The Cherokee Humane Society outlined a comprehensive plan during its annual meeting to reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats in the county and to help find homes for those abandoned.

The Humane Society is recruiting volunteers and foster parents to help with the care and adoption of cats and dogs.

Ethel Sprouse, a member of the board of directors, said foster homes give the group time to find permanent homes for the pets, and providing a foster home can be a rewarding experience for the volunteer.

Cherokee County does not have an animal shelter, but the Humane Society will support efforts to provide a facility, board members said.

During the recent public hearings on animal control, many residents said they want an animal shelter in Cherokee County. The county, which is revising the proposed animal control ordinance, has not said where it will house the animals it picks up through animal control.

The Humane Society has raised money toward building a shelter, but it has not been able to raise enough money to build and operate a facility. Part of its funds were spent on buying land and on site preparation.

“We will work with the county to support them,” said Sprouse of Cedar Bluff.

The meeting, held a few days after the public hearings on animal control on Sept. 4, also focused on what the group can do to help stem the flood of stray cats and dogs.

Freda Waters, president of the Humane Society, said an emphasis on spaying and neutering cats and dogs is critical to reducing the pet overpopulation. The Humane Society is offering a low-cost spay-and-neuter program to residents with limited incomes, Waters said.

The group also discussed raising awareness of Humane Society programs by working with volunteers and providing resources to the residents of Cherokee County. Anyone interested in volunteering can call 927-1540.

“Tell us what you’re willing to do — a fund-raiser, pick up an animal. Tell us how much time you can spend,” Sprouse said.

The Humane Society also is accepting donations of fencing and dog houses as well as monetary contributions. Donors can earmark what they want.

Sprouse said she investigates animal abuse and animal neglect complaints in Cherokee County. The number, 927-1540, also is used to report animal cruelty or neglect.

During the annual meeting, the Humane Society added two board members, Normandee Nichols of Sand Rock and Erica Brown of Ballplay.

The Cherokee group will continue to work with the DeKalb SPCA and the Etowah County Humane Society on animal welfare.

Working together gives the groups a better chance of saving the lives of dogs and cats, board members said