SANDS TWP, Mich. (WZMQ) – The largest animal shelter in the upper peninsula is at capacity.
Due to a recent surge in homeless pets being taken in, UPAWS is completely full.
Meet husky, a nine year old mixed breed sled dog. Husky is one of nine sled dogs that were found after a wellbeing check discovered their owner had died, leaving the dogs with no one to care for them. They are now housed at u paws in Sands Township.
Although these dogs cannot be adopted out yet due to legal custody questions, they are causing the shelter to remain at capacity, unable to take in any more dogs.
“There’s nothing we can do besides house them right now until there is a potential court hearing. So we’re full,” said UPAWS Volunteer Coordinator, Ann Brownell.
Brownell pointed out that the shelter is in critical need of donations and volunteers.
“I did put out a plea, and we’ve gotten some volunteer dog walker applications, so if that’s something you’re interested in, we have dogs to walk,” said Brownell.
The situation is not unique to Marquette County. Shelters across the region are experiencing a downturn in dog adoptions.
“Cat adoptions are going up. Dog adoptions, unfortunately, are going down, and more people are surrendering dogs. Every shelter in the up. There’s a wait list. It’s insane,” exclaimed Brownell.
If you need to surrender your pet, UPAWS recommends calling them and getting on their wait list.
Remember, they will not accept any animals simply dropped off at their door.
For information on adopting, surrendering an animal, volunteering or what items are needed as donations, as well as how to take advantage of their pet food bank assistance, please visit UPAWS.ORG
