Editor, St. Clair News-Aegis:

I am so very disappointed that the local governments and the Animal Shelter of Pell City have been unable to come to an agreement. I believe animal shelters are so important, but I also understand budgetary requirements and constraints.

I hope and pray that the decision makers will make it a priority to keep some of the programs already in place at the shelter. Programs that allow adoptions and those that help prevent unwanted pets through spay and neuter have such an impact on  the community. While I have an overwhelming desire to care for the animals, I would also like to point out the ramifications for people as well. I’m sure my story is just one of many.

A few years ago my parents’ pets died within a few months of each other. They were rescue animals and had lived long lives. However, my parents were devastated. As the months went by, my father became more and more depressed. We were concerned that severe depression was on the horizon. My parents decided to go to the Animal Shelter of Pell City and make a donation in memory of their beloved pets.

That’s when they met Leo. Leo is a dog that, as I understand, had been returned to the shelter several times because he did not mesh well with his new families. For my dad and Leo it was love at first sight. They adopted Leo and he became part of the family that day. My parents may have saved Leo’s life, but I know without a doubt Leo saved my dad’s.

Thank you ASPCI for your years of service to the animals and people of this area.

R. Virginia Franks

Prescott Community