The Avoyelles Animal Welfare Society has announced that it will be closing permanently on Monday, Dec. 15.
At this time, they are no longer accepting animal intakes and are in urgent need of emergency placement for the remaining four dogs. If anyone or rescue organization can help, reach out as soon as possible.
Over the past 13+ years, the shelter has worked tirelessly to serve the animals of Avoyelles Parish. However, the ongoing lack of volunteers, reliable funding, and local government support—combined with the high cost of facility maintenance—has made continued operation impossible.
The Society also wants to address a long-standing misunderstanding. While they have partnered with law enforcement on numerous occasions to help with stray and emergency situations, the Society is not animal control. Their mission has always been to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome adoptable animals—not to operate as a government-funded animal control facility. This situation highlights a serious need for official animal control services within Avoyelles Parish, supported by appropriate legislation and community investment.
To everyone who has donated time, money, supplies, or compassion over the years: the Animal Welfare Society expresses their sincere thanks. That support has saved countless lives.
The Society extends special gratitude to Atchafalaya River Rescue, The Veterinary Clinic of Avoyelles, its volunteers, board members, and all the rescues and transport teams who have worked beside them. Without those individuals and organizations, the Society could not have come this far.
As the Society dissolves its remaining assets (excluding the building), they are transferring the assets to Atchafalaya River Rescue, who have stood by the Society’s side and shared its mission.
In closing, remember:
• Spay and neuter pets — overpopulation is a community problem that everyone can solve together.
• Be a responsible pet owner.
• If anyone sees abuse, speak up.
• It is illegal to drop off animals at the Society’s facility.
After Dec. 15, there will be no animals or staff at the shelter.
The Society thanks Avoyelles Parish and beyond for 13 years of love, support, and shared dedication to animal welfare.