Palm Springs Animal Shelter has issued an urgent call about big dogs needing forever homes.
"Our big dogs need your help! You have heard us sound the alarm, now it's time to act! Our big dog wards are over capacity, and we need supporters to help us find these awesome dogs forever homes!" Palm Springs Animal Shelter said on Facebook. "It will take our entire community coming together to help these dogs!"
That's because, according to the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, the no-kill shelter is now exceeding capacity in the big dog wards with 42 kennels and 85 big dogs. Other shelters might euthanize when the population figures rise, but Palm Springs Animal Shelter doesn't do that. Hence, the need for animal lovers to come to the rescue.
"Big dogs are a ton of fun," the chamber's newsletter reads. "And you might be surprised to learn that many need less space and exercise than you think."
Many stereotypes and myths can make a big dog's path to a forever home a difficult one, and for that reason, the shelter encourages residents to become educated about what's involved in owning a larger pet.
"If you have questions about big dog adoption and ownership, we can help!" the shelter said on Facebook. "We hear stories everyday from adopters who weren't sure they could handle a big dog, but they took the plunge and now get the BIGGEST love they could have imagined!"
The shelter invites visits so that potential pet owners can learn the benefits of adopting a big dog. Those who can't adopt are asked to spread the news about this desperate need by sharing the Facebook post with those on their network.
One of the ways that pet owners get to know if a big dog is right for them is at a meet and greet, which the shelter sets up, and by working with the facility's animal care or behavior team member, the shelter's website said. Also important to know is that adoptions are on a first-come, first-served basis during normal business hours.
The typical cost, as per the website, is a $140 adoption fee, but that is discounted to $75 for dogs over 6 years old. The qualifications for dog owners are that they must be over age 18, in possession of a valid photo ID and willing to buy a dog license for those living in Palm Springs.