For decades, no-kill rescues have been tirelessly working in Jones County and Laurel, Mississippi, striving to find loving homes for countless unwanted animals. Despite their relentless efforts, the demand far outweighs the limited resources and capacity of these volunteer-run organizations. The painful reality is that our community is witnessing an ever-increasing number of homeless, abandoned, and neglected animals who desperately need help.

Currently, the absence of a dedicated open-intake shelter in our area means that animals are left to fend for themselves, often facing starvation, disease, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. It is heart-wrenching to know that many of these innocent beings are denied even the necessities of life. An open-intake shelter is not just a need but a necessity for our community. It will provide a haven for animals, ensuring that they receive proper care, medical attention, and a chance at adoption.

By establishing and maintaining a humane and effective open-intake shelter, we can foster a compassionate environment where both animals and humans thrive. Such a facility would work collaboratively with existing rescues, local government, and community members to develop sustainable animal welfare solutions. With proper funding, management, and community support, this shelter can reduce the suffering and improve the lives of both animals and people in Laurel and throughout Jones County.

We call upon local authorities and community leaders to prioritize this crucial initiative. By doing so, we will reflect the values of empathy and responsibility that define our community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.

Please sign this petition to urge Jones County and Laurel, MS, to open and maintain a humane, effective open-intake animal shelter. Your support can be the catalyst for a transformative change in our community's approach to animal welfare. Every signature counts, and together we can ensure a brighter future for the animals that share our community. 

If you reside in the city of Laurel, please indicate that along with your signature. If you reside in the county, please include your beat. If you're unsure of your beat, please see the communities within each beat below.  You can just type your beat alongside your last name. Thank you so much for your support!

Beat 1: 

• North Laurel
• Shady Grove
• Sharon 
• Matthews

Beat 2:

• Big Creek
• Centerville
• Gitano
• Hebron
• Pleasant Ridge
• Merchant Park
• Soso 
• Springhill/Mauldin

Beat 3:

• Erata
• Glade
• Myrick
• Powers
• Ovett
• Rustin
• Sandersville
• Tuckers Crossing
• Antioch
• Landrum

Beat 4:

• Blackwell
• Johnson
• Moselle
• Pine Grove
• Rainey
• Sand Hill
• Shelton
• Union

Beat 5:

• Magnolia Center
• Lt Ellis Center
• Oak Park
• Currie