What's Happening?
The Polk County Bully Project, an animal rescue in Lakeland, Florida, discovered an abandoned dog named Clio on December 5. Clio was left in a crate near the shelter's entrance with a handwritten note apologizing for her surrender and asking for a new
home. The note described Clio as a 'good girl.' Shelter staff found Clio terrified and shaking, but they quickly brought her inside to comfort her and introduce her to other dogs. The rescue noted that Clio appeared well-cared for before her abandonment. Shortly after her arrival, it was discovered that Clio is pregnant, increasing the urgency for her medical and foster care needs. The shelter expressed gratitude for the care Clio received from her previous owner and assured that she is now safe and making friends.
Why It's Important?
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by animal shelters in the U.S., where capacity issues persist despite a slight decrease in the number of animals entering shelters. According to Shelter Animals Count data, 2.8 million dogs and cats entered U.S. shelters in the first half of 2025, with a capacity gap of 175,000 more animals arriving than leaving. Adoptions have also decreased slightly, contributing to the pressure on shelters. The story of Clio underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for more resources and support for animal rescues. It also brings attention to the emotional and logistical challenges faced by individuals who feel compelled to surrender their pets.
What's Next?
The Polk County Bully Project is now focused on providing Clio with the necessary medical care and finding a foster home for her, especially given her pregnancy. The shelter will likely continue to advocate for responsible pet ownership and the use of designated safe-drop areas to prevent similar situations. Broader efforts may include community outreach and education to reduce the number of animals abandoned and to encourage more adoptions. The shelter's experience with Clio may also prompt discussions on policy changes or increased funding to address the capacity issues faced by animal rescues nationwide.
