The Humane Society of Richmond County animal shelter passed its annual state inspection on Friday.

Other than filling in a few holes that dogs had dug in the outdoor exercise runs and completing the indoor painting project, the shelter received a 100 percent rating, said Candy Bacon, director. 

Bacon credited the shelter's success in meeting and exceeding North Carolina Animal Welfare General Statutes to the hard work and dedication of the Humane Society shelter staff,

In the next 60 to 90 days, the shelter will undergo indoor renovations as well as an upgrade of the outdoor animal drop-off area.  Right now, the outdoor kennels and cages do not afford the animals dropped at the shelter after-hours enough security or protection from the weather, said Bacon. The area meets state standards but definitely could be better, she said.

The animal shelter is located at 529 US Highway 74 Business West, about two miles west of downtown Rockingham.  Public hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m.  The shelter is closed to the public Wednesday. 

The Humane Society of Richmond County animal shelter is the only animal shelter licensed to operate in Richmond County. In addition to facilitating animal sheltering and impoundment services for Richmond County and the Rockingham Police Department Animal Control departments, the Humane Society operates adoption and rescue programs, several discounted spay/neuter programs, an affordable euthanasia and cremation service, a gift shop and outreach and education programs at local schools and assisted living facilities. 

For information on animals available for adoption, go on-line to www.petfinder.com Zip Code 28379, or call the shelter at 895-0335.  For stray animal pick-up call Richmond County Animal Control at 997-8320 or, in the city limits of Rockingham, the Rockingham Police Department at 895-2468.