Sunday, January 6, a group of animal advocates met and formed a Brevard County No Kill advocacy group, according to a press release sent out by the group last week. Discussion centered on the high number of pets being killed in Brevard County shelters.

One of the biggest concerns discussed was the need for more low-cost spay and neuter capability in the county, according to the release. By reducing the number of cats and dogs being born, there would be fewer animals impounded and killed.

Other issues addressed were:

• Mandatory spaying and neutering of pets prior to adoption from pet stores (already required for Brevard shelters)
• Microchipping pets prior to adoption *Increased facilities and funds to support Trap-Neuter-Return of feral cats
• Increasing county shelter adoptions (changing hours, establishing more off-site adoption options)
• Requiring appointments for counseling before relinquishing pets to the shelters
• Developing a public educational program Following the meeting, people interested in volunteering signed up to work on one of three goals:
• Establish a steering committee to develop a presentation for the Brevard County Commissioners
• Develop means of advocating for a No Kill County
• Identify media contacts who will assist in putting the issue before the community

"When the article on Brevard Animal Services and Enforcement came out last year, it was like I got hit by a semi truck when I read the kill rates," Anna Brown, who organized the meeting, said in the release. "I was shocked and angry. I just had to do something.

After the meeting, the No Kill Movement is well on its way in Brevard County, according to the release. Anyone interested in joining this group can contact Anna Brown at 749-8089 or e-mail her at straycatanna@yahoo.com. Reference No Kill in the subject line.