Shelter filling with surrendered pets

Animal Control Division Chief Paul Studivant explained to local Historic City News reporters that the St. Johns County Animal Control Pet Center has been “inundated” with pets the owners can’t afford.

“It’s due to the economy and unemployment,” Studivant said. “We’re hearing every story you could possibly hear.”

According to St. Johns County Animal Control, between January 2010 and July 2010, there were 2,118 surrendered pets. During that same time period, the number jumped to 2,403.

There are so many owner-surrendered pets at the center, there’s little room for strays.

The more animals that are dropped off, the more have to be put down. Animal Control does not have space for all of the animals it receives and it’s the only animal shelter in St. Johns County.

Studivant said due to the increase in owner-surrendered pets, the euthanasia rate has increased as well.

According to published reports, other no-kill organizations are full as well. Studivant explained he and his staff have advised some owners to contact no-kill organizations, however, often he gets calls from those same owners saying those organizations cannot take more animals.

Most of the animals at the St. Johns Pet Center are adoptable. If you are interested in providing a home to one of these pets, call (904) 209-6190, or go to 130 N. Stratton Road, just off of U.S. 1 North. It’s open Monday-Friday from 9-4 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9-12:30.