Area residents responded to a recent appeal by Foothills Humane Society to raise funds for a climate controlled box for the new animal control truck. State law mandates a minimum fresh air system in the box, which was approved in the recent Polk County budget. Temperature extremes often pose problems for sick, injured or stressed animals during transport to the shelter or to area veterinarians.

The climate control upgrade, costing approximately $2,000, will pay for heating and air conditioning in the new equipment.&bsp; Climate control during transport will be a major improvement for the animals according to Animal Control Officer Michael Herman.

The climate control upgrade will pay for itself many times over in reduced medical expenses in coming years. We thank the donors who made this possible. added president Then.

Foothills Humane Society is a North Carolina not-for-profit working for no more homeless Pets in the community. For more information, visit the shelter at 989 Little Mountain Road in Columbus or visit the website at www.foothillshumanesociety.org. Volunteers and tax-deductible donations are always welcome.