If you have ever lived in Panola County, you are probably aware of the issue regarding stray animals. Panola County Humane Society (PCHS) is a small group of dedicated individuals who do what they can to protect the homeless, unwanted, and neglected animals in the area. There is no physical animal shelter in Panola County, and the City Pound can only hold a limited number of strays picked up by Batesville Animal Control. Without proper means, there is only so much that PCHS can provide. In 2020, PCHS rescued 130 city animals and 345 county animals. So far in 2021, PCHS has moved 85 city animals and 221 county animals. These statistics solely reflect the animals that PCHS physically vetted and drove to rescue destinations. Unfortunately, PCHS receives about 45-50 calls per week (Monday-Friday) from Panola County residents looking for assistance with homeless animals and low cost spay/neuter opportunities, and PCHS is often unable to help. PCHS currently has less than five volunteers and no paid help. Many times, the only option for residents is to foster and/or adopt the animals themselves or allow the animal to remain homeless or neglected. Without a functional humane society, the stray animal issue will only continue to worsen. Humane societies can offer services such as humane education, abuse/neglect investigations, pet return to owner, foster care, adoption services, pet therapy, and healthcare to animals in need. Healthcare includes vaccinations, worming, flea treatments, and spaying or neutering, and any other specific needs. We ask that you sign this petition in support of adding a physical animal shelter to Panola County if you, too, believe this issue needs to be addressed. Once we have received enough signatures, the petition will be presented to the Panola County Board of Supervisors.