Memo to BOCC regarding Pat Sanford Animal Welfare Grant

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Pat Sanford Animal Welfare Grant A generous donation in honor of Pat Sanford has made possible a new grants program to support animal welfare in Orange County. These grants can be used for a wide range of pilot or seed projects or to supplement other programs, projects, and grants which support companion animals, including those animals servicing recreational or therapeutic purposes. Sanford is the former Executive Director of the Animal Protection Society of Orange County (APS), where she served for 17 years until her retirement in 2002. During her time at APS, she implemented many important programs, including a huge push for spay/neuter to combat the county’s growing pet overpopulation program. During her tenure, she helped expand the size and capacity of the APS twice, grew its budget and resources, and created a wildlife rehabilitation component that would carry on beyond her retirement. Sanford was a major voice for humane animal euthanasia in North Carolina, pushing for euthanasia by injection over the use of carbon monoxide. She acknowledged that many of those ultimately euthanized had come from less than ideal backgrounds with hard lives and deserved a compassionate end when euthanasia was the only option. After her retirement, Sanford continued her work for Orange County animals and, for several years, served on the county’s Animal Services Advisory Board. Ms. Sanford’s accomplishments in the field of animal welfare are vast and her contributions helped Orange County become and remain one of the leading counties in the state and country for animal placement, recovery, and overall well-being. The grants awarded in her honor will support efforts that exemplify the same dedication and commitment to animal welfare in Orange County. Grant awards are currently limited to a maximum of $500 annually and applications must be received by October 15th.