical role in reducing shelter crowding.

Euthanasia Numbers Increase Significantly

June saw a marked rise in euthanasia, with 52 animals euthanized — up from 32 in May.

Breakdown for June:

  • Cats euthanized: 25
  • Dogs euthanized: 27
  • Died while being housed (DWBH): 11
  • Dead on arrival (DOA): 1

The report states:

“TOTAL EUTHANIZED: 52… TOTAL DWBH: 11.”

These figures reflect medical emergencies, severe behavioral issues, and animals arriving in critical condition.

Animal Control Calls and Enforcement Activity Increase

Animal control officers responded to 232 calls for service in June, slightly higher than May’s 240. County calls accounted for the majority.

June enforcement activity:

  • Warnings issued: 52
  • Citations issued: 1
  • Vicious animal reports: 26
  • Bite cases: 4

These numbers remain consistent with previous months, indicating ongoing community enforcement needs.

Spay/Neuter Services Expand

PAWS completed 57 spay/neuter surgeries in June, along with 29 public‑service sterilizations, continuing efforts to reduce unwanted litters and long‑term shelter intake.

Revenue and Fees

June revenue totaled $4,477, slightly higher than May’s $3,177, though still below 2025 levels.

Overall Outlook

The mid‑year reports show a shelter system under increasing strain. Intake is rising, cruelty cases are more frequent, and euthanasia numbers have climbed. Still, PAWS continues to maintain a strong live‑outcome rate and expand community services such as foster programs and spay/neuter initiatives.