Newark Animal Shelter Urgently Seeks Foster Homes After Roof Collapse

A New Jersey animal shelter is urgently searching for foster homes after a structural failure left part of its facility unsafe for dogs.

Associated Humane Societies (AHS) in Newark is asking the public to step in after heavy snowfall caused a roof collapse that damaged kennel areas and displaced dozens of dogs.

Snowfall Causes Major Damage to Kennels

Late Sunday night, snow from a neighboring business slid onto the AHS Newark building, crashing through part of the roof and rendering sections of the kennel uninhabitable.

Shelter staff reported hearing a loud impact before discovering extensive damage in the rear kennel area. While no injuries to animals or staff were reported, the affected space can no longer safely house dogs while repairs are underway.

According to AHS Newark and CBS, the damage has forced the shelter to urgently relocate dogs so cleanup and reconstruction can begin.

Shelter Calls for At Least 30 Foster Homes

AHS Newark is seeking foster placements for at least 30 dogs as quickly as possible. The shelter currently cares for approximately 175 dogs, and space constraints have become critical.

The timing adds additional strain. Shelter staff note that the days surrounding New Year’s Eve are typically among their busiest intake periods, as fireworks and noise disruptions often lead to lost or surrendered pets.

Moving dogs into foster homes will allow the shelter to address repairs while continuing to provide care for animals in need.

Those interested in fostering can apply through AHS Newark’s foster program.

Donations and Supplies Also Needed

For individuals unable to foster, AHS Newark is also requesting donations to support foster families and displaced dogs. The shelter has created an Amazon wish list with everyday essentials to help ensure dogs remain comfortable while temporarily housed outside the facility.

Monetary donations are also being accepted to assist with repairs and ongoing care.

Community members have already begun dropping off food, supplies, and other necessities as the shelter works through the aftermath of the collapse.

A Reminder of How Quickly Shelters Can Be Impacted

While this emergency is unfolding in New Jersey, the challenges faced by AHS Newark are not unique. Shelters and rescues across the country — including in Las Vegas — operate at or near capacity, often one unexpected event away from crisis.

Weather damage, sudden intake surges, and infrastructure issues can quickly strain even well-established organizations. Fostering, donating, volunteering, and sharing urgent needs remain some of the most effective ways communities can support the animals in their care.

Situations like this serve as a reminder that shelter support is not seasonal or regional — it is ongoing, and it matters everywhere.