Wake County May Have to Euthanize Animals for the First Time in 7 Years

More than 200 animals in Wake County need a new home. Here’s how you can help.

This week, Wake County Animal Center (WCAC) put out a dire call for help. For the first time in seven years, the center will be forced to start euthanizing animals in its care. Over the past seven days, 208 animals have been surrendered to the shelter, pushing it to capacity and leaving no open kennels. Historically WCAC has been able to accept all surrendered pets, but will not be able to for the next four to six weeks. 

The only way to clear space in the shelter is through rehoming the animals or euthanizing them, a process that will start with pets that have been there for over three weeks. Shelter officials are asking the community to come together and rehome the 220 animals that are available for adoption. 

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Pets on the adoption floor as of Aug. 2: 

114 dogs
12 puppies
42 cats
52 kittens 

Of the 220 at-risk pets, 89 are “longtimers,” meaning they have been at WCAC for more than 15 days, and have no adoption fee. Animals who have been at the shelter for less than 15 days have the same adoption fee of $95 for dogs, $45 for cats under five years, and $15 for older cats. 

If you’re interested in adding a new furry friend to your family, you can visit the shelter at 820 Beacon Lake Drive from noon to 6 p.m. or visit their online adoption gallery.