Holiday Festivities with the ACHS

This week begins the holiday season, and leading the pack is Thanksgiving, followed by Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Solstice, Yule, and New Year's. And it's always wonderful to get your pets in on the celebrations, as well as some safety tips to keep in mind for the upcoming holiday celebrations.

Coming up on December 9th is our "Santa Clause and Paws" event. For a $10 minimum donation, you and your beloved pet can get your photos taken with Santa Clause. You will recieve a four inch by six inch photo in a special holiday folder. This event runs from 4 PM to 8 PM at the Market on State Street (formerly the University Mall) in Athens.

All pets must be up to date on their vaccinations and properly contained under their owner's control by leash or carrier. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets, otherwise they will be placed on Santa's "Naughty" list and have to deal with a present far worse than coal.

There is nothing better about the holidays (aside, of course, from our Clause and Paws event!) than food. With very few exceptions, holidays are the time to indulge in some of the most luxuriously spiced and seasoned foods of the year. But these foods can also lead to illness when given to pets.

Avoid giving table scraps to your pets, and discourage guests from doing so. These scraps, particularly the high seasoning and fat content, can cause vomiting, diarrhea and in some cases, inflammation of the pancreas, also called pancreatitis. This is a life threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.

But don't think it's just the meat that's a problem. Turkey bones, and all poultry bones, can easily splinter and cause throat or bowel perforations. Double bag the bones and keep them out of reach of your pets. If wild animals or neglected animals frequently raid your trash, avoid placing scraps and bones out until trash day, or consider chaining and locking your trash can lids to discourage these animals from coming to harm.

Those of us with dogs (and some particularly lanky and intrepid cats) may be familiar with the sport known as "Counter Surfing". Be aware that your animals cannot resist the call of holiday food any more than your Great Aunt Margaret. Keep an eye on them, and keep your scraps out of access, and you'll be fine.

Avoid allowing your animals to ingest alcoholic drinks. This may seem like a no-brainer, but to a cat egg nog can seem like a special treat just for them, and it takes only a moment before they are lapping away at it. Animals' livers do not work in the same way the human liver does, and allowing your animal to drink even a small bit of alcohol can cause some serious harm.

This isn't to say you can't let your animals in on the food festivities, though. Place a dollop of packed pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling) on top of their food. They will love you for it!

Have a safe, happy holiday season! We hope to see you at our Santa Clause and Paws event!

Puppy Mill Awareness Week Was A Success!

The Athens County Humane Society has had quite a successful week full of Puppy Mill awareness! With the help of generous volunteers, the ACHS was able to spread awareness all around Ohio University’s campus and throughout the Athens city community.

The week started off with two days at College Gate, just outside of College Green on Ohio University’s campus. At this location, there was a table full of information on puppy mills, t-shirts for sale, and treats for dogs and for humans! Probably the best part were the dogs and cats on hand to give students the opportunity to actually see the animals that the ACHS fosters and puts up for adoption. A couple of the dogs wore costumes for Halloween, and definitely sidetracked many students from getting to class on time! In addition to gaining knowledge about puppy mills, a few people picked up adoption applications, and many asked on ways to volunteer. The Messenger picked up the story, as well as WOUB, further spreading the information about puppy mills.

The week wrapped up with an event at Donkey Coffee, collaborating with Open Mic Night on Thursday. After a slight scare with a couple bands cancelling, the coffee shop quickly filled up around 9:30pm and by 10pm it was packed! The ImPRessions account for the Athens County Humane Society stood up in between the acts to give some facts about puppy mills and ways everyone can help the cause. A band even sang a song about the brutalities of puppy mills, and other ways people can help with animal rights. Everyone that attended was very open to the information, and the group left well informed. The Donkey staff was very welcoming and receptive to holding future events there…so look out for that!

Overall, Puppy Mill Awareness Week was a definite success and everyone that was involved made a great effort to get the information out to the public. Keep checking for updates about future events held by ACHS and ImPRessions!

Don’t forget to become a fan on Facebook and follow us on Twitter! (AthensCountyHS)

Rachel Csaszar- Athens County Humane Society ImPRessions Account member

Puppy Mill Awareness Week 2009

As we enter the later half of the 2009 Fall quarter, the ImPRessions Athens Humane Society Account is making positive strides in its first year as an established account. Teaming up with Humane Society Vice President, Shelley Lieberman, our members have been working hard to promote the upcoming Puppy Mill Awareness Week both on campus and in the Athens Community.

We will kick things off on Monday October 26 and Tuesday October 27 with free bundles of animal crackers and fliers containing must-read information regarding puppy mills. At this promotional event, which will take place at College Gate, we will be joined by a few of our four-legged friends from the Humane Society. Promotional T-shirts will also be available for $15 each. Donations will be greatly appreciated, however our main focus is to get the information out to the public!

On Thursday, October 29^th, we invite you to Donkey Coffee at 9pm for Open-Mic night as we wrap up Puppy Mill Awareness Week and listen to local music. We are very thankful to everyone at Donkey to be able to partner up and promote our cause with one of our campus’ popular gathering places. Our goal is not only to gain support from our fellow students, but from local names and businesses on and around Ohio University’s campus as well.

Housing a pet in college is a fun idea that most upperclassmen look forward to when they make the switch form dorm life to off campus living. However, what most people may not be aware of is the unfortunate existence of puppy mills and what really goes on in the mass breeding of animals. This will be our account’s first big event and we look forward to maintaining the positive reputation of both our organization and the Athens County Humane Society. 

