Tulare animal shelters in urgent need of adoptions, foster families

TULARE, Calif. (KFSN) -- Animal shelters across Tulare County are facing a harsh reality.

Many of them have no more space, meaning dogs are being euthanized weekly.

"They just don't have space, and they end up having to be put down quickly. So I've committed to this dog, and she's not gonna be put down," says foster Kristen Stamford.

Kristen is on a mission to save dogs' lives.

One she is currently fostering is named Sunshine, and she's looking for a forever home.

Kristen has been fostering with Tulare County Animal Services for the last six months.

So far, she has helped about 20 dogs.

She says the experience is rewarding, but it's also heartbreaking to see the reality many animals are facing.

Sunshine is one of the dozens of dogs at the shelter that have no place to go and are at risk of being euthanized.

"It makes me feel horrible. That's why we are involved. We spend a lot of money on dog food, but the county is so great they will cover dog food," expressed Kristen.

Karen Coelho has been with Tulare County Animal Services for the last five years.

She says the animal survival rate has more than doubled since she started - thanks to grant funding, an on-site vet, staff and volunteers.

But still, they take in 30 to 40 dogs each day and only have 50 kennels.

"Our kennels are definitely full, overcrowded, and a lot of our kennels have multiple pets in each one," said Karen.

Part of the problem, she says, is during the pandemic, spay and neuter clinics were shut down because they were not considered essential.

Now, dogs are having litters of puppies that could've been prevented.

With kennels filled, euthanasia becomes a last resort.

"It's a procedure that nobody wants to be a part of, but we all have that mindset that if anyone has to be there with them in their last moments, we'd rather it be someone who cares," said Karen.

The shelter hopes to help as many animals as possible find bright futures with loving families.

Dogs come spayed, neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, and microchipped.

The adoption fee is $20, and some are completely free.

"And it's like if one person would just take one dog, we wouldn't have this problem," Kristen said.

If you can't commit to adopting, foster families or walking volunteers are also greatly needed.

The Tulare County Animal Service shelter is open Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm.

Walk-ins are welcome, or you can make an appointment by calling 559-636-4050.

The organization "Friends of Tulare Animal Services" is also looking for people who can open their hearts and homes to pets in need.

The shelter has several large animals in need of foster homes as soon as possible.

Staff members say it would be a great help, even if you can only care for a pet through the weekend.

If you're able to take in a dog, be sure to reach out to the shelter.

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