Animal shelter director: Surprise inspection went well

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The new manager at an animal shelter with a history of issues said a recent inspection by the state showed improvements at the shelter.

Columbus County Animal Shelter Director Joey Prince said in a news release inspectors from the Veterinary Division of the North Carolina Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services came to the Whiteville shelter on Monday. He said the shelter received an overall rating of “approved” and a rating of “acceptable” on the 79 areas they inspected in the facility.

Prince said his people have been working hard to upgrade the shelter, citing new plastic posts in kennels that had wooden posts previously. He said they also have new intake forms to make sure they comply with all state regulations, a new cat room and a new rabies vaccination program.

The shelter has been in the news several times for complaints on cleanliness and treatment of animals. It was also fined by the state in some of these complaints.