News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Pet homelessness is a known issue in the Upper Cumberland, and there are some local efforts fighting through prevention.
The Jackson County Friends of the Animals has spayed or neutered over 200 animals in the past years. President Julie Jacobson said the organization’s biggest need is awareness as to why fixing your pet is important.
“We consider spay and neuter as the vaccine against euthanasia,” Jacobson said. “The best way to reduce euthanasia in shelters is to reduce intake. The best way to reduce intake is to fix pets in the homes, so there are not unwanted litters.”
Jacobson said like many communities, Jackson County does not have an animal shelter, so homeless pets are prevalent. Jacobson said through grants and volunteers, the organization has been able to reduce that by fixing over 6,000 animals since forming 20 years ago.
