In our resolution to become a No-Kill shelter, our Board included language that specifically defines our Shelter's No-Kill policy. Our Board of Directors and Shelter Manager have formally adopted the following policy, which, since its inception has been strictly adhered to and with phenomenal success:
All healthy animals will be made available for adoption.
ALL Animals with treatable ailments will be treated, and when well, made available for adoption.
ALL under-aged animals will be placed in appropriate foster care and made available for adoption once they become of age.
ONLY those animals that are terminally ill will be humanely euthanized.
ONLY those animals that present a danger to people, or other animals due to temperament or lack of socialization will be humanely euthanized.
This policy also requires that we evaluate each animal on an individual basis and that we actively employ appropriate resources and assistance if and when an animal’s condition warrants it. Euthanasia will no longer be used as a means of decreasing the shelter population (making space) or as a convenience. Every avenue of rescue will be investigated and employed, and every effort will be made to place the animal in a loving adoptive home.
The Board of Directors did not enter into this resolution lightly. We know that there is a lot riding on the success of our program, and we are determined, for the sake of the animals in our community as well as illustrating to other shelters and rescues what can be accomplished, to make it both successful, now and into the future.
The Humane Society of the Ochocos has added several services to support our commitment to the community and their animals. We now have identification tags and micro chipping available (the later for shelter animals only). We operate as a satellite dog licensing agency and offer on-going dog manners courses to address training issues. We provide assistance with stray and/or feral populations, and work actively with local law enforcement and community agencies as well as the Crook County Court.
What YOU can do to help
Be a responsible pet owner. Have your pet spayed or neutered. Kittens and puppies are cute but each one represents one less available home for the hundreds of homeless adults we receive annually, and they too may become homeless adults when grown.
Keep identification on your pet at all times.
Let your neighbors and friends know that you applaud their efforts and recognize their responsible actions when they have their animals spayed or neutered, or have identification on their pets.
When it’s time to add another furry friend to your household, go to an animal shelter. Shelters and animal rescues have many wonderful pets that are homeless and longing for the love you have to offer.
Not ready for another pet? Tell your friends about the nifty animals at the shelter and available online. Or, you may want to consider volunteering or becoming a foster care provider.
Join our volunteer team. Whether you have one or several hours a week to help, your time and effort can benefit a homeless animal.
Become active in managing feral cat populations. With a little effort these populations can be controlled. Trap, Neuter, Release, Feed and enjoy!
Become a foster owner. Rewarding and fun, fostering can fit into just about any lifestyle. Fostering time commitment varies and may only require one to eight weeks. The best part is that you can help save lives while enjoying the antics of kittens and puppies!
Become a member of the Humane Society of the Ochocos. While you may not have time to participate as a volunteer or foster, you can still make a difference for homeless animals by supporting the shelter.
Become an advocate for all animals. Spread the word. Let others know that there ARE other alternatives to euthanasia.