April 23, 2014
Candidates from Norfolk, Chesapeake, Hampton, and Newport News running in the May 6 election have shared their views regarding programs and policies affecting pets in our municipal animal shelters.
In 2013, Hampton Roads’ shelters euthanized over 14,000 dogs and cats. According to the shelter statistics reported by the city-run shelters to the State Veterinarian for 2013, the Save Rates for dogs and cats were:
- Chesapeake Animal Control-48%
- Peninsula SPCA-53%
- Norfolk Animal Care Center-57%
Candidates responded to a series of twelve questions about their support for programs and policies that the group says will save lives. An example of these programs is a full comprehensive adoption program, which includes off site adoptions and public-friendly adoption hours.
60% of the candidates running for mayor and city council responded. (Responses received from 10 out of 15 possible Norfolk candidates; 5 out of 8 Chesapeake; 6 out of 11 from Hampton and 5 out of 10 from Newport News.)
Candidates’ responses to the survey will be compiled and the final result will be a voting guide ranking candidates according to their views on policies and programs needed to improve the save rates at our municipal shelters. The voter’s guide will be published and shared on the group’s website and social media outlets.
No Kill Hampton Roads urges those concerned with the high kill rate at their city-run shelter to make their vote count on May 6.
