Two back-to-back hoarding situations, involving 72 cats and dogs, have left a strain on the Pima Animal Care Center as employees rush to clear the shelter to make way for new animals in need.
The new, impounded animals from both cases will require significant veterinary treatment before they will be available for adoption, said Monica Dangler, the director of animal services.
In the meantime, Dangler said adopters, fosters and rescue transfers for the pets already in PACC care are whatโs needed most right now.
PACC became aware of the dire situation on Jan. 6 when it was called to a home where 24 dogs were living in alleged hoarding conditions, the agency said.
The dogs were being evaluated and treated for just three days when PACC got called out to a second hoarding situation. Rescue teams in that case impounded 48 cats that were taken to the shelter.
โPACC has been operating at critical capacity for the past two years,โ said Dangler. โTaking in this many animals with significant medical needs further stretches PACC resources.
โAdopters and fosters can help lessen the burden on the shelter and help us take care of these pets.โ
The impounded animals will remain at the shelter during the duration of their treatment and the corresponding investigations. By clearing out healthy animals in need of a forever home, PACC workers will be afforded room to reallocate treatment and care to those animals needing it most.
Anyone who cannot foster, volunteer or adopt can help by donating to PACCโs official nonprofit partner, Friends of Pima Animal Care Center.
PACC is located at 4000 N. Silverbell Roadand is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from noon to 7 p.m., on Wednesday from 1:30 โ 7 p.m., and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Animals adopted from PACC are microchipped, spayed or neutered, and with age-appropriate vaccinations.
Adult dogs require a $20 licensing fee.
Visit www.pima.gov/animalcare to learn more.
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