GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. (AP) - The Golden Valley Animal Humane Society says pet owners will need an appointment if they want to drop off a dog or cat starting next year.

The organization is trying to reduce the number of animals being returned. In 2009, 30,000 animals were surrendered to the shelter. KSTP-TV reports officials hope to decrease those numbers by 10 percent to 30 percent.

Starting Jan. 2, a call center will be open seven days a week. Professionals will offer solutions to problems from dogs tearing up furniture to pets that are sick.

CEO Janelle Dixon says the Humane Society has been planning for this change for over a year.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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