Moore County Animal Services has temporarily stopped taking in new animals after reaching full capacity, citing a surge in animal intakes and a slowdown in adoptions—a challenge faced by shelters across the region.

To help ease the strain, officials are waiving all adoption fees through the end of the week in an effort to move animals into permanent homes more quickly. Shelter staff say every adoption opens space for another animal in need and helps prevent overcrowding from worsening.

“This is not unique to Moore County, but we are taking proactive steps to ensure the continued well-being of the animals already in our care,” the department said in a public statement.

Residents who find stray animals are encouraged to hold onto them temporarily if it is safe to do so. In such cases, individuals should contact the shelter to be added to the Stray Intake List. Moore County Animal Services will assist with guidance to help locate the animal’s owner.

Free resources are available to aid in reuniting pets with their families. Community members can:

• Submit a Found Pet Report through The Pilot, which includes a photo and is distributed online.

• Post to local Facebook groups such as Lost & Found Pets Moore County North Carolina, Lost & Found Dogs of Moore County, NC, and Lost & Found Petfinder Network of Moore County.

To check for microchips, most veterinary offices offer complimentary scans. Self-service microchip scanning stations are also located at:

• Burney’s Hardware in Aberdeen, Moore Equine in Southern Pines, Carthage Farm Supply in Carthage

• Alternatively, the animal can be brought to Moore County Animal Services for scanning, or residents can request assistance from an Animal Control Officer.

Those needing to surrender their own pets are asked to call the shelter in advance to be placed on a waiting list, allowing staff to manage space and ensure the best outcome for each animal. Local rescue organizations listed in the Moore County Community Resource Guide may also be able to help.

“We remain committed to serving the animals and residents of Moore County, and we are grateful for your support,” officials said. “With the community’s help, we can move more pets into safe homes and resume normal shelter operations as soon as possible.”

For more information, contact Moore County Animal Services.