Thursday, September 4, 2025–9:45 a.m.
-News Release-
So far this year, 127 dogs have been reunited with their families, representing 14.22% of all dogs picked up in Floyd County. This number exceeds the national average of 11%.
Public Animal Welfare Services Director Katy Walters said they’ve seen the significant return-to-owner rate for dogs thanks to microchipping efforts.
“A microchip is your pet’s ticket home,” she said. “It helps P.A.W.S. reunite lost pets with their families faster, reducing shelter stays or avoiding them altogether. Thanks to Floyd County, microchipping is now free for all local pet owners — make sure your pet is protected today.”
While some cases could not be resolved due to outdated or missing information, the impact of microchips has been clear. Because of this successful program, P.A.W.S. is now offering free microchipping year-round for Floyd County residents. During public hours, any pet owner with a Floyd County ID can receive a free AKC Reunite microchip with a lifetime subscription. Non-residents may also participate at a cost of $15 per pet.
In addition to microchipping efforts, P.A.W.S. has recently completed a major upgrade to its cat housing. With funding from the 2017 special-purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST), brand-new stainless steel cat condos were installed in December 2023. These replaced 96 aging pressed-wood units that had begun to deteriorate. The new condos are designed for thorough cleaning and sanitization without risk of water or disinfectant damage, creating a healthier and safer environment for cats in care.
“These improvements directly impact animal health and wellbeing,” said Walters. “We are grateful for the SPLOST funds that made this possible.”
For more information about P.A.W.S. services, including microchipping, pet adoption, or volunteering, please contact the shelter at 99 North Avenue or by phone at (706) 236-4545 during public hours.
Public Animal Welfare Services (P.A.W.S.) Hours:
Monday – 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday – 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday – Closed
Thursday – 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Friday – 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday – 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday – Closed