Governor Perdue takes Nelson off His List of Things to Fix

Encourages Georgians to have Pets Spayed or Neutered

            ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue, a licensed veterinarian, today visited the Atlanta Humane Society and neutered a nine-month old male Labrador Retriever/Rottweiler mix named Nelson.  Following the surgery, Governor Perdue encouraged Georgians to have their pet spayed or neutered and recognized the Atlanta Humane Society's (AHS) 132 nd anniversary. 

            “I'm here today to help the Humane Society call attention to the serious problem we have in Georgia with the overpopulation of cats and dogs,” said Governor Sonny Perdue.  “We need to encourage pet owners to be responsible so that we don't have unwanted animals finding their way to shelters and having to be euthanized.”

            During his visit, Governor Perdue stressed three important ways that Georgians can help control the pet population:

• Spay or neuter pets;
• Support local animal shelters and organizations; and
• Purchase the special dog and cat license plate that supports Georgia's statewide spay and neuter program.

Governor Perdue's visit is the kick-off for the AHS Animal Well Fair celebration this weekend, March 12-13.  The purpose of the celebration is to educate the community on the importance of animal welfare.  The two-day open-house will highlight vendors focused on the wellbeing of animals and raise community awareness about the services provided by AHS, including pet adoption.  The shelter will offer adoptions with an emphasis on the loving, lifelong commitment it takes to own a pet.  To adopt Nelson, or other dogs and cats, call AHS at (404) 875-5331.  For more information on the Humane Society, visit www.atlantahumane.org .

            Governor Perdue earned a doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1971 from the University of Georgia.  Following his service in the U.S. Air Force, he joined a veterinary practice in Raleigh, North Carolina before returning to Georgia to become a small-business owner.  The Governor has provided veterinary care to pets of family and friends through the years while maintaining his license in veterinary medicine.