Eamonn Reynolds- Athens County Humane Society Account

Featured Pet of the Week: Feisty

If these piercing eyes of this gorgeous girl don't suck you in, I don't know what will! Feisty is a beautiful girl who is looking for a forever home. Are you the one who can provide it to her? If you're interested, please fill out our adoption questionnaire here. Sure you want a companion but not sure Feisty is the one for you? Check out our other adoptable animals.

Before you think of adopting an animal, please consider these things. It can be a lot of work (but in the end, it is ENTIRELY worth it!)

Featured Pet of the Week: Bubbles

How can this sweet little guy have gone so long without finding a forever home? I can't believe it! Look at the face! Look at the expression, the fur, the beauty that is BUBBLES. Bubbles is a young orange and white male tabby cat. He started off life with a rough and tumble go...he had health problems and some neglectful owners, but he's bouncing back. His name reflects his personality quite well. He's friendly and loving. He enjoys the company of other cats, but he's a bit shy. Approach him the wrong way and he may drift away like his namesake. Give him all the love he needs and he might just POP! Bubbles is a lover, and a friend. Are you interested in adopting Bubbles? Check out the process and paperwork. Not sure you're ready? Here are some things to consider.

Sure you want to adopt, but not sure Bubbles is the right one for you? Check out our list of adoptable animals.

Black Cat Superstitions

Ikea

The first, crisp hint of fall is in the air. Maybe it's the cool nights, or the subtle autumnal turning of the leaves. Maybe it's the scent of woodsmoke, or the feeling in the air that means that fall is not too far away. And with Autumn comes a time filled with legend, superstition, and myth - Halloween.



One of these superstitions is incredibly prevalent, and often misunderstood - the icon of the black cat. It is often hard to adopt out black cats and kittens due to superstitions held by people. But did you know that not all superstitions about black cats are negative?

That's right. Many have heard the saying that if a black cat crosses your path, bad luck will befall you, or illness, or perhaps even death. The same has been said about white cats in other cultures, particularly Asian cultures, where the white cat is considered to hold the same properties in legend and lore.

The superstition surrounding the ill luck of black cats is relatively recent - arising in western Europe during the middle ages. With stories and rumors of "witches" abounding the countryside, epidemics like the plague, and general financial worries, the black cat was made a scapegoat. Many locales tried to eradicate cats completely from their area, for fear that they were witches in disguise, harbingers of ill luck, or worse, carriers of the Black Plague.

Some areas of the world and some cultures still cling true to these superstitions, and unrightly so. Did you know that some cultures hold the black cat as an omen of good luck?

For example, there is a Celtic superstition that says a strange black cat showing up on your doorstep will bring prosperity and wealth, so long as it is cared for.

In Latvia, a small eastern European country bordering on the Baltic sea, black cats were said to be the spirit of Rungis, a god of harvests. Upon finding one in their barns or silos, joy was to be beheld, for it meant a well and prosperous harvest for the year.

Across the world, fishermen's wives would keep a black cat in the home to ensure no harm would come to their husbands while at sea.

Take a moment to visit Ball.

The theater world has two specific traditions concerning black cats. If a black cat were in the audience on the opening night of a performance, things would go smoothly. Many theaters had black cats in their employ, ensuring them good luck all around, so long as the cat was properly cared for by the cast and crew of that theater.

Southern France has the right idea, I think. They call their cats "matagots" or "Magician cats". They bring good luck to their owners, but only those owners who feed them well, treat them kindly, and give them the respect and love they would accord to a family member.

Have a look at Phoebe!

In the midlands of England, a black cat is thought to be a good omen for marriage. If a black cat is in the house where a young girl resides, she will find many a young many interested. A black cat gotten at the start of a marriage ensures a prosperous and happy one. If a loose white hair is found upon a black cat, groom it out, and keep it, for it is a sign you will find true love.

There are, of course, other myths associated with cats of non-specific coloring. The ancient Egyptians believed that the rays of the sun were entrusted into the eyes of the cat for safekeeping. The creation of cats was said to come about when Noah's ark was infested by rats. He asked a lion to sneeze, and out popped a cat!

But perhaps there is an inkling (pun intended) of truth to the legend that black cats bring good luck. King Charles I of England protected his black feline fiercely, believing his companion brought him luck and protection. The day after the cat died of natural causes, Charles I was arrested by Oliver Cromwell, and shortly thereafter King Charles was taken to the scaffold and beheaded.

Take a moment to visit Cindy Loo.

Featured Pet of the Week: Bella

Bella! Bellisima! Bella is a name that means "Beautiful" in Italian. Bella is as gorgeous and loving as they come. Bella is beautiful in her own unique and special way. Bella is just a baby girl with tortiseshell coloring.

When Bella was younger, her owners failed to treat her for an upper respiratory infection. Her "third" eyelid" has attached to her cornea. She is not in any pain, but Bella has a very unique look for sure. Bella does not need any special care or treatment - she is as rambunctious and loving as a kitten should be. Her world appears as though she's looking through plastic, and needs an owner who can understand that beauty comes in all forms - not just classical beauty.


Bella's favorite activities include cuddling and playing, and she is looking for a home that can provide all of these things and more.

Bella her siblings Susie Q & Kong, who was featured in a week past, can be visited most days at White's Mill btwn 8am-5pm. Call to be sure they are there, area code seven four zero 592.1521

The first step to adoption is to return to us the adoption questionnaire.

There are some things to consider before adopting, and a list of these things can be found here.

Sure you want someone in your life, but not sure Bella is a good match for you? Check out our other adoptable animals and see if you can give one of them a loving spot in your home and heart.

