“This grant is an important step forward for animals,” said Sharon Harmon, OHS chief executive officer. “Pets who are rescued from neglectful conditions have special needs, and this facility will allow them be safely housed and lovingly cared for as we work to get them adopted into their forever homes.”
The grant will provide for renovations to an existing structure including the installation of a new HVAC system, improvements in lighting and the remodeling of interior areas to better serve the needs of animals.
Last year, 771 pets were seized or surrendered to OHS as a result of investigations related to animal cruelty. OHS Humane Special Agents are the only Oregon law officers charged with enforcing animal cruelty laws anywhere in the state. OHS receives no tax dollars to support the work of its Humane Special Agents or to offset the costs of caring for neglected and abused animals.
Most recently, the OHS emergency animal shelter was used to care for 245 exotic birds rescued from overcrowded and unsanitary conditions in Damascus. The birds remained at the shelter for six months as the criminal case against the owner proceeded. The case ended in December 2016 with the owner convicted of animal neglect and all birds adopted into new homes.
“The Petco Foundation is proud to support the lifesaving efforts of the Oregon Humane Society,” said Susanne Kogut, Petco Foundation executive director. “We hope this investment will enable Oregon Humane Society to continue its impactful and lifesaving efforts, saving and bettering the lives of animals in need.”
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