Petition to Establish an Animal Shelter and Animal Control Program in Calhoun County

Calhoun County has never had an animal shelter or animal control services — and the question we’re asking is: why not?

Each year, the number of stray and abandoned animals continues to rise across our county. These animals are left to roam the streets, face starvation, suffer from untreated injuries and disease, or become victims of cruelty and neglect. The lack of resources for spaying, neutering, and basic veterinary care has made the situation worse. There are no low-cost clinics here. No animal control officers to intervene. No safety net for the animals — or for the people who try to help them.

Meanwhile, other rural counties across the state have taken action — and their communities are seeing positive, lasting impacts. Calhoun County is being left behind. Despite repeated pleas from concerned citizens, local officials have ignored this issue for years, leaving residents frustrated, heartbroken, and overwhelmed.

This is not just about animals. It’s about public safety, community health, and doing the right thing. Loose and unvaccinated animals increase the risk of bites, disease transmission, and car accidents. Animal hoarding and neglect go unchecked, putting people and pets in danger. Local families are forced to travel long distances — and pay out of pocket — to get the care or support their pets need. It’s not fair, and it’s not sustainable.

We are calling on our county leaders to take action now.

✅ Establish a county-run or supported animal shelter

✅ Create a functional, humane animal control program

✅ Provide access to affordable spay/neuter and basic vet care

Our community is full of compassionate, hardworking people who want better for Calhoun County — and for the animals who have been forgotten for too long. This petition is a step toward real, meaningful change.

We, the undersigned, are asking you — our local leaders — to finally listen, and act. Help us build a safer, kinder future for our animals, our families, and our entire community.