PIMA COUNTY, March 15, 2023 –
Pima Animal Care Center’s Animal Protection Services team assisted in a multi-agency investigation yesterday, resulting in the impound of 37 dogs late last night. The shelter is currently housing more than 500 dogs and needs immediate adopters and fosters for medium- to large-sized dogs to make room for the overnight intake.
“This is a serious situation for PACC,” said Monica Dangler, PACC’s Director of Animal Services. “We are hoping that the community helps us help these dogs by providing homes to some of the more than 500 already in the shelter.”
The case is an active investigation so public details are limited, but 37 dogs and two cats were involved. Because of the ongoing investigation, the dogs will not be available for adoption at this time. The dogs will also need to be housed at PACC for the duration of the investigation, placing an extra impetus on finding foster and adoptive homes for dogs currently in the shelter.
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Rescue partners, adopters, and fosters help is needed immediately to clear 40 kennels by end of week. Until the animals’ physical and mental well-being can be assessed, staff will have to house the dogs in individual kennels, in some cases forcing other dogs at the shelter to double or triple up.
PACC’s Chief Animal Protection Officer, Christina Snow, emphasized the gravity of the situation.
“The timing is not ideal, but our agency has a duty to protect animals in harm’s way,” said Snow.
Those interested in fostering or adopting a pet may come to PACC’s facility at 4000 N. Silverbell Road during operating hours. PACC is open on weekdays from noon to 7 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All adopted pets come up to date on vaccinations, a microchip, and a spay or neuter surgery. For fosters, the shelter provides medical care and can provide supplies as needed.
To see available pets and services, visit
pima.gov/animalcare.