The City of Lethbridge Animal Shelter is currently operating over its capacity for care levels.
As a result of the at capacity facility, a managed intake system for stays has been issued and pet surrender intakes have been suspended for the time being.
Overcrowded conditions for animals, like cats and dogs, can lead to excessive stress, and can lead to potential illness with close proximity housing without suitable health measures in place.
Community Animal Services is encouraging residents to contact them if you’re missing a pet, in case the pet has been found and brought to the shelter. Both stray cats and dogs aren’t being claimed within the allocated hold time when they’re admitted, which means the shelter needs to prepare them for adoption by spaying and neutering them, making sure vaccines are up-to-date and other health matters are in order. This can take time and can be challenging to complete when overcrowding takes place and other animals require urgent care.
This is a common occurrence happening across the province, including right here in Lethbridge.
At this current time, if you find a stray pet in your neighbourhood and it doesn’t look to be a risk to the public, Community Animal Services is asking that you make every effort to try and locate the owner before turning it over to animal care services. Those looking for tips and tricks to temporarily shelter strays and locating owners can click here and if you’re interested in adopting a pet, consider Community Animal Services or a local rescue organization to help with overcrowding.