Marshalltown animal shelter limits visitors amid overcrowding, illnesses
The Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown is restricting visitor access as it struggles to manage an influx of animals and disease outbreaks.
Shelter officials report taking in animals from a hoarding case, the abandonment of nine cats, and two dogs left behind after their owner died. Compounding the challenge, the shelter is also battling parvo in some puppies and ringworm in several cats.
To ensure safety, visitors can view animals through windows into their living areas, but are not permitted inside these spaces. If someone is hoping to adopt, the ARL is requiring potential owners to complete an application and receive approval before meeting the pet they are interested in.
The shelter is hosting a "Draws for Paws" fundraiser Aug. 2, which helps keep the organization funded for the second half of the year.