The Fairhaven Animal Shelter is reminding the community that animal surrenders are at an all-time high, with shelters facing overwhelming numbers for months. Recently, they’ve seen a sharp increase in people arriving without notice, attempting to leave cats and other animals at the shelter.
Their message is simple: Please don’t “dump and run.”
If you can no longer care for an animal, start by contacting your town’s Animal Control Officer. They can determine whether space is available and explain the proper surrender process. In some situations, there may even be resources or alternatives that could help you keep your pet.
The Fairhaven Animal Shelter emphasizes that surrender should always be a last resort, but they understand that sometimes circumstances are unavoidable. What they’re asking is that owners reach out first rather than showing up unannounced and leaving an animal behind.
Shelters are already stretched beyond capacity and must prioritize animals who are sick, injured, or in urgent need of care. Unplanned surrenders put even more strain on an already overwhelmed system—and, most importantly, it’s not fair to the animals.
❤️ A huge thank-you to the Fairhaven Shelter for continuing to educate, support, and advocate for animals and the people who care for them.
If you’re struggling with your pet, ask for help before giving up. There may be options you haven’t considered.
🐾 Please share this message. It could help someone—and an animal—in need.
