The Estevan Humane Society’s animal shelter is completely full, according to humane society president Marlene Moore.

Moore estimates that they have 50 to 60 cats and kittens, and another 14 dogs. The shelter has been at or near capacity since June.

“It puts a huge stress on the staff, because it’s very difficult to get employees, and to get responsible ones,” said Moore. “We’re doing pretty good right now; we have a couple of younger girls who seem to be quite mature for their age, and are really helping out.”

The number of animals also means a lot of work for shelter manager Judy Martin, who does a fantastic job and cares a lot about the animals, Moore said.

An ideal number at the shelter would be 10 dogs, and between 30 and 40 cats and kittens.

“It takes a whole morning for one person to take care of the cats, and even now it takes probably longer with the number we have there,” said Moore. “It’s a huge job.”

The shelter has been inundated with cats and kittens since June, Moore said. Martin has bottlefed three since they were born.

The staff is still able to provide excellent care to the animals, Moore said. The dog and cat kennels are cleaned every day, and the dishes are sterilized. Employees also fill the role of a doctor to care of the animals when they suffer from illness.

Volunteers are still needed at the shelter, especially on weekends, she said. They could use people who are willing to clean out the kennels, or clean the dog and cat dishes.

Moore reminded people that it is important for them to spay or neuter their pets to help control the pet population, so that this doesn't become an ongoing problem for the humane society.

Anybody who wants to adopt a cat or a dog can contact Martin at the humane society’s shelter.