Sample Letter to the Shelter Director

Dear [Mr./Ms.] [Name],

I hope you are well. I am deeply concerned to learn that [name of shelter] is apparently making it difficult for members of the public to surrender animals to your facility, by [list tactics the shelter is using, such as putting people on a waiting list, charging surrender fees, and/or creating other obstacles]. [Include examples of your own or others’ experiences with being turned away.]

I understand that the shelter is striving to avoid euthanizing animals, but making it difficult for people to surrender animals in need is not a humane or effective way to achieve that goal. The animals who do not make it into [name of shelter] face an uncertain and often cruel fate. Many are abandoned on the street, where they breed and produce more homeless animals, starve, are hit by vehicles, or contract fatal diseases. Others are crudely killed or gravely neglected by people who don’t want them and are desperate to get rid of them.

As you can see from the enclosed statements from others in our community, I am not alone in these concerns. As someone who cares about animals and is a resident of [city/county], I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you in person about these issues and about ways [name of shelter] can be a safe haven for all animals in need. Please let me know when you would be available to meet. Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,