Ocala nonprofit works to expand services amid Marion County's homeless pet crisis

A local nonprofit is working to grow its footprint in Marion County as the homeless pet problem continues to strain the area’s resources.Voices of Change Animal League says an estimated 40,000 cats and dogs in Marion County are not spayed or neutered — overwhelming shelters and clinics alike. Now, the organization wants to expand its clinic to meet that growing need and prevent animals from being turned away without care.Executive Director Kate Rengel says the demand is already outpacing what they can handle.“We really want to support people that love their pets and keep them in their homes,” Rengel said.The clinic currently receives at least 10 requests a day to intake animals. Right now, about 50 dogs are on site, up to 15 cats, and additional animals are in foster care. The existing facility includes kennels and a 2,500-square-foot vet clinic.When a pet gets turned away, owners are often left without options — and sometimes that means the animal goes without care entirely.“We are re