Your Groceries Can Help.....

Well, not your groceries directly. If you are one of the many people in the local area who shops at Krogers, you can directly help the animals that the Athens County Humane Society assists. It doesn't cost you a dime of your money or Kroger Fuel Rewards, and only takes a minute or so to sign up for.

You can enroll online in the Kroger Community Rewards Program and help the Athens County
Humane Society raise money for the animals with your Kroger Plus Card. Every time you use your card in conjunction with a purchase of food or gas, the Athens County Humane Society benefits from it.

To enroll, follow these easy steps.
1. Visit www.krogercommunityrewards.com

2. Register for a Kroger account

3. Join the rewards program with your Kroger Plus Card
(Three easy steps)

4. Enter the "Athens County Humane Society" under
Organization Name (NPO Code will be 80074)

5. Spend, Swipe and Save...the animals!!

The money earned goes towards the low cost spay and neuter clinics that we hold every month, as well as the adoption of animals within the county. Tell your friends, tell your family!

Spay and Neuter Registration

Our next spay and neuter registration date will be September 3rd from 5-6 PM at the Market on State (Formerly the University Mall) in Athens.

Spay and neuter services are already extremely low cost, and are available to residents of Athens county as well as the surrounding counties. In addition to this, there is a low-income program to help residents of Athens County spay or neuter their animals at an even lower cost. Qualifications for the low-income assistance program can be found here.

When registering your animal(s), you will need to bring a valid photo ID or driver's license, as well as the payment. Costs are listed on the website above, as well as what types of documentation are acceptable as proof of low income.

Please bring your ID, a photocopy of your low-income paperwork, and the required payment in cash. Unfortunately we cannot accept methods of payment other than cash.

You do NOT need to bring your pets to the registration. You will receive details on the time and date of your pet's appointment after registering.

Not sure why you should spay or neuter your pets? Read up on the myths and facts of spay/neuter.

Want to hear it from a cat's point of view (as told by the characters from the Lion King)? Click here.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Sharing is Caring

I was on my way out of Nelsonville this evening for a night on the town. While my husband and I stopped to refill our gas tank, I had the pleasure of overhearing an amazing conversation between two people at the pumps. A man had a dog with him, a little boxer with a cast on his leg. This man and his dog had just gotten back from a veterinary appointment, and the man had acquired the dog that very day.

From what I gather, the dog had been laying on the road in Lancaster, and had been hit by a car and was in a large amount of pain. No one nearby seemed to know who the dog belonged to, or why the dog would have been in the middle of a non-residential area in the middle of a very busy road. The man, who had not been looking for a dog, contacted an organization local to Lancaster, Forgotten 4Paws, to help with emergency vet care. They helped out, and the man now has a new member of his family who is only a little worse for wear. The entire time the story was being told, the dog, who from what I heard was howling in agony mere hours ago, was happily licking his new owner's face, and giving all the love he had to give. The man couldn't have seemed more pleased.

As a silent observer to all of this, I couldn't help but smile. Not only was I smiling to hear that someone had lent a hand to an animal in need, when many had already passed by, but smiling to see the reactions of those other people at the gas station who were listening to the story. It warmed my heart to hear that, yes, there are still people who would give up a day to help out for what could be a lifetime.

Similar to this, a letter was published in the Athens News on Monday thanking Donkey Coffee of Athens for helping out with the feral felines, Jolene, Anna, and Andy. Jolene is still looking for a new home, and we're surprised that no one has shown interest in her yet. She's a quiet, docile companion who is fiercely independent and timidly loving. Hopefully someone will fall in love with Jolene. It is also my hope that more businesses will take a cue from Donkey and lend a hand to some of the animals in the county.

Featured Pet of the Week: Ikea

It may be August now, but October is rapidly approaching. Wouldn't you love to welcome a Halloween cat into your home? Ikea is a beautiful black cat. Contrary to popular myths and superstitions, she won't bring you bad luck -- only love and affection! Can you give the same to her?

Ikea is currently an indoor/outdoor cat, and I'm told she is an excellent mouser. She'll bring you presents as long as you adore her! Ikea gets along wonderfully with other cats, but is terrified of dogs, and as such, can only go to a house without canines. She's a happy, healthy girl who is up to date on all of her shots, litterbox trained, and spayed.
If you feel that you can provide Ikea with a loving forever home, the first step is to fill out our adoption questionnaire.

There are some things to consider before adopting any animal, a list of which can be found here.

If you're sure you're ready to adopt, but not sure Ikea is the right match for you, check out our other adoptable animals. We have both cats and dogs who are just looking for a loving, caring home.

Dog Swim Event!

We're happy to announce the first ever, first annual DOG SWIM! We've teamed up with the City of Athens' Parks and Recreation department to bring you this extra special super fun day. Are you ready for the details?

The dog swim will be held at the Athens City Pool on East State Street, in Athens. It will last from 10 a.m.until 2 p.m. on Saturday August 29. The cost is $5 per dog. Humans are free of charge. The event is rain or shine, but will be canceled in the event of lightening. The weather report as of August 23rd is calling for scattered thunderstorms. Let's hope they pass us by!

So what's the catch? You can't go in the water! That's right, your dogs can swim away the end of the pool season, but you have to stay comfortably dry and watch as they have all the fun. But what's a better way to spend the day than watching your pooch get some quality time in the water and make some new friends?

Vet records must be shown for all dogs stating they are current on rabies, bordetella, and distemper vaccinations. Any dogs showing aggression, or females in heat, will not be allowed at the event.

We ask kindly that when your pooch isn't in the pool that he's on a leash.

