A group of local Williams County residents that love animals have started to put their love of animals to work. This group, who started a facebook page called “Support Starting a No Kill Shelter in Williams County” on January 1tth has already received a lot of support from other community members. While the group is in the beginning stages, they are working with established rescues from different parts of the United States to being their efforts. The group said that the need for more rescues and foster care providers is great in order to a decrease in the numbers of euthanasia. They recently asked for anyone who was interested in being a foster provider for the animals to send them a message. They are compiling a list of volunteers that they can contact as needed.
When asked why they are working hard to get this rescue started, they gave some very startling statistics. In the United States alone it is estimated that three to four million cats and dogs are killed each year. Upwards of seven million companion animals enter into shelters each year. According to the national Council on Pet Population Study and Policy (NCPPSP), less than 2 percent of cats and only 15 to 20 percent of dogs are returned to their owners.
For 2014, they have set some realistic goals for themselves. They would like to further establish themselves within the community. There are many grants available, and several individuals within the group are working on meeting the application deadlines. The funds would help to secure a future location within the county that they would be able to set up as their primary place of operation. The costs of starting a rescue as well as daily operating costs are high, so the group is aware that this could be a process. In the meantime, they wish to educate the community and be a resource for animals in need.
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