Tupelo Lee Humane Society asks public help as shelter is over max capacity
TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – It was a report from an Amazon Delivery driver filed in Justice Court that alerted North Mississippi Animal Control officers to a neglected dog in Lee County.
‘This is definitely one of the worst I have seen, with the condition he was in when he got here,” said Sergeant Jima Phifer, who brought the dog to Tupelo Lee Humane Society.
Executive Director Dena Stanford says the dog had a long list of medical issues.
“He lost about eight pounds of fur when they groomed him; he had over 500 ticks and maggots,” Stanford said.
Now, the cocker spaniel is on the road to recovery, thanks to an alert Amazon Driver, animal control, and the Tupelo Lee Humane Society.
But Lee County’s animal shelter is dealing with a record number of dogs. It has capacity for around 145 dogs; more than 300 are being housed in all available spaces. Kennels are set up in offices and exam rooms.
Stanford made a Facebook post, asking for the public’s help.
”We need toys, newspapers, blankets, pop-up kennels, bowls, all those things,” Stanford said.
Along with supplies, people can also come out and volunteer. You can come and walk dogs, like Fred; it is a huge help for the animal shelter.
“That way they get out of the kennels and get the exercise they need and interaction with other people, makes them socialized,” Stanford said.
Stanford says volunteers can just show up, to walk dogs, drop off supplies, or help out. The shelter has also lowered adoption fees for dogs, to help them find that forever home.
Stanford says the Humane Society can recommend area resources for those who may need help caring for a pet. Also, if you know of a neglected or abused pet, call the non emergency number for your police or sheriff’s office, to get a report filed.
For more information, visit their website at tupeloleehumane.org.
