Hamilton County Humane Society overcrowded, possibly turning to euthanasia if called for

FISHERS, Ind. — Several animal shelters across the state are dealing with overcrowding issues, including the recently built Hamilton County Humane Society .

The President and CEO addressed the public on Wednesday about the ongoing issue and upcoming adoption event.

With up to 30 intakes a day and not nearly as many adoptions, the Hamilton County Humane Society has its paws full.

“We have 124 kennels, but we are averaging about 160 dogs,” said Gina Smola, director of operations.

The cat population is also growing at more than 300 and counting. At times, the shelter has seen over 600 animals at once.

Due to the limited space, animals are being stored in crates and offices, as they’ve been dealing with the issue for over two years.

“Even though we embrace a no-kill philosophy here, that is very much the case and always will be. It doesn’t mean that animals don’t give up,” said President and CEO Rebecca Stevens. “These dogs can’t live here forever. This is not a home for them.”

The humane society said that the decision to euthanize is not one that they take lightly.

They will only take that step if it would be inhumane to keep them in the confines of the kennel any longer.

“We’ve already had three dogs who were adoptable and then eventually disintegrated waiting for somebody to show up,” said Stevens.

The noise and chaos of the shelter can stress the animals out, causing them to lose weight and become depressed.

“The mental decline and the physical decline that I see on a daily basis is something that is gut-wrenching and heartbreaking and we have to make that decision for their quality of life, and I don’t want to do that anymore,” said Smola.

Right now, the humane society said nine dogs are showing these behaviors, but hundreds are unfortunately heading in that direction.

The humane society is now asking the public to come there to adopt a furry friend, to help the shelter and the animals inside.

“This only ends with a happy ending if our community comes in to adopt before they go and buy,” said Stevens.

The 10th Annual Clear the Shelter event is this Saturday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hamilton County Humane Society.

The majority of their animals are $10 to adopt. Kittens will be $50. Applications are available if people want to fill them out before they arrive.

All adoptions come spayed or neutered and microchipped. They will also have a wellness exam before being sent home.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 59.