SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) -The Sioux Falls Area Humane Society took to social media this week to ask for help with two challenges they have been facing.
Animal shelters are a safe haven for pets in need of a new home, but caring for them in the meantime brings its challenges.
Of late, the biggest challenge the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society finds is that they’re at capacity for dogs.
Space is limited, but the energy of some of the canines is endless.
SFAHS wants to care for as many pups as they can, but when they’re at capacity, things are rough.
“We have 122 dogs right now and we know that there’s more coming in, so we just need the community’s help,” said Executive Director Jami Gates Grieve.
This is not the first time they’ve been at capacity for a type of animal in the last few years. A growing trend of owner surrenders puts shelters and rescues in a tough situation.
Small things to give the animals love and some more space can go a long way to support the hundreds of dogs in their care until they are adopted.
“We just get creative. All of our staff have pets in their office, we have pop-up kennels and we have a new program Rescue Dog Recess where fosters take out the animals. We figure out how to help them all,” Gates Grieve said.
The Humane Society also tries to help community members in need feed their pets with their Community Food Bank, but times are tough there, too.
“The shelves are getting bare because we are helping the community with their pet food needs and so any donations that folks have, they can drop them off and everything makes a difference,” Gates Grieve said.
Despite the challenges, the Humane Society is motivated by the results: a second chance and a loving home.
“It is so meaningful to be able to work with the animals every day because we see them come in in a situation where they don’t have anyone and then we ultimately get to see them through their journey where they do find their forever home,” Gates Grieve expressed.
To help more dogs get adopted, the Humane Society is taking $20 off of adoption fees this weekend if you mention the words “Treat yourself.”
Gates Grieve said that if anyone is not in a position to adopt, they can do their part to get these animals adopted by spreading the word and sharing their social media posts.
They will be hosting an adoption event on Saturday. You can find more information on the event and find ways to donate food or funds here.
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