Many Animal Shelters Still Struggling Through the Coronavirus Pandemic

Annalyse McBride, Sports Editor
June 22, 2021

Many animal shelters rely on volunteers and donations to keep them afloat but amid a global pandemic much of that has been forced to change. Most shelters have had to cut down the number of volunteers they have and even turn some away along with turning away donations.This has been causing many employees to have to do jobs they never have had to do before and work longer hours which means a bigger paycheck. While bringing home a large paycheck is always good from the employee standpoint not so much the employer. Fundraisers and events that bring money for these shelters have not been happening due to COVID-19 restrictions. Of course the main focus of these shelters is keeping their employees safe while also maintaining a well run facility so if that means less events and fundraisers then that’s what it means.Much time that was being spent with the animals has been being used to sanitize everything multiple times daily just so that they can stay open.

One great thing that has become a common theme amongst shelters is the increase in adoption rates. The number of adoptions in a month has almost tripled in many places across the country as people grow bored and lonely being stuck at home. This is amazing news to all animal lovers. Hearing that animals are being welcomed into homes instead of being in a crate or a room not having very much social interaction especially now that you can’t go visit a shelter is very heartwarming.It’s always a good idea to try and look for the brightside in a bad situation. As much as these shelters are struggling the end goal they all have is to help these animals get out of bad situations and into a much better one and that’s what this pandemic has done for these animals.Adopting an animal does not only help them but it can change your life too.Sure now you’re going to have more responsibilities but you’ll also have a new best friend to keep you active,keep you company and to make memories with.

So many shelters are getting more animals then they can handle due to people having to move and losing their jobs. They ask that if you come in looking to adopt that you’re serious and you have a set plan for caring for the animal. Too many people come into the facilities just to look but that gives false hope to the animal not to mention now everything has to be cleaned every single time a new person walks through those doors no matter their intention. We understand you may be unsure or just want a pet because you’re bored at home but they ask that you really consider everything that it entails to make sure you’re up for the challenge. If you are up for it then great! The shelters welcome you with open arms to bring a new friend home.

If you are up for the challenge get prepared. You’ll need to fill out an application,be ready for a home check as some places might require one,make sure you can pay the application fee,meet the age requirements,have valid identification and make sure your new pet fits well with your family by having a meet and greet. Most shelters are flexible and willing to accommodate. Trust me they love these animals so much they want them to be adopted into a loving home. They can provide advice to help this animal mesh with your lifestyle. Something else they can help with is finding the right fit. Sometimes just because you love an animal when you meet it doesn’t mean it will be a healthy relationship. As much as that’s unfortunate you should just try not to rush the adoption and wait to find the right fit for your family. 6-8 million animals are stuck in shelters each year just in America so don’t worry that you won’t find the right fit, the animal for you is out there

Local Animal Shelters open for Adoption