Pet rescue organization banned from Paws in Park

Published 1:49 am Thursday, November 1, 2012

A local pet rescue organization’s efforts to participate in Paws in the Park last Saturday were met with opposition by the Animal Shelter of Pell City, Inc.

Just Us 4 Strays, a rescue organization devoted to helping finding permanent homes or foster homes for stray animals was denied the opportunity to participate in the annual fundraiser for the shelter.

But that did not stop them from attending the event.

“You would think that they would be willing to work with other groups trying to alleviate the overcrowding problems,” Just Us 4 Strays participant and Riverside City councilman Bill Cantley said.

Sporting their Just Us 4 Strays yellow t-shirts, members of the organization brought dogs outfitted in Halloween costumes with bandana’s with the words “Adopt Me” printed on them.

Cantley said ASPCI told Just Us 4 Strays to remove the “Adopt Me” bandanas.

“We explained to them that these were part of the dogs costumes. There were no confrontations other than being told to remove the dogs’ costumes.  All dogs kept their costumes on.”

Approximately 15 members of the group showed up for the event.

“We went and handed out flyers with treats attached, which went well,” founding member of Just Us 4 Strays Susan Ensley said.

Before the event Just Us 4 Strays paid $50, reserving a booth for participation and then told by ASPCI they could not participate.

“They were not in favor of us having a booth, but we saw many organizations there that were a lot like what we do. I don’t understand,” Ensley said.

Members of Just Us 4 Strays are questioning the shelter’s dedication to working for the best interest of stray animals.

“The ASPCI has contractual obligations to provide room to house the strays, and it is my understanding that the area used to house the strays is currently reduced by 25 percent and is being occupied by the adoption animals,” Cantley said.