Under Construction: Progress on the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center

While renovation construction at the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center is underway, please use caution when visiting — drive slowly, and obey all posted signage. Remember:

• The center will continue to operate with regular business hours, providing full services and accepting donations during construction.
• Parking or standing in line before 7:30am is prohibited.
• There will be intermittent parking area closures. Visitors should park behind the building, which includes handicap parking. Those with limited mobility can enter through the bonding area; if further assistance is needed, call 770.339.3200.
• The intake area has temporarily been moved to the main lobby. Please ensure that all animals are in an approved trap (Return to Community Cat Program), on a leash, or in a crate. Never leave animals in vehicles with windows up due to the heat.

Going the distance: How our adoptable pets took on the Gwinnett Employee and Family 5K

We had a blast at Gwinnett County’s Employee and Family 5K with superstar pups Dublin, Valentine, and Wok! They lapped up the love with extended playtime, extra pampering, and a new pack of friends and even joined firefighters for a photo op! Big thanks to everyone who stopped by to show their support of our canine cuties. Events like these give our shelter animals an opportunity to shine, increasing their chances for permanent placement — one belly rub at a time.

What to do when you find newborn kittens

Kitten season is here, and while those tiny bundles of fur may tug at your heartstrings, it’s important to think twice before scooping them up! Many well-meaning people rescue newborn litters, but in most cases, the mother cat is nearby and will return to care for them. Taking them too soon can do more harm than good — always check before intervening. If you think the kittens are abandoned or in danger:

• Observe from a distance. If several hours pass without the mother cat, or if the kittens appear weak or sick, contact Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement at 770.339.3200.
• If the kittens are near traffic, predators, or exposed to the elements, gently move them to a safer spot nearby. Don’t take them inside, as this may prevent the mother from returning.

Be mindful that newborn kittens require round-the-clock care, including warmth, bottle-feeding with kitten formula (never cow’s milk), help with toileting, and vet visits. If you’re interested in fostering, we can guide you through the process! 

Reduce your risk of rabies

Summer brings sunshine, adventure, and a heightened risk of rabies. With warm weather and outdoor fun increasing encounters with wild animals (responsible for over 90% of reported rabies cases), prevention is your best defense against this deadly virus. Stay alert, stay safe, and protect yourself and your pets.

• Vaccinate your pets! It’s the easiest and most effective way to protect them and your family. Puppies and kittens should receive their first dose between ages 12 to 16 weeks, followed by boosters as directed by your veterinarian.
• Avoid contact with wildlife — that includes your pets’ interactions.
• Keep your pets indoors or fully supervise outdoor activity to reduce exposure to potentially infected animals.

SUCCESS STORIES

The force was strong last month at our Star Wars-themed adoption event, May the Woof Be with You. Our sweet boy Wok, who had been at the center since October 2024, finally found his forever home! A staff favorite who will be greatly missed, Wok was a true ambassador for shelter animals, spreading smiles and tail wags at community appearances and school career days. We’re so thankful to the family who adopted Wok and wish them the most galactic adventure ever.

HELPING HANDS

Our Pet Food Assistance program provides temporary help to community members who qualify. Eligible dog and cat owners experiencing financial hardship can visit our front desk or call 770.339.3200 and complete a form to receive pet food. This service is available once per month, up to six times per year, for up to three pets. Pet food is subject to availability.