San Diego Humane Society Urgently Seeks Adoptions and Fosters to Relieve Overcrowded Shelters

With an outbreak of respiratory disease and overcrowded shelters, the San Diego Humane Society is offering no-fee adoptions and cash incentives for fostering puppies.

The San Diego Humane Society is facing a crisis as its shelters are overcrowded and a respiratory disease outbreak has already claimed the lives of four dogs. In an urgent plea to the community, the organization is offering no-fee adoptions and cash incentives for fostering dogs, particularly mother dogs with puppies. With the shelters operating at 150 percent capacity, the risk of disease spreading among the animals has increased. The Humane Society has temporarily halted owner surrenders of dogs, except in emergencies, to contain the outbreak. The primary goal now is to find loving homes for large dogs and those with litters of puppies.

Clearing the Shelters Amidst Crisis

The San Diego Humane Society is in dire need of clearing its shelters to alleviate overcrowding and prevent the further spread of disease. The organization is urging the community to consider adopting or fostering dogs, especially those with litters of puppies. By taking in a mother dog and her puppies for at least two weeks, individuals will receive a $100 Visa gift card. Furthermore, adoption fees for both puppies and dogs are waived until December 1st, and then reduced to $25 until December 17th.

Battling the Respiratory Disease Outbreak

Dr. Laura Bunke, a veterinarian with the Humane Society, emphasizes the importance of getting the dogs out of the shelter to ensure their well-being. Dogs showing symptoms of the respiratory disease, known as strep zoo, and the accompanying bacterial infection, have been treated with antibiotics to prevent further spread. While the organization has not observed any signs of a different respiratory illness reported elsewhere, additional testing has been conducted to address the severity of the current outbreak.

Protecting Dogs During the Season

To keep dogs safe during this season, Dr. Bunke advises owners to ensure their pets are up to date on vaccinations and flea and tick medication. It is also recommended to avoid heavily-trafficked dog parks and places where dogs from different households gather. Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of dogs contracting and spreading diseases.

County Shelters Seek Fosters

The crisis extends beyond the San Diego Humane Society, as county shelters in Bonita and Carlsbad are also experiencing high numbers of dogs in their care, particularly larger dogs. These shelters are appealing to the community for foster homes to provide temporary care for these animals. By fostering a pet from either the Humane Society or a county shelter, individuals can make a significant impact in alleviating the overcrowding crisis.

Conclusion:

The San Diego Humane Society is facing an urgent need to clear its overcrowded shelters and contain the spread of a respiratory disease outbreak. By offering no-fee adoptions and cash incentives for fostering puppies, the organization hopes to find loving homes for its animals. The community’s support is crucial in providing temporary care for large dogs and those with litters of puppies. As the crisis continues, it is essential for dog owners to prioritize their pets’ health by staying up to date on vaccinations and avoiding high-risk areas. Together, the community can help ensure the well-being of these animals and alleviate the strain on the shelters.


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