The Oxford-Lafayette Humane Society provides an invaluable service to our area and beyond.

It wasn’t too many years ago when the shelter operated out of a trailer off Highway 7. Due to the generosity of this community, OHLS was able to build a new shelter on McElroy Drive, where it’s been operating now for about seven years.

Without the shelter, stray dogs and cats would have no organized community ally, and those wanting to adopt one would have nowhere to turn.

The shelter also provides a low-cost spay and neuter program, battling the never-ending cycle of litters of puppies and kittens being left abandoned.

The shelter is run through donations from individuals, businesses and the Oxford Board of Aldermen and Lafayette County Board of Supervisors.

Its board of directors is comprised of volunteers. Like most organizations, there can be dissent among board members and issues can be brought to light.

These times have been trying for some volunteers, as communication issues lead to frustrations. But we should look beyond internal conflict to the good done by the shelter, and continue to provide support while the board gets refocused of its core mission with good communication.

We commend OLHS for all it does for the community and appreciate those who volunteer.