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King County animal shelter stops taking cats

Big Bert Jr., one of the adult cats available for adoption at the King County animal shelter in Kent on December 7, 2010.
Regional Animal Services of King County
Big Bert Jr., one of the adult cats available for adoption at the King County animal shelter in Kent on December 7, 2010.

The King County animal shelter  in Kent has temporarily suspended the acceptance of adult cats.  The shelter is trying to reduce its population in preparation for possible flooding along the Green River.   In the event of a flood,  the animals will have to be evacuated to another facility.

Regional Animal Services of King County Manager Ken Nakatsu says the shelter is putting out an urgent call for people to adopt the cats in the shelter now.   Adoption fees have been waived to make it more affordable for families.  Nakatsu says there's also a need for  foster families for adult cats.

In a news release,  county officials say they've taken extensive measures to ensure the safety of shelter animals in the event of a Green River flood.  For example, a surplus Metro bus is parked at the Kent facility to ensure a quick evacuation of the animals.

Paula is a former host, reporter and producer who retired from KNKX in 2021. She joined the station in 1989 as All Things Considered host and covered the Law and Justice beat for 15 years. Paula grew up in Idaho and, prior to KNKX, worked in public radio and television in Boise, San Francisco and upstate New York.