FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Cumberland County Animal Services will reopen to the public on Monday, Feb. 23, following a temporary closure to address a respiratory illness affecting shelter animals.
Staff and veterinary partners have made significant progress stabilizing the shelter environment, with infection rates declining and precautionary measures remaining in place to support continued recovery. Animal Services is reopening with temporary adjustments as the department transitions back to normal operations.
Adoptions
Adoptions will be available by appointment only during the initial reopening phase.
Visitors can schedule an adoption appointment online at:
https://calendly.com/ahill-cumberlandcountync/adoption-appointment
Adopters are encouraged to review available animals in advance and note those they are most interested in meeting. Adoptable animal information can be found at: cumberlandcountync.gov/animalservices.
During scheduled appointments, adopters will have dedicated time to meet animals in a bonding room.
To help maintain a safe environment during this transition, walk-through access to the adoption area and meet-and-greets with family pets will not be permitted.
Stray Animal Intake
Stray animal intake will resume during normal intake hours. Residents who find a stray animal are encouraged to contact Animal Services in advance for guidance, especially in urgent situations or when animals are injured or aggressive.
Foster, Rescue, and Volunteer Operations
Foster and rescue operations will resume. Volunteers scheduled through the Volunteer Coordinator may begin assisting with designated functions.
Ongoing Safety Measures
Animal Services will continue implementing precautionary protocols, including enhanced cleaning, monitoring and modified enforcement responses for cases involving public safety concerns or urgent animal welfare needs.
The department will evaluate these temporary operational adjustments regularly and will provide updates as services continue to expand.
“We appreciate the patience, understanding and support our community has shown throughout this process,” said Animal Services Director Diane Pfeifer. “Our team has worked incredibly hard to care for the animals, stabilize the shelter environment and prepare for a safe reopening. We’re excited to welcome the community back and help more pets find loving homes.”
Cumberland County Animal Services remains committed to protecting animal health, supporting pet owners, and serving the community while continuing to move toward full operations.
For more information about Cumberland County Government, visit cumberlandcountync.gov, download the MyCCNCGov app or follow CCNCGOV on social media.