SALT LAKE (ABC 4 News) – The overcrowding problem at Salt Lake County Animal Services is growing, according to Director Shawni Larrabee.
The shelter is currently housing over 500 animals. There are a total of 210 dogs and 351 cats waiting to be adopted.
“We have so many pets coming into shelters in the Valley,” Larrabee said. “And they’re all just waiting.”
The majority of the animals are brought in as strays or lost pets. The shelter is supposed to be a temporary home, but often become permanent.
Each year 5 million dogs and cats are killed in U.S. shelters. About 35,000 die in Utah shelters alone.
“We do everything we can before consider euthanasia,” Larrabee said. “Basically if they are healthy then they are not euthanized.”
Jason Wilde, 13, came into the shelter to adopt a dog for his birthday. He chose a 4-year-old pit-bull named Skyler.
“He seemed to be a lot happier out of the kennel,” Wilde said.
Larrabbe said the shelter has several programs to help the animals find a home.
Salt Lake County has extended their “Pick a Price” program, which allows you to choose the amount for the adoption of a dog or cat.
The shelter also accepts applications for foster pet families.
For more information, contact Salt Lake County Animal Services at 801-559-1100.
