'We Are Now Completely Full': Baltimore Co. Animal Shelter Asks For Help

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — The Baltimore County Animal Shelter is leaning on the community for some assistance after it reached max capacity in a matter of hours.

The shelter, located at 13800 Manor Road in Baldwin, said that it will be lifting all adoption fees for residents interested in adopting a new pet into their home.

Fees will be lifted through Sunday, with adult cat adopters receiving a $20 gift card for PetSmart while supplies last.

Calls are being put out to rescue partners and individuals interested in fostering a pet.

"Please don't wait. Come visit us in person during adoption hours," reads a post shared by the center. "Our staff is doing their best to respond while also caring for a large number of incoming animals."

The shelter announced it had reached full "catpacity" on Monday. However, by Tuesday afternoon, an intake of 33 more pets sent the center to its max.

Dr. René Varela, bureau director of the Baltimore County Department of Animal Services, told WBAL that the shelter was operating "all-hands-on-deck every second that we’re here."

The director added that the animal shelter has noticed an upward trend of animal intakes. "We’re seeing a lot of stray animals and a lot of animals being surrendered," the official said.

Pop-up adoption events will be held throughout the weekend at the following sites:

• June 19
  Juneteenth Celebration at Benjamin Banneker Historical Park
  300 Oella Ave.
  Catonsville
  3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
  Cat adoption fees waived
• June 20
  The Town Fair
  4601 Ebenezer Road
  Perry Hall
  10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• June 21
  Pet Supplies Plus - Nottingham
  7927 Belair Road
  1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Individuals are reminded that adopters must be at least 18 and be able to provide valid identification and pass a background check for animal-related offenses.

The shelter holds daily adoption hours at its Baldwin location between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.