No-kill is inevitable — the Magnolia State is showing us how
Transparently, I have talked a lot about individuals in my blogs this year — the heroes in this country who get up every day and, despite everything stacked against them, save lives in their communities. And sometimes these individual stories can feel like isolated incidents. Luck of the draw. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. If anything, these individuals are marking their place on the map, illustrating the road map of no-kill in this country. Proving that it isn’t possible — until it is.
This should ring very true to any Mississippians reading this. For more than a decade, dozens of shelters in Mississippi have been no-kill and implementing proactive, community-centered programs that are standing the test of time.
Now look, Mississippi wasn’t exactly gifted all the tools right away. They’re a state that doesn’t have a lot of access or political power. And yet, with their commitment to lifesaving, they made it happen. Community building has grown into a statewide movement — taking the country by storm.
After declaring January as Mississippi Loves Shelter Pets Month, Gov. Tate Reeves spoke about his pride in being able to lead the country to no-kill. He says, “Mississippians are known for coming up with innovative solutions, and this is just further proof of that.” The innovation he’s celebrating? Everything they’re doing at Southern Pines Animal Shelter in Hattiesburg.
Under the leadership of Amanda Paris, Southern Pines has evolved into a lifesaving powerhouse. From pet support services that keep families together to robust adoption and foster programs, her team is committed to meeting the needs of both pets and people.
One of the most powerful examples of this is the Embark transport program — a model for regional collaboration. Moving more than 3,000 animals, Southern Pines has strengthened their relationships with local and northern shelters. When shelters are overcrowded in southern states like Mississippi, places like Southern Pines and their partners reach out to those who have the capacity to care for and adopt out these incredible pets — especially northern states. Embark reflects everything Amanda and her team stand for: smart, sustainable solutions that make a real difference.
And they’re not alone.
Through free spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchips, pet food, and housing resources, Lauderdale County’s shelter admissions have dropped by more than half — in a single year! Proof that keeping pets with their families is so powerful.
Rankin County is right there with them. Once facing serious challenges, the shelter has made remarkable strides under the leadership of Sergeant Murphy. With vaccinations for pets upon arrival, new infrastructure, and expanded hours on Saturdays, the shelter is now on track to sustain a high save rate and continue improving services for pets and people alike.
And then there’s Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary. Once struggling with capacity and resources, they now stand tall as a vital partner in regional lifesaving efforts. With strong leadership, a commitment to transparency, and robust transport and emergency response capabilities, they’ve become a go-to partner in times of crisis — from floods in Texas to hurricanes across the South.
And this is what I want to highlight: These kinds of creative solutions are not only a blueprint for no-kill, but they’re also showing that shelters don’t have to be a last resort. Shelters should be a proactive, central fixture in the community — a beacon of hope.
This homegrown leadership is what no-kill is all about. Facing challenges head-on and never taking no for an answer. It’s people looking at roadblocks and, instead of turning around, reaching out to one another to create community solutions for community problems. Together, they’re making lifesaving a reality.
Making change requires grit and tenacity. When faced with big questions of lifesaving capacity in small and large communities alike, finding a solution can feel impossible. But it will only seem impossible until it’s inevitable.
States like Mississippi reflect the rising tide of hope and action that is pushing this country over the edge into no-kill. It’s not just in the states with higher populations or more funding. Mississippi is making lifesaving possible despite all odds — overperforming even.
Mississippi is showing how no-kill is inevitable. So, kudos — I can’t wait to see how the Magnolia State continues to blossom.
