Montana’s animal shelters are in crisis. Over the past year, shelters across the state have reported heartbreaking overcrowding — rows of kennels filled, dogs and cats being turned away, and staff stretched beyond capacity. The root cause? A wave of pet surrenders driven by skyrocketing inflation, rising rent, and financial instability.

Many families who love their pets are being forced to make devastating choices. As the cost of living continues to rise, more people simply can’t afford vet care, food, or housing that allows animals. These are not irresponsible owners — they’re working Montanans who are facing impossible economic realities.

Shelters were already operating near capacity, but now they’re beyond breaking point. Some have had to house dogs in offices or trailers. Others are facing euthanasia decisions they hoped they’d never have to make. Volunteers and staff are exhausted, and donations aren’t keeping pace with the need.

This isn’t just an animal welfare issue — it’s a community emergency. If we don’t act, more animals will suffer, more families will be torn apart, and the crisis will grow.

We’re calling on Montana’s state legislature and local governments to immediately allocate emergency funding to support shelters and pet retention programs. That includes:

• Emergency grants for struggling shelters
• Support for low-income pet owners to afford food and vet care
• Expanded foster and adoption outreach efforts 

Montanans are proud of our strong communities — and that includes our four-legged family members. No one should have to give up a beloved pet because they can’t afford to keep them safe.

Please sign this petition to demand urgent support for our shelters and the families who depend on them. Together, we can keep more animals out of crisis and more families whole.