In a year full of unprecedented challenges, the final adoption of 2020 included a message of hope. OHS moved to adoptions by appointment in mid-March and since that time more than 5,000 pets have found loving homes.
“Being able to continue adoptions was critically important this year,” says Sharon Harmon, OHS President and CEO. “For each pet that went home, we were able to help the next animal in need.”
Moe, a 2-year-old Siberian Husky, was the final adoption of 2020. His journey represents the incredible compassion in our community and the role that animals have played in helping us get through this difficult year.
Moe was transferred to OHS from another shelter since he was suffering from a painful hip issue and needed medical care. OHS veterinarians performed surgery to alleviate his pain and improve his mobility. Moe was then placed in an experienced foster home to recover.
As Moe healed in his foster home, he had a special role to play. Eric and Erica Burger have fostered dozens of cats and kittens for OHS, but Moe was the first dog they brought home. Eric’s father recently passed away and he was hoping that fostering a dog would help him cope with his loss. Eric and Moe quickly developed a special bond. They went on walks together while Eric processed his grief and Moe regained his strength.
“They really healed together,” says Erica.
Erica and Eric decided to make Moe a permanent member of their family. At 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 they made it official and completed the adoption.
“We are so happy to begin 2021 with Moe,” added Erica. “We can’t imagine our family without him.”
“Despite the difficulties of this year, our team has been steadfast in their dedication to the pets and people of this community,” says Sharon Harmon, OHS President and CEO. “Thousands of pets will begin 2021 in a new, loving home thanks to their hard work.”
