Newark, NJ – A sudden plumbing failure inside the Associated Humane Societies shelter in Newark triggered an urgent response this week, and the community answered by opening their homes. Since storm damage closed the dog kennel, 41 dogs have been placed into foster care as repairs continue and kennel space remains unusable for the animals.
The shelter said damage to the roof led to a major plumbing issue, disrupting operations and creating immediate safety and sanitation concerns inside the facility. With the shelter unable to house dogs at full capacity, staff issued an urgent call for foster families to step in. Within days, dozens of residents volunteered, allowing dogs to leave the building and recover in temporary homes.
Among those moved into foster care were dogs named Luna, Gustavo, and Ezra, all of whom shelter officials say are adjusting well. The dogs are described as house trained and settling quickly into home environments, easing some of the immediate strain caused by the facility damage.
While the kennels were cleared to manage the emergency, the relief may be short-lived. The shelter reports that 23 new stray and surrendered dogs have already arrived, a number expected to grow as intakes continue. With limited kennel availability during repairs, the need for additional foster homes remains urgent.
Associated Humane Societies is continuing to schedule foster appointments throughout the week and is reviewing new foster applications daily. Shelter officials say fostering remains the fastest way the public can help while repairs are underway and intake numbers rise.
Residents interested in fostering are encouraged to apply through the shelter’s website as Newark’s animal welfare network works to stabilize operations and keep dogs out of overcrowded conditions during the recovery period.
Apply to adopt: https://ahscares.org/adopt/…