City animal shelter facing capacity crisis

Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - A call for help comes from the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter, who is urging Western New Yorkers to consider adopting as the shelter operates beyond capacity.

Just in the past four weeks alone, the shelter says it took in 121 dogs and 46 cats.

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Dogs are being housed in temporary crates in the animal shelter's lobby, hallways, and meet-and-greet room. Stray dog arrivals have consistently outpaced adoptions, leaving more dogs than permanent kennels can accommodate.

An influx of cats and kittens has added to the pressure, and the shelter has paused cat intake.

As the municipal animal shelter for the City of Buffalo, it is responsible for taking in stray dogs found within city limits. Unlike private rescue organizations, the shelter cannot suspend intake of stray dogs, making community support and adoptions especially critical when the number of incoming animals exceeds available space.

“When animals arrive faster than they can be adopted, we quickly run out of space," said Jennifer Butera, director of the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter in a statement. "We are asking our Western New York community to consider adopting from CBAS, and help us make room for the next animals who need our care. Adoption means welcoming a new family member while also helping us continue our mission of caring for Buffalo’s homeless animals.”

With so many animals looking for homes, CBAS has pets of all ages, sizes, and personalities waiting to meet their match. Whether prospective adopters are looking for an energetic running buddy, a laid-back couch companion, or a playful kitten with plenty of personality, there are animals at the shelter ready to become part of a family.

The city animal shelter makes a few suggestions for residents to help:

• Visit the shelter: Meet available pets at 380 Oak Street during regular public visiting hours. No appointment is necessary.
• Browse adoptable animals: Visit friendsofcbas.org to see pets looking for homes.
• Spread the word: Follow @cityofbuffaloanimalshelter on social media and share adoptable pets with friends, family, and others who may be ready to adopt.

For those unable to adopt, sharing the shelter’s available animals can help connect them with prospective adopters. Every adoption helps create space for another animal in need.