Adoption events are planned as Guilford County animal shelter nears capacity

Guilford County Animal Services is making some changes to encourage more adoptions. After a recent spike in pet surrenders and more strays, the shelter is near capacity.

The facility on Guilford College Road has seen an increase in the number of cats and dogs over the past month and a half. Currently, there are nearly 400.  Shelter officials say spring and summer can be busier, but lately, they've seen more pet surrenders due to financial hardships and housing issues. Adoptions are also down compared to previous years.

Guilford County Animal Services Director Jorge Ortega says this comes at a time when the facility is facing staffing challenges. They're in the process of filling 14 vacant positions, including two veterinarians.

He says several initiatives are underway to increase adoptions, including participation in a national event known as “Empty the Shelters.”

"What we are trying to do is encourage the community to come and get to know the dogs and cats that we have and hopefully make an addition to their families," says Ortega. "This event goes for three weeks. We are extending our adoption hours as well.”

Those extended adoption hours are 12 - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Ortega says Animal Services can also provide resources to help owners keep their pets, and mobile pet assistance centers are being offered throughout the county.

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