Sunday’s wind-and-rain storm had many damaging effects, including leading to an increase in lost dog intake at the Front Street Animal Shelter. Nearly double the typical number of dogs came into the shelter the day after the storm.

“It is common for us to see an increase in stray animals after storm events,” said Ryan Hinderman, communications and customer service manager for the shelter. “In some cases, it is due to fence damage and gates blowing open, and in other cases the thunder and wind can scare dogs away from home, much like fireworks.”

The shelter was already nearing critical capacity before the storm event.

“We were already at a breaking point with multiple dogs housed in each kennel, but with the increase in dogs after the storm, it’s pushing us over the edge,” Hinderman said.

To make space for the new arrivals, the shelter is waiving adoption fees for dogs now through Feb. 18 – this includes spay/neuter surgery, microchip, vaccinations and more.

Visit Front Street Shelter’s adoption page for more information.

The shelter also has a free automated texting program which guides owners through the process of finding their lost pets – owners can text LOST to (833) 511-0426.

Visit Front Street Shelter’s Lost Pets to find your pet.