The Humane Society for Hamilton County (HSHC) is issuing a dire call for help as it confronts a growing crisis: adoptable dogs are deteriorating emotionally and mentally after spending months — and in some heartbreaking cases, over a year — in shelter care without finding homes.

On Saturday, May 17, from 12 to 5 p.m., the organization will host an emergency adoption event at its facility located at 10501 Hague Road in Fishers. The event is a last-ditch effort to save the lives of dogs who, while physically healthy and behaviorally sound, are now giving up emotionally after extended stays in the shelter environment.

“We fear our community believes that as long as an animal is in our care, they are okay,” said Rebecca Stevens, President and CEO of HSHC. “But while we are a no-kill shelter, the truth is some dogs have been waiting so long that they are starting to give up on themselves.”

Stevens says dogs are currently waiting an average of 70–80 days for a home, and many are living under constant stress and noise that can lead to emotional decline. For dogs nearing or already experiencing emotional shut-down, the shelter warns that time is running out.

The shelter has been over capacity nearly every day for the past 2.5 years, and while staff and volunteers work tirelessly to enrich the animals’ lives and provide short-term relief through foster homes, adoptions have not kept pace with the number of animals coming in.

In an emotional statement, HSHC made it clear that while they remain committed to a no-kill philosophy, the harsh reality of long-term sheltering may soon force them to consider euthanasia — not due to aggression or illness, but because of the irreversible mental toll on some animals.

Emergency Adoption Event Details:

• When: Saturday, May 17, 12–5 p.m.

• Where: Humane Society for Hamilton County, 10501 Hague Road, Fishers, IN

• More Info & Early Applications: hshcadoptions.com

Prospective adopters are encouraged to bring their dogs for a meet-and-greet if planning to adopt a companion dog. All household members must attend. Renters must bring documentation of their pet policy, and all adopters must present a government-issued ID.