In addition to all this (Yes, there's more!) The Disaster Animal Response Team (DART) will be around to provide education and information about pets and disaster preparedness. Friends of the Dog Shelter will be there with some adoptable dogs, as well as a few of the Humane Society's own companion-less canines who will hopefully swim right into the hearts of someone who can give them a forever home!

This occurs on the same date and time as our Cat and Kitten adoption event, which will be held just down the road at the Market on State (formerly University Mall).
As always, check out our list of adoptable animals. At least two of our pooches will be at the pool that day, but I'll leave you guessing as to just who they are. Go check out all of our animals, they're all waiting for just the right human. Maybe that human is you?

Featured Pet of the Week: Kong

Kong is just a littlebaby, but is already growing larger and stronger than his littermates. Kong bosses them around in a playful manner, and it's clear who is running the show! He's a little blue-gray ball of energy, and so loving and sweet he'll melt into your heart. Kong and his siblings had a rough start to life, and his mother Stripe is also in need of a good, loving forever home. Take a look at Kong's photos. Are you able to resist the urge to give him a spot in your heart and home? I'm not even sure I can!

There are some things you should consider before adopting any animal, a list of which can be found here.

Absolutely certain you want to take Kong home and treat him like a king? (King Kong? Get it?) The first step is to fill out our adoption questionnaire.

Are you looking for a pet, but not sure that Kong is the right one for you? Check out our ever-growing list of adoptable animals, and see if any capture your heart.

As always, many of these animals will be available to meet in person at our next Adoption Event, being held on Saturday, August 29th from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Market on State Street in Athens.

We hope to see you there!

A Chance to Rally

Are you looking for a chance to make a small difference in a large issue? We received a letter this week explaining how individuals might help in a very local puppy mill case.

Dear Companion Pet Lovers ~

You may recall that there is a Pre-Trial Conference scheduled for this
coming Friday, August 21 at 2:00 PM in the class-action lawsuit filed
against Donald Dutiel and his cohorts in the "Wagon Wheel Ranch"
operation. (Black, et al., v. Dutiel, et al., case no.: 09CV-00170, Court
of Common Pleas, Perry County, Ohio, Linton Lewis, Judge).

Click here to read the article, "Lawsuit seeks to stop breeder - Wagon
Wheel breeds sick puppies, it alleges."

Although this is not an absolutely crucial event, it is important, and it
would be helpful to have a solid presence from the Ohio animal advocacy
community. If you cannot attend in person, we invite you to contact the
news media or other parties interested in humane causes, and ask if they
can send a representative.

The Pre-Trial Conference will be held in New Lexington, Ohio, in Perry
County, about an hour east southeast of Columbus:

Date:
Fri., 8/21

Time:
2:00 PM

Address:
105 North Main St.
New Lexington, OH 43764

Phone:
(740) 342-3156

Fax:
(740) 342-2188

Map to Courthouse:
http://www.perrycountycourt.com/map.shtml

Perry County Court Website:
http://www.perrycountycourt.com/

Support from concerned citizens would be very much appreciated, and could
very well help the many, possibly hundreds, of Dutiel's victims for whom
we might eventually get a small measure of justice if we can keep this
case going and growing (not to mention the scores that we might keep from
becoming victims).

We'll continue to keep you informed of developments in the case, even if
you cannot attend this week.

Thanks so much for serving as a strong voice for the dogs!

Mary O'Connor-Shaver
Cell: 614-271-8248
Columbus Top Dogs
http://www.columbustopdogs.com/
http://www.banohiodogauctions.com/
http://tejasanimalrefuge.ca/
http://www.lostpetusa.net/

Monthly Adoption Event!

Our monthly adoption event will be held on Saturday, August 29 from 10AM to 2PM at the Market on State (formerly the University Mall) in Athens.

Fill out an adoption application on-site and interview with an ACHS representative to find the right match for you and your lifestyle. If you intend to adopt a cat please bring a carrier for safe transportation to your home. No cats will be permitted to leave the event without a carrier.

Check out our list of adoptable pets, some of which will be available for viewing at the event.

Make sure you're ready to adopt a friend by taking some time to figure out the answers to the important questions to ponder before adopting.

We'd love to see any of our animals go to wonderful, forever homes. If you have a space in your heart and home for any of these guys, please don't hesitate to drop by and fill out the paperwork! We have so many lovable, and loving, companions. If your life is missing a furry friend, we're the place to go!

Featured Adoptable Cat: Spaz

Spaz might be his name, but this young guy is anything but. He loves to play, for sure, but also likes to cuddle. He even has a marking that looks like a milk mustache! Spaz loves to cuddle, especially on your chest. He will lay in the windowsill and bask in the sun, and all of the typical cat activities that make cats special. Spaz has no special needs, and is a healthy young guy. Do you have a spot in your home and your heart for Spaz?


Not sure you're ready to adopt? Here are some things to consider before taking responsibility for an animal.

Absolutely smitten with Spaz and want him in your life? Here's our adoption questionnaire. This form is your key to having Spaz as a forever friend.

Want to adopt, but maybe not looking for a cat like Spaz? (although why you wouldn't, I haven't a clue!) Here is a list of our other adoptable furry friends.

A Word On Feral Cats

So what's the difference between feral cats and stray cats?
According to the Humane Society of the United States' page on Feral Cats:

• A stray cat is a pet cat who is lost or abandoned. Feral cats are the offspring of lost or abandoned pet cats or other feral cats who are not spayed or neutered.

