SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — Animal shelter volunteers said that they are currently in crisis mode due to overcrowding, and the recent hurricanes have exacerbated the situation. "We've seen the overpopulation crisis surge based on housing crises, the economy, people's affordability," said Cody Shelley, a volunteer and foster board member. "With folks having to evacuate at the last minute and losing their homes, there has been a surge in dogs that are homeless and looking for a place to go." Georgia ranks fifth in the nation for euthanizing companion animals. Renegade Animal Shelter is currently at capacity, with 687 dogs in their care, most of whom are in foster homes. They are struggling to intake more dogs from other shelters impacted by the storms. "Right now, the most important thing we need are donations and fosters," Shelley added. "We have multiple dogs coming from Hurricane Milton down in Florida, and he actually came from a litter in South Carolina after Hurricane Helene. Our entire community needs to rally; this problem belongs to all of us. Anyone that loves dogs can be part of this solution." ‘This was the closest place we could find’: Floridians seek refuge in Coastal Georgia If you see a dog on the side of the road, shelter employees want the public to understand that they are not able to take in animals found on the street. They stress that once you enter an animal's life, it becomes your responsibility. "If you're going to pick up a dog off the street, we need you to be able to foster it," Shelley explained. Fostering is different from adopting, and most shelters will provide support throughout the process. "Taking in a dog is like a love boot camp, getting it ready for a successful life ahead," Shelley said. "It requires very little resource and energy commitment from our foster parents, but it can be hugely impactful." Shelters like Renegade rely heavily on donations and foster care. If you want to help, visit our website at WSAV.com/ClearTheShelters.