BG/WC Humane Society Advances ‘Empty the Shelters’ Event Amid Overcrowding Crisis

BOWLING GREEN, KY- The Bowling Green Warren County Humane Society is grappling with yet another severe overcrowding crisis, prompting an urgent decision to move the ‘Empty the Shelters’ event forward by 11 days. The initiative, supported by the Bissell Pet Foundation, offers all cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens at a flat adoption fee of $25 until mid-May.

Code Red Alert

The operations manager, Brandon Taylor, explained the dire situation. “Our dog levels are at code red, everything is completely full,” he said, revealing that the shelter had seen over 40 intakes in less than four hours. The scale of the problem is clear, with the adopted pets not even making a dent in the overcrowded facilities.

High Adoption Rates Amid Crisis

Despite the challenging circumstances, Taylor expressed optimism about the impact of the event. “I’ve already adopted out like four pets, that’s just me. It’s been very busy here at the facility today,” Taylor said. “We’re already over 20 adoptions for the weekend, which is really cool. So, I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings and the following days.”

A Call for a Larger Solution: Spaying and Neutering

While Taylor identified adoption as a part of the solution, he emphasized the importance of spaying and neutering in managing the overcrowding issue. “Spay and Neuter is the only way that will help control the stray populations and overcrowding,” Taylor underscored, offering a stark image of multiple dogs confined to a single kennel.

A Plea for Community Involvement

Apart from the call for animal sterilization, the BG/WC Humane Society is desperately seeking community involvement to alleviate the situation. Urging the community to visit the shelter, Taylor said, “Don’t feel sad for the animals as you’re coming in… Like these pets want to see you. We as a staff want to see you here. So even if you don’t want to adopt, if your house is already full, come see us.”

Fostering as an Option

For those unable to adopt, Taylor suggested considering fostering a pet. The humane society, he assured, would provide pet food, necessary medications, bedding, cleaning supplies, and their 24-hour emergency line to support the foster families. If you’re capable of providing a loving home for these animals, even temporarily, it could significantly relieve the pressing weight of the overcrowding dilemma.