Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center (MCASAC) is urgently requesting community support as the shelter has reached critical capacity for large dogs. From March 4-March 6, MCASAC took in 29 dogs, pushing the canine population to more than 100 and exceeding the shelter’s capacity for care.

“We’ve never put out an urgent list or euthanized solely for space, but with what we’re facing now, that possibility is hanging over our heads,” said MCASAC Community Relations Manager Maria Anselmo. 

Adopters for large dogs are urgently needed to help alleviate the shelter’s current space shortage. Dogs are arriving faster than staff and volunteers can safely place them, and available kennels are extremely limited. 

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Individuals interested in adopting are encouraged to visit the shelter during open hours:

• Tuesday–Friday: noon–7 p.m.
• Saturday–Sunday: noon–5 p.m.
• Closed Mondays

Adoptions are completed the same day on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors should be prepared to take their new furry friend home immediately by bringing a leash and collar.

More information about the adoption process is available on MCASAC website.  

Community members who cannot adopt can still support the shelter by temporarily fostering a large dog, sharing information on social media, donating pet food, and helping lost pets reunite with their families before they enter the shelter system. 

Residents are encouraged to join MCASAC’s foster program. Fostering is free, and all necessary supplies are provided. 

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The shelter encourages residents who find a lost pet to temporarily care for the animal while searching for its owner before bringing it to the shelter.

Residents struggling to keep their pets are urged to explore available resources online or contact MCASAC for assistance.

MCASAC is operated by the Office of Animal Services and is the County’s only open‑admission municipal shelter. Through adoptions, education, outreach, and field services, the shelter provides critical support to promote responsible pet care in the community. Animal Services officers are available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, to respond to animal emergencies. For more information, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/animalservices. 

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