In an effort to better serve the citizens and animals of Rutherford County, beginning February 1, 2018, Rutherford County PAWS will be moving to intake by appointment. This best practice approach will not change what animals are accepted, simply how they are received.

Intake by appointment will allow PAWS to provide a better customer service experience by reducing wait times for those bringing in stray animals and provide owners that are surrendering their pet with pertinent information and resources, so that they can make the most informed decision.

"Rutherford County PAWS has seen a significant reduction in euthanasia and these necessary changes will help to continue this trend," states PAWS Director, Michael Gregory.

Sick, injured, aggressive and biter animals will be accepted immediately without an appointment. Owners seeking euthanasia for their pet will continue to be accepted, appointment preferred, along with a donation of $40 to help off-set costs.

To help with this transition, Rutherford County PAWS has set up a Pet Help line, only for scheduling intake appointments, at 615-907-DOGS (3647). As our staff may be assisting other citizens, please leave a brief message if needed.

For more information about how to schedule an appointment to bring in an animal in, visit: www.paws.rutherfordcountytn.gov/animal-surrender.html.