New Humane Society of Walton County Transforms Animal Welfare, Brings Hope to Pets and People

     Since opening its doors in late 2023, the Humane Society of Walton County has quickly become a beacon of hope for both animals and residents, reshaping the landscape of animal welfare in the community. As the only non-profit, brick-and-mortar animal shelter in the county, the organization fills a critical gap, offering a safe haven for homeless pets and striving to make Walton County a no-kill community.

     Founded by Miranda Poreba and a dedicated team of local advocates, the Humane Society emerged in response to persistently high euthanasia rates at the county shelter. While Walton County Animal Control had made strides in reducing euthanasia-dropping from 43% for dogs and 82% for cats in 2012 to 20% and 53% respectively by 2022-the need for more robust, sustainable support was clear. Poreba and her team envisioned a facility that would not only shelter animals but also partner with the county to increase lifesaving efforts, ultimately aiming to ensure that only animals unfit for adoption are ever euthanized.

     The shelter, located on Highway 138, features indoor and outdoor kennels, spacious play yards, and a large, cage-free room for adoptable cats. The design prioritizes animal enrichment and socialization, with daily outdoor time for dogs and climbing structures for cats. Plans are already in place to expand the facility and add walking trails, further enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

     A cornerstone of the Humane Society’s mission is its partnership with Walton County Animal Control. By working closely with the county, the Humane Society helps alleviate overcrowding and provides a lifeline for animals that might otherwise face euthanasia. The organization also operates a robust Community Cat Program, which humanely traps, spays or neuters, vaccinates, and returns outdoor cats, reducing the stray population and easing the burden on municipal shelters.

     "We won’t have any specific time limits for animals awaiting adoptions," Poreba emphasized. "We will keep each animal until they are adopted or, in rare circumstances, until they become too behaviorally or medically unsound for adoption." This commitment to every animal underscores the Humane Society’s no-kill philosophy and its dedication to giving each pet the time and care it needs to find a loving home.

     The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with generous donations and a growing corps of volunteers. Fundraisers, such as benefit concerts and local partnerships, have provided crucial financial support, while Eagle Scout projects and volunteer programs have expanded the shelter’s reach and impact. The Humane Society relies on both paid staff and volunteers to operate, fostering a sense of shared purpose and community involvement.

     Beyond animal care, the Humane Society is committed to strengthening the human-animal bond throughout Walton County. By making adoption and spay/neuter services accessible, and by supporting residents with education and resources, the organization is not only saving lives but also enriching the lives of local families.

     As Walton County looks to the future, the Humane Society stands as a testament to the power of grassroots action and community collaboration. Through its unwavering dedication, the organization is transforming animal welfare and inspiring hope-one rescued pet at a time.