Clayton County Humane Society 'full,' but pets still being dumped

Clayton County Humane Society hits full capacity

The Clayton County Humane Society is warning of police prosecution for illegal pet abandonment as the facility remains at maximum capacity and unable to take in new animals.

CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. - The Clayton County Humane Society says it is completely full and can no longer accept pets, yet people continue to abandon animals at their doorstep.

Abandoned animals overwhelm local shelter

What we know:

The Clayton County Humane Society is currently at capacity and unable to take in more animals. Kristi Butler with Street Paws, who began managing the facility in October, says the issue of people dumping pets has become a "constant thing" that happens nearly every week. Butler noted that the problem started shortly after her organization merged with the society, beginning with a guinea pig left at the front door.

What we don't know:

It is currently unclear how many animals have been abandoned since the illegal dumping began or if Clayton County police have made any arrests based on the surveillance footage. Officials have not released a specific timeline for when the shelter might have open space for new surrenders.

What they're saying:

"It’s just a county-wide problem," Kristi Butler said. She emphasized that people leaving pets in boxes are not acting as "Good Samaritans" because the animals are not being handed to a person. "We have a sign on the fence. Two signs on the fence. We have two signs on the door. People still read them and they leave them here anyhow," Butler said.

Finding a solution for pet owners

What's next:

The property is under 24-hour video surveillance to deter illegal dumping. The Humane Society warned that any video of people abandoning animals will be turned over to the Clayton County Police Department for prosecution.

What you can do:

The Humane Society is asking pet owners to keep their animals at home rather than abandoning them. "We will offer them help. We will offer them help with vet bills. To spay and neuter, the vaccines and we work on them getting a home," Butler said. Those needing assistance are encouraged to contact the society directly via their website to discuss alternative options and appointments.