A local animal shelter continues to see increased canine intakes.
In February, Orange County officials announced the county’s animal shelter was over capacity with dogs following intakes related to recent animal control cases. According to shelter staff, two cases had yielded 70 canine intakes collectively, adding to the shelter’s already large number of dogs. Last month, that problem continued.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, in March 83 dogs were surrendered from three cases.
“The Orange County Animal Shelter has gone above and beyond to help with transportation, care and housing for these animals,” law enforcement said. “Their dedication and hard work have made a tremendous impact and we are truly grateful for their support.”
In addition to the surrendered pups, the shelter is treating various issues. There are 11 dogs with heartworms and 13 with tick-borne illnesses including Lyme, Ehrlichia and Anaplasmosis. The cost of medical care is significant.
The shelter remains in need of volunteers and donations to continue helping animals in need.
One of the easiest ways to help is by fostering or adopting a pup. Adopting a pet frees up space for an incoming animal. That process can be started at www.orangecountyva.gov/adoptapet. The shelter routinely posts its adoptable pets on social media at https://www.facebook.com/ocasva.
Not ready for the long-term commitment of a furry family member? Fostering provides a caring and comfortable home while helping adoptable pets adjust to life outside the shelter and creating space inside the shelter for incoming animals. The shelter provides food, medicine, vet care and supplies for its fostered animals. Fostering timeframes can be adjusted to fit availability.
For those missing their pet, check with the animal shelter and if on-site, arrange speedy pickup by calling (540) 672-1124. Shelter staff encourages pet owners to secure pets on their property while also making sure they have identification to increase recovery chances and reduce recovery times.
Donations are also needed. Canned food, laundry detergent, bleach and dishwashing liquid are among the most needed supplies. The shelter maintains wish lists at Walmart (https://www.walmart.com/registry/RR/0886bafc-c2ec-45b6-8f23-a1c8bd3c27b3) and Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/NGY7GRZ27UWD). Monetary donations are also accepted and can be made online at www.orangecountyva.gov/shelterdonation.
