Happy, Healthy, and Together — Because Access Saves Lives.
Every year, millions of dogs and cats find their way into U.S. shelters.
We are on a mission to change that...
one person and one petat a time.
We believe that people and pets are better together and that lifesaving begins at HOME.

Friends of Russell County Animals has served with and for our community since 2016, our pet-owner support programs continue to keep families together, prevent companion animal overpopulation, and increase access to veterinary care. We remain committed to thoughtful community engagement and strive to create a better life for all people and their pets.
Click on the button to fill in our form to request help.
Did you know?
In 2024, owner surrenders accounted for 32% of shelter intakes, an increase from 30.5% in 2019. Financial constraints, including the rising costs of veterinary care and housing issues, are primary factors driving this trend.
The cost of veterinary services has risen by 38% since 2019, making essential procedures like spaying and neutering less accessible to many pet owners.
U.S. animal shelters take in approximately 6.3 million cats and dogs annually. Of these, around 700,000 are euthanized each year due to overcapacity and limited resources.
How We’re Solving the Crisis in Animal Welfare
Each year, millions of pets are surrendered or euthanized—not for illness or aggression, but because families can’t afford the rising costs of care. At Friends of Russell County Animals, we believe that prevention and compassion are the keys to lasting change.
What We Do
We provide life-saving support to pet owners in crisis—keeping pets out of shelters and in the homes where they belong.
Our Programs Include:
• Free and low-cost spay/neuter services to reduce overpopulation
• Emergency veterinary assistance for low-income families
• Pet food and supply distribution
• Shelter diversion and rehoming support
• Outreach and education in our rural Appalachian communities
The Impact
Every dollar you give helps a pet stay safely at home. Every service we offer reduces shelter intake, prevents euthanasia, and strengthens the human-animal bond.
Join Us
Together, we can rewrite the story for pets and families in need. Donate, volunteer, or partner with us to be part of the solution.
Our impact in numbers
We have been on a mission to “bridge the gap” for people and pets since 2016. With the help of generous supporters like you, we are keeping pets at home and out of our overcrowded local shelters.
In 2024 alone, with your help…
123
pets were altered

1004altered since 2016
55
pet received emergency vet assistance
517
received wellness care
pets were microchipped
70
732
Pets Received Pet Support Services (Pet Food, Pet Supplies, Temp. Housing, Rehoming Support
1200+
hours of volunteer time
We measure success by the number of pets kept out of shelters and the families we empower to care for their companions.
Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every shared story makes a difference.
We are proud to work with a network of veterinary clinics, businesses, and national animal welfare organizations. These partnerships help us extend our reach and deepen our impact. Whether donating services, funding care, or helping us spread the word, our partners play a vital role in the success of our mission. Interested in partnering with us? Let’s talk—together, we can do more.
