Start a no kill animal shelter in Benton ...

<p>The growing number of abandoned, abused and neglected dogs, puppies, cats and kittens has become a concern in Benton County. More and more we hear about feral cat colonies, dumped dogs around the lake and horrific stories about how unwanted animals are exterminated without care or concern, oftentimes in front of young children. &nbsp;These loving pets are beaten, sometimes tortured and then thrown away like garbage. &nbsp;</p><p>Several years ago there was an animal shelter; however, the board members couldn't come to an agreement to be a no kill shelter, so it was closed leaving these animals with no resources.</p><p>Currently there is no shelters who will take these animals and they rely on animal advocates and rescue groups who oftentimes dig in their own pockets and give their own time to help. &nbsp;But it's just not enough. There are too many lives that need saving and not enough people.</p><p>Sadly, the fastest solution is to just kill these unwanted animals or dump them on someone else to "deal with them" and they don't survive. &nbsp;We are the voices for these sweet, innocent souls!!</p><p>What can be done:</p><p>1. &nbsp;Open a no kill animal shelter in Benton County to help all towns in our county.</p><p>2. &nbsp;Educate the citizens on spay/neuter and work with a vet to offer low cost clinics to control the overpopulation.</p><p>3. &nbsp;Start a TNR Program for feral cats. &nbsp;(Trap/neuter/release). &nbsp;A resource center for animals at risk and to educate the population on spay/neuter.</p><p>4. &nbsp;Impose stricter laws and harsher punishments for the citizens who abandon, abuse or neglect an animal.</p><p>5. &nbsp;Education on breeding practices that lead to overpopulation.</p><p>What can you do to help? &nbsp;Sign this petition and share it with everyone you know. &nbsp;Once enough signatures are obtained, it will be taken to the appropriate personnel for discussion.</p><p>This is an election year and the best time to get this to our elected officials and let them know they, too, can make a positive change and help save lives!</p><p>Thank you for taking the time to read.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>