The Humane Society of Louisiana is urging the state to approve funding for the construction of new animal shelters and improve existing ones during the upcoming legislative session. HSLA Director, Jeff Dorson says the funding is greatly needed.
“I think people would be shocked at the condition of some of our shelters in the rural areas,” said Dorson.
More than 31 of the state’s 64 parishes lack parish-wide facilities. This contributes to stray, missing, and hurt animals struggling to survive on the streets.
“Everybody thinks somehow some agency is going to handle a phone call that comes in and in half the state there is nobody to call. That is a huge problem,” said Dorson.
Legislators are asked to set aside $3 million to distribute as grants of up to $100,000 to eligible parishes and municipalities.
“Now that still doesn’t provide a whole modern shelter but it can provide new kennels, office space, renovations – it’s just so needed and we’re so far behind everybody else,” said Dorson.
This year’s legislative session begins April 10.
Comments