news-record.com

If you are looking for a companion animal, then the SPCA of the Triad is looking for you.

As of last week, the organization’s shelter and foster home was overcrowded by more than 40 animals.

“We’re overwhelmed with dogs and cats,” organization president Brenda Overman said.

A little more than a week ago, the shelter took in 17 dogs and five cats from a hoarder, she said. “People think they are helping when they do that, but they’re really not.”

Those animals had to be spayed, neutered and vaccinated. Sadly, Overman said, this is the kind of life the animals of hoarders endure before they are removed from the situation.

“They are fed and watered at the owner’s leisure,” she said.

That’s why the shelter has an application process, to ensure the animals are placed in caring, nurturing environments.

“We try to provide our animal victims a second chance at a loving home,” Overman said.

The shelter will have a special open house Aug. 15-16. Adoption fees for animals one year or older will be waived.

Normally, the fee is $95 to adopt a dog and $65 to adopt a cat.
Because of the overcrowding, you can adopt one animal at no cost and a second for half price, she said.

Folks should keep in mind, though, it’s the cost — not the adoption process — that is waived.

“We have a contract that they must sign that is mandatory, there’s a vet check-up, an application, a home check,” she said.

Once an animal is placed, there are follow-ups at three weeks and three months.

“These animals would be great for single people, families and older couples looking for a companion,” Overman said.

Last week, the SPCA had 73 cats and 30 dogs available for adoption or fostering.

Pet foster parents take in animals until they are placed in a permanent home.

Potential pet owners should know there are costs — monetary and emotional — that are associated with rescue animals.

“Unless they are former pets, they will have to be worked with,” Overman said.

Contact Tiffany S. Jones at 373-7157 or tiffany.jones@news-record.com