In Dyersburg, Tennessee, the local humane society is overwhelmed. After two major rescues, they’re now housing nearly double their capacity—77 dogs in a space built for 43. Staff are stacking kennels, begging for food and cleaning supplies, and calling the situation what it is: “drowning.”

This isn’t just a local problem—it’s a statewide crisis.

Across Tennessee, shelters are seeing a surge in surrenders and neglect cases as families struggle with the rising cost of pet care. Most shelters—like Dyersburg’s—are nonprofits that rely entirely on donations to stay open. Without more support, these shelters can’t keep up.

We’re calling on Governor Bill Lee, the Tennessee General Assembly, and local governments to increase emergency funding, foster incentives, and shelter aid for overcapacity rescue groups across the state.

Many of these animals are victims of abuse or economic hardship. With just a little help—more fosters, food programs, and low-cost vet support—we can keep shelters from closing their doors and animals from being turned away.

Tell Tennessee leaders: Fund the rescue infrastructure we need. Support shelters. Support foster homes. Save lives.