The overcrowded Paws Animal Shelter in Montclair is being forced to close its doors due to a dispute with the town, putting the fate of its canine and feline residents in jeopardy.

Paws prides itself on having sheltered more than 1,000 animals from Montclair since opening in 2006. It receives no payment from the township.

The shelter's euthanasia policy has long been the source of conflict between it and the township.

The shelter's staff is working overtime to find homes for more than 100 cats and 40 dogs.

According to the shelter, financial hardships are forcing more residents to give up their pets. The increase in animal surrenders has been accompanied by a 50 percent drop in donations, according to Paws. Adoptions are down as well.

The shelter is looking to relocate. A fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday.