Huntsville Animal Services is back in crisis mode after a large intake of animals filled up kennel space — marking at least the third time this year the shelter has reached its highest capacity level.
The shelter took in 20 dogs and four cats Monday after the animals were removed from a Huntsville home. That was enough to move the shelter quickly from Level 1 to Crisis Level 4, according to the city.
Details about why the animals were removed remain limited because of an active investigation.
“We know these next few days will be challenging, but our team is ready,” Huntsville Animal Services Director John Fischer said. “No matter the situation they come from, every one of them deserves compassion, stability and a chance to heal—and that’s exactly what we’re here to provide.”
But Huntsville Animal Services was dealing with another Level 4 crisis less than two weeks ago.
On Aug. 7, WAFF reported that both the dog and cat populations had reached Level 4 critical capacity the previous day. More than 100 dog kennels and more than 74 cat kennels were occupied, forcing the shelter to use temporary kennels in hallways, offices and crates.
The station reported that the overcrowding left staff largely focused on basic care for the animals.
The shelter faced a similar crunch in February, this time after another unusually large intake.
Huntsville Animal Services received 77 animals from a single address, including 65 small- to medium-sized dogs. The influx pushed the shelter to Crisis Level 4, which the city described as its highest capacity level for dogs. Every kennel was full.
The City of Huntsville’s Feb. 20 announcement called on residents to adopt or foster available dogs to help free up space.
Now, six months later, the shelter is making that call again.
HAS is asking residents to adopt or foster animals already available at the shelter to open kennels for those coming in.
Several options are available for people who aren’t ready to make a permanent commitment. Foster to Rehome generally involves caring for a dog for a couple of weeks while helping find it a permanent home. Foster to Adopt gives families a few days to two weeks to see whether a dog is the right fit, while a sleepover can give a dog a day or night away from the shelter.
“Our focus is—and will remain—on the animals,” Fischer said. “We’ll continue evaluating every pet that comes in and ensure they receive proper medical attention, safe shelter and compassionate care.”
A list of animals currently available for adoption and fostering is available through Huntsville Animal Services.
Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.
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