Photo: Valeriy Volkonskiy / iStock / Getty Images
The Rockingham Harrisonburg SPCA is facing severe overcrowding this summer, prompting a major push to encourage adoptions and ease the growing strain on resources.
To address the surge in dogs and cats being surrendered or brought in, the shelter is participating in the nationwide Clear the Shelters campaign throughout August. As part of the effort, adoption fees for adult cats, dogs, and kittens are fully sponsored, removing financial barriers for potential adopters.
The shelter has set a goal of 240 adoptions during the campaign in hopes of alleviating the pressure on both space and staff. RHSPCA Executive Director Huck Nawaz said the cost of caring for the animals adds up quickly, especially with the number of intakes far exceeding the shelter’s ideal capacity. “We’re now housing around 450 animals, compared to our normal 250. That means double the food, medication, and enrichment supplies,” Nawaz explained.
While intake numbers rise, the rate of dog adoptions is slowing nationwide, a trend Nawaz attributes in part to the post-pandemic economic downturn and tighter household budgets.
To make adoption more accessible, RHSPCA has extended its hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays until 7:00 p.m. throughout August. Additionally, the shelter will host weekly adoption events every Saturday at the Harrisonburg PetSmart from 12 to 2:30 p.m.
Community members are encouraged to visit the shelter or attend an event to meet adoptable pets and help support the mission to clear the shelters — and save lives.
SOURCE: WHSV3