The Lassen County Animal Shelter issued an urgent plea to the community this week, announcing that the facility has reached critical capacity with no room left for incoming animals.
According to Kennel Technician Jaime Proia, the situation at the shelter has become dire.
“Our kennels are completely full,” Proia explained. “Every single run is occupied, and we are out of space for the dogs continuing to come through our doors.”
Compounding the crisis is a lack of available resources from outside agencies. Typically, the shelter relies on rescue partners to help alleviate overcrowding, but those avenues are currently closed.
“At this time, our rescue partners are also full and unable to pull dogs from us,” Proia stated. “This leaves our staff facing the heartbreaking reality of having to make extremely difficult decisions due to lack of space.”
Call for Community Action
The shelter is asking for immediate assistance from Lassen County residents to help save lives and manage the overcrowding. The staff has outlined three specific ways the community can help right now:
Reclaim Lost Pets Immediately: If you have a missing dog, or suspect your dog is at the shelter, do not wait. “Please come to the shelter and check in person,” Proia urged. “If you know your dog may be here, please come claim them as soon as possible. Every reclaimed pet helps free up critical space.”
Adopt Now: For residents who have been thinking about getting a dog, the shelter says there is no better time than the present. “If adoption has even crossed your mind, now is the time,” said Proia. “These dogs are loving, deserving, and waiting for someone to choose them.”
Secure Your Animals: Residents are asked to ensure their dogs are securely contained at home to prevent more animals from entering the already overwhelmed system.
The shelter staff emphasizes that public involvement is essential to getting through this bottleneck.
“Please don’t wait. Come down to the shelter today,” Proia said. “Your visit — and your action — can save a life.”
Residents with questions, concerns, or those interested in adopting or reclaiming a pet are encouraged to reach out to shelter staff immediately at 1.530.257.9200.
