Pets in Salinas looking for their families

Recent storms have not only affected people all over the Central Coast, but their animals as well.

Powerful winds have blown down numerous gates and fences, allowing scared animals to run wild and become lost. Salinas Animal Services says it has taken in over 100 lost dogs and cats since the beginning of the year.

While some owners have retrieved their pets, many animals still remain in the kennel. Shelter officials say it’s time for people to pick up their lost pets.

One family was happy to reunite with their beloved Benji today.

“We just didn’t think that we were going to be able to get him out again. I mean this isn’t his first time — it’s his third time, so it’s another chance. Hopefully more people come out here and get their dogs, especially after the storms,” said Pet owner, Angel Alonzo.

“Please come to look for your lost animal. Your animal is waiting for you. They aren’t waiting for somebody else, they want you to come find them. And they’re here, they can’t go looking anywhere. You have to come looking for them,” said Salinas Animal Services Manager, Kathy Prew.

And to encourage people to come pick up their pets or even adopt an animal, the shelter is offering to waive most fees for those who pick up their pets, and will even give your pet a microchip. They’re offering this through either the end of the week or next week, depending on how many kennels they can free up.

One misconception about lost pets is owners thinking that they might just be a few blocks away and search a small area. Even if you don’t live anywhere near one of the shelters, contact them all to see if your animal could be in one of them.