Anniston, AL – Representatives from various municipalities in Calhoun County recently convened to address long-standing animal welfare challenges and explore collaborative solutions. The group discussed the urgent need for a new shelter, improved animal control policies, and a countywide approach to tackling animal overpopulation, irresponsible pet ownership, and resource limitations.
A central focus of the meeting was the creation of a regional animal shelter and adoption center. Discussions also included forming a streamlined model ordinance, identifying potential nonprofit partnerships for resource sharing, and implementing stronger education and engagement strategies.
“This is our second meeting in two years to reignite the conversation,” said Dianna Michaels, a local media personality and owner of GR8VU, LLC, a marketing and public relations firm. Michaels, who organized the meeting, outlined five core topics: the shelter and adoption center, animal welfare policy, animal control, education and engagement, and dog breeding. “But the conversation has expanded to include legislative changes, funding sources, and nonprofit resources,” she added.
Municipal Voices Reflect Ongoing Concerns
Anniston Mayor Ciara Smith, who’s been addressing animal control issues since her election in 2020, noted: “Outside of trash, this is one of the most frequent complaints I get. There are constantly dogs roaming our neighborhoods.”
Oxford City Councilor Charlotte Hubbard, who has worked on the issue since 2012, confirmed that her city is also actively seeking solutions.
Calhoun County Commissioner Terry Howell, who campaigned on animal welfare in 2022, emphasized the severity of the matter. “I usually say ‘situation,’ but in this case, I’ll make an exception—this is a problem, a huge problem.”
Commissioner Lee Patterson echoed that sentiment and credited Naomi Richards, Director of Calhoun County Animal Control and Shelter, for improvements. “We’re currently at over 80% no-kill, thanks to Naomi,” Patterson said. Richards, who relocated from Georgia in 2022 and has been in animal welfare since 2000, said, “I’ve worked in several states, including my home state of Florida, and the issues here are definitely challenging.”
Community and Legislative Support
Michaels, a long-time member of Anniston’s Rocky Hollow Neighborhood Association, reported a significant increase in loose and aggressive dogs, illegal breeding, and attacks in recent years. “Reports to animal control have quadrupled in the last five years,” she said. The issue became personal for her when her mother’s 17-year-old cat, Penelope, was killed in March by two dogs that jumped a fence to attack. “These dogs had been seen roaming for over a mile,” Michaels noted. “We believe some people let their dogs out knowing there’s limited enforcement and shelter space.”
Anniston City Councilor Lewis Downing presented a comprehensive 33-page animal control plan drafted over a decade ago. Though it became city code, Downing noted that enforcement has been hindered by funding and capacity limitations.
Paul Hammond, who has managed working dogs globally and currently runs OneWorld Pet Resort and Canine Obstacle Run, also attended. “I understand the issues here and am happy to help,” he said. Hammond previously submitted a shelter proposal to the City of Anniston and shared it with attendees as a possible solution.
State Lawmakers and Nonprofit Support
State Representative Mark Gidley and State Senator Keith Kelley participated remotely due to scheduling conflicts but expressed strong support for a regional approach. Along with State Representative Chad Robertson, they pledged to advocate for solutions at the state level. “This isn’t just a local issue—it’s a statewide one,” said Robertson. “We need real answers.”
Jennifer George and Cathy Gowdy, board members of Animal Advocates for Calhoun County, shared insights from the nonprofit perspective. Their group offers services such as free microchipping, foster coordination, and rescue outreach. “Our main goal is to keep pets with their families, so they don’t end up in shelters,” said Gowdy, adding with a smile, “I’ve been called the cat lady more than once.”
Next Steps Toward Regional Collaboration
Michaels credited Commissioner Howell and Paul Hammond for their dedication to developing solutions. “Their longstanding commitment has been critical to moving this forward,” she said.
Participants agreed that the issue goes beyond building a new facility. Plans discussed included a two-tier system of shelters and adoption centers, possibly co-located but operated independently. Additional strategies included:
- Partnering with other regional facilities
- Improving kennel space
- Forming task forces for key components
- Creating a unified, enforceable animal control ordinance
- Involving northern-based animal advocates for best practice sharing
“There are strict animal laws up north, they don’t have an animal overpopulation, and that’s why we send many of our animals there for adoption,” said George.
Of the 15 invited participants, 14 attended. “This turnout proves that solving this issue is a shared priority,” Michaels said. “There’s no silver bullet, but we’re finally moving forward— together.”
The group plans to reconvene after the August 26 municipal elections to share findings, explore further partnerships, and develop actionable strategies. Michaels will continue serving as meeting facilitator.
