Smith Animal Rescue credits grants, spay/neuter and microchipping for surge in live-release rate

Smith Animal Rescue representatives presented the shelter's 2025 annual report to the Smyth County Board of Supervisors, saying operational changes and grant-funded facility work helped push the live-release rate to 90.7 percent.

"Vaccinating the animals in our care to prevent contagious diseases, sterilizing all animals prior to being adopted, and microchipping all adopted animals have been tremendous improvements at the operations of the shelter," said Susie Fields, the director identified in the meeting packet. Fields and the rescue noted a new backup generator and a large fenced concrete pad for dog exercise among recent improvements financed by a Virginia Federation of Humane Societies grant. Presenters said the grants and daily rescue operations were provided at no cost to the county.

Fields outlined intake and outcome patterns: roughly 25 percent of dogs are reclaimed by owners, 25 percent are adopted locally and about 40 percent are transferred to partner rescues in Northern Virginia; cats are more frequently transferred (about 70 percent) because of adoption-market differences. The presenters said partners including the Smith County Humane Society, veterinary clinics, animal control and public volunteers contributed to the improvement.

Board members thanked the presenters and asked clarifying questions about capacity and facilities. The presentation packet was placed in the meeting materials; presenters said they were available to provide further details or follow-up information to supervisors.