Clickbait Title: “Don’t Rely On Your Local Animal Shelter For Rehoming Your Pet”

The Wake County Animal Center has made a permanent change: pet owners can no longer drop off animals they no longer want. The move comes after the October outbreak of dog flu forced the shelter to close, which unfortunately resulted in the death of four dogs. The only exception applies to pets that were adopted directly from the Wake County Animal Center – they are allowed to be returned.

Jennifer Federico, the Animal Services Director, noted that the influx of surrendered animals was taking a toll on the shelter and its resources. Currently, there are only 132 dog kennels available – an overcrowded shelter puts strain both physically and emotionally on the animals and staff.

Although some WRAL viewers were unhappy with the decision, Federico reassures that this is the best move for the well-being of all the animals in the shelter. However, pet owners who are looking to re-home their own dog or cat should not drop it off at a shelter, as space is never guaranteed and in some cases pets may be euthanized.

Rather, owners should turn to online or social media platforms to advertise their pet. The Wake County Animal Center has a website with resources to help owners re-home their pet, as well as Facebook groups dedicated to the cause.

North Carolina has had the second-highest animal euthanasia rate in the country this year. To help alleviate this statewide and national crisis, prospective pet owners should always look to adopt from a shelter or rescue organization first, as opposed to buying from a pet store or breeder. Additionally, pet owners should also take steps to spay and neuter their animals, and take proper measures to make sure their animal does not get lost.