More than 20,000 cats and dogs were euthanized in North Carolina shelters in 2024. That number is rising again for the first time in years. While some shelters are saving nearly every animal, others are overwhelmed, with euthanasia rates as high as 70 percent or more.

This is not about blame. It is about resources, equity, and urgency.

Many shelters are at capacity. They are being forced to choose between squeezing more animals into crowded kennels or making heartbreaking decisions to euthanize animals simply due to lack of space. The system is stretched thin, and without help, more animals will die.

We are calling on the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and Governor Josh Stein to create a statewide emergency foster and transport program that:

• Recruits and supports foster homes, especially for large dogs and long-stay animals
• Connects overcrowded shelters with rescue partners in regions with more capacity
• Offers temporary funding and guidance to help counties in crisis save more lives

This is not about warehousing animals. It is about creating breathing room so shelters can stabilize, adopt out more animals, and avoid unnecessary euthanasia.

People want to help. We just need the infrastructure and leadership to match. Some counties already have thriving rescue networks and low euthanasia rates. Others are doing all they can with far less support. The state must step in and level the playing field.

Every animal deserves a chance. No shelter staff should have to euthanize animals simply because there is no space.

Sign if you believe North Carolina must act now to launch a foster and rescue support system that saves lives statewide.

Photo Credit: WRAL