10/21/2026
Here at Rutherford County Animal Control Services, we have an important obligation to the animals and citizens of our county. We have had unwavering support from our community since Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue took over operations last year and it has not gone unnoticed. We have had several questions and comments from concerned citizens that we want to answer here so that the public can be aware of a few things. We can’t always answer them individually and while some suggestions come with good intentions, they just simply aren't feasible. We will continue our best to address all questions and concerns.
Last month we made a post requesting immediate help moving dogs in order to prevent euthanasia. Our community showed up and several dogs were able to leave the facility. On that post, there were a few people wondering why we hadn't asked for help sooner if the situation was that dire. While we understand that question, it's important to know that there is always a threat of euthanasia. Animal lives are in danger EVERYDAY. The only safe place is in a home. Even with multiple dogs leaving that day, the very next day the threat was there again. Euthanasia is looming over us every minute of every day. Events occur without notice that require us to bring in multiple animals immediately. We have a duty to the community and in order to complete these obligations, we have to make space. That means lost lives. There are only so many kennels in our building and they are never empty ones. When one dog leaves, there are multiple that need to go in their spot. Everyday we are on the brink of euthanasia. Realistically, we could make the exact same post everyday and it would always be true. We are never free from the fear of euthanasia. Adoptions and fosters help us briefly catch our breath but we are always drowning in the waters of overcrowded shelters.
This is the reality not just today, but everyday. Please help us not have to euthanize. We need to move dogs and cats out, continuously. We know that every request says it's urgent and we can assure you that it is true, every single time. We have so many dogs that need to be adopted or fostered today, tomorrow and everyday. There's never a day where every animal is safe. If you ever wonder, is today a good day to adopt or foster a shelter animal? We guarantee that regardless of the day, the answer is YES!
We are asking that you please continue to help us help the animals. You can do this by adopting, fostering, sponsoring adoption fees, sharing pictures and posts of animals needing homes and encouraging others to do the same thing. There is no simple one time fix. It will take action from all of us, everyday, to make a difference.
It was suggested that we reduce or waive adoption fees. This is a great idea that we try to do periodically. We can put in a request with the county officials to reduce fees for a certain event or time period. The month of August had all adoption fees for half off. We advertise this on our social media. Many animals were adopted during that month. But we simply aren't able to waive all fees. The fees from adoptions help with the cost of animal care. All of the animals in our care receive, at a minimum, vaccines, microchip, spay/neuter and monthly prevention. The adoption fee barely covers the cost of spay/neuter. This also doesn't take into consideration the cost of food, dishes, toys, and all of the materials needed to care for these animals. Many animals come in to the shelter with extra medical needs or injuries. Vet visits are required and can be expensive. This is just a small portion of our expenses that accumulate daily.
Many people want to help but don't know how. They want to save lives but are unable to adopt or foster. We are always accepting donations to cover adoption fees. You can come by the shelter and sponsor an animal. Animals with adoption fees already covered are adopted faster. If you don't have space for a new pet, that is an option.
With heavy but hopeful hearts, these dogs are waiting on their turn for the kennel door to open. Together, we can change where they go once the door is opened for them. Please come to the shelter today and foster or adopt a dog. Every animal that leaves the shelter saves multiple lives.
Consider Hennessy, pictured below. She is a smaller sized girl, around 25 pounds. She's young, about a year old. She should have her whole life ahead of her. Together, we can make that happen. The future for her and many other dogs is bleak without swift and continued action.
