MURRAY, Utah (ABC4) — The Humane Society of Utah is putting out an “SOS” for adopters saying their center has been overwhelmed by an influx of puppies and pregnant dogs.
The shelter put out the cry for help on social media, saying it was currently caring for 32 puppies at its center while also fielding daily requests from shelters throughout Utah asking for help alleviating their overcrowded crises. The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) called the situation “dire.”
HSU Director of Marketing and Communications Guinnevere Shuster told ABC4 the puppies were either intentionally bred or accidental litters but the stories are the same: Those surrendering the puppies were unable to sell or find homes for them.
The Humane Society of Utah said it understands that adoption is a significant commitment that shouldn’t be taken lightly and is not a possibility for everyone. However, officials said there could not be a more impactful time to adopt than now for those who are considering adding a dog or puppy to their family.
Shelters across Utah have been battling with capacity recently. In January, HSU reported a 78% increase in abandoned animals. Shuster told ABC4.com it’s a worsening trend HSU has been following for the last six months.
“The number one reason people surrender dogs to the Humane Society of Utah is due to housing insecurity or inability to find pet-friendly housing,” said Shuster. “Weight and breed restrictions make it difficult for families with large dogs to find housing, leaving many with no other option than to surrender their dogs to the shelter.”
Despite that, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox declared Utah would be the first state in the West to be a “No-Kill” state, reaching the goal in 2024. Data from the Best Friends Animal Society reported more than 45,500 cats and dogs were saved in Utah for a save-rate of nearly 88%. HSU said it never euthanizes healthy or adoptable pets for time or space. Instead, the animals remain in the adoption program for as long as they remain physically and behaviorally healthy or treatable.
“Some get adopted in a few days, while others may take months. Additionally, HSU has many foster families caring for kittens, puppies, small animals, animals recuperating from illness or injury and dogs and cats needing socialization and training,” said Shuster. “Foster families also care for animals who simply need a break from the stress of staying at the shelter.”
Still, HSU is urging the public to consider spaying and neutering their pets to help alleviate the puppy and overcrowding crisis in the long term.
“By taking this responsible step, you directly contribute to preventing the birth of unwanted litters, thus directly addressing the root of overcrowding in shelters,” said Shuster, adding that HSU offers spay and neuter services in both Murray and St. George.
All of the Humane Society of Utah’s adoptable pets can be found on their website or in person at their facility located at 4242 South 300 West in Murray. For those not able to adopt, the Humane Society of Utah said it accepts donations of puppy and dog food, blankets, and more. A list of needs can be found on an Amazon wishlist curated by the shelter.
