At the Mercer County Animal Shelter (MCAS) in West Virginia, the staff has called an emergency “Code Red” because of the severe overcrowding. The shelter stated they would be forced to euthanize dogs for space if enough animals were not adopted, fostered or pulled by rescue organizations by the evening of Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

In a viral post on the Mercer County Animal Shelter’s Facebook page, the organization stated that the shelter will operate under extended hours (12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.) and staff members have volunteered to stay late to give people time to go to the shelter.
Adoption fees were lowered for dogs and cats due to the situation.

Tomorrow through May 1st, dog adoptions will be $25, and cats will be $15. From the 1st through May 15th, we also have our seasonal Bissell event with lowered fees.
There are still so many adorable dogs waiting for homes. Please – if you are in the area, stop by and help. Please make sure to spay and neuter your pets. Out of state adoptions are allowed.
Mercer County Animal Shelter – MCAS WV (961 Shelter Rd, Princeton, WV 24740).
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