Executive Director Steven Tears of the Montgomery Humane Society is issuing a plea for help from the community due to a surge in the number of dogs and cats received this summer.

Tears told WSFA that more than 720 animals entered the facility’s care in the month of June alone. This increase has placed a tremendous strain on the shelter’s space, staff, and resources needed to care for the animals.

Tears emphasized that the cost of caring for the animals is significant. Feeding and medicating animals found on the street or surrendered by their owners is expensive, and he is asking the community to get involved in supporting the shelter’s mission.

There are several ways the public can help. Donations directly support the cost of food, medical supplies, and daily care. Volunteers are needed to assist during high-volume days, and the shelter is always looking for foster families to provide temporary homes for animals waiting to be adopted.

To help make pet ownership more affordable, the shelter offers adoption specials several times throughout the year. However, Tears encourages anyone considering adoption to carefully weigh the financial responsibility.

For more information on how to donate, volunteer, foster, or adopt, visit the Montgomery Humane Society.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].