According to the national database Shelter Animal Counts, the number of dogs and cats awaiting adoption at animal shelters grew by nearly 250,000 last year. Meanwhile, the rate of adoption for dogs has decreased, with nearly 60% of shelter operators reporting requests from owners to surrender their dogs. As reported in Columbia Gorge News, Hood River Adopt a Dog and Home At Last Humane Society in The Dalles  are emblematic of the challenges animal shelters are currently facing, including a surge in the number of dogs being surrendered or simply abandoned at their doorstep. 

Joining us to talk about these difficulties are: Laura Spinney, operations director and foster coordinator for Hood River Adopt a Dog; Sierra Molesworth, a certified dog trainer and the social media manager at Hood River Adopt a Dog; and Lisa Erland, board treasurer at Home At Last Humane Society.