• Stray cats are accustomed to contact with people and are tame, but feral cats are not accustomed to contact with people and are typically too fearful and wild to be handled.
• Wheras stray cats may be reunited with their families or adopted into new homes, feral cats do not easily adapt or may never adapt to living as pets in close contact with people.

Here's a more in depth video for your viewing:

Many feral cats in our area adapt quite well to being barn cats once they are spayed/neutered. Younger kittens have a higher chance of being rehabilitated and placed in good homes, and with enough patience and expertise, most adult cats can as well.

Visit the Alley Cat Allies in our links section for more information as well.

Adoption Event

We will be having our monthly adoption event at the Market on State Street (formerly the University Mall) in Athens on Saturday, August 29th from 10AM to 2PM. Come by to meet just some of the cats and dogs we have available for adoption.

If you plan on adopting an animal, please bring a secure carrier. No animal will be allowed to leave the event without one.

Not sure if you're ready? Here is a list of things to consider before adopting an animal. Absolutely sure you're ready to adopt? Check out our list of animals up for adoption.

Representatives will be on hand to match the right animal to your lifestyle. Ready to make a new, lifelong friend? They certainly are!

Community Support - Featured Adoptable Pets of the Week

Communities all over the nation are pulling together to help animals in need. In a recent flood of the Louisville, KY area, shelter workers received assistance from the community to pull together and save most of the 600 residents of their animal shelter, both dogs and cats. The fatalities have been reported so far as only 1 dog and 12 cats. The whole story can be found here.

As heartwarming as it is to hear about the community pulling together to save animals in their time of need, similar things are happening right here in our own county. The animals pictured above were found in the basement of Donkey Coffee in Athens. Donkey Coffee was more than happy to pay for the spaying and neutering of these beautiful cats, as well as helped find a foster for the kittens Anna (left) and Andy (right) of the beautiful mama cat, Jolene, pictured center. Shelley Lieberman, our vice president, was there attending an event the night they were discovered, and was called in to help. Over the next few days, the cats were humanely trapped and given the health care they needed.

It's safe to say that not many companies or organizations would help out a cat, much less more than one cat, who had taken up residence in their basement. It's commendable not only that Donkey Coffee called the ACHS about these cats, who so desperately needed love, affection and attention, but fronted the cost for them to receive medical attention as well. On behalf of everyone at the ACHS, thank you, Donkey Coffee, for doing such a commendable and honorable thing.

Many people are also aware that there are often cats roaming around the Import House, another Athens fixture. These cats are often fostered from the Athens County Humane Society. Imagine being able to provide support, love, and care. If you are the owner of a local business and would like to get involved with us in some way, whether it's fostering adoptable animals or contributing financially to their upkeep, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Because of the amount of involvement and support from Donkey Coffee, this week's featured adoptable animals are Jolene, Anna, and Andy.


Jolene, a beautiful Russian Blue cat, is approximately 8 months old. She gave birth at a very young age, and came to us as a skittish kitten who would hardly trust a soul. She has been spayed and is quite healthy. She is fostered in a home that currently has two medium sized dogs (30 pounds) and two cats of it's own, and she has taken to all of them quite well, particularly the dogs! She has never met children, but we do not feel she would do well around them. She's independent and sassy, and prefers to seek affection out when she feels she would like it, rather than being constantly cuddled and picked up. She would make a wonderful companion to someone who is able to provide a quiet, calm environment for her, and didn't need constant cuddling!

Anna, or Anna Banana, her daughter, has very much the same spunk and sass as her mother. Anna is a dilute tortiseshell, with spots of the blue coloring her mother has. Anna is playful, and able to amuse herself for hours with anything that she finds be it string, puff balls and of course, toy mice. Anna is still a very young kitten, and has been spayed and is healthy.

Andy, Anna's brother and Jolene's son, has the sweetest, most mischievous look upon his face every time you meet him. And mischievous he is! The ACHS warns to put away your toilet paper, as he has quite the affinity for unwinding rolls of it! If you could use a little prankster, a joker, someone who will make you laugh and smile every time you see him, Andy may just be the kitten for you. He has been neutered and is healthy.

Andy and Anna can be visited on most days at White's Mill in Athens between the hours of 9am and 5pm. It's recommended to call first to see if they will be there. The number is (740) 592-1521.


Thinking about adopting any of these three? Here's a list of what to consider before adopting an animal from the Athens County Humane Society. If you're certain you'd like one of these three sweethearts in your home, filling out an adoption questionnaire is the first part of the process.

Andy, Anna or Jolene just not quite your speed? Check out our list of other adoptable animals to see if we have the right one for you.

If you own a business local to the Athens area, and would like to support our efforts, please call or email us. If you are an individual interested in helping with a time, monetary, or supply donation, please see our list of needs. Our contact information is, as always,

Athens County Humane Society
P.O. Box 765
Athens, OH 45701
info@athenshumane.org
740-592-6047 (voicemail only)

Spay Neuter Pre-Pay And Register

Please don't forget that our next pre-pay and registration for the low cost spay and neuter clinic is coming up on AUGUST 6TH from 5-6 PM at The Market on E. State Street (formerly University Mall).

Please bring with you
Payment (unfortunately we can accept CASH ONLY)

And any qualifying paperwork you may need if signing up for financial assistance.

Prices and documentation needed can be found on our website.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Want to know why spaying and neutering is so important? Check this out!

It seems like we spend so much time stressing the point, but sometimes you need a little comic relief when it comes to the topic of animal population control. Many people cite the reason for not getting their animals spayed or neutered as they want their child or children to "witness the miracle of birth". These songs, aimed at a younger audience, explain why spaying and neutering is so important. You just might find they get stuck in your head, too.


