Skip to main content

Press Releases

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Montgomery County’s Animal Services and Adoption Center (MCASAC) has returned to regular operations after the air conditioning system was repaired and temperatures returned to normal levels. County residents stepped up to provide temporary foster homes to more than 40 animals after the center experienced air conditioning problems on Monday.  

A mechanical issue, caused by a failed motor, caused indoor temperatures to increase and concerned MSASAC staff put out a call to the public to provide short-term foster families for at-risk animals. The County’s Department of General Services was able to repair the system overnight. Temperatures inside the building are being actively monitored to ensure continued comfort and safety for the animals and staff. 

“I want to thank everyone who stepped up to help, whether they took in a foster animal or offered support,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “The outpouring of care from our residents, and from folks across the region, was incredible. I also want to recognize the dedicated staff at our Animal Services Division, who acted quickly and compassionately to protect these pets during this extreme heat. And I thank the Department of General Services for quickly fixing this air conditioning system. This is a good reminder for all of us: when it’s this hot out, we need to be mindful about our pets. Make sure they have shade, water and don’t leave them in cars or on hot pavement.” 

Residents who would like to foster, short—or long-term, can sign up here and complete the online application. Appointments are recommended for fostering but walk-in adoptions are available during MSASAC’s business hours. 

The center’s hours of operation can be found here

“We want to give a huge shout out to the community for quickly coming to support the animals we care for,” said Caroline Hairfield, executive director of MCASAC. “I also want to thank our staff for continuing their compassionate care to all the animals while we resolved the air conditioning issue. We are always looking for individuals and families who are interested in fostering and adopting animal and we urge everyone to consider it.” 

The Animal Services and Adoption Center is located at 7315 Muncaster Mill Road in Derwood.   

Adopters should be prepared to bring their new pet home at the end of their visit. For full details on how to adopt, visit: montgomerycountymd.gov/animalservices/adoption/howtoadopt

### 


Release ID: 25-258
Media Contact: Maria Anselmo 240-678-8866
Categories: Animal Services