I really enjoyed the Animal Magnetism pets issue of Mountain Express [Jan. 23]. There is a lot of good information on what is available in this area for people with pets, and also it’s nice to see how much people invest in their pets (time, love etc.). I found it very disturbing, though, that nothing was mentioned about the tragic situation in Hendersonville—where All Creatures Great & Small is being shut down and over 500 animals’ fates lie in the hands of the Henderson County Animal Shelter. I don’t necessarily disagree with the rescue group being shut down, but [having] the state of North Carolina require that Henderson County take on all these animals in less than two months is a cop-out on their part. The shelter has capacity for 30 dogs, and 75 percent of their animals are put down. How can they possibly be expected to handle over 500 animals?
The media needs to get involved to report what is going on and get the word out. If WNC is such an animal-friendly area, why aren’t we making sure everyone is aware of this horrible situation in our own backyard? I know people would come forward to help. Please, don’t just focus on how pets are pampered. Let’s see how much people in WNC really care about animals, and let’s get the word out about this so these innocent animals have a fighting chance.
— Ellen Lukens
Asheville
I agree with the writer. These poor creatures need to be given a chance to live. Hopefully, continued focus on the plight of these animals will spur people to consider taking one or two. It would be nice of the Mountain Xpress would provide updates on the situation.
I have several pets myself, but will probably try and take at least one more. Anyone who cares about animals and is in a position to help, even a little, should do so.