Montgomery County Animal Services Expands Resources as Economic Hardship Leads to More Pet Surrenders – Mocofeed

The Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center (MCASAC) is facing significant capacity challenges as more residents affected by economic hardship, including layoffs, are surrendering their pets. 

“Losing a job is devastating, and for many families, that hardship extends to the animals they love,” said Caroline Hartfield, MCASAC director. “Our priority is to keep pets in their homes whenever possible, and we’re expanding resources to help families through this difficult time.” 

MCASAC is actively working to reduce the need for people to surrender their pets by offering families the following support to help keep pets in their homes: 

• Pet Food Pantries: Held the second Sunday of each month (Oct. 12, Nov. 9, and Dec. 14) from 9-10 a.m. at the MCASAC, located at 7315 Muncaster Mill Rd. in Derwood, and held the first and third Saturday of each month (Oct. 4, Oct. 18, Nov. 1, Nov. 15, Nov. 22, Dec. 6 and Dec. 20) from 7:30-8:30 a.m. at the Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, located at 12701 Veirs Mill Road in Rockville. No appointment is needed. 
• Free Behavior Consultations: Residents can schedule phone sessions with a certified professional dog trainer by emailing [email protected].  
• Online Resources: Behavior guidance and low-cost medical options are available by visiting the MSASAC website. 
• Weekly Rabies Clinics: Free rabies shots every Wednesday, by appointment only. Microchip are also available for $10. Microchips are the most effective way to reunite lost pets.
• Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic: Clinics are scheduled every other week, with limited spaces for income-qualified residents. Spots fill up quickly and the MSASAC is working to add additional capacity. Email [email protected].

MCASAC is urging residents who are struggling to care for their pets to explore available resources before considering surrender. Community members can also support the shelter by adopting, fostering, donating, or volunteering.

MCASAC is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The center is closed on Wednesdays. 

Those looking to adopt should bring a leash for dogs or a carrier for cats and small animals. 

MCASAC is operated by the Office of Animal Services and is the County’s only open-admission municipal shelter. The center promotes responsible pet care through adoptions, education, and outreach. Animal services officers are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and investigate complaints. 

For more information, visit montgomerycountymd.gov/animalservices. 

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Media Contact: Maria Anselmo, [email protected]