Editor:

Recently your paper published an excellent letter from John Reuss, executive director of Baldwin Animal Rescue Center (BARC). The letter was regarding the critical situation of animal control and protection in this county.

As Mr. Reuss mentioned, our animal abandonment numbers in this area are almost matched by our population explosion. However, the shelters to assist this situation are woefully outdated, too small and understaffed. The pressure needs to come from a concerned and caring community that will step up to the plate by: 1. volunteering, 2. Spay and Neuter all pets and 3. Contact your representatives and tell them that you will not accept this situation, and you want action now.

No excuses accepted, here are your representatives:

County Commissioners:

Frank Burt, 937-0395 fburt@co.baldwin.al.us.

David Ed Bishop 928-3002, ext 2603, debishop co.baldwin.al.us.

Wayne A. Gruenloh, (251) 972-8502, wgruenloh@co.baldwin.al.us.

Charles F. “Skip” Gruber, (251) 943-5061,ext 2804, cgruber@co.baldwin.al.us.

Mayors:

Bay Minette, Sonny Dobbins, (251) 580-1619.

Daphne, Fred Small, 621-9000.

Fairhope, Tim Kant- 928-2136.

Foley, John Koniar, (251) 943-8526.

Gulf Shores, Billy Duke, (251) 968-2425.

Orange Beach, Peter Blaylock, (251) 981-6979.

Robertsdale, Charles Murphy, (251) 947-8900.

Spanish Fort, Joseph Bonner, 626-4884.

The only cities with a shelter are Daphne and Fairhope. Bay Minette uses a veterinary clinic. The other areas have no animal control shelters.

Remember these figures: 10,000 animals taken in by the shelters last year, 3,300 adoptions.

We need a plan — now.