MIDLAND, Texas — Midland Animal Services is currently in "crisis mode," according to Midland Animal Services (MAS) Manager Melissa Griffin-Hobson. The shelter has reached full capacity.
Nearly 250 animals are waiting to be adopted into loving homes and the shelter just doesn't have the space to house them all.
"If I were to speak for the animals, what I think that they'd want to say is they did not put themselves in this position," Griffin-Hobson said. "They are kind. They’re looking for a family and that love that only citizens can provide, so just consider opening your doors. We'd be happy to do that with you."
This is a familiar situation for MAS. In late March, there were 140 dog adoptions due to a distemper outbreak.
Luckily, the shelter was successfully cleared of those dogs, but 60 days later they are in the same position.
"Thankfully, everybody is healthy," Griffin-Hobson said. "But, we need the community's help getting these animals into loving homes."
The major issue is a lack of spaying and neutering, so the shelter is overwhelmed with females and puppies.
"We have so many dogs that are just getting pregnant because they got out," Griffin-Hobson said. "We need y'all's help to prevent those unwanted litters."
To encourage people to find their furry soulmate, the shelter offers vouchers for low cost spay and neuter, discounted adoption prices and even a new pet pantry.
These options are all better than the alternative.
"For every animal that comes in, we have to euthanize another animal," Griffin-Hobson said. "It’s been really hard on the staff, especially on days when you have 20 animals coming in."
MAS has called on its community to adopt, foster or just volunteer at the shelter. It can make all the difference.
"We have staff to provide the basic needs for animals, but we are looking for people that can just love on them and give them that extra attention that we're unable to," Griffin-Hobson said.
For information about adopting, fostering or volunteering, contact Midland Animal Services at 432-685-7424 or visit the website.