Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Extends a Helping Paw to Animal Shelters in Need

Miranda Lambert doesn't just record hit songs, sell out shows and spend time with Blake Shelton. She also makes an effort to save homeless animals through her MuttNation Foundation.

Currently, the foundation is in the midst of its Mutts Across America: 50 States/50 Shelters initiative. The movement gives a generous donation of at least $3,000 to one shelter from each state, totaling more than a quarter million in funds nationwide.

“We are thrilled to be able to reach out to every state and recognize shelters and organizations working at a grassroots level to help animals," Lambert explains. "It’s those people on the ground, day in and day out, who really make a huge difference.”

One of the lucky shelters was a no-kill animal shelter in Huntsville, Alabama called the Ark. Nina Beal, the Ark's founder and director, received a letter from Lambert and her mother, Bev, saying her shelter had been selected. A check for $3,000 was also enclosed.

"I was very humbled that the Ark was picked from so many other shelters in our state," Beal says (quote via al.com). "The award means there will be more money to be used where it helps the most: veterinary care for the many animals that come aboard the Ark."

In the letter to the Ark, the Lambert ladies made it clear that they spent lots of time selecting who would receive the money. In fact, they spent over 100 hours scouring the possibilities and selecting them based on adoption rates, volunteer numbers, community outreach and more.

"We always have special needs, such as heartworm treatments, broken legs, skin diseases, spay/neuter, etc.," Beal explains of the animals they take in at the Ark. "Being awarded, or a simple thank you, always makes us feel we are needed and appreciated."