PITTSBURGH -- The Western Pa. Humane Society, one of the oldest humane societies in the U.S., is calling out to the public for help.

The shelter took in almost 70 animals Thursday, and 45 of these animals were cats or kittens.

The Western Pa. Humane Society has served Pittsburgh for 135 years.

It is an “open door” shelter, which means that it takes all animals into the facility without a waiting list or a required fee.

The shelter wants to avoid forcing euthanasia and is hoping that generous individuals will open their homes to these unwanted animals.

Dorothy Zewe, administrative manager, said that the shelter does not have enough staff to care for this many pets.

“We are encouraging people to adopt or foster…we are full to capacity,” said Zewe.

All animals adopted from the Western Pa. Humane Society are spayed or neutered, vaccinated with age-appropriate vaccines, medical tests, and are micro chipped.

Last year, the shelter took in more than 13,000 unwanted animals.

If you are interested in adopting a cat, the cost is $30. Kittens cost even less. Visit the Western Pa. Humane Society's Web site for more information.