New York City’s animal shelters are in crisis—and the animals are paying the price.

Overcrowded and underfunded, shelters like Animal Care Centers (ACC) are bursting at the seams. Some locations have over 200 cats in spaces built for 100. Staff are stretched to their breaking point, working 60+ hour weeks, while crates are stacked in offices, hallways—wherever there’s room.

But this isn’t just about the shelters. Thousands of New Yorkers are being forced to surrender beloved pets because they can’t afford food, vet care, or housing that allows animals. It’s a heartbreaking cycle: families lose their companions, and shelters drown in surrenders they can’t handle.

We’re calling on Mayor Eric Adams and the NYC Council to take immediate action:

• Provide emergency funding to expand shelter staffing, space, and services.
• Launch a citywide pet assistance program for low-income families.

That means free pet food distribution, access to affordable vet care, and real support for people trying to do the right thing.

We cannot ignore this crisis any longer. If we want a city that values compassion—for people and animals—we need bold action now.

Add your name to demand urgent funding and support for NYC’s animal shelter system and the families who depend on it.