Kansas City Area Shelter Pets Need Immediate Foster and Forever Homes

Kansas City, KS – A growing number of pets in the Kansas City area are in urgent need of foster and forever homes as shelters reach capacity and animals face long stays. The Great Plains SPCA has placed a call for help, drawing attention to nearly a dozen pets that have been waiting too long for their chance at a loving home.

Long Stays in Shelters

Currently, the average length of stay for animals at the Great Plains SPCA shelter in Merriam is around 30 days. For some larger dogs, however, the wait has stretched into more than a year. The organization emphasizes that while they strive to provide exceptional care—including frequent walks and individualized attention—the shelter environment can be overwhelming for many pets.

The Impact of Shelter Life

As animals remain in the shelter for longer periods, their stress levels can rise, making them less adoptable. “As pets stay longer, they can start to shut down, which further complicates their chances of finding a forever home,” stated a representative from the SPCA. Advocates argue that fostering pets, especially those showing signs of stress, can dramatically improve their quality of life and chances of adoption.

A Transformative Experience

Melissa Kreisler, a local foster who has taken in numerous pets, shared her experiences, sharing stories of pets that have thrived in a home environment. “I recently fostered an elderly dachshund who transformed completely. She’s eating and enjoying life, simply because she’s out of the stressful environment of the shelter,” Kreisler said. Her testimony highlights how foster homes provide a nurturing break that can make a significant difference for a scared animal.

Support for Foster Families

The Great Plains SPCA emphasizes that any foster pet will receive full support, including food and medical care. According to Ashley Flores, Vice President of Operations, fostering helps reduce stress levels. “In a home setting, the stress hormone cortisol decreases, allowing pets to showcase their true personalities and increasing the likelihood of adoption,” she summarized.

Anyone Can Foster

Foster homes can accommodate any type of animal, and the shelter is open to support families with pets currently in their homes or those seeking a pet-free environment. This is an opportunity for community members to make a real difference in an animal’s life while also contributing to the welfare of the community’s pets.

How to Get Involved

People interested in fostering or adopting can reach out to the Great Plains SPCA at media@greatplainsspca.org for more information.

By fostering or adopting a shelter pet, you can change not just one life, but the lives of countless animals who are desperate for a loving home.