Benton recognized as a certified city by Better Cities for Pets program
Pictured here (left to right) Terry Parsons, Animal Services Director. Mallori Howard, Adoption Services Coordinator. Mayor Tom Farmer, who is holding his fluffy friend Bruno who was rescued by Tom and his wife at a Boys and Girls Club fundraiser in 2019. ( Photo City of benton)
LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — A news release from the City of Benton stated that they were officially named as a Certified City on Monday by the Better Cities for Pets program.
Created by Mars Petcare Company, The Better Cities for Pets program helps cities be pet-friendly so more people can enjoy the benefits of a life with pets, the release stated.
The program includes a playbook for cities, an assessment tool, and a certification program with online resources.
“The City of Benton is proud to be animal friendly, with an Animal Services Department whose main objective is to put dogs and cats in loving homes across the Benton area. Our two world class dog parks are open and available every day to allow people and their pets to socialize and exercise with other pets and pet loving people in our community," Mayor Tom Farmer said. "Our Animal Services Department is a no kill shelter and works every day to preserve, prevent, and protect the health and safety of all our furry companions throughout the city.”
The release stated that the city will also be eligible for grants and funding through the organization.
They join the list with only three other cities in the state of Arkansas. Those cities are Sherwood, Fort Smith, and Bentonville.