All Kennels Full, Adoption Fees Waived: Manatee County Animal Welfare

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — With all intake kennels full, Manatee County Animal Welfare has issued an “urgent call for help,” according to a Facebook post by the agency.

To encourage pet adoptions, the county has waived all fees indefinitely.

In recent months, an average of 11 pets have been taken in daily, the agency said.

Bishop Animal Center, the county’s lost-and-found location, houses more than 70 dogs, while the Palmetto Adoption Center cares for more than 100 dogs.

“Pssst, cat lovers, we adore our feline friends, too, but right now, it’s our doggos that need urgent help,” MCAW wrote.

The agency is the only county-run animal services division and takes in strays from across Manatee County, as well as emergency owner surrenders and animals assisted by law enforcement. It doesn’t turn away any strays found in the county or animals in need.

In addition to adopting a pet, residents can assist MCAW in other ways, including sharing its social media posts and fostering dogs, especially for medium and large dogs. Supplies will be provided for all fosters.

For foster inquiries and rescue partners, contact lauren.tryon@mymanatee.org, taunia.ireland@mymanatee.org or jennifer.hume@mymanatee.org.