TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — A local animal shelter says its building is experiencing overcrowding.

Jennifer Ewing, the Assistant Director of the Terre Haute Humane Society says the building is full of both dogs and cats. Ewing added that the rate these pets have been arriving at the shelter is unlikely to slow down anytime soon.

Members of the community are able to help in several ways.

“Come and adopt. Try to find owners of ones that they pick up off the streets. If they can, come and foster a puppy, a big dog, a medium dog,” Ewing said. “Any little things like that help.”

With the holiday season underway, Ewing also wants people to keep a few things in mind if they are planning to gift a pet.

“Make sure that every parent involved is in agreement of taking in that animal,” Ewing said. “Because taking in an animal is a lot of work, and a lot of people don’t realize that sometimes.”

Ewing adds that any donation will also help the shelter. To see what animals are available for adoption, to make a donation, or for general information about the Terre Haute Humane Society, visit their website here.