About The Big Fix
Born from one woman's unwavering commitment to animal rescue and community service, The Big Fix has become a beacon of hope for families and pets throughout Cumberland County.
Shelby Townsend
Founder & Director
Meet Our Founder
“There has never been a time in my life that I was not involved in animal rescue. There was never a day that I doubted my purpose on this earth. I have never turned away a homeless animal and I never will.”
— Shelby Townsend
Everything about Shelby's purpose changed when she found Rhudy, a Chocolate Lab, on her back porch in 2008—starved and suffering, a chain grown into his scrawny neck.
“As I treated the gaping wounds, I realized that all my tears and all my heartache would not stop the cruelty; my anger would not punish his abuser. It was Rhudy who changed the direction of my efforts for animal rights.”
Though nothing in her background—not hairdressing, not raising a family—had prepared her for navigating laws and ordinances, Shelby was led to the right people at the right time. Today, Cumberland County has the best anti-tethering ordinance in North Carolina, allowing no chaining whatsoever.
“It has been an amazing journey and it's just begun. The best is yet to come...”
From one woman's back porch to a community-wide movement, The Big Fix continues to grow. Every Wednesday, we open our doors at 2674 George Owen Road for Big Fix Outreach—providing free pet food and food pantry items to families in crisis.
Our Mission
To provide affordable spay and neuter services, free pet food, and food pantry assistance to families in crisis—ensuring no pet is surrendered due to financial hardship and no family goes hungry.
Our Vision
A community where every pet is treated humanely, no dog is ever chained, and every family has access to the support they need during difficult times.
“Our policy is goodwill — No exceptions!”
Our Community in Action
From wellness events to weekly outreach, see how we're making a difference.
Community Outreach
Free Pet Food Program
Veterinary Wellness Events
Our Journey
The Moment That Changed Everything
Shelby found Rhudy, a starving Chocolate Lab with a chain grown into his neck, on her back porch. His suffering became her calling.
Unchain Cumberland County
After years of advocacy, Cumberland County passed the best anti-tethering ordinance in NC—no chaining whatsoever.
The Big Fix Is Born
Expanded services to include affordable spay/neuter programs to address pet overpopulation at its source.
Community Outreach Grows
Launched weekly Wednesday outreach providing free pet food and food pantry items for families in crisis.
Continuing the Mission
Updated pricing, expanded partnerships with Banfield vets, and served more families than ever before.
Our Values
These principles guide everything we do at The Big Fix.
Compassion
We treat every person and animal with dignity, respect, and understanding.
Community
We believe in the power of neighbors helping neighbors.
Advocacy
We fight for laws and ordinances that protect animals from cruelty.
Goodwill
Our policy is goodwill—no exceptions. Everyone deserves help.
Visit Us
Every Wednesday is “Big Fix Outreach” — stop by and say hello!
The Big Fix
2674 George Owen Road
Fayetteville, NC 28306
Phone: (910) 223-2588
Alt: (910) 425-0967
Email: shelbyttd5@aol.com
Join Our Mission
Whether you need help or want to give back, there's a place for you in our community.