Marion County Animal Services is facing an “urgent situation” after its overcrowded shelter recently received over 50 new dogs from a single cruelty case.
“The animals keep coming and if we are going to help more, we need those already in our shelter to find placement,” stated Animal Services in a social media post on February 1.
According to Animal Services, the shelter has been well over capacity for months. With the recent influx of dogs, there are currently 310 shelter dogs in a kennel and 76 dogs in foster homes, as of February 1.
“We are reaching out to you, the public, to be the change you want to see in the world. Make a commitment to help a shelter dog, which is the majority of our population,” stated Animal services on social media.
While some residents are open to the idea of adopting a pet, Animal Services is aware that others may want to help on a smaller scale. Fostering is another option, allowing dogs to have a place to stay for a couple of weeks outside of the shelter.
In addition, rescues and other shelters are welcome to select a few (or more) of the available dogs, and transports to other shelters may be arranged.
“Want to help but have other animals? Crate training can make that possible. Tell us about your schedule and home life and we can provide tips to make it work,” added Animal Services.
Pet visitation hours are Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and adoption fees will be waived. Marion County Animal Services is located at 5701 SE 66th Street in Ocala.
For more information, or to view the animals that are currently available for adoption, visit the Marion County Animal Services website.