To the editor:

I would like to respond to the letter sent in by Lianna Nicole White of Carrsville, discussing strays and the need for more pet adoption events in the area.

I agree with Ms. White, that stray dogs (and cats) are a problem in our area. I have no data indicating a recent increase of strays, but there have always been strays. I also agree that this is a problem that must be addressed by the community to make a significant impact.

Suffolk Humane Society’s vision is to foster a compassionate, educated community of responsible guardians for companion animals. The mission of the Suffolk Humane Society is to promote the human-animal bond and reduce pet overpopulation through advocacy for companion animals; humane education; adoption and foster programs; and affordable and accessible spay/neuter programs.

It is our hope that through our vision and mission, we will impact the number of homeless companion animals.

Suffolk Humane Society maintains both cat and dog foster homes, where animals can be taken care of while forever homes are being found for them. SHS also supports the Suffolk Animal Care Center by sponsoring pet adoption events numerous times throughout the year for animals in the shelter.

We regularly have adopt-a-thons at the North Suffolk PetsMart and the Chesapeake Square PetsMart. We highlight adoptable SHS and SACC animals on our website; on PetFinder; and during other events that we participate in (Taste of Suffolk, National Night Out, Mutt Strut and so on).

Ms. White’s idea of additional adopt-a-thons is a good one and partnering with other events going on within the city is also a great idea. SHS would welcome additional volunteers — and ideas — to help us find homes for unwanted pets. SHS is in need of additional foster homes and additional volunteers to transport and handle animals during any event.

I invite Ms. White, as well as other concerned citizens, to contact Suffolk Humane Society (538-3030 or suffolkhumanesociety.com) or the Isle of Wight Humane Society to volunteer.

The more volunteers we have, the more impact we can make.

Rhonda Jones

President

Suffolk Humane Society