Compassion for Every Resident—Paws Included
Macon County is a place where we look out for one another, and that includes the animals that share our homes and farms. As Commissioner, I’ll be a champion for animal welfare and support vet access for all neighbors.
In Macon County, we value stewardship and responsibility. Our pets and livestock are part of our lives, and how we treat the most vulnerable among us reflects our community’s character. I believe in a Macon County where every animal is treated with dignity and our local shelters have the support they need to succeed.
The Challenge: An Overburdened System
Our current animal welfare landscape is reaching a breaking point:
- Strained Services: Local reports from early 2026 show that our Animal Services and local rescues, like Appalachian Animal Rescue, are struggling with staffing shortages and heavy caseloads.
- The Cost of Care: Many families are facing the heartbreaking choice of surrendering pets because they cannot afford basic veterinary care or spay/neuter services.
- Enforcement Gaps: We need clearer authority and more resources for animal control officers to address abuse and neglect before they become tragedies.
The Plan: Strengthening the Safety Net
I am committed to a common-sense approach to animal welfare that supports owners and rescuers alike:
- Support for Animal Services: I will advocate for adequate staffing and funding for County Animal Services during the budget process. Our officers and shelter attendants need the tools to do their jobs effectively and humanely.
- Affordable Veterinary Access: I will work to bring mobile or low-cost veterinary clinics to our rural areas. By partnering with non-profits to provide accessible vaccinations and spay/neuter programs, we can reduce the number of stray animals and keep families together.
- Collaborative Partnerships: I will push for a stronger working relationship between the county and our private no-kill rescues. By coordinating our efforts, we can maximize our “no-kill” potential and ensure no animal is left behind.
“Animals don’t have a vote, but they do have a voice in my campaign. We must support the hard-working volunteers and staff who protect our animals and provide affordable options for the families who love them.”
— Russ Lunn