KARI KUH

Danville-Boyle County Humane Society

In 1972, Charlotte Bateman and a group of concerned citizens established the Danville-Boyle County Humane Society to care for homeless animals. Since then, the humane society has adapted to the community’s changing needs and evolved with innovations in the animal welfare field.

One of the most impactful updates is the advent of the Community Cat Program. In 2019, DBCHS discontinued trapping, impounding, and euthanizing outdoor cats, instead offering free spay/neuter surgery through the Community Cat Program, using Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return.

TNVR is the process by which cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and returned to their original location. Thanks to generous grants, our veterinary partners, and engaged Boyle County residents, 3,200-plus cats were sterilized at low or no cost to their caretakers in the last three years.

It’s making a huge difference. In 2018, the shelter euthanized more than 500 cats due to overcrowding, illness, or lack of available homes. After DBCHS implemented its community cat program in 2019, fewer than 60 cats were euthanized in 2020 and 2021 combined.

Wilderness Trail Distillery has been a gracious sponsor of the Community Cat Program from the beginning, and a participant, too. Cooper, the beloved resident Distillery Cat, was being harassed by the unfixed cats in the area, and the Community Cat Program came to the rescue.

Our TNVR specialist humanely trapped and returned more than ten fabulous felines to the distillery. Because the cats are sterilized and vaccinated, they do not reproduce, fight, or spread disease. Now the cats live happily, keeping pests at bay, and have become a part of daily life at the distillery.

Much has changed since 1972, but the community’s support has remained constant.

Join the DBCHS and our friends at Wilderness Trail Distillery for the 2nd Annual Fur Ball on Friday, Nov. 18, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and raise a glass to the last 50 years.

There will be live music from 4th St Station, plus BBQ from Piggin’ Out food truck and cocktails, both available for purchase. Wilderness Trail is offering a high-rye bourbon barrel pick, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting DBCHS. No registration or tickets are required.

About DBCHS: The Danville-Boyle County Humane Society is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) established in 1972 that promotes the humane treatment of animals through compassionate care, engagement, and support.