COVID-19 puts limitations on KHD

The Kennett Humane Department is always announcing its blessings and how the public steps up to help in times of need.

But right now with the COVID-19 virus preventing socializing and group gatherings, other areas are impacted by the lack of a social economy.

Officer Tena Petix, Animal Control Officer with the City of Kennett says since the corona virus outbreak, the department is on shaky ground with its transports, therefore, intakes are limited.

“Right now we are unable to take in any animals unless it’s an emergency situation, because we have no idea when we will be able to transport again,” Petix said.

The Corona Virus outbreak has many cities, towns and businesses shut down temporarily. St. Louis is one city that is used as a meeting location for the Kennett Humane Department when transporting. St. Louis has been on lockdown now for a few weeks now since the COVID-19 outbreak.

“We were lucky to be able to transport this past weekend, because we don’t know when we will get another one,” said Officer Petix. “Travel has been limited as well in other cities and that’s important when we are trying to move these animals. So we really need the public to cooperate with us and please, do not call just because you do not want your animal anymore, or because your animal has had a liter of puppies.”

Petix said a great portion of the KHD’s intakes are animals that owners turn over when they decide they don’t want them anymore. “Because we are uncertain as to when we will get another transport, we just can’t be taking in animals that people no longer want. We will have to have a little room for the emergency cases that we face daily.”

Petix expressed her gratitude for Team KHD supporters who have always stepped up the times of need. “Right now I can honestly say that we are doing good. We have had girl scouts and boy scouts, along with individuals and businesses who have helped us tremendously, therefore, we are good at the moment. But what we can use right now are prayers. Please pray for these animals we have. Pray that transports will open up soon and we can be closer to finding them their forever home,” Petix said. “We appreciate everyone who has ever had a hand in helping us and we look forward to sharing many more stories of dogs being rescued. Thank you all,” Petix added.