By Carey Sharp

Mower County Humane Society

Last year the Mower County Humane Society placed 115 dogs and 130 cats into new homes. More than 80 percent of these animals came to the MCHS after being unclaimed at the city pound. Many of these animals are turned into the pound by their own owners.

Often the owners know that they’re at the pound, but choose not to claim them. Luckily, the MCHS is there to help.

Once a cat or dog is claimed by the MCHS, it receives all necessary veterinary care. This includes vaccinations, deworming, blood work, and spaying or neutering. Any health problems are also addressed. The MCHS spends more than $60,000 a year on veterinary services. Considering this large expense, the adoption fees are very reasonable. Currently the MCHS charges $50 for one cat or $75 for two. Dog adoption fees are $95 or $125, depending upon the type of dog.

Volunteers at the MCHS are very knowledgeable about the animals in their care. They know their personalities and habits. They must be able to provide potential adopters with an accurate, honest description of each dog and cat. It’s the only way to give each animal the best chance at a successful adoption. It’s a responsibility that is taken very seriously.

Honesty is a very important part of the adoption process. Shelter volunteers are honest and open about the cats and dogs at the MCHS. They hope for the same honesty from potential adopters during the screening process. The actual MCHS adoption application is only one page long. Much of the necessary information is obtained by volunteers as they speak to a person. Being evasive or dishonest can have detrimental results if it means that an animal is placed in a home that is not the best fit. This, of course, is not the fault of the cat or dog.

Once the application is completed and approved, the adoption can move forward. Cats are sometimes adopted out on the same day that the application is done. Dogs, however, will not be released on the same day. There is a waiting period of at least seven days.

The health and welfare of animals is very important. On Saturday, May 3, the Austin Veterinary Clinic (AVC) will offer a reduced cost vaccination clinic for dogs and cats. Products for the prevention of heartworm and flea and tick infestation will also be sold. The products are not offered at a reduced price, however. Spring is the perfect time to think about heartworm prevention and keeping pets safe from nasty bloodsuckers. Please call AVC at 507-433-5225 for details.

On March 20, the Minnesota Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (MNSNAP) once again visited the MCHS. During this visit, 15 dogs and 20 cats were spayed and neutered at a reduced cost to their owners. This program is income based and also provides reduced cost vaccinations if a surgery is performed. The next visit is scheduled for May 16.

Please go to www.mnsnap.org or call 612-720-8236 for more information.