Syracuse Struggles to Secure Location for Planned Dog Shelter One Year On
Syracuse is facing ongoing challenges in establishing a municipal dog shelter, nearly a year after initial plans were announced. The city aimed to create a facility to address the growing issue of stray dogs but has yet to secure a suitable location. Parks Commissioner Syeisha Byrd indicated that efforts are still underway to find either an existing space for conversion or land for new construction.
Syracuse’s Stray Dog Problem
The urgency for a shelter is increasing. Data reveals that dog control officers seized 179 stray unlicensed dogs in 2024, a number that rose to 232 in 2025, according to the Syracuse Police Department. The city’s reliance on private shelters is also dwindling, as BnR Bunkhouse, a critical partner, plans to end its contract in March 2026.
Closure of BnR Bunkhouse
BnR Bunkhouse has been serving as an important shelter for the city with a maximum capacity of 35 kennels. Dogs picked up by police were housed there. With its impending closure, the only remaining option for the city will be Second Chance Animal shelter in Jamesville, which has only 10 kennels.
- BnR Bunkhouse: End of contract in March 2026.
- Second Chance Animal Shelter: Limited capacity of 10 kennels.
Challenges in Finding a New Location
The search for a new municipal shelter has faced hurdles due to specific site requirements. The proposed site must be at least 200 feet away from residential areas and accommodate 35 to 40 kennels. Byrd noted that the project aims to decrease the number of dogs on the streets and ease overcrowding in existing shelters.
Current Shelter Conditions
Overcrowding remains a serious concern. In July 2024, dog control officers had to turn away more than 200 people seeking help for stray animals. Many local shelters and rescues are frequently at capacity, leading to concerning conditions. Director Maria Limberg of BnR Bunkhouse highlighted that when shelters exceed capacity, animal welfare may be compromised.
Future Plans for the Municipal Shelter
A committee formed by Byrd features city staff, dog control officials, and Humane Society representatives to address the situation. Plans for the new shelter include providing outdoor spaces for dogs and establishing a medical wing for spay and neuter services. Byrd emphasized the importance of constructing a secure and functional facility, stating the project could cost $500,000 for design and an estimated $2 million for construction.
If successful, the new shelter will mark the first municipal dog shelter in Syracuse, which would be a significant step toward improving the city’s ability to manage its stray dog population.
