Humane Society aims to make a difference

For many stray cats and dogs in the Twin Counties, the Edgecombe-Nash Humane Society can mean the difference between life and death.

"We believe we have a responsibility to all living creatures – to give them a decent life, food, water, a wonderful home and respect for their lives," said Joyce Webb, president of the group. "For all animals, it means the difference between life and death."

The Edgecombe-Nash Humane Society was chartered in 1973 as a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization by Webb and three of her friends after Webb made a chance visit to a local animal shelter.

"When I went down to the shelter and saw the condition it was in – I decided things can be done better than that," she said. "And that's how it all started."

The group has at least 20 dogs living in foster homes or other locations, Webb said, until a permanent home can be found.

"We know their personality, and we try to match them with a home they'd be a good fit for," she said.

Pets available for adoption from the group have had all their shots, been de-wormed and checked for heartworms. If they're older than five or six months, the group will pay to have the pet spayed or neutered.

"At that age they're less likely to be troublesome if they are spayed or neutered," Webb said. "Plus, it's very important to keep the population down. That cuts down on the number of unwanted dogs and cats."

Webb's husband, Ed – a former Tarboro detective – serves as the group's animal cruelty investigator.

"We do have people arrested, but we try to educate them first, if possible," Joyce Webb said.Webb said the group's biggest need is for 12-by-12-foot chain-link dog pens.

"We wish to thank all the citizens who contribute everything to help us operate saving animals," Webb said. "We couldn't do it without their help.

"We've got a lot of people who really care – and without their help, we really wouldn't make it."

For more information about donating or volunteering your time to the Edgecombe-Nash Humane Society, call 446-1669.