If dogs had a fan club, Charlie’s would have a lot of members. He arrived at OHS on May 1 after being transferred from Multnomah County Animal Services. Charlie was previously a stray, so there was very little information about him. What we did know was that he was big, strong, and slightly silly.

Charlie is also the kind of dog that many people would pass by in search of a smaller dog or a specific breed or mix. As an 85 pound, 4-year-old, lab/pitbull mix with a mostly black coat, Charlie had trouble catching the attention of potential adopters. But the team of OHS staff and volunteers took notice – they knew he was special and would need extra care to find the right home.

While pets at OHS receive lots of love, care, and attention, the stress of being in a shelter can affect their behavior. Charlie had been at OHS for almost five months, so he was given lots of opportunities to work out his stress and spend time away from the shelter. He went running and on outings with volunteers, learned new cues and tricks during playtime in the chip yards, wore a special harness on his walks, and worked on his leash manners.

Charlie was also selected to be part of the Diamond in the Ruff program which meant that a potential adopter could foster him, or do a trial adoption, for two weeks. Diamond in the Ruff pets and clients also receive extra support and guidance from staff during the transition to a home.

Finally, a potential adopter noticed Charlie. Ironically, he is named Charles and reports that things “are going really well.”

Please give now to help ensure animals like Charlie are given every opportunity to find their perfect match.

Animal shelters across the nation are seeing a trend of large dogs taking longer to find homes. Ginger the German shepherd is no exception.

Ginger has lived in many different homes. She transitioned from life on acreage to life in an animal shelter. Despite the vast difference in her life circumstances, Ginger has been able to make human friends wherever she goes.

Ginger has spent 74 days and counting in OHS’ care.

In her time at OHS, Ginger’s loyalty and undeniably sweet personality has shined, making it easy to become a favorite amongst staff and volunteers. When she was suffering from itchy skin, our medical team was there for her. She is also a member of the running team and goes on adventures with volunteers.

Ginger recently celebrated her fifth birthday at OHS. Staff and volunteers made sure her special day was filled with squeaky toys and fetch—her favorite things. Ginger is still looking for a home, but while she waits, OHS is here to make sure she gets the care she needs, from specialized food to maintain her healthy coat to daily playtime.

Please give now to help ensure animals like Ginger are never given a time limit on their stay at OHS.

Dot the kitten wasn’t using the litter box as expected. He arrived at Oregon Humane Society’s Behavior and Rescue Center with one task: learn how to use the litter box.

Litter box issues are one of the most common reasons that cats and kittens are returned to an animal shelter. OHS’ Behavior Modification trainers have the tools to help pets like Dot.

Consistency is key. The trainers at the BRC have been working with Dot’s litter box misuse by first getting him to understand that a litter box is what he must use. This is done by putting him in a small area with the litter box, until using the litter box becomes the new habit. Dot is then rewarded every time he makes the choice to use it. Dot has been working with the trainers at the BRC for a few weeks to get ready for adoption. He will continue to receive expert guidance within the calming environment of the BRC until he finds a loving home.

Please give now to help ensure animals like Dot are given the training support needed to become the best version of themselves.

The first thing you notice about Raava is her whiskers—long, white, and pointing in all directions—but it’s her sweet personality that makes you fall in love instantly. She was originally adopted from Willamette Humane Society seven years ago. Unfortunately, her owner’s circumstances changed which left them struggling to provide care for Raava, who was now older and needing more extensive medical care.

Raava had dental disease and a mass on her abdomen that needed to be removed before she was ready for adoption—but she was lucky. All the diagnostic tools that were needed for her care were right there in the veterinary clinic at OHS Salem Campus. This was not always the case. Until recently, cats like Raava would have to be transported to OHS Portland Campus for x-rays and other diagnostics. This often delayed treatment and caused additional stress for an animal who may already be in pain. Now, with the completion of the Digital Radiology Project, OHS Salem Veterinary Clinic has two new rooms that include x-ray and a dental suite.

Raava’s dental procedure went smoothly thanks in part to the dental x-rays that helped guide the veterinary team’s work. Raava had 10 teeth removed, plus an additional surgery to have the mass removed from her abdomen.

After resting comfortably for a few days, Raava made a full recovery and is now embracing a new chapter in a loving home.

Please give now to help ensure animals like Raava are given access to lifesaving medical care.