12/02/2024
We want to inform the public of two situations that recently occurred at our shelter involving the illegal abandoning of animals.
A momma cat and her kittens were left in a box on our doorstep several days ago. Then, a litter of seven tiny pups were left in a box outside our shelter over Thanksgiving. We want to make the public aware that both State (N.C. Statute 14-361.1) and local laws make it illegal to abandon animals.
We understand that people have situations where they think it’s better to just leave at a shelter than anywhere else. But there are dangers in doing so. They are exposed to other predators and extreme weather conditions. For instance, momma cat was in the process of moving her babies across a busy highway when found some of the kittens were found. We went on a search to find the rest of her kittens. They could have been run over, anything could have happened to them. The safest thing to do is to wait for our hours of operation. We are open 6 days a week. We are here Tuesday – Sunday from 12:00 -5:30 pm.
There is NO EXCUSE for abandoning animals, especially without requesting prior assistance or providing information about the animals. If people are attempting to “do the right thing,” they will, at a minimum, leave a note, send an email, leave a voice message, or call our emergency number and leave their contact information. None of these things were done when recklessly abandoning these pups and kittens.
We do the best we can to help as many people and animals that we can, IF people will work with us. As we are a “No-Kill” shelter, our space is limited. We are currently at capacity and making room for 2 of the puppies. If any other organizations are interested in helping care for the other puppies, please contact MHS at 910-947-2331 or email us at [email protected] or the Moore County Animal Services (910-947-2858).
