Stray pooches in paradise need permanent home after lengthy stay at Gulf Shores PD

GULF SHORES, Ala. ( WKRG ) — Six stray dogs are being temporarily housed in kennels outside of the Gulf Shores Police Department until they find a home and are adopted.

When the police department receives a call regarding a stray dog, they search for its owner in the area. If they’re unsuccessful, they’ll bring the dog back to the station and keep looking.

From social media posts to asking around town, the department searches for days, or in some cases, months, for the dog’s owners.

“We have two now that’s been here since the very first of May. And we’ve been trying to find them a home,” GSPD Community Service Officer Chris Hinton said. “The shelters are full, so they’re not taking any animals.”

Hinton said that every time they call the shelters they get the same response that they’re at capacity and unable to take the dogs in.

Gulf Shores officials said they’re aware of the county animal shelters facing overcrowding. They said they are discussing measures to address the problem but have not yet taken action.

In the meantime, the GSPD is doing everything it can to take care of the dogs.

“We have an officer that signs a checklist that makes sure that they have food and water every hour,” Hinton said. “The dogs get treats, they get petted, they get walked every day. We try to make sure that they get the best care possible.”

However, at the end of the day, the police station is meant to be a temporary home for the dogs.

“We’re not built for a long-term facility,” Hinton said. “We’re a police station.”

All six of the dogs can be adopted from the police department.

The department is working to make sure all of the dogs are up to date on their immunizations and are receiving proper medical care. They are also working to create a public volunteer program for people who want to help take care of the dogs brought in.

Hinton said if anyone wants to adopt one of the dogs or donate any toys, treats, food, leashes or other items to drop them off at the front desk of the Gulf Shores Police Department or call their main office number: 251-968-2431.

“I really wish we could find a caring home for each animal,” Hinton said. “If you’re in need of an animal, please reach out to the police department. We would love to help you out.”

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