Following an October report, the Levy County Animal Shelter will close to begin a strategic plan for the future of the department, and local residents and Florida partners have teamed up to rescue the dogs at the shelter in need of new homes.  

More than 20 dogs have left the shelter, which was full, since announcing its closure on Nov. 8, according to Facebook posts. The adoptions came from citizens and organizations like Poochies Rescue, Williston Animal Group and Citrus County Animal Services. 

The shelter had 31 dogs last week that still need to leave by Thursday, including two that are considered unsafe for adoption. The shelter started with seven dogs that, after evaluations, were considered unsafe for adoption and would need to be euthanized when the shelter closed.  

Rescue operations have taken five of the seven, so far.  

Those interested in adoptions should contact the shelter at 352-486-5138.