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| The Romulus Animal Shelter is located at 12300 Wayne Road. |
Romulus was one of only 24 state shelters to receive a portion of the total $137,144 in grant funding, state officials said, which is designed to support various animal welfare projects.
The Animal Welfare Fund is supported by Michigan residents during tax season when they check the box on Form 4642, Voluntary Contributions Schedule on their state tax returns, designating the Animal Welfare fund.
Since 2010, MDARD has distributed more than $1.4 million to more than 213 local animal shelters, officials said, and added that 100 percent of the contributions made to the fund go directly to shelters to support efforts that increase sterilization rates among dogs and cats prior to adoption, provide anti-cruelty training for animal law enforcement agencies, offer proper animal care programs to the public, and assist shelters with the unreimbursed costs of care for animals involved in legal investigations.
"Thanks to the kindness of Michigan taxpayers, MDARD can help to support the growing needs of shelters around the state," said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM. "Over the last three years, we have seen an increase in not only the number of shelters applying for grants but also an increase in the amount of funds being requested. This year in particular, applicants have asked for more funds to educate the public and train staff."
The state received 59 applications for grant funding this year to provide equipment for the safe and secure transport of animals found in large-scale neglect and hoarding situations; outreach and educational materials to gain support for community changes that help promote the importance of spay/neuter and proper pet care; certified anti-cruelty training for animal control officers to aid in their investigations of cruelty and fighting incidents, as well as assist in the cooperation and coordination of local law enforcement, the prosecutor's office, and community relations; surgical packs for spay/neuter of shelter animals to reduce the backlog of surgeries and reduce the length of stay for shelter animals, helping them make it to new homes sooner without the chance of more unwanted puppies or kittens.
