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Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter faces challenges

Shelter sees influx of animals, struggles to find homes

The Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter (PRAS) is facing challenges as it continues to see an influx of animals while struggling to find homes for them.

Since 2015, PRAS has averaged an intake of 6,200 animals per year. This number has remained steady, with the shelter taking in 6,222 animals in 2021.

The shelter is a collaborative venture supported by the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and York County, as well as James City County.

PRAS offers a variety of services to the community, including animal adoption, pet licensing, and rabies vaccinations. The shelter also provides educational programs and outreach events.

Despite its efforts, PRAS is struggling to keep up with the demand for its services. The shelter is often at capacity, and it is sometimes forced to turn away animals. This can be a heartbreaking decision for the shelter staff, who are dedicated to helping animals.

PRAS is working to address the challenges it faces. The shelter is partnering with other organizations to increase adoption rates and is exploring ways to expand its facilities. The shelter is also working to educate the public about the importance of responsible pet ownership.