Let’s clarify a few points that came up last night in a public meeting:

Shelter space:

We first signed a contract in 1983 to take over operation of the shelter. We obtained a loan to build 27 double-decker dog runs and a small cat room. We received a very small amount from the City for each City of Danville animal we housed. That contract had no expiration date.

In 1988, the City was required by the State Vet to add a larger cat room and isolation areas.

In 1989, we told the City we could not sustain our operation of the shelter and unless we received more money, we would have to turn operation of the shelter back to the City and file for bankruptcy. A new financial agreement was made, another contract was signed, and no expiration date was included.

In 2007, we obtained a $250,000 grant to add 28 dog runs and additional storage space.

No taxpayer money was spent.

In 2012, we obtained another $250,000 grant to build what we now call the “adoption center,” although adoptions take place in any area. No taxpayer money was spent.

In 2017, we obtained another $250,000 grant to remodel the double decker dog runs into a cat room. A cat isolation area was included, as well as expanded storage space. No taxpayer money was spent.

We are currently renovating the oldest part of the shelter (the nine original dog runs). This $45,000 project is being funded by donations.

Through grants, we have installed a generator ($50,000), built a nice playground area, enhanced security through cameras and other equipment, purchased cages, purchased resting pallets, etc.

New contract:

In 2016, a 15 year contract was negotiated and signed. There are provisions that require the City to reimburse us for improvements and to purchase the equipment, cages, etc. if the contract is cancelled.

Animals from other localities:

We submit budget requests and financial reports with three categories: Personnel Services, Animal Care, and Operating Costs.

From 1983 on, we have received about 30% of the animals from other localities. Because of this, we do not expect Danville taxpayers to completely pay for those animals. We are paid only 70% of our estimated Animal Care costs by the City

What do we do with donations? City funds are used solely for the operation of the shelter. Our other programs are funded by donations and grants.

​Unless the donor specifies a use for the money, we use donations to support our humane education programs, cruelty investigations, our rescue investigations, and to help pay for the care of the shelter animals. Several funds have been established for specific purposes.

​April Hogan Shelter Animal Fund: This fund was established by the board of directors to honor April’s years of service as the shelter manager. The money raised is used to pay veterinary expenses for shelter animals to make them adoptable.

​Mary Dean Pet Food Bank Fund: Mary is the mother of our executive director. She worked at the front desk for almost 20 years before retiring. In honor of her 87th birthday, her grandchildren established this fund.

​Earl Merricks Stop Abuse Fund: Established by Harold and Deb Merricks, in memory of their beloved dog, Earl, who was adopted from us. This fund pays for the rewards we offer in neglect or cruelty cases.

​Teddy Bear Fund: This is our newest fund and was established by a family in memory of their dog, Teddy. They have a goal of providing a stuffed toy for each adopted animal.

​The Little Critter Bliss Fund: Established by Mia Trotter, a 13 year-old volunteer. From this fund, we help pay for new cages, shavings, and food for the numerous hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, gerbils, and birds that we shelter.

​Tracy Keller Pit Bull Buddy Fund: Established to honor the late Dr. Tracy Keller and her love for animals. It is used to provide veterinary care for pit bulls.

​Fritz Childrey Fund for Older Friends: Established to honor Fritz Childrey, the beloved dachshund of Mark Childrey.

Adoption fees for animals eight and older are waived, and veterinary treatment to make the animals adoptable is paid for.

​Katie Fund: Established to honor Katie, the beloved dog of Dr. Donald and Pattie Cairns. This fund helps pay for veterinary treatment for animals.

​Chewie Louie Fund: Established to honor the beloved dachshund of Fred and Laura Meder. Rewards for lost pets are offered, along with paying for the cost of printing lost flyers.

​Joan W. Brumfield Puppy Transfer Fund: Established by an ardent animal lover to help pay for the cost of transferring animals to high-adoption areas.

​Annette Nolen Ferguson Foster Fund: Established by the parents of Annette Nolen Ferguson in her memory to pay for food, veterinary care, and other supplies for animals in foster homes.

​John B. and Elizabeth Hall Animal Rescue Fund: Established by long-time supporters. This fund has been used many times to fund our free microchip clinics and rabies shot clinics.

Two scholarship funds that give $500 each year to a student chosen by the families:

Margot Richter Mayhew Scholarship for Professional Studies: Given to a Pittsylvania County student

The Barbara S. Smith Scholarship for Animal Welfare Studies: Given to a City of Danville student.