Heroes wanted: No cape necessary
By DON WILBURN
Adopt a pet from your local animal shelter
news@theeveningtimes.com
The Evening Times recently paid a visit to an oft overlooked part of our community here, The City of Marion Animal Shelter, and we spoke with Animal Control Officer Carla Richardson about the wonderful animals in our community who need our help.
I, as I assume many of our readers, had never visited the animal shelter and wasn’t sure what I would see and am pleased to report that what I did find was a warm and welcoming atmosphere
See HEROES, page A3 HEROES
From page A1
and by the end of my visit did not want to leave. The highlight being, of course, getting to know and spend time with all our tail-wagging friendly four-footed friends.
The majority of the shelter‘ s residents are primarily composed, as one might expect, of rescued and abandoned cats and dogs (along with the occasional exotic gerbil or turtle) with dogs usually outnumbering cats 2 to 1. All of the animals under Carla‘s care appeared to be well fed, clean and more comfortable than most of us currently in this sweltering summer heat. Some of our readers might even remember that the last time we reported on the shelter it was unfortunately due to their air conditioning being on the fritz and the employees going above and beyond to make sure the animals were kept out of danger. It seems that emergency or not, the same care, attention and dedication can always be expected of the personnel there.
However, like many things in life, that comfort and care comes at a price, quite literally. While the majority of funding for the shelter comes from the city of Marion, feeding and care for our furry friends is an ongoing need. That is where you, dear reader, come in. Donations are certainly welcome and can be given in person at the shelter in the form of _nancial assistance or food, but what the animals really need is a permanent home and a loving family. The cost for adopting is quite affordable at $110 for dogs and $75 for cats considering it includes all shots and spaying/ neutering. Which Carla, channeling Bob Barker, reminded me is always a good idea even if you already have a pet at home.
In addition to donations, adoption and volunteering time, there are many ways one might help out including supporting the upcoming fundraiser, The First Annual Animal Shelter Car Show, to be held on October 1st at Angels Way Baptist Church. Contestant entrance fee is $20 and categories will include classic and contemporary trucks, bikes and cars. Be sure to check out The City of Marion Animal Shelter Facebook page for more info.
With that said, the Times intends to feature one or more of the amazing animals up for adoption every week from now on with today’s edition featuring many to get the ball rolling. Feel free to stop by the shelter, give them a call, or email the times at news@theeveningtimes.com for more details.
Contact info for local animal shelters:
■ City of Marion Animal Shelter Carla Richardson 1001 LH Polk St, Marion (870) 739-5412
■ West Memphis Animal Shelter Kerry Facello 500 South Loop, West Memphis (870) 732-7599
This is Bear he’s around 7-years old. He was surrendered last week at the Marion Animal Shelter. He’s a German Shepherd / lab mix.
This is Beau. He is sweet boy who was given up due to family dynamics. He’s looking for a nice couch to take up space on. He’s one of the staff’s favorites.
Check out Griswald!! This sweet guy is the most affectionate cat in the cattery. We had to have his right eye removed due to an old injury. Gris is approximately one year old and is currently at the West Memphis Animal Shelter as he awaits his a forever home.
