Last week, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey made a heartfelt proclamation: May is officially West Virginia No-Kill Shelter Month. His goal is bold and compassionate—to transform West Virginia into a no-kill state for shelter animals in 2024. The move has earned him praise from people across the political spectrum, with many residents agreeing that this is something everyone can support, regardless of where they stand on other issues.
As someone who lives with a home full of rescue pets—dogs, cats, and even a tarantula that qualifies as a “rescue” in her own way—I wholeheartedly support this effort. I’ve always believed in adopting pets rather than buying them, and I know many others across the state share that same philosophy.
That belief is supported by promising data. According to Best Friends Animal Society, West Virginia reached an 89.7% save rate for shelter animals in 2024. That means nearly 90% of animals that enter shelters are being saved, either through adoption, returning to owners, or transfer to other rescue organizations. Even more encouraging, over 80% of the state’s 48 shelters have achieved or maintained no-kill status.
To officially become a no-kill state, however, West Virginia needs 1,100 more dogs and cats adopted, according to a recent release from Best Friends. That number may seem large, but it’s within reach if communities come together to support animal welfare.
Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, praised the state’s progress and commended Governor Morrisey for his leadership. “West Virginia has made substantial progress in pet lifesaving over the past year,” she said. “With a collaborative approach among community members, elected officials, and animal welfare organizations, we believe the Mountain State can achieve no-kill. Governor Morrisey’s declaration significantly propels the no-kill movement.”
So what can everyday West Virginians do to help?
First and foremost, adopt your pets from shelters or rescue organizations rather than purchasing them from breeders or pet stores. Also, spay and neuter your animals to help control the pet population.
Residents can also push for local ordinances that support community cat programs, which humanely manage stray and feral cats through trap-neuter-return (TNR) efforts.
Other meaningful actions include volunteering at local shelters, donating supplies or funds, and simply spreading awareness about the benefits of adoption.
Growing up, every pet in our household was adopted. They came in all temperaments—some clever, some obedient, and some a bit more… stubborn. But every one of them added joy to our lives and became part of the family.
That said, adoption is a responsibility, not just a kind gesture. Animals require proper care—food, clean water, medical attention, exercise, and emotional support. They need your time, your commitment, and your love. If you’re not yet ready to fully commit to a pet, there are still many ways to support your local shelters and rescue groups.
Governor Morrisey’s goal is more than just admirable—it’s achievable. But it requires all of us to step up in whatever way we can, whether by adopting, donating, volunteering, or advocating for humane policies.
And as we head into Mother’s Day, I’d be remiss not to thank the person who taught me how to care for animals in the first place—my mom. From cats who licked butter off the counter to dogs who never quite mastered house training, she lovingly welcomed them all into our home because she loved us just as much as she loved them.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there—and let’s continue working together to make West Virginia a true no-kill state for every pet who needs a home.
