Jackson County Animal Shelter Urgently Appeals for Assistance

Medford, Oregon- The Jackson County Animal Shelter, is facing a critical situation as it finds itself over capacity and in desperate need of community support.

With over 120 dogs arriving this week, the shelter is struggling to accommodate the influx, prompting a plea for assistance from Stacy Brubaker, the HHS Department Director.”We have had over 120 dogs since last night and, unfortunately, have no additional space to continue to accept or maintain these animals at these levels,” shares Stacy Brubaker, emphasizing the pressing need for community involvement to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals.

Efforts are underway within the county staff to provide care to the numerous dogs within the limited space available. Additionally, initiatives are being undertaken to identify potential transfers to other shelters or rescues. The shelter is also encouraging adoptions by waiving adoption fees for all adoptable dogs until April 14 in an effort to “clear the shelter.”

The public is urged to lend their support by considering adoption if they have the necessary resources to care for a pet, including basic health care, time for exercise and socialization, and the ability to contain and train the animal. Pet owners are also reminded to ensure their animals are properly identified to facilitate their return if lost, and to inspect fencing and other containment measures for outdoor pets to prevent escapes.

Law enforcement agencies are requested to coordinate with the shelter before delivering animals, allowing staff the opportunity to assist in locating owners and potentially alleviating space constraints and minimizing disease exposure.

However, the shelter warns that with the current overcapacity situation, euthanasia rates may increase.

For those interested in adopting, updated information about available dogs can be found on the shelter’s website, http://www.jacksoncountyor.gov/pets, or by calling (541) 774-6654 for adoption inquiries.

The Jackson County Animal Shelter emphasizes the importance of community collaboration in addressing this urgent situation and ensuring the welfare of the animals in its care.

Don’t forget to check out our Dog of the Week series, where we highlight a special furry friend in need of a home!