Recently, the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley put out a cry for help. Desperate staff and volunteers were overwhelmed as the number of animals in the facility has them “drowning in dogs.”

In fact, on July 22 there were 202 animals in the shelter. Those animals need food, medical care and socialization. They need to be walked, cleaned up after, bathed … it is too much.

“There are dogs everywhere in our building – offices, bathrooms, closets, the garage. Staff is tired and defeated,” HSOV Director Amy Rogers said in a news release. “And the heartbreaking reality is, we can’t help the next animal that comes to our door because we are completely maxed out.”

If your heart is telling you to help, the first instinct might be to adopt an animal. After all, adoption fees for dogs are only $25, which includes spay or neuter, vaccinations and medications and a microchip.

If you have given that step more thought — does everyone in my household agree; do we have the time, energy and money to give an animal the quality of life it deserves; are we willing to give this animal a loving home complete with food, veterinary care, exercise, love and attention for the rest of its life? — by all means, please stop by the shelter to find your perfect match.

If you are less certain of such a commitment but still want to help with the immediate capacity issues, perhaps fostering an animal is right for you.

But if your ability to help does not include bringing an animal into your home, there are still plenty of ways to help turn around this situation.

Consider becoming a volunteer.

“The animals crave attention and staff just don’t have enough time to give them what they deserve. We can provide their basic daily care; you can give them love, walks, treats and belly rubs,” Rogers said.

Or, donate what you can. The biggest needs are Purina Dog Chow, Purina Little Bites, bleach, laundry detergent, toys and treats.

Before hearing of the challenges the HSOV is facing, some of us might have thought “Wow. Going to work every day to be surrounded by hundreds of animals? That sounds like a dream.”

For those who hold themselves to high standards for being able to take care of those animals — and for whom being a no-kill shelter is of utmost importance — the past few days have been anything but a dream.

They need our help. Don’t wait to find out what you can do.