'A little bit overwhelmed': Wisconsin Humane Society has 100+ adoptable dogs as they prepare for busy summer
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — As spring gets into full swing, many animal shelters are preparing for their busy seasons.
The Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) says it's a yearly trend, and they're already packed, particularly with dogs.
"Right now, there's over 100 available for adoption," said the humane society's media coordinator, Stacy Oatman. "We have hundreds more in our care that aren't available for adoption just yet. We have tons of dogs in foster."
WHS Media Coordinator Stacy Oatman said economic concerns could be playing a role.
"We've been seeing an uptick in surrenders recently, more dogs coming in than going out, unfortunately," she explained. "We are just a little bit overwhelmed at the moment."
Often, Oatman said surrenders are due to systemic issues, which are sometimes out of a pet owner's control.
"Housing is not typically affordable if you have a pet. A lot of places don't allow pets," she explained. "Affordability of care is an issue. Vet costs are just through the roof, and that's because there's a vet shortage."
Full kennels can be stressful for the animals and the staff, and they don't expect it to slow down anytime soon.
"With summer coming up, we're going to continue to see an influx of animals coming in," Oatman said. "We typically do see higher numbers in the shelters during the summer."
WHS wants struggling pet owners to know that they do offer support services, including a pet food pantry, housing recommendations, and low-cost spay/neuter, microchip, vaccine, and behavioral clinics.
"We will do everything we can to keep those pets in homes where they're safe and loved, and where they're with their people," Oatman said.
If you're ready to rescue, there are plenty of pets to paw at your heartstrings.
WHS offers a range of adoption fees - puppies are often more expensive than adult and senior dogs. Pets that are considered "benchwarmers" have discounted fees.
"Those are dogs that have been with us for a little bit longer than we typically see them stay," Oatman explained. "We do reduce those adoption fees to $75 to make it a little more affordable for people."
Dogs are labelled "benchwarmers" if they've been adoptable at WHS for more than six days.
Fostering is another great way to help open up shelter space. WHS is also always in need of donations and volunteers.