Dog Rescue Dunedin has suffered a "perfect storm" of events, leading it to have to stop rescuing dogs — for now.
The trust has posted a message on its website, saying the doors were temporarily closed as it deals with the issues.
"We simply do not have the resources to take any more dogs, so until we can move some along to their new forever homes, we will be closing our doors.
"Like many rescue groups around the country we are struggling with an increase in dogs needing to be rescued along with a decrease in people looking to adopt.
"There are many reasons for this, of course, but our small group of volunteers are burned out and our limited resources just cannot stretch any further."
Trustee Mandy Spearing told the Otago Daily Times that everyone involved was "overwhelmed" after a "perfect storm" of events.
"We have fewer volunteers, more dogs coming in, and not enough people wanting to adopt a dog.
"So our message is simple — if you can, adopt a dog."
Ms Spearing said the trust had about 17 dogs on its books, all of whom were waiting for adoption.
"So please be aware that Dog Rescue Dunedin is not going to be there to rescue your dog if it is impounded.
"Most dogs come to us because they end up in the pound when they wander and then cannot be identified."
She hoped it would be only "a matter of weeks" before the trust could reopen its doors to the public.
She also had advice for dog owners not wanting their dog to be sent to the pound.
"A secure fence, a current registration and a microchip with up-to-date details are the three best ways to make sure your dog comes home again."
