The Denver Animal Shelter says they have a critter congestion issue, as they care for a surge of rabbits, guinea pigs, mice and turtles.
The small animal number at the shelter is more than usual, officials said in a release on Wednesday. Sixty-four small animals call DAS home right now compared to 23 at this time in 2019. The surge has forced the shelter to use other parts of their facility customarily used for other animals for the small critters.
“This is where the community comes in,” said Denver Animal Protection Director Alice Nightengale in a news release. “Before you buy a small animal from a pet store, please check with an animal shelter first because there is a lot of need there. Prices are often more affordable too, and you’ll help a pet in need.”
The cost of small animals at the shelter starts at $15.
Along with small animals, the shelter houses many cats and dogs, with 126 cats and 151 dogs. Two years ago, the shelter was home to 96 cats and 95 dogs.
You can check out adoptable pets here.
The shelter suggests spending time with the type of animal you want — especially guinea pigs and rabbits — before taking them home due to allergies people may have, which force them to give up their animal. Many times store-bought animals are brought to the shelter after an allergy issue.
