Emergency Intake Closure Announced at Columbus Animal Shelters Amid Overcrowding Crisis

Due to severe overcrowding, local animal shelters in Columbus have enacted an emergency 30-day intake closure for dogs, officials announced Tuesday. The immediate measure, which went into effect this week, is aimed at preventing the euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals due to lack of space.

“We are at a breaking point,” said a spokesperson for Paws Humane Society. “This decision was made with one goal in mind—to preserve our no-kill status and protect the animals already in our care.”

During the 30-day period, shelters will not accept general dog intakes. However, field officers will continue to respond to urgent public safety situations, including cases involving injured dogs, cruelty investigations, and animals found on high-traffic roadways.

In an effort to reunite lost pets with their families and ease the burden on shelters, all impound fees will be waived. “We want to make it as easy as possible for pet owners to reclaim their animals,” the spokesperson added. “We’re also increasing efforts to return pets directly from the field without bringing them into the shelter.”

The public is encouraged to help by attempting to reunite found pets with their families before bringing them to a shelter. Suggested actions include checking for microchips at local vet clinics or fire stations, posting on Facebook groups and apps like PawBoost and Nextdoor, and asking around the neighborhood. Those willing to help further can sign up to foster through the Friendly Finder Program or foster any adoptable animal temporarily.

“Our team is scanning pets in the field, going door-to-door to locate owners, and offering $150–$200 per dog to approved rescue partners,” the spokesperson said. “We’re even providing supplies to families who need support to keep their pets at home.”

Local resident Maria Jenkins, who recently adopted a dog from one of the shelters, said she supports the decision. “It’s heartbreaking to hear how overcrowded things have gotten, but I’m glad the shelters are doing everything they can to avoid euthanizing animals,” Jenkins said. “We all need to step up—fostering, sharing posts, anything we can do to help.”

Community members are urged to foster, adopt, volunteer, or share information online to support shelter efforts. The emergency policy may change depending on shelter capacity and public response.

“With your help, we can get through this crisis without sacrificing the lives of animals who deserve a chance,” the spokesperson said.

For more information on fostering or getting involved, visit: https://pawshumane.org/get-involved/foster-care/