POMEROY — The Meigs County Humane Society is now offering additional spay/neuter vouchers for pet owners, thanks to a $3,000 grant from the Greg Biffle Foundation.

According to Vicky Baer, secretary-treasurer, the downturn in the economy has meant that the Humane Society has been severely limited to offering only a limited number of half-off spay/neuter coupons each month.

“As a result of this most welcome grant from the Biffle Foundation, we are now in a position to increase the number of pet owners we can help,” said Baer. “Now with spring just around the corner, we want to get a head start on preventing unwanted litters of cats and dogs. We are so grateful to the Biffle Foundation for making this possible.”

The Biffle Foundation was founded in 2005 by Greg and Nicole Biffle to create awareness and serve as advocate for improving the well-being of animals by engaging the power and passion of the motor sports industry. Gregory Jack “Greg” Biffle is a well-known NASCAR driver. Based in Mooresville, N. C., the foundation has awarded grants to over 500 humane societies and animal shelters from coast to coast. The foundation was instrumental in helping many animals after the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and Greg and Nicole have participated in the many NASCAR Day Telethons.

Baer said that owners who can show proof of low income, such as a food stamp or Medicaid card, Social Security Disability, or unemployment verification, are eligible for help having their pets sterilized. “Most people want to do what is best for the dogs and cats, and we want to help them to do that.” However, she added, “the Meigs County humane officer, in his rounds and answers to calls, meets owners in great need, and they will be our priority.”

County residents who would like to apply for help should call the Meigs County Humane Society Thrift Shop in Middleport at 992-6060.

The Meigs County Humane Society, in operation since 1972, has long been active in the county working to improve the lives of animals, owned or feral. In addition to offering spay/neuter assistance, the group’s other activities include a campaign to prevent owners from chaining dogs and using kennels with roofs instead.

The organization also offers help through its Animal Rescue Fund established to assist owners whose pets need emergency veterinary care and works closely with the dog warden on hosting spay/neuter mobile clinics.

The Humane Society Thrift Shop, staffed by dedicated volunteers for over 30 years, has long served as a clearinghouse for animal welfare issues in the county. Baer said that donations of clothes and other items are always welcome.

She further explained that the organization is seeking new members, citizens willing to be active to aid animals in distress. “Some of our longtime members are retiring, and we are anxious to attract people who will be pro-active in animal welfare. There are many activities that people can become involved in, and of course we count on financial donations, as well.”

She noted that “the county’s part-time humane officer’s position was created by the partnership of the Meigs County Humane Society and the county commissioners, with each paying half the salary. People concerned about any situation that involves cruelty or neglect should call the humane officer at 992-6064. Any concerns about dogs running at large, however, should be made to the dog warden at 992-3779.”