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In last week’s paper we ran a story about the Tipton County Animal Shelter’s new spay/neuter voucher program and, thankfully, the county’s pet owners paid attention.

Jeana Stanford, who works at the shelter, told me 65 vouchers were sold on the first day. This is great news and it means there will be 65 fewer litters of puppies that could potentially end up at the shelter.

 “As responsible pet owners, we must make valiant efforts to keep our animals from running at large and carrying unplanned litters,” said Tipton County Public Works Director Shannon Reed. “We are very excited to be able to offer this program and hope that it can become an annual event.”

It’s simple: go to the animal shelter and purchase a voucher that will allow you to have your pet spayed or neutered for $25. This is a great deal and it helps control this county’s problem with unwanted animals.

As you know, the TCAS is often called a high-kill shelter, meaning that many of the animals who go there do not leave. Rescue groups like Angels Among Us have helped to alleviate this problem, and they are working diligently, but the problem really begins with pet owners.

There are already too many unwanted dogs and cats in this county and it is irresponsible not to have them spayed or neutered. I urge you to take advantage of this program (but save me one!).

It is asked that pets are up-to-date with vaccinations to avoid additional charges. It is the pet owner’s responsibility to transport the animal to and from the veterinarian performing the procedure.

For more information, please call 901-837-5919.