Ann Arbor, MI (April 29, 2023) — Very early this morning, staff at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) found 19 birds left outside in a single metal cage, and a scared cat in a small crate on an outside bench. The birds include 17 parakeets and two cockatiels.
“We want to remind folks that we understand hard times, and we are here if you need help,” says Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO. “But leaving animals in a cage or crate outside all night is neither safe nor humane. Companion parrots do not tolerate cold weather well. It was just luck that our hardworking facilities person came to work in the wee hours and noticed the birds while doing other work. The poor frightened and shivering kitty had a note, but it didn’t contain useful information.”
HSHV has some video footage, and the case is being reviewed by HSHV’s Investigators. It appears the cat was left by someone different than who left the birds.
“When folks abandon animals on our property, it leaves us and the animals at a disadvantage. It’s always best when the owner gives us the animal’s history since the animal can’t tell us themselves,” says Hilgendorf. “Our medical, behavioral, and adoption placement teams use background information to help ensure we give the animals what they need to thrive. Even if you’re bringing us a lost animal, we need to know where the animal was found so that we can try to get them back home.”
To report suspected animal cruelty in Washtenaw County or if you have further information on this case, please call 734-661-3512. To get help with pet food or temporary housing for your companion animal, or to surrender an animal, please contact HSHV’s Intake department at 734-661-3528.
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About The Humane Society of Huron Valley:
The Humane Society of Huron Valley, located in Ann Arbor, is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies solely on the generosity of our supporters to provide critical community programs and services. HSHV is an award-winning organization, recognized for our best practices and highest animal “save-rate” among all similar shelters in Michigan. Charity Navigator, the nation’s top charity evaluator, awarded HSHV a 4-star ranking, the highest possible. The mission of HSHV is to promote the loving, responsible care of all animals in our community. HSHV is not affiliated with any other humane organization and does not receive funding from the United Way. More information can be found on HSHV’s website (hshv.org) and on our annual report (hshv.org/annualreport).