Joplin Humane Society at full capacity and in need of adopters

JOPLIN, Mo. (KOAM) -The Joplin Humane Society is facing a challenge as it deals with an influx of dogs at its facility.

"Over 100 percent capacity for the past 2 months now," with every kennel currently full" said Connie Andrews, director at the Humane Society.

"It has made it very hard for us to provide our mission of getting stray animals home. So, we just have no room for them. Sometimes capacity has been over 120%. So, you know, you can just set up so many crates before it's not, you know, healthy", said Andrews.

They are in need of fosterers and adopters.

The city of Joplin has said that many of the reported stray dogs are likely lost pets.

Community Health Director Ryan Talken encourages residents to help reunite these animals with their owners.

"Call the Joplin Health Department and animal control and let us know there's a possibility that we may know where that dog lives. If the animal has a collar on it, if they could contact the owner," said Talken.

Andrews said that while the facility is open for emergencies and quarantines for dogs that have bitten, it cannot accommodate more strays at this time.

"If you find a dangerous dog that truly is a dangerous dog, you need to call animal control or your local police department. We are still here to help you with that. You know, we do not want dangerous animals out in the community," said Talken.

The city is exploring additional sheltering options.

"Looking at the possibility of some additional sheltering options, in addition to the Joplin Humane Society," said Talken.

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