PSPCA Aiding Philly Animal Shelter Amid Infection Outbreak

PHILADELPHIA — As an upper respiratory infection outbreak plagues Philadelphia's animal shelter, Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT), the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) is stepping up to save animal lives.

During ACCT Philly’s two-week shutdown period, stray dogs found both by the public and ACCT Philly’s Animal Control Officers will be diverted to the Pennsylvania SPCA’s Erie Avenue Headquarters, 350 East Erie Ave.

Provided these dogs meet the PSPCA’s intake criteria, they will be accepted and held for the required stray period, after which time they will be made available for adoption.

In addition, the Pennsylvania SPCA will accept owner surrenders during the shutdown period in an attempt to lessen the burden on ACCT Philly and giving their population the time needed to recover.

While owners are encouraged to hold on to their animals during this two-week period if at all possible, the PSPCA’s team will evaluate and accept as many owner surrenders as possible.

Rescue partners within the city, and those who are looking for ways to help, are encouraged to visit the PSPCA to evaluate and pull dogs into their care during this time.

In addition, due to the increased intake at the Pennsylvania SPCA, and the PSPCA’s continued work to rescue animals from cruelty and neglect, the organization is asking for the public’s help in adopting animals.

Those who have been waiting to add a "furever" family member are being asked to consider adoption now.

The PSPCA has many animals already looking for homes, and will only see more in the coming days and weeks.

"As a partner to ACCT Philly as founding members of the Philadelphia No-Kill Coalition, we want to do everything within our ability to help as ACCT works through this difficult time," said Julie Klim, PSPCA CEO. "Given our close proximity, we felt the best way to do so was to divert as many dogs as we can, before they enter into their shelter, during this two-week period."

The PSPCA operates under a no-kill philosophy, never euthanizing for space or time. The PSPCA’s live-release rate is 97 percent.