MENANDS — Mohawk Hudson Humane Society is looking to raise $50,000, which sounds like a lot but it really means just $100 for 500 animals.
The drive comes at a time when the intake of stray and owner-surrendered animals needing help is up, and donations are down.
The 500 Pet Challenge will raise funds for vaccinations, spaying, neutering and general healthcare. Always, the goal is a loving home for each and every pet.
According to society President and CEO, Todd Cramer, “On any given day during the summer, we are caring for upwards of 400 animals in various stages of readiness for adoption. Some are strays from the 18 municipalities for which we provide sheltering. They are waiting to be found by their owners, and if not, they will receive medical care, including spay and neuter surgery, and be placed in our adoption program. We have over 100 animals currently in foster homes, many of which are kittens. Plus, on a daily basis, we help take in pets whose families for some reason can no longer care for them.”
• The shelter’s doors are always open to its past residents as well. Ms. Lucky is a beautiful black and white kitty adopted from the society as a kitten. When her owners had a family crisis, she was returned. This shy, sweet 12-year-old is now awaiting a second chance.
• Lilly is a 5-year-old Rottweiler mix who came in as a stray. She has “stranger danger” fear and will need a special type of home to manage her trust issues, with guidance from shelter staff. She has spent months with the Society and is a staff favorite for her sweet, loving ways.
• Then there are the kittens who barely make an appearance on the Society’s always-current website before they are adopted.
The Humane Society is funded by donations and is not a part of any national organization. Every pet in their care receives hundreds of dollars of care in preparation for adoption. The Challenge seeks to raise $50,000, or $100 for 500 pets in July.
Donations can be made online at mohawkhumane.org, by texting 500PETS to 443-21, and at the Humane Society, located at 3 Oakland Ave. in Menands.
Plus, folks can donate at any of Benson’s Pet Centers’ six locations, in Colonie, Clifton Park, Saratoga Springs, Queensbury, Johnstown and Pittsfield, MA.
The Challenge concludes with a community celebration on Sunday, Aug. 4 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Menands Animal Care Center. The free event features live music by Standing Room Only, plus great vendors, food and fun activities for kids. Pet- and people-friendly dogs that are current on shots and spayed or neutered are also welcome to join the fun!
For more information visit mohawkhuman.org or call 518-434-8128, ext. 206.
