June 30, 2009

Shelter has important ongoing programs

Gloria Wheatley (right), director of the Washington-Wilkes Humane Shelter mentioned four ongoing programs at the shelter as she spoke to the Washington Kiwanis Club last Tuesday. She told about 1) dog food and veterinary services offered to senior citizens to help feed and keep their pets healthy; 2) the close relationship the shelter has with the UGA School of Veterinary Medicine to spay and neuter cats and dogs (The W-W shelter is the only shelter statewide currently working with the vet school.); 3) the use of W-W Humane Shelter dogs in a training video at the vet school for student training; and 4) spaying and neutering cats and dogs at an affordable rate of $60 and $45, respectively, for county residents. Wheatley told the group about the recent dog fighting case in Wilkes County and the efforts to place these dogs in suitable situations. She cautioned the members to be aware of dog fighting in and around Wilkes County and to call authorities if there is any suspected activity. Lillie Crowe was program host.