PIMA COUNTY, ARIZONA (June 26, 2023) -- The Pima Animal Care Center is at a critical point for its dog population and must place scores of dogs in adoptive or foster homes over the next few days.
PACC recently moved to emergency-only intake procedures for two weeks to reduce the animal population and isolate disease. The shelter’s dog census has gone down by about a hundred dogs, but with more dogs coming in every day, PACC has not been able to create sufficient isolation space for incoming dogs. On June 21 alone, the shelter took in 59 dogs.
PACC needs to clear 40 kennels by June 27 to achieve a “clean break.” To do this, approximately 60 dogs will need to be adopted or fostered. But with 30 to 40 dogs coming in every day, that means PACC needs to place more than 200 dogs over the course of the next week.
Monica Dangler, PACC’s director of animal services, said she recognizes this is a big ask.
“Our community has stepped up for Pima County pets many times in the past. PACC is counting on our community’s help once again,” said Dangler.
Those interested in providing a foster home to a pet in need can sign up on PACC’s website. Dangler urges the public to remember that fostering any dog in the shelter for as short as two weeks can save a life.
If a member of the public finds a healthy stray animal, it is imperative that they attempt to find the owner following the steps on PACC’s website to keep them with their families. Additionally, PACC’s Pet Support Center will be available via phone at (520) 724-7222 to assist those needing to find the homes of lost pets or needing resources for their own pets.
All pets are currently free to adopt. A $20 licensing fee applies to adult dogs. PACC is open from noon to 7 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, from 1:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. To see all available pets and services, please visit pima.gov/animalcare.