A recent surge in the number of dogs at the Rowan County Animal Shelter has administrators there sounding the alarm.

Assistant Director Gina Cantero said on Tuesday that the animal shelter is moving up an adoption event, which was previously scheduled for Saturday, to Thursday.

That move was made in anticipation of inclement winter weather as well as the pressing concern of more dogs than the shelter is equipped to keep.

“This is supposed to be what we call our slow time,” Cantero said. “In past years, around this time, we would maybe have 10 or 12 dogs going into the winter weather months.

“But between last year and this year, it’s like we have not had a slow down period. Then, as soon as we get some kennels open and dogs adopted, it’s not a day or two later and we are right back where we were.”

Cantero explained that while every day is different, they typically receive around five dogs per day.

“We have gotten it up to about 17 dogs turned in on one day,” Cantero said. “On a slow day, we might be looking at two dogs.”

To incentivize adoption, rates are reduced by 80 percent. Cantero said that if potential adopters already have a dog, the shelter has space where they can test that dogs’ compatibility.

“We have rooms they can go in for one-on-one time, too,” Cantero said.

Even with the discounted rate, dogs being adopted are still guaranteed to be up-to-date on their vaccines, dewormed and microchipped. If the dog tests positive for heartworms, they will also receive treatment.

Cantero said they endeavor to adopt out dogs after a spay/neuter procedure. However, when that is not possible with their staff, such as periods of overpopulation like the one currently facing the shelter, they offer a $70 voucher to source the procedure elsewhere.

“We have partners that will accept (the voucher),” Cantero said. “If they go somewhere and their vet does not accept it, they can send their paperwork here and the county will reimburse them the $70.”

Cantero framed the stakes as being high, but the payout for adopting a dog is commensurately rewarding.

“We have animals here that would make a wonderful new family member,” Cantero said. “If you leave here with a dog, you are saving its life.”
The adoption event takes place on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Following the discount, the cost to adopt a dog is $17.

The animal shelter is located at 160 Adoption Way in Salisbury.