GULF SHORES, Ala. (WPMI) — The Gulf Shores Police Department is looking for volunteers to help exercise dogs temporarily housed at the station.
Recently, the department has noticed an increase in the number of dogs being surrendered or picked up on the streets. Detective Carl Wittstruck says the department has had as many as seven dogs in its care at one point, which is unprecedented. The recent increase is what sparked the idea for the dog walking program, Wittstruck says.
“It kind of increases public awareness of the dogs available for adoption and also helps us socialize the animals and gives us an indication of the personality of each individual dog,” he said.
Mindy Wethington, a resident of Gulf Shores, adopted a dog from the GSPD last week. She says the adoption process was easy and straightforward.
“I would recommend it to anyone who wants to help. These dogs need a good home,” she said.
If you want to help but are unable to walk one of the dogs, Wittstruck says there are other ways to help. Checks can be dropped off at the station and must be made out to the Gulf Shores Police Association, with a note indicating that the money is for “furry friends.” The money will help with vet visits and vaccinations for the dogs.
GSPD is also looking for people willing to foster or adopt a dog that has not yet been claimed by an owner. To apply to volunteer or for more information on how you can help, contact the Gulf Shores Police Department.
