Craven-Pamlico Animal Shelter Pauses Intake Amidst Surge in Animals

The Craven-Pamlico Animal Shelter in Novel Bern, North Carolina, has temporarily halted animal surrenders due to a significant influx of animals, particularly following an Animal Services case. The shelter took in over 150 animals last week, including 30 from the aforementioned case, pushing capacity to its limits.

Capacity Reached, Intake List Established

“We did take in over 150 animals last week,” stated Dr. Tonya Osler, Director of the Craven-Pamlico Animal Services Center according to MSN. To manage the situation, the shelter has initiated an intake list for those needing to surrender pets. Individuals are added to the list, and will be contacted as space becomes available.

Regional Impact and Collaborative Efforts

The strain isn’t isolated to Craven-Pamlico Animal Shelter. The Colonial Capital Humane Society is also feeling the impact, having taken in six animals from the shelter to alleviate overcrowding. Kayleigh Aldridge, a Kennel Technician at the Humane Society, noted the challenges this presents, stating that all kennels, including isolation units, are full, and their own intake list is also affected as reported by MSN.

Community Support and Alternatives

Despite the temporary suspension of surrenders, both agencies are committed to supporting pet owners. The Colonial Capital Humane Society offers a pet pantry for food assistance, as well as advice from partnered trainers. Dr. Osler added that the Craven-Pamlico Animal Services Center can also provide food and supplies to the community according to MSN.

Eastern Carolina Adopt-A-Thon Success

Efforts to uncover homes for animals in the region received a boost from the first annual Eastern Carolina Adopt-A-Thon, held at the Crystal Coast Civic Center. The event successfully placed 40 pets – 19 dogs and 21 cats – in new homes as reported by WCTI12. Dr. Osler highlighted the collaborative nature of the event, bringing together multiple rescues, municipal shelters, and humane societies from Eastern Carolina.

Recent Shelter Improvements

In June 2023, Dr. Tanya Osler was appointed as the new director of the Craven-Pamlico Animal Services Center by the Craven County Board of Commissioners according to the New Bern Sun Journal. Since then, she and her staff have focused on revamping shelter operations and policies. The shelter has seen a 2.2% increase in adoption rates and a 33% decrease in euthanasia rates.