‘It’s defeating’ | Sevier Animal Care Center experiencing severe overcrowding

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Caretakers at Sevier Animal Care Center say they are overwhelmed as the center is over capacity. Some workers are calling it the worst overcrowding since the center opened in 2018.

“We’re intaking at a higher volume than we can move them out,” said Luna Brewer, the shelter’s manager.

Brewer said the kennels and crates at the center are completely full, adding that it left them no choice but to house some dogs outside in outdoor runs. The center usually only uses the outdoor space for exercise.

“It’s so hot and we want to make sure that we’re providing the correct and proper care for every animal here,” Brewer said.

Sevier Animal Care Center handles all animal control needs for the entire county. Several dog hoarding cases arrived within days of each other last week, filling up spots fast. The center closed off the canine intake and is considering euthanizing to make space.

“It’s soul-crushing,” Brewer said. “That is the very last thing that we would ever want to do, but it is overwhelming.”

Since its opening, it’s been an ongoing battle. But now, a new facility to bring relief is on the horizon. A county and city investment of $5 million dollars is going towards building a new animal care center. Brewer said it will be three times larger than the current facility and is expected to be complete by next spring.

“Hope is there. We just have to hold on and do the best we can until we can get there,” Brewer said.

The center has waived all its adoption fees until further notice. If you aren’t ready to adopt, you can donate supplies. The center is in dire need of sheets, blankets and comforters.

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