Racine animal rescues face surge in surrender calls

Animal rescues in Racine, like Woof Gang Rescue, are currently facing a significant increase in calls from people wanting to surrender their pets. This troubling trend has become more intense since the COVID-19 pandemic. Jodie Hoffmann-Ruffalo, the founder of Woof Gang Rescue, mentioned they received over 100 calls just this week. The staff at Woof Gang, including volunteers like Gayle Allen, are working hard to respond to these calls. Allen described some of the heartbreaking situations, including people who are living in their cars and need to surrender their pets due to financial struggles. High veterinary costs, a shortage of affordable pet-friendly housing, and rising dog food prices are among the reasons people are giving up their animals. Hoffmann-Ruffalo explained that while employees want to help every case, their resources are limited. The Wisconsin Humane Society has reported that shelters across the state, including Woof Gang, are full. They are now requiring appointments for pet surrenders, with waits extending into July. Local rescues like Woof Gang are stepping up to support animals in need. They encourage anyone interested in adopting to come to their events. Woof Gang Rescue will host two adoption events this Saturday. One event will be at Raymond Kia in Antioch, Illinois, and the other at the Home and Garden Show in West Allis. Donations to the rescue are also welcome to assist with the growing needs.