Spaying and Neutering music videos that are sure to get stuck in your head, drive the point home, and make you smile a bit all at the same time. And for an extra bonus smile, both songs synchronized to footage from Disney's "The Lion King"

Featured Adoptable Animal: Ball

Ball is a domestic long haired black female cat. She's an adult, and knows exactly what she wants in life! She's shy around strangers, but is cuddly with those she knows are her true friends. Ball isn't too keen on children, and would do best in a house without them. She's currently an indoor and outdoor cat, and gets along peachy with other cats. Ball has been waiting for a new home for a year, and she really could use all the love and affection you have in your heart. Are you someone who could learn from Ball, and give her the second chance in life she deserves? If so, check out our website and begin the adoption process!

Aren't sure if you're ready to adopt yet? Here are some things to consider.

If Ball doesn't sound like she would be a good match for you, we have a list of perfectly wonderful animals all waiting for their forever homes. Check them out!

Photos from Allen Pet Clinic Party and Breed Specific Legislation

I've gotten photos from the Allen Pet Clinic Party, mostly of our dear friend Maddison, who is adoptable through us. She was there for a heartworm test, and was just a sweetheart the entire time.

Maddison is a pitbull, and many people were hesitant to approach her because of that fact. But Maddison is well behaved, and living proof that the breed of a dog does not determine its temperament. Maddison did quite well with all the cats (although they did not like her so much!) and was wonderful with every child who approached her.

The Humane Society is opposed to breed specific legislation, which is normally aimed at dogs like Maddison. You can read the Humane Society of the United States' official position on "dangerous dogs" and breed specific legislation (BSL) here.

Unfortunately, some areas of Ohio have enacted breed specific legislation, a list of which can be found here.



While laws may not always be "fair", they are unfortunately the law, and must be followed. Currently, Athens County has no breed specific legislation in action, some of our neighboring counties do. It is important to know the laws regarding animal ownership, and to fight them, when appropriate and necessary through legal means like petitioning and public education.

Since I've started volunteering with the ACHS, I've been asked any number of questions. One of the least asked questions is "How can I help?", which saddens me. One way that people can help without committing time, effort, or money (although you're more than welcome to, in fact, encouraged, to help with those things!) is to be knowledgeable about our organization and what we do, as well as the welfare laws and rights concerning animals. By learning these things, and passing them on, you do help in your own special way. Word of mouth is a very powerful thing, and a lot of animals end up in bad situations due to misinformation.

For example, I am pictured here at the Allen Pet Clinic Party speaking to a woman about just some of the many things we do. Our vice president, Shelly Lieberman, must be a ninja with a camera, because I never even knew I was being photographed. Kudos to her!

Week in Review - July 19th through July 25th

Monday, July 20^th, a letter to the editor was published in the Athens News that I would encourage anyone and everyone to read. It is about the care and return of abused animals to their owners, and a situation that I, personally, went through that was even more rough to come to terms with.

In similar news, three new kittens were found abandoned this week in Nelsonville. Abandoned is, of course, the polite way of stating it as they had to be pulled from the Hocking River. Luke, a male orange tabby, Leia, a female dilute calico with the most gorgeous orange patches, and Bea, a gray tabby female who all look to be about 7-8 weeks old were found this past week. They’ve all been given a good cleaning and once over, have been de-wormed and de-flea’d, and are being fed and housed, but are still outdoor cats at the moment.

The life of an outdoor cat is not one that I would recommend for anyone, if they can help it. It’s dangerous, especially for tiny kittens who don’t know well enough about the perils of the world. They can climb under car hoods to seek shelter from the heat of the day, run into the road and get hit by cars, be carried off by wild animals or destroyed by domestic pets that are not properly trained or controlled. Bea has been missing for two days, and it’s worrisome. Luke and Leia, however, have been very social with all those they come in contact with. They play together, as well as with other cats at the apartment complex they are being held at. They tolerate gentle large dogs quite well, and are very loving towards people.

It’s no doubt in my mind that Luke and Leia, as well as Bea, are littermates who were dumped by some unfortunate soul who felt that it was their only option. I would like to encourage readers to keep an eye out in their neighborhood. Spring is a particularly rough time of year for people and their animals. Let your neighbors know about our low-cost spay and neuter clinics and the other services we offer. Perhaps even lend them a helping hand if they have an accidental litter that they don’t know what to do with. No animal should ever have to be dumped unceremoniously alongside the road, in the river, or worse.

The Athens County Humane Society is a completely volunteer organization. The economy is tough on everyone right now, and people may think they have no option but to get rid of their animals. The ACHS understands tight funding – we’re a non-profit organization that relies solely on fundraising, donations, and membership fees. But we try to help as much as we can, and often our volunteers go above and beyond the call of duty to help an animal or owner in need.The Humane Society of the United States has even had to suspend their financial aid program to help keep pets and families together, however they still offer some tips for cutting the costs of pet ownership.

This week was not all bad, however! The Athens County Humane Society attended Allen Pet Clinic’s anniversary party on Friday, July 27^th. T-shirts were available, as well as literature and cats for adoption. I myself volunteered for two hours, and found that it was interesting to see the number of people who did not know what kind of services we offered, or that we even existed! Many people had misconceptions about the organization, which were cleared up. It was a bittersweet event for me, hearing the stories of people and their animals, which they had brought with them.Most of the animals had been rescued or adopted, while others spoke of animals long past who had met a bitter end due to cruelty on behalf of their neighbors, friends, or even family. It was wonderful to see so many people take an interest, no matter how hesitant they were.

