Bald Knob Animal Shelter Earns No-Kill Status, Welcomes New Community Mural

The City of Bald Knob has reached an important milestone in animal welfare as the Bald Knob Animal Shelter has officially qualified as a no-kill shelter. This designation reflects the shelter’s continued commitment to saving healthy, treatable, and rehabilitatable animals and highlights the hard work of staff, volunteers, and community partners.

During 2025, the shelter cared for 146 dogs, with the vast majority finding positive outcomes. Many animals were rescued by partner organizations, adopted into new homes, or reunited with their owners. With a save rate of 93.8 percent, the shelter meets the nationally recognized standard for no-kill status, meaning animals are not euthanized due to space or capacity limitations.

The City will receive official recognition from Best Friends Animal Society, a national nonprofit dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in shelters. A plaque commemorating this achievement will be displayed so residents can learn more about what the designation represents and the progress being made locally.

Along with this milestone, the shelter has also received a visual upgrade thanks to a newly completed mural on the exterior of the building at 1112 Vine Street. The artwork was created by Jason White, a Bald Knob native and 1998 graduate of Bald Knob High School. The mural features two joyful dogs and brings vibrant color and warmth to the shelter’s exterior, helping make the facility more welcoming to visitors and potential adopters.

The design reflects the shelter’s mission and the wide range of animals it serves—both owned pets and strays—symbolizing that animals from all backgrounds deserve care and compassion. The project was made possible through the support of shelter volunteers and community members, with much of the artist’s time donated as a way of giving back to the town where he grew up.

City officials expressed appreciation for everyone involved, noting that the shelter’s success and improvements are a direct result of dedication, teamwork, and community support. Residents are encouraged to visit the shelter, consider adoption, and continue supporting efforts that make Bald Knob a more humane and caring place for animals.

This achievement is a point of pride for the city and a reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together for a shared cause.