MADISONVILLE — The Monroe County Friends of Animals shelter has a new executive director at the helm.

Allison Hedrick has been the executive director of Friends of Animals for about five months now. She talked about some goals she has for the shelter in the midst of her newest role.

“First and foremost, we want to find homes for the animals,” Hedrick said. “I’m looking at all of the programs we have and cannot wait to get more involved in the community.”


Friends of Animals and the relationship with Tellico Village

One of those communities that Hedrick and Friends of Animal will be involved in is Tellico Village.

One of the biggest events coming up in the fall for Monroe County Friends of Animals is the “Paws and Prosecco” Gala. It is the organization’s annual gala and it will be held on Friday, October 25, at The Yacht Club at Tellico Village from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

“The proceeds from that event will go to helping everything we do,” Hedrick added. “That includes sheltering the animals themselves and medical care for them as well.”

Currently, the Monroe County Friends of Animals has about 200 animals in their care through their shelter or foster program.

Hedrick encouraged everyone, including Tellico Villagers, to come out and help out if they would like.

“If people want to volunteer, it is a great way to get some exercise,” Hedrick said. “We have people come to walk the dogs or even adopt some of the animals. It really can give people the socialization they need.”

Educating the public on safety surrounding the animals

One thing Hedrick wanted to emphasize as she continues to roll into the executive director role is education. In particular, she wanted a certain focus to be placed on safety surrounding both the animals and people.

A part of those lessons on safety includes the importance of spaying and neutering.

“It is a safety issue for pets and humans to be out without proper resources like food, water, and medical care,” Hedrick said. “I also want people to know about the importance of neutering in this area and how that impacts the pet population.”

The Monroe County Friends of Animals does a free voucher system every month to help those who believe that they cannot afford spaying and neutering.

“It is about making sure the community is not overpopulated with homeless animals,” Hedrick stated.

For more information about the Monroe County Friends of Animals, you can visit mcfriendsofanimals.org.