#AnimalWelfare | AM 1180 Radio

May 1, 2026

Walker County Receives Statewide Award For Animal Welfare Program

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Walker County has received a 2026 Georgia County Excellence Award from ACCG, Georgia’s County Association, for innovation in county government.

The county was recognized for its spay and neuter voucher initiative, a program designed to reduce unwanted litters and improve animal welfare across Walker County.

The program provides up to 40 free vouchers each month for companion animals. Each voucher is valued at $200 and covers spay or neuter services, microchipping, and a rabies vaccination.

During the first eight months, Walker County Animal Shelter staff issued about 190 vouchers, resulting in 61 female cats, 36 male cats, 44 female dogs, and 49 male dogs being altered.

County officials say the program is already making an impact. Compared to 2024, the shelter saw a 64% decrease in owner surrenders during September, October, and November. Surrenders of kitten and puppy litters dropped by nearly 80% during that same period.

The program is funded entirely through donations, and more than 500 people are currently on the waiting list for a voucher.

Walker County was one of six counties recognized statewide for programs that improve their communities.

April 24, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Rossville Couple Arrested On Animal Cruelty Charges Following Investigation

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A Walker County investigation has led to the arrest of a Rossville couple on multiple animal-related charges after authorities say a dog suffered a prolonged and preventable death.

April 12, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Urgent Plea Issued For Senior Dog At Chattooga County Shelter

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An urgent call for help is going out from volunteers supporting the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, as a senior dog struggles to adjust after being surrendered.

April 10, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

“Beau’s Law” Passes Alabama Legislature, Awaits Governor’s Signature

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A bill known as “Beau’s Law” has passed through the Alabama Legislature, aiming to establish stricter statewide standards for how dogs are treated—particularly those kept outdoors.

April 5, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Volunteers Needed At Chattooga County Animal Shelter

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An important plea is going out from Friends of Chattooga County Animal Shelter, where supporters say more volunteers are needed to help meet the daily needs of animals waiting for homes. Shelter organizers say there is truly something for everyone to do, and no amount of help is too small when it comes to caring for the dogs and cats at the facility.

April 3, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Georgia Lawmakers Pass Animal Cruelty Database Bill

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Georgia lawmakers have approved legislation that would create a statewide animal cruelty database aimed at protecting pets and preventing repeat abuse.

The bill, known as Senate Bill 587, requires the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia to build and maintain a publicly searchable registry of individuals convicted of certain animal cruelty offenses.

Under the proposal, courts would be required to submit conviction and sentencing information, and the database would be updated regularly and available to the public at no cost.

Supporters say the registry will help animal shelters, rescue groups, and even private citizens screen potential pet adopters and avoid placing animals in dangerous situations.

The measure passed both chambers of the Georgia General Assembly and now heads to the governor’s desk, where it could soon become law if signed.

April 2, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Summerville Woman Cited After Dogs Found Malnourished, Removed From Home

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A Summerville woman has been cited following an investigation into animal cruelty after multiple dogs were found in poor condition at a residence on Northwest Congress Street.

March 15, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Battle Of The Beds Begins To Benefit Chattooga County Animal Shelter

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A new friendly rivalry is underway in Chattooga County, as Chattooga and Trion face off in the Battle of the Beds to raise money for the Chattooga County Animal Shelter. The goal of the month-and-a-half-long campaign is to replace worn-out beds currently used by shelter pets with new elevated beds that offer better comfort, cleanliness, and support.

February 8, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Chattooga County Animal Shelter Launches “Adopt a Kitty Corner” Sponsorship Program

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The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is inviting the community to help support cats in its care through a new initiative called “Adopt a Kitty Corner.” The program allows businesses, families, classrooms, organizations, and individuals to sponsor a cat space inside the shelter and directly support cats as they wait for adoption.

December 4, 2025

by WZQZ NEWS

Animal Welfare Dispute in Chattooga County Includes Earlier Email Exchange and Commissioner’s New Call for Meeting

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A continuing disagreement involving animal welfare efforts in Chattooga County is drawing renewed attention after Sole County Commissioner Andy Allen released a statement this week calling for clearer communication and a face-to-face meeting with the Animal Advocates of Chattooga County. The commissioner’s statement follows months of tension and includes earlier correspondence from this spring that centered on concerns about the county animal shelter and its leadership.