Montgomery County Animal Shelter Urgently Needs Fosters and Adopters for Large Dogs

Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center hit a breaking point last week when 29 dogs arrived between March 4 and March 6, pushing the shelter's canine population past 100 animals and filling every available kennel. The three-day surge forced MCASAC to issue a public emergency declaration, identifying large dogs as the critical concern and calling on the community to adopt or foster immediately.

"We've never put out an urgent list or euthanized solely for space, but with what we're facing now, that possibility is hanging over our heads," said Community Relations Manager Maria Anselmo.

The shelter, located at 7315 Muncaster Mill Road in Derwood, Maryland, is the county's only open-admission municipal shelter, meaning it cannot turn animals away. That policy, combined with an intake pace outrunning staff and volunteers' ability to place dogs safely, created conditions that Anselmo described as unlike anything the shelter had previously faced. On its Facebook page, MCASAC put it plainly: "Big dog adopters, we need you!"

Progress followed quickly after the March 6 press release. By Sunday, March 8, the shelter had placed 11 dogs in homes that day alone, with another 7 adopted the previous Saturday and 6 more placed into foster care. Two additional dogs were pending adoption while awaiting spay and neuter surgery. Even so, Anselmo reported 79 dogs still in the shelter and 27 in foster homes as of March 8, with the goal of reducing the in-shelter count to 75.

Large dogs historically take longer to find homes, which is why the surge hit the shelter's capacity so hard. Fostering is free, and MCASAC provides all necessary supplies, removing one of the more common barriers for people on the fence about opening their home temporarily. The shelter's Facebook post framed it simply: "By opening up your heart and home, even just for a while, you're saving a life. Give them a second chance at the happiness they deserve, while also freeing up a kennel for another dog in need."

Adoptions are completed same-day on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring a leash and collar and be prepared to take your new dog home immediately. The shelter is open Tuesday through Friday, noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday, noon to 5 p.m., with Mondays closed. Note that WTOP reported an additional Wednesday closure; verify current hours directly with MCASAC before visiting.

Beyond adopting or fostering, the shelter is asking people to donate pet food, share adoption posts on social media, and help reunite lost pets with their owners before those animals enter the shelter system. Residents struggling to keep their own pets are encouraged to contact MCASAC directly to explore available resources before surrendering.

With the in-shelter count still well above the 75-dog target and large dogs continuing to come through the door, the need for fosters and adopters remains urgent heading into this week.