Pierce County Humane Society trying to find homes for 170 pets during coronavirus outbreak
As the spread of novel coronavirus continues, more people in Pierce County are opening their homes and hearts to rescue animals.
Since the beginning of March, the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County has adopted out 266 dogs, cats and other critters, and placed another 88 in foster care.
“We definitely have seen a lot more traffic over here the last few weeks,” said spokeswoman Victoria Gingrey. “It seems like a lot of folks are using this time to introduce a new pet into their homes, which we are thankful for.”
There are still more than 170 dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs at the shelter though, and officials are hoping others will consider taking in a new animal, especially since they’re anticipating some people will start surrendering their pets.
The Humane Society remains open for essential services like adoptions or dealing with stray pets but have changed procedures to keep employees and visitors safe during the pandemic.
Only five members of the public will be allowed into the facility at a time. Others will be asked to stay in their cars after checking in and wait until they are called in. Constant sanitation is being done in the building.
Anyone who wants to surrender a pet is asked to schedule an appointment so staff members can stagger them and ensure there is room and care for all animals.
Spaying and neutering of feral cats has been put on hold.
There is a growing need for adoptions and homes without children or animals that can foster a pet, CEO Stuart Earley said.
Rescue organizations across the country have seen a spike in surrendered pets as people find themselves unwilling or unable to take care of them.
To help combat the problem, the Humane Society is offering counseling to pet owners and has a Pet Food Pantry to help provide food during this difficult time.
The pet food pantry is open every Wednesday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
“While our current shelter population is lower than it’s been as compared to this time last year or even last month, we are bracing for more owner surrenders and strays over the next few months not only because of the impact of COVID-19, but also as it gets warmer and kitten season ramps up,” Gingrey said.
Kitten season is typically early spring to early fall, and the Humane Society estimates it will care for 1,000 or so kittens. (Check out their first virtual kitten shower if you want to donate).
The shelter is also looking for applications to give forever homes to 30 pit bulls seized from a Midland property in December from a suspected dog fighting ring.
The dogs have been described as friendly and sociable since arriving at the Humane Society.
Seventeen of them, most of them puppies, have already been adopted.
This story was originally published March 26, 2020 at 11:30 AM.
