PORT TOWNSEND — A cash-strapped, overcrowded Jefferson County Animal Services is hoping residents will help by donating one of two items — time or money.
The county-run animal shelter at 112 Critter Lane has exceeded its capacity, which wears thin on staff to provide necessary animal control duties.
The facility comfortably holds 10 dogs, but 17 dogs are currently forced to double-up in cages.
Cats are a different story because many felines can fit in a cage without discomfort. The shelter now houses 18 cats.
With an influx of animals, the shelter must stretch its annual budget of $178,000, which has not changed from last year, to accommodate a 300 percent increase in animals brought in since the first of the year.
Couple donates $2,000
Because of the need for community support, the owners of Frog Mountain Pet Care, 870 Martin Road, have decided to set an example.
Harold and Jane Elyea presented a $2,000 check to Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Brasfield on Thursday.
Many of Frog Mountain’s clientele are animals that have once stayed at the shelter, so the Elyeas say they feel passionately about donating money.
“The shelter can’t go on without volunteers and without funds,” Jane said.
“Instead of giving material gifts to our family and friends this Christmas, we’ve decided to make a donation.”