ASPCA Organizes Adoption Events for Hundreds of Animals Rescued from Lawrence County Animal Shelter in Alabama

Moulton, Ala.—Following its efforts to reunite lost pets rescued from Lawrence County Animal Shelter with their owners, the ASPCA^® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) is planning adoption events for the hundreds of remaining animals. These events will be taking place at the ASPCA’s temporary shelter in Moulton, Ala. on Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26. Hundreds of animals—including dogs and cats of all breeds and ages—will be made available for adoption to the public.

WHEN: Saturday & Sunday, July 25 and 26; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

WHERE: 14934 Highway 20, Hillsboro, Ala. 35643. 
Turn into the driveway at Hillsboro Gin & Feed Co., then proceed left and back toward Warehouse 2.  

HOW: Potential adopters should bring with them one government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or non-driver ID), proof of address, and a pet transfer crate, if possible.

All adoptions fees will be waived. The ASPCA will ensure that adoptable animals will be spayed/neutered, micro-chipped and vaccinated free of charge. Additionally, members of the ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Behavior and Veterinary teams will be on-site to help answer questions about animals’ temperaments and medical histories in order to make the best possible match with potential adopters.

WHY: On June 30, the ASPCA assisted the Moulton Police Department in removing more than 300 animals from the Lawrence County Animal Shelter and transported them to a temporary shelter where they are receiving medical care and enrichment. ASPCA responders discovered the animals living in deplorable conditions and suffering from neglect and numerous medical issues. More than 150 responders from 13 agencies have provided round-the-clock care for these animals since the rescue on June 30.

The criminal investigation is the result of a complaint by a shelter volunteer who recorded incidents of animal abuse and mistreatment at the facility. The Lawrence County Commission subsequently terminated its contract with Lawrence County Animal Shelter following the complaint. The ASPCA is submitting forensic evidence to local authorities and continues to provide legal support for the criminal case. On July 16, Lawrence County Animal Shelter director Bobbie Taylor was arrested on 17 counts of animal cruelty.

“ASPCA responders have managed the sheltering, medical treatment and behavior enrichment of these animals removed from the overcrowded and unsanitary conditions at Lawrence County Animal Shelter for the past several weeks,” said Tim Rickey, vice president of the ASPCA’s Field Investigations and Response team. “Pet owners have had a chance to visit our temporary shelter to look for their lost pets, and we have reunited several animals with their owners. Now our top priority is to help all the remaining animals find good homes. We are hoping that not only the local community, but those as far as Birmingham and Nashville will come to the event and open their home to one of these many deserving animals.”