Humane Society of Harford County out of room for dogs, adoption fees waived

Jun. 13—The Humane Society of Harford County announced on Tuesday that it is out of room for taking in new dogs, and will waive adoption fee for dogs at the shelter who are at least one year old.

"We are taking way more animals that we can adopt out, and it's mainly dogs," said Executive Director of the Humane Society of Harford County Bob Citrullo in a news release. "Dogs are also staying in the shelter longer these days, which is stressful for the animals as well as the staff and volunteers who care for them. More animals and longer stays also stress the shelter system because the longer they stay, the more they cost."

The weight of inflation and economic uncertainty is forcing some pet owners to choose between paying the bills or feeding their pets. Over the last month, one of the primary reasons families bring their pets to the shelter is that they can't afford veterinary care, according to Citrullo.

"Affording pet food and basic veterinary care is one thing," said Citrullo, "but what if your pet suddenly gets sick and needs surgery? Some of these surgeries are thousands of dollars."

The animal shelter is booking surrender appointments out into July and August, while hoping that adoptions will free up space in the meantime. The shelter is doing everything it can to help residents keep their four-legged family members in their homes.

It offers a pet food pantry, which has been in high demand, the shelter said. Recently, the shelter had to turn to the community after the shelves in the pantry emptied, prompting a plea on the shelter's social media for donations, the release said.

"We're getting creative and trying some new things," said Citrullo in the release. "We get that a lot of families might be anxious about committing to an adoption or adding a new dog if there are already other pets at home. So we're letting them foster-to-adopt for a few weeks. If they adopt, great. If it doesn't work out, it's still a win because we learn more about the dog."

Another program the shelter has reinstated is the Lonely Hearts Club to help decrease the length of stay for dogs who have been at the shelter for four months or more. The shelter has put a package together valued at $150 that includes a free 32 lb. bag of kibble as well as a three-month supply of flea, tick and heartworm preventative care.

"If you need to bring your pet to the shelter because you can't afford to feed him, talk to us first," said Citrullo. "We have a pet food pantry. If you need help correcting an undesirable behavior, our partner trainer, Mutt Magic Training, offers free consultations. Our adoptions counselors can offer resources to help with other situations, so please talk to us before making your decision. Oftentimes, the best place for your dog is at home with you."

The Humane Society of Harford County is located at 2208 Connolly Road in Fallston. The shelter is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. For more information: harfordshelter.org.