Cedar Rapids shelter to re-open for adoptions, still closed to public

The Cedar Rapids Animal Care & Control shelter will reopen Tuesday at noon for adoptions and reclaim of lost animals, but the kennel will remain closed to the public due to the recent seizure of 35 animals from a Cedar Rapids home, officials said today.

Last Thursday, Animal Control officers and police took 32 dogs, two cats and a parrot from the home of Jennifer L. Wood, 36, at 308 30

^th

St. Dr. SE. The large quantity of animals doubled the shelter's maximum holding capacity, forcing the shelter to close to the public.

The shelter will resume normal business hours of noon to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays for adoptions and pet reclaims only.

Anyone missing a lost dog may call the shelter at 286-5993 to arrange reclaim.  Anyone interested in adopting a dog should first check the list of adoptable dogs on PetFinder at http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/IA125.html. If you see a dog you are interested in adopting, please call the shelter to arrange for a viewing and “meet n' greet."

“This situation has definitely put a strain on our staff, volunteers and resources, but we want to do our best to continue with business as usual while we work through this”, said Diane Webber, Program Manager for the shelter.

Cat adoptions will be available as usual. Also, the shelter's $50 February "Pitties and Kitties" adoption special for all cats and pit bulls at the shelter remains valid through Feb. 28, Webber said.