Emergency Medical Services

Office of the County Judge-Executive

Shelby County Fiscal Court

Press Release

Shelby County Animal Shelter Ranks among the Best in the Country

January 19, 2008

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. Acting Animal Control Director and Deputy Judge Executive Rusty Newton announces that the Shelby County Animal Shelter received a great review from renowned animal activist and president of Helen Woodward Animal Center, Michael Arms. On November 2, 2007 Arms preformed a thorough walk-through assessment of the shelter, while providing the administration with specific recommendations for improvement, and noting positive features of the local facility.

Arms, recognized world-wide for his animal rescue achievements, stated that spending the day in Shelbyville, KY was a “privilege.” Immediately following the assessment Arms complimented the shelter on its cleanliness, facility layout, and strong adoption rate. Newton stated that Arms “claimed that our shelter stands out among the best that he’s visited across the country.”

While he was very pleased with the facility, he recommended that the shelter install brighter lighting in the kennel area, and upgrade the ventilation system for the room accommodating the cats. Arms informed Newton that brighter lights have been proven to enhance mood. By installing a brighter lighting system Arms was confident that the dogs would be happier overall. Arm’s request for an upgraded ventilation system was a recommendation made for the safety of the animals. Better ventilation would remove any airborne germs and odors, circulate fresh air for the felines, and make the room more appealing to visitors.

The Animal Shelter worked quickly to better the facility. Brighter lights have been installed in the kennel area. Additionally, a temporary ventilation system has been installed until it can be replaced by a permanent upgraded system in the near future.

Arm’s visit was made possible by the Board of Lifebridge for Animals, Inc. and those who attended the luncheon featuring Arm’s as key speaker.

The Shelby County Animal Shelter works with over 300 rescue groups and adoption agencies that assist in finding homes for animals. In 2007 a total of 1,106 cats and dogs were adopted or claimed. Local euthanasia rates have decreased and continue to decline as the shelter continuously works to find each animal a home and be a part of the solution to pet overpopulation.

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For more information contact:

Rusty Newton

Acting Animal Control Director

Shelby County Deputy Judge Executive

419 Washington Street

Shelbyville, KY 40065

rusty.newton@shelbycountykentucky.com

502-633-1220

Jenny King

Shelby County Administrative

419 Washington Street

Shelbyville, KY 40065

jenny.king@shelbycountykentucky.com

502-633-1220