How you can help local animal shelters during the coronavirus pandemic

Just as police officers, healthcare workers and many government employees have to work during the coronavirus, or COVID-19, outbreak, county animal shelters remain open to take in strays and surrendered animals.

Elaine Smith, Director at the Cumberland County Animal Center, said the Fayetteville shelter is looking for fosters.

Since staff members and regular volunteers will be forced to stay home if they become ill, the shelter is trying to get as many animals as they can out of their cages and into foster or permanent homes.

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Even if you're not ready to commit to adopting a dog or cat, you can practice social distancing and get your cuddle fix in by temporarily fostering a pet in your home.

If you're working from home and have extra time on your hands, it could be the perfect time to treat a dog or cat to a few weeks of fun and love.

Animal shelters and rescues provide their foster parents with the food and supplies they need -- you just provide the love. Clearing cages makes room for more animals, reducing the chance that animals will need to be euthanized for space.

If you're feeling well and itching to get out of the house, contact your local shelter to see if they need volunteers to clean cages or walk dogs. You'll maintain social distancing and have some fun, too.

The Cumberland County Animal Center is located at 4704 Corporation Drive in Fayetteville. You can call them at 910-321-6852 or a shelter in your county to ask about volunteering or fostering needs.