Homes Needed For Animals As Forked River Shelter Prepares For Renovations

LACEY, NJ — A local animal shelter has less than a month to find homes for its remaining pets before it closes for renovations.

"In about 30 days, our shelter will temporarily close for much-needed renovations," Associated Humane Societies Forked River posted on New Year's Day. "We are so proud of how far we’ve come — you have helped us place so many cats and dogs into loving homes — but our work isn’t finished yet."

As of Thursday, the shelter had six dogs, eight cats and one rabbit in need of a new home.

Associated Humane Societies (AHS) Forked River Animal Shelter (formerly known as the Popcorn Park Shelter) previously announced that after remodels and careful consideration, they would demolish the existing building and rebuild a more modern facility.

"The new shelter will be more functional, welcoming, and inclusive—a place where we can provide the highest level of care for pets and serve as a true resource for our community," AHS said in announcing the news.

The shelter hopes to have all animals adopted out by Jan. 31, 2026; otherwise, they will be transferred to AHS shelters in Tinton Falls, Newark or Vineland. However, the other locations are currently full.

Adoptions are preferred over fosters, as it could be a year or more before the new shelter is ready.

Apply online at ahscares.org/adopt.