PRINCETON, W.Va. -The Mercer County Animal Shelter in the new year has had to call code red due to the large number of animals.
Only being able to hold around 60 dogs at full capacity, the animal shelter is housing around 80.
“We are full to the brim and at this time we just can’t anything else in. So, I had to do a code red and if we do not move some then we then we may have to euthanize,” said Stacy Harman, Director for the Mercer County Animal Shelter.
Harman says some of these animals have been at the shelter for months.
“I think the longest one we have has been here for about eight months. We have a couple that has been adopted and brought back and has been here for quite some time,” said Harman.
As for the turn in rate, Harman says many people are just unable to take care of these animals due to high food prices and vet costs, but she also says the winter weather has an impact as well.
“If they adopt an animal we will give them a bag of treats. A lot of people are bringing them in because it is so cold, but we are giving away straw if anyone needs it and we have a few dog houses that we will give as well,” continued Harman.
The animal shelter will be running a $10 adoption special until January 25 for cats and dogs.
“So, most of animals are already fixed and up to date on everything so they are just ready to go out the door fully vetted,” said Harman.
So, if you are looking for a new family member the Mercer County Animal Shelter is the perfect place to look.
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