Summit County Animal Control Slashes Adoption Fees to $28 Amid Overcrowding Emergency: 90 Dogs Need Homes

As its shelter approaches critical capacity, Summit County Animal Control (SCAC) is raising the alarm.  With over 90 canines in their care and space quickly running out, SCAC is urging the public for assistance immediately. They are also making adoption simpler than ever.

In honor of National Pet Month, SCAC is lowering its dog adoption cost to just $28 through the end of May in an effort to promote adoptions and alleviate the overcrowding issue.  The relocation comes with a full care package and is a significant savings over the usual adoption charge of $94.

What Does the $28 Adoption Fee Cover?

More than just bringing a dog home is covered by this temporary adoption cost.  Every dog that is adopted will get:

• A permanent identification microchip
• A wellness examination for veterinarians
• Treatment for preventing fleas
• Intestinal parasite deworming
• Basic immunizations, such as rabies
• A dog license for Summit County in 2025
• A precious lifetime of friendship and love

A Continuous Difficulty

SCAC has previously experienced capacity issues.  The shelter has been operating at near or full capacity for the last two years, with animals coming in nearly as quickly as they are being adopted.  The current crisis is a result of intake continuing to exceed adoptions despite best attempts.

A spokesman for the shelter stated, "We are completely full, and more dogs keep coming in."  "The community must take action, whether it be through volunteer work, adoption, or foster care.  Every action has an impact.

How to Help: Volunteer or Adopt

Now is the ideal moment for people who are prepared to welcome a new four-legged buddy into their homes and hearts.  SCAC urges prospective adopters to phone 330-643-2845, set up a visit, and peruse available pets online via the 24PetConnect website.  The shelter is open during regular business hours and may be found in Akron at 250 Opportunity Parkway.

Not able to adopt at this time?  You can still have a significant influence.  Volunteers are constantly needed by SCAC to assist with:

• Walking and interacting with dogs
• Bathing and grooming
• Cat maintenance
• Cleaning and laundry
• Support for general shelters

To find out how to participate, go to SCAC's volunteer website.

A Collective Attempt to Preserve Lives

Although the employees at Summit County Animal Control are committed to each animal's health and welfare, they are not able to do this on their own.  The need is greater than ever as summer approaches, a time when admissions tend to rise.

Now is the perfect moment to take action if you've ever considered volunteering or adopting.  You may save a life and earn a devoted best friend for just $28.

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Georgia Dog Owners Arrested After Breaking Into Shelter to Save Pet from Euthanasia

Authorities say two guys from Georgia are in jail after breaking into a county animal shelter to get their dog, which was supposed to be put down after a reported biting incident.

The suspects, Macon residents Donald and James Spicer, are charged with breaking into the Jones County Animal Shelter over the weekend and taking their puppy away just days before it was scheduled to be put down.  According to law police, the two took desperate action to protect their cat from what they perceived to be an unfair death.

The shelter had previously scheduled the dog for euthanasia after it was deemed dangerous for reportedly biting someone, investigators said.  In an attempt to stop this from happening, the Spicers allegedly broke into the shelter at night and took the dog without permission.

The Jones County Sheriff's Office, in close collaboration with Investigator Hall and the U.S. Marshals Service, launched a prompt investigation into the break-in.  Both culprits were captured and placed under arrest in a few days.  They are currently being charged with second-degree burglary, which is a serious felony in Georgia.

The Sheriff's Office conveyed its appreciation for the swift agency cooperation that resulted in the arrests.  "We recognize the profound affection people have for their pets, but we cannot disregard the law.  According to a spokeswoman, "breaking into a government facility is not one of the legal avenues for advocacy and appeals."

The dog's present condition, including whether it was found or is still in the Spicers' care, has not been disclosed by officials.  Whether more charges pertaining to the dog's past behavior or the shelter's decision-making procedure will be prosecuted is also unknown.

The case has spurred discussion about the emotional connection between individuals and their pets as well as the challenging, frequently sad decisions made by animal control officials both within and outside of the community.

Advocates for animal protection are encouraging people in similar circumstances to seek legal assistance.  According to one advocate, "there are organizations and attorneys who specialize in helping pet owners navigate these kinds of challenges."  "This case is a tragic illustration of what happens when due process is subordinated to emotions."

The Spicers are currently being held for their court appearance.  The inquiry is still under progress.

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South Jersey Woman Arrested After Severely Starved Dog Found Abandoned in Trash Bag

Following the discovery of a malnourished and injured puppy in a trash bag at a nearby apartment complex, authorities in South Jersey have arrested a woman and charged her with serious animal cruelty.

In March 2025, the startling discovery was made at Lindenwold's Belmont Apartments on White Horse Pike.  Police said locals were appalled to discover a young, sickly white puppy nearly dead inside a tied-up trash bag that had been disposed of in a dumpster on the property.

The dog was taken right away to an emergency veterinary clinic after becoming noticeably malnourished and covered in sores.  Later, veterinarians verified that the animal had experienced several untreated injuries and extended malnutrition.  A staff worker at the shelter that brought the dog in remarked, "It's really heartbreaking."  "This animal undoubtedly went through unspeakable pain.

"Turquiose Morton, 38, was found to be the dog's owner after a police investigation.  According to the authorities, Morton knowingly put the dog in a garbage bag and disposed of it in the apartment building's trash area.  She was taken into custody and accused of abandoning a domestic animal and animal cruelty, both of which are grave crimes in New Jersey.

As she awaits her initial court appearance, Morton is presently being detained at the Camden County Correctional Facility.  Although they have not yet revealed a potential reason, law enforcement officials have verified that she had lived in the facility.

The rescued dog has since recovered after weeks of rigorous medical treatment and rehabilitation, which is a more encouraging development.  The dog was adopted into a new, loving home and is now secure and prospering, according to the shelter that took it in.

Anyone with more information about this crime or related incidents is encouraged to come forward by Lindenwold Police.

A police official stated, "This case shocked our entire department."  "We want people to understand that we take animal abuse very seriously.  Every life counts, especially the lives of those who are unable to speak for themselves.

Authorities advise anyone who witnesses suspected animal mistreatment to report it right away to the New Jersey SPCA or local law enforcement.

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Family's Dog Stolen During Home Burglary in Tukwila

A burglary in Tukwila has left a family heartbroken. They are not just upset about the break-in but also about their pet being stolen.

As per Tukwila Police, the incident took place on Thursday, May 16, 2025, at a property along 56th Avenue South. An unknown intruder broke into the house at some point. The suspect not only stole material things but also lifted the dog of the family. The exact time and way in which entry was made is still being investigated.

The stolen dog is a small black chihuahua with tan coloring on the front legs and a white spot on the snout. The dog, which has not been made public, is not just a family pet but rather their pet dog. They are very upset about the theft and would like it back if anyone has any information.

Police have identified a suspect being the believed perpetrator of the crime. According to reports, she is a transient lady in her 50s-60s with blonde hair and a slender build. Officials think she might still be in the vicinity and often visits convenience stores around Interurban Avenue and the I-5 freeway.

The Tukwila cops are looking for your help to locate the suspect and the stolen dog. If you see a woman matching the description, especially if she has a Chihuahua that looks like their missing dog, please contact them.

This is more than a property offense. A spokesperson for the police department said, “A family has lost a household member, where love and emotional comfort were derived”. "We will do everything we can to investigate this case and bring the dog home safely."

If you have any information or tips, please contact Tukwila Police at (206) 241-2121.

While the family is home, the community is rallying around the family. Neighbours have been sharing pictures and descriptions of the dog on social media in a hope to reunite them.

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