New York City's New Animal Shelter Overcrowded and Overwhelmed: Dogs in Filthy Cages, Insufficient Food and Exercise

Canine Crisis at NYC's New Animal Shelter

The newly opened Queens Animal Care Center, the first public shelter in the borough, is facing a serious overcrowding crisis. According to Council Member Robert Holden and shelter whistleblowers, dogs are crammed into too-small cages, provided with insufficient food and exercise time, and left to live in their own filth.

The shelter currently houses over 220% more dogs than its capacity, with 161 dogs, 206 cats, 45 rabbits, and seven guinea pigs. This overcrowding has led to unsanitary conditions, with dogs being found caked in feces and kennels left uncleaned for extended periods.

Council Member Holden expressed concern over the situation, particularly since the shelter is run by the Animal Care Centers of New York, which holds a controversial $1.4 billion contract with the city to manage all shelters for 34 years. The nonprofit has attributed the issues to high levels of shelter pets and staff shortages. However, whistleblowers have reported incidents of inadequate food portions, bloody tails from hitting cages, and water bowls filled with feces.

Dogs Left in Filth, Minimal Exercise

One worker, Megan, showed reporters a dog named Coco, who was given up after her owner had a baby. Coco spends most of her day in a small cage, only receiving four short walks a day. Walking logs reviewed by reporters revealed that many dogs are walked only once a day for approximately two minutes, which is not enough time for even basic bathroom breaks.

While the shelter's spokesperson claims staff is working tirelessly, multiple sources have indicated that veterinarians are not on call 24/7, leading to delays in responding to emergencies and neglected animals.

Calls for Action

Holden has already contacted the ACC and plans to raise the issue with the mayor. He believes the city needs to provide additional funding to address the overcrowding and ensure proper care for the animals.

This incident raises serious concerns about the city's commitment to animal welfare and the effectiveness of the 34-year contract with the Animal Care Centers of New York. It's crucial that the city takes immediate action to improve conditions at the Queens shelter and prevent future instances of neglect.