Going to the Dogs Rescue Seeks New Solutions to Stray Problem

PERRY – Going to the dogs rescue will be hosting the first of its kind Animal Welfare Coalition for the public, professionals, government elected officials to learn more about how the local community can tackle problems with dogs and cats more effectively and efficiently.

The event will run at 7 p.m. at Burlingham Books in Perry on Friday, Feb. 6. According to Going to the Dogs, their biggest hurdle is getting the public on board with the idea that dog control is a government department no different than any other, and is in constant need of improvement.

“I myself have written letters and attended meetings alone, and sometimes leave feeling defeated,” said Melissa Henchen with Going to the Dogs. “We feel the only way to change this is to find more like-minded animal welfare advocates and open a conversation regularly about how we can create a dialog that will help our community do better for the animals.”

Going to the Dogs says it has been the forefront of animal advocacy, pet retention, education, and support for stricter penalties for animal abusers in Livingston and Wyoming Counties.

Henchen says you don’t have to be a dog or cat owner to be part of Going to the Dogs’ vision, you only have to believe animals’ lives matter. Henchen added that she hopes to see a big raise of hands asking to be a part of this movement in our county because it really is an important issue.

She urges business owners, police officers, mayors, mailmen, farmers, judges, veterinarians, anyone who has to deal with dog and cat problems in the community to come out and get involved.

“Change is necessary, complacency is not acceptable,” added Henchen. “Although things may have been run well in the past or even now, does not mean there is not a need for constant talk of improvements and how things can be better for our community.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Stray Dogs. (Photo/Flickr.com)