July 25^th was our adoption event at the Market on State Street. I did not attend, but I’m sure it was a blast, and I’m certain many more people had a chance to witness the wonderful animals that we have for adoption, as well as learn a little bit more about our organization. Hopefully some of our wonderful friends found homes, and I will update a bit later on that.

I also had the opportunity to attend a local music festival, Diamond Music Fest, set up by Nick Collura of Insea Sound Shop of Nelsonville. The event, held at Lake Logan, was a wonderful time to get to know some of the people in the overall larger Southeastern Ohio area. I met a good many people from Athens County, and a good many people who just "got" the concept of what's going on and what we're trying to do. It was a good way to get the word out and, since it was a dog friendly event, meet some pooches who were rescued or adopted and are now leading happy, healthy lives.

Also, don’t forget, coming up on August 6^th is our register and pre-pay session for the spay and neuter clinics. We can accept CASH ONLY, unfortunately, so bring that, as well as an ID with a street address in Athens County. If you are applying for low-cost assistance, bring photocopied proof that you qualify. A list of acceptable documents can be found on our website. For low-cost help, the name on the ID must match the name on the documentation. Prices can also be found on our website. The prepay session is, again, AUGUST 6^th from 5-6 PM at the Market on State Street (formerly the University Mall, the building with Elder Beerman’s, Claire’s, and Tractor Supply).

If you’re wondering why spaying and neutering is such a big deal, check out this information.

Adoption Event

On Saturday, July 25th we will be having an adoption event at the Market On State (formerly the University Mall) in Athens from 10 AM until 2 PM.

Come out and see our cats and dogs. You can fill out an adoption questionnaire on site and meet with representatives who will find just the right match for you!

A list of our adoptable pets can be found here, but rest assured that if you're looking for a fuzzy, cute companion to give a forever home to, there's plenty more! Do you have a spot in your heart and home? If so, show up to the event and discuss it with one of the ACHS representatives who would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have.

Not sure if you're ready to adopt? Here are some things to think about.

You must be 21 or older to adopt an ACHS animal, and there is a required adoption fee for each animal.

PLEASE NOTE that if you intend to adopt a cat please bring a carrier for safe transportation to your home. No cats will be permitted to leave the event without a carrier.

Featured Adoptable Cat: Storm

Storm is the beautiful domestic long haired gray cat shown above. She was found along the bike path, sick. A kind woman took her in, and she's doing great now. She's an indoor/outdoor cat, and will accompany no matter what you do - gardening, reading, lounging around. Storm is not fond of other cats, and needs to be the only cat in a household. If you know someone who has a spot in their heart and home for a forever friend like Storm, please let them know. Are you that someone? Fill out the adoption questionnaire on our website. If you'd like to see more photos of storm, or hear more about her, check out her page, and while you're at it, browse our other friends in need of loving, forever homes too!

Spay and Neuter Registration Details

Spaying or neutering your pets is a good idea for several reasons. It prevents unwanted animals, who end up at overloaded shelters or rescue organizations or worse, dumped on the streets to fend for themselves. But it also provides health benefits to the animals in question. It is agreed by veterinary organizations that spaying or neutering your companion animal can greatly reduce its risk of developing reproductive diseases down the road - uterine cancer, breast cancer, testicular and prostate cancer have all shown to decrease in older animals who were spayed when they were younger.

The next pre-pay and registration session for the Athens County Humane Society will be held on August 6th, 2009 from 5 to 6 PM at the Market on East State Street in Athens.

Those wishing to register and prepay should show up with the appropriate amount of money. Unfortunately we can take CASH ONLY.

If you are one of Athens County's many residents below the poverty level, do not fear - there is financial assistance available for those who qualify. Details and rates can be found here. When you come to register, please bring copies of the appropriate paperwork with you.

We look forward to seeing you there!

ACHS Volunteer featured on CNNU

Kat Allen, an ACHS volunteer who donated her time to help organize t-shirts for Spay Day and is on the PR committee, was recently interviewed for a segment on CNN. Check it out!!

A Great Week For Fundraising!

Thanks to all the hard work of volunteers, the ACHS has had some great fundraising success this week!

The Mom's Weekend Bake Sale made a total of $675.27, including food, t-shirt, Rufus photos, and catnip sales!! A special thank you goes out to Julie Tatge, Jane Smith and Char Rae who organized the event and worked ALL DAY in order to help make this sale a success. The photos with Rufus were another great addition to the day -- thanks Char!

There was also a great turnout at today's Puppy Palooza event -- over $500 dollars was raised for the dog adoption program! Luckily we had good weather, so dogs and owners alike had a chance to get outside and have a great time. Another special thanks goes out to the OU Coms 405 class that helped organize the event.

Awesome job everyone!! Stay tuned for more ACHS activity!

Puppy Palooza!

On Tuesday, May 5, ACHS will be hosting Puppy Palooza, an outdoor festival complete with music, food, and, of course, puppies! Bring your canine friend along to the Howard Hall Park site (right next to Voigt Hall) from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to enjoy games -- including a dog oriented 'Simon Says' -- Cold Stone Creamery ice cream and other refreshments, and raffles! Prizes include a Cincinnati Reds autographed 2008 team ball, an opportunity for free Cold Stone for a year, local business merchandise, and a free pet portrait.

All proceeds go to the ACHS, so your fun in the sun will not only be a chance to bond with your pet, but also an opportunity to give back! ACHS t-shirts will also be available for $12, so you can show your support for the society all year round.

Puppy Palooza is a great way to kick of spring, and what better way to enjoy it than with your favorite canine friend?

