'We are in a crisis:' MADACC sees record number of animals being surrendered

MILWAUKEE (CBS58) -- "It's my little baby," on Thursday, May 30, Cherie Donndelinger adopted a 4-month-old tuxedo cat.

"Oh, she's going to have the best home, won't you baby," said Donndelinger.

She named her Jackie, and said pets really only need three things.

"Consistency, training and love," said Donndelinger.

In the month of May alone MADACC has taken in over 1,000 animals. The shelter has been pushing for adoption, but 507 cats and dogs are still in need of their forever home.

MADACC's Community Engagement Coordinator, Kate Hartlund, says room at the shelter is tight.

"We are absolutely in a crisis, the dogs have double sided kennels, a potty side and a bed side. Right now, in two of our seven rooms, the doors are closed we have dogs on each side of the door which is less than ideal," Kate Hartlund, MADACC's Community Engagement Coordinator explained.

According to Hartlund, the shelter has been overcrowded started last year, but it has only gotten worse.

"The economy is really hurting people, owning a pet these days is kind of becoming more like a luxury," said Harlund.

Hartlund says the shelter has 100 more dogs than this time last year.

"The faster the animals can get out of here, the better for their wellbeing, their behavior, their health ... everything," said Harlund.

In hopes of increasing adoptions, MADACC started the 'Test Drive Program' where you can see if a dog is a good fit.

"So, what you're doing is you're fostering the dog in your home for five days. After the five days you can complete the adoption. As an added bonus for having the dog for five days we give you a 50% off discount on the adoption fee," said Harlund.

If you can't adopt a pet right now but want to help ... MADACC is looking for volunteers. people to help walk, feed, and clean the animal cages.

Click here to volunteer.

Click here to donate.