What's behind the humane society's record-breaking month of adoptions

Megan Raposa -

Simplified: The Sioux Falls Area Humane Society saw a record number of adoptions in July and is on track to hit its goal of 4,000 adoptions in 2024. Here's a look at how they're making it happen.

Why it matters

  • At the start of July, the shelter was significantly over capacity with more than 500 animals in its care.
    • For context, the shelter has 311 kennels, but some kennels hold more than one animal. Director James Oppenheimer said it starts to get over-full at around 330 animals.
  • Part of the challenge is that more people are giving up their pets, Oppenheimer added. The humane society has seen about a 25% increase in animal surrenders this year.
  • The shelter put out a call for adoptions around the Fourth of July on social media, and folks responded in droves. All told, 486 animals were adopted in July, breaking the previous one month adoption record of 439, which was set in December.
"It's exciting to see our team of 60 animal lovers – who really put their heart and soul into making this organization run – to see them get the reward of seeing results for their hard work," Oppenheimer said.

Why are more people surrendering animals?

Oppenheimer cites economic factors as one reason more people are giving up their pets.

  • Additionally, he thinks the shelter's increased transparency about their animal intake process is helping people who may otherwise ditch a pet on the side of the road somewhere instead take it in to the humane society.
"It used to be the case that you gave your animal up, and you didn't even know what happened," Oppenheimer said.

That's no longer the case.

  • The shelter now communicates with the owners whether their pets are going to be adoptable. If not, they offer the option for the owner to come and reclaim their pet or allow the shelter to pursue other options – including working with other area animal rescues or, with no other option, euthanasia.
"It's lowered our euthanasia percentage," Oppenheimer said. "It's allowed us to be more transparent, and people appreciate knowing what's going on."

Why are more people adopting animals?

One reason is there are simply more people in Sioux Falls, period. As the city grows, it makes sense that more pets are able to find homes.

Additionally, Oppenheimer credits some financial support from the semi-annual Bissell Pet Foundation "Empty the Shelter" event – which lowers the adoption fees for all adult animals.

The humane society has also seen increased visibility in the community in recent years, which he said is likely contributing to the uptick in adoptions.

  • The shelter has tens of thousands of social media followers, as well as partnerships with several local businesses (including Sioux Falls Simplified.)

How can I help the humane society?

There are three big needs right now:

  • The community food bank needs donated cat food.
  • The shelter is looking for more volunteers. You can learn more at an upcoming information session on Aug. 7.
  • The shelter is also always seeking financial support.
"It costs $3.5 million per year to run this place," Oppenheimer said. "And most of that comes from the generosity of the Sioux Falls public."