** If it happens to rain tomorrow, the festival will be postponed until May 7 **

Low Cost Spay and Neuter Registration

On Monday, May 4, ACHS will hold a low-cost spay and neuter registration for Athens County residents interested in any of the upcoming summer spay and neuter clinics. Residents who qualify for the society's financial assistance program will also have the opportunity to register.

The registration will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Nelsonville Family Center, 1154 East Canal Street. Anyone interested in getting their pet spayed or neutered should stop by!! Remember, this is a cash only pre-pay/registration -- visit the ACHS Web site for more information about prices and required documentation.

Mom's Weekend Bake Sale

ACHS is hosting a bake sale on Saturday, May 2nd that will not only feature tasty treats, but will also be visited by Rufus the Bobcat, ready and willing to help out his feline friends.

Rufus will be available from noon to 2 p.m. to take pictures with students and their families. Professional photographer Louise Fish will be taking the pictures and posting them on Shutterfly to be downloaded. Donations will be requested as a "sitting fee" for being photographed with the OU mascot.

The bake sale will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the first floor of Baker Center, and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the fourth floor of the Center right outside the front door.

Stop by for goodies and photos -- Proceeds go to ACHS!

ACHS Adoption Event!

Interested in adding a four-legged friend to your family? This Saturday at The Market on State Street, the ACHS will be hosting an adoption event that will feature cats, kittens and possibly even a dog or two. Anyone interested in adopting will have the opportunity to fill out an application on-site. ACHS volunteers will also be conducting interviews in order to help find the perfect animal that matches your personality and lifestyle.

If you are interested in adopting a cat, please make sure to bring a carrier, as no cats will be allowed to leave without the promise of safe transportation. Those who cannot make it to the event can still check out what animals are up for adoption online.

The event will also provide an opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to win a professional pet portrait! The winner will get a studio pet session at Lamborn's Studio and a 16" by 20" framed color portrait, valued at over $300. Tickets are only $10 dollars (cash only), and even those who do not win the grand prize can use their tickets to receive half-off a studio pet session plus a complimentary 4" by 5" miniature portrait.

Tickets for the raffle will also be sold at Lamborn's Studio (19 West State St.), White's Mill (2 White's Mill Dr. - located off Route 682) and the Import House (68 N. Court St.). The winner will be announced late May, so you better hurry to ensure your chance to win!

Registration for Spay and Neuter Clinics!

If you're interested in getting your pet spayed or neutered, come to the ACEnet building (formerly Rocky Boots in Nelsonville) from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9 to sign up for an April or May slot.

Records of rabies shots and full payment (in cash) are mandatory before you can be allotted a time, so come prepared! There will be a clinic held in Athens on May 9, but it is limited to male cats and large, male or female dogs.

The ACHS does off a low cost option for those who need it, but please see athenshumane.petfinder.com for more details along with information on prices and photocopies of documentation that must be submitted to prove residency in Ahtnes County and low income status.

Getting your animal spayed or neutered is a great way to help relieve overpopulation, plus it may help with behavioral problems. For more information, check out my post from March 10 or the HSUS Web site.

Puppy Mill Awareness Week Continues

Today is Day Two of ACHS's Puppy Mill Awareness Week, and a quick jaunt up to College Gate will show just how determined ACHS volunteers are to spread the message. Braving bursts of wind meant to halt their efforts, they continued setting up and resetting up posters and flyers that inform people passing by about the horrific realities of puppy mills.

Now, I know what it's like to feel bombarded at College Gate with flyers and sign up sheets (did you register to vote?), but the ACHS table is obviously different. Their goal is not a self-serving one. It is, according to ACHS Vice President Shelley Lieberman, to let "people know what puppy mills are and that they supply to pet stores." Hopefully, students walking by receiving free cookies and puppy chow with little flyers attached will take the time to read and understand the message, and then remember the information when they go to adopt their next pet.

The tables, set up in front of College Gate and Baker Center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., are part of Puppy Mill Awareness Week, an ACHS initiative to inform people about the horrors of puppy mills. The initiative actually started yesterday, and ACHS volunteer Mary Quinn has been pleased with the results. "Students were very receptive," she said. "It was nice to see them walking away and actually reading [the brochures]."

Shelley Lieberman and Mary Quinn fight against the wind while trying
to set up their informational table in front of College Gate

Mary manned one of the tables yesterday form 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and during those short two hours the group actually ran out of flyers and had to go print more. "It was really exciting," she said adding that a lot of students were surprised and upset to find out about puppy mills and the pet stores that supply them.

"I actually had one person contradict me," Mary said, referring to information about Petland selling puppy mill dogs. A visitor to the table told Mary that her roommate worked at Petland, and that the dogs are not from puppy mills. Mary, however, remains unconvinced.

"I went to Petland to scope it out," she said, "and they try really hard to sell you the puppy you are playing with." Along with mentioning breed regulations she's never heard of and the fact that Petland is currently being sued by the HSUS for selling puppy mill dogs, Mary is even more suspicious of the company.

"It makes me wonder what they are telling their workers," she said.

Puppy Mill Awareness Week will end on Saturday, April 4 with a peaceful protest against Petland from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those interested should meet in the parking lot next to Hollywood Video.

Also, as part of the awareness week, the ACHS will be hosting a fundraiser at The Crystal from 4 to 8 p.m. T-shirts that are on sale at the tables for $12 dollars will also be sold at the bar, and all tips and donations will go to the humane society. So if you are looking for something to do Thursday evening, come to The Crystal and start off the weekend with a drink and a contribution!