Florence Area Humane Society Faces Overcrowding
The Florence Area Humane Society (FAHS) in Florence County, S.C., is seeing more animal adoptions. However, their shelter remains overcrowded. The shelter needs help with donations, food, and volunteers.
Animal shelters globally struggle with overcrowding throughout the year. FAHS volunteers often take animals home to prevent them from staying in crates for months.
The shelter hosted a monthly adoption event at a local PetSmart for better visibility for the animals. Volunteer Tammy Covington has fostered 15 cats, all of which were adopted. Despite the success, new animals continue to arrive.
Covington emphasized the need for spaying and neutering to reduce the animal population. FAHS reported having 350 animals, while their facility cannot accommodate even half. Although the number of animals has decreased, they still operate at full capacity.
Volunteer Pam Rhodes mentioned that they receive frequent calls about available space for strays. While they try to help, their space is often full, leading them to turn some animals away.
Rhodes stated, “It’s really overwhelming for our animals and for the staff and volunteers.” The stressful environment affects the animals’ well-being.
Fosters work to train animals in basic skills to improve their chances of adoption. FAHS encourages the community to observe the animals outside their cages for a better understanding of their behavior.
Rhodes shared her experience fostering five animals and successfully adopting them. She trains them to be house-ready and learns basic commands. Although it can be sad to see them go, she feels happy when they find permanent homes.
If you wish to help, you can donate food, snacks, or money. You can also volunteer to play with animals. Contact FAHS at 854-669-2921 for more information.
