Animal shelters across Missouri are overwhelmed, and the crisis is only getting worse. As inflation drives up the cost of living, families are being forced to make heartbreaking decisions. For many, that means giving up the pets they love because they simply can’t afford food, vet care, or housing that allows animals.

The result? Shelters across the state are past capacity. Dedicated staff and volunteers are doing everything they can, but there are too many animals and not enough space or funding. Some shelters have had to close intake altogether. In some cases, animals are being euthanized—not because they’re unwanted, but because there’s nowhere left for them to go.

We can’t allow this to continue. Families should not have to give up their pets because of temporary financial hardship. And shelters shouldn’t have to carry this crisis alone.

We are calling on Missouri state lawmakers, local governments, and decision-makers to step in with emergency funding. We need immediate relief to support shelters and help families keep their pets. This funding could be used for emergency pet food banks, low-cost vet care, temporary foster programs, and critical shelter staffing and space.

Shelters are a safety net—but right now, that net is breaking. We must act before the system collapses entirely. With just a fraction of state emergency funds, we can keep more pets with the families who love them and save thousands of animals from unnecessary suffering.

If you believe no one should have to choose between feeding their family and keeping their pet, add your name. Missouri needs to invest in humane solutions now.

Sign this petition to demand urgent funding for Missouri’s shelters and support for families in need.