LOUISVILLE – Dogs and cats in Kentucky’s rural communities will soon be getting extra help – thanks to a $1.2 million grant awarded to the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) by WaterShed Animal Fund.

With the grant, KHS will launch a three-year pilot project called “Love 120,” an effort to positively impact animals in all 120 counties in Kentucky over the next decade. Three partner communities will be selected for more extensive assistance as part of this launch phase.

The goals of this new initiative include reducing the number of animals surrendered to rural shelters by providing access to affordable spay/neuter surgeries and wellness services to owned pets; improving shelter conditions by reducing overcrowding and improving health; and ultimately helping shelters increase their lifesaving capacity. KHS expects over 8,700 animals will be impacted over the three years.

“Our vision is to help rural animal shelters improve the health and well-being of companion animals in their communities, eventually reaching all corners of the state,” said Lori Redmon, President & CEO of KHS. “Kentucky has been identified by some as one of the worst states for animal welfare, and with the help of WaterShed Animal Fund, we intend to improve this ranking.”

In 2018, KHS assisted overcrowded animal shelters in 35 of Kentucky’s 120 counties by taking in their animals for adoption.

“The WaterShed Animal Fund is deeply committed to assisting animals in rural American communities. The Kentucky Humane Society’s Love 120 project is exactly the type of program that has the potential to make a lasting impact in underserved areas,” said Christy Counts, President of the WaterShed Animal Fund.

Since 2015 WaterShed Animal Fund has granted over $19 million nationwide to support animal welfare initiatives. The $1.2 million grant is KHS’ largest to date.

About the Kentucky Humane Society A private nonprofit organization headquartered in Louisville, the Kentucky Humane Society is the state’s largest pet adoption agency and spay/neuter provider. A champion for companion animals, KHS is focused on creating more compassionate communities through leadership, education and proactive solutions. Learn more at www.kyhumane.org.