On Sunday, June 23rd, 2024, the City of Bonham Animal Shelter markedly altered its policies, curtailing the rights of volunteers by barring them from photographing the animals entrusted to their care. In addition, the amended rules confined the adoption hours to a restrictive window of 10am to 2pm, essentially disincentivizing potential adopters who otherwise work during these timings.

These abrupt changes not only curtail the abilities of volunteers who aim to network these animals furiously to facilitate their adoption, but also side-line potential adopters due to the significantly reduced hours. These modifications risk the well-being of the animals who depend on shelter volunteers and potential adopters, and significantly diminish transparency within the organization.

As conscientious citizens, we have a vested interest in all community organizations' conduct, especially those entrusted with the lives of voiceless creatures. We, therefore, demand that the City of Bonham Animal Shelter provide complete transparency into the sudden change of rules and that volunteer rights be safeguarded to ensure animal welfare within the organization.

The well-being of shelter animals should be the sanctuary's most significant priority, and this unprecedented shift in modus operandi raises concerns about the shelter's activities. Thus, we urge city officials to address these concerns, shed light on the new policies, and work towards creating a shelter that respects volunteer rights and promotes animal adoption. Please sign this petition to help protect the rights of volunteers, potential adopters, and the welfare of sheltered animals.