CHATHAM (WSLS10) - The SPCA of Pittsylvania County now has more money to help pets and that could ultimately help lower euthanasia rates in the county.
According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, more than 13,000 cats and dogs were euthanized in the county between 2004 and 2014.
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But those numbers could be reduced thanks to the $5,000 grant from the Dorris Day Animal Foundation.
The SPCA says the money will help cover vet costs, which will ultimately allow the non-profit to care for more animals and that could reduce euthanasia rates.
"It's a relief. It's wonderful. It's fantastic," said Cathryn East, executive director of the Pittsylvania County SPCA, about receiving the grant. "We have started out this year in better shape than we ever have been."
Cathy Coward is a volunteer with the Pittsylvania County SPCA and says she too is relieved to know that this money could ultimately help reduce euthanasia rates in the county.
"It just breaks your heart every time you hear about another dog being euthanized," Coward pointed out, as she held and comforted one of the SPCA's foster dogs.
The county's latest euthanasia rates are expected to be released at the end of the month.