By Carey Sharp

Mower County Humane Society

It has already been three years since the MCHS moved into its new building. It has been a learning experience for volunteers. They have learned to deal with a large increase in shelter population, increased foot traffic during visiting hours, and an increase in work load without the benefit of more volunteers. Adjustments are made constantly to ensure a successful organization.

The cat side of the shelter has consistently experienced out of control numbers. It was originally built to house around 100 cats. To date, the shelter is home to 152 cats and kittens. The calls keep coming on a daily basis, too, from people who have found cats or need to surrender them. At one point, a volunteer was actually fostering 19 kittens at one time!

Spaying and neutering is the best way to curb overpopulation. The MCHS will continue to support efforts to spay and neuter cats in the area by sponsoring several low cost surgery clinics every year. The MN Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (MNSNAP) will once again visit the shelter on Nov. 10. Appointments can be made at www.mnsnap.org for both cats and dogs.

Fewer cats would go missing if people would keep them inside. The leash law within city limits applies to both cats and dogs. It is also safer and healthier for cats to be inside.

If a cat is found within city limits, MCHS volunteers ask that it be taken to the city pound. This is done by calling law enforcement at 507-437-9400. It will be held there for owner claim. If not claimed, it will be released to the MCHS when there is room. The MCHS is not able to accommodate cats found outside of city limits. Volunteers advise people to check with other shelters and humane societies.

The dog side of the shelter has undergone a big change in policy. Recently, the decision was made to restrict public access to the dog kennel areas. This isn’t a new concept. Many shelters in the area have implemented this same policy for liability reasons.

The shelter has five dog rooms with 26 kennels. It usually houses around 30 dogs. Previously, the constant flow of people walking through the shelter during open houses greatly agitated the dogs, negatively impacting the public’s perception of them. Many people thought that the dogs were aggressive and out of control.

It was difficult for volunteers to effectively monitor the increased space at all times. Even clearly posted signs didn’t help. People still tried to open kennel doors and entered areas that were clearly marked “Do not enter.”

Potential adopters can now view photos and bios of adoptable dogs when they enter the shelter. Shelter volunteers will bring the dogs to the people. All dogs at the MCHS can also be found at petfinder.com. This decision was made to protect and better the lives of the dogs at the MCHS. The shelter staff would like to thank the large number of people who understand and support it.

Donations

The MCHS is grateful for donations in memory of John Finley Holst, Galen Williamson, Milt Stensland, DVM, and “Stella.”