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New York City Shelters Halt Pet Surrenders as Animal Care Centers Reach Capacity

The suspension follows a surge to more than 1,000 animals in care; housing insecurity has driven one in three pet surrenders this year.

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Rocky, the 1,000th animal brought into NYC ACC, bringing the shelter system to capacity. (NYCACC)
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Overview

  • ACC has paused all general pet intakes for the first time after every city shelter exceeded capacity with over 1,000 animals in care.
  • The organization will still accept emergency medical cases, public safety drop-offs and government agency referrals, and adoption services remain open.
  • ACC studies show that one in three relinquishments this year stem from housing insecurity as owners face relocations and downsizing.
  • The agency is appealing directly to New Yorkers to adopt, foster or privately rehome pets and to donate funds and supplies to support strained shelters.
  • Fee-waived pop-up adoption events are underway in Bushwick, Brooklyn, to encourage large dog and adult cat adoptions and boost foster placements.