HENDERSON CO., KY (WFIE) -
Euthanasia rates have dropped dramatically at the Henderson County Humane Society in the past year.
Last year, it was 45 percent. This year, it's just five percent.
Humane society officials also say the number of adoptions this year is up. They say adoption is one of the ways the community can help those euthanasia rates stay down.
Tuff, like other dogs, once waited to be adopted at Henderson County's Humane Society. He's now happy and healthy with owner Audrey Hillyer. But for Tuff, it's been a long road.
"My heart just sort of melted when I saw him because he had been injured and had two broken legs and his pelvis was crushed," Hillyer said.
The humane society says Tuff was run over by a four-wheeler back in February, and his previous owners didn't have the money for surgery.
"The first option is not always euthanasia," said Joshua Cromer, the Shelter Director of the Humane Society of Henderson County.
That's where the humane society stepped in to fund the dog's procedure.
"It's really special to see him doing so well," Hillyer said.
Since Cromer became shelter director in October 2011, only 65 animals have been euthanized while down from 862 the year before.
"Animals shouldn't have to come here to die. That's not what we do," Cromer said.
Cromer tells 14 News the shelter has stopped taking in strays from outside the county to focus more attention on local animals. He says they've also hired a new rescue coordinator, working with animal rescues nationwide nd finding permanent homes for pets like Tuff.
"Just to see him run and jump and know that he easily could have been euthanized, it's just, that just makes me feel good," Hillyer said.
The humane society says they're always in need of volunteers and donations to help keep up that good work. The shelter director says county officials have given them the go-ahead this year to remain under one roof with county animal control.
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Tuff is now happy and healthy with his new owner. Source: Humane Society of Henderson Co.
