It’s often said "It’s the little things that make life worth living." During August, The Register and My Life Magazine are teaming up to help provide those basic necessities to animals at the Madison County Animal Shelter by hosting a pet supply drive.
“With the upcoming edition of My Life being our annual Pets-Animal edition, we wanted to give back to the community,” said Register Editor Jonathan Greene. “In conjunction with the magazine release, we felt the best way to do that was with a pet supply drive for the Animal Shelter, which is always in need of supplies.”
Scott Tussey, Madison County environmental and animal care director, said there is a never ending influx of animals entering the shelter and that the supplies can always be put to good use.
“Obviously these animals have come from running around on the street, or from owners who couldn’t care for them anymore, and they need a little TLC, extra love and guidance, and of course, correct placement,” said Tussey noting how much the supplies will be appreciated by their four-legged recipients.
The Animal Shelter is a department of the Madison County Fiscal Court, which regulates stray populations of dogs in the community. While the shelter doesn’t trap feral cats, Tussey noted they accept felines via owner surrender or appointment. After animals are taken into the shelter, whether they are picked up or owner surrendered, they are processed into the system, and then placed up for adoption. When pets are adopted, their new parents are given a voucher to assist with their spay/neuter. Tussey is a strong proponent of spaying/neutering pets, and his goal is to make it mandatory, noting the animal is healthier after.
On average, Tussey said there are about 8-10 dogs up for adoption at a time, with 20-25 in the facility. When strays enter the shelter, they are held for five days in hopes that an owner will call and claim them. Approximately 45 to 70 animals are adopted each month.
The Animal Shelter has also been working with various animal rescue organizations, such as the Madison and Lexington humane societies, to place animals when they begin to overflow, Tussey said.
Even after the drive is over, Tussey said the Animal Shelter always accepts donated items, and that the need continues all year round.
Those wishing to participate may drop off items at The Register's main office at 380 Big Hill Avenue in Richmond from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. They will also have a chance to enter into a giveaway. Prizes include a large dog gift basket filled with goodies for Fido (valued at $175), and grooming gift certificates, all from The Animal House.
The Animal Shelter’s wish list includes: cleaning supplies — bleach, dish soap, sponges/scrub brushes, air fresheners and liquid laundry detergent; and pet supplies — collars and leashes, cat/dog toys, clay cat litter, Purina Dog Chow, Purina Puppy Chow, Purina Cat Chow, Purina Kitten Chow, pet shampoo, flea/tick medication for dogs.
To contact the Madison County Animal Shelter about adoptable pets, call 859-624-4744. The shelter is located at 1386 North Richmond Road, Berea. Operation hours are Monday – Friday from 9 a.m to 5 p.m., and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Reach Critley King at 624-6623; follow her on Twitter @critleyking.
EDITOR'S NOTE: My Life Magazine's Pet-Animal edition is available for purchase at local retailers and The Register's office.
