Here is one from Rome, Ga.: If one adopts a pet from the county pound, they sign a ticket that requires a compulsory fine of $250 if proof of spay/neuter from a licensed vet isn’t submitted within the time prescribed. If proof is provided, the ticket is shredded. If not, a court date is printed on the ticket. This is an effective approach.
The Calhoun County Commission did appoint an advisory board to the Calhoun County Animal Control Center. It has no power to institute changes, but its presence has caused some changes for the better. There needs to be a change of management at the center, but one shouldn’t waste their breath suggesting that to the commissioners.
Some well-intentioned animal lovers are donating money to the center. With all due respect, I suggest residents donate more wisely since our taxes are already paying to budget the center. Contributions would bring more satisfying results if donated to the Parkwood Drive Animal shelter or to S.A.V.E., which provides funding for low-income families to have their pets spayed or neutered, or other local rescue groups.
The only solution to the overpopulation of companion animals is spay/neuter. We cannot save and adopt out all the unwanted litters. We also must support our high-volume, lower-cost spay/neuter clinics and fight any effort driven by greed to close them.
Please have your pets spayed or neutered.
Gus Velliadis
Piedmont
