Performing preference tests with your dog can help you learn a little more about what sorts of treats are highest value to them. Knowing the value of treats can help you when creating training plans and managing arousal and excitability. Being thoughtful with our treats can lead to increased clarity for our dogs and better training outcomes. How to conduct a taste test with your dog You’ll want several small dishes and a variety of treats (use small portions to prevent an upset stomach). Place a small number of treats in each bowl and place the bowls close to each
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Monthly Archives July 2025
An update on Uno
Uno and his siblings arrived at HSHV in April 2025. Orphaned and struggling, they needed urgent help, and we quickly got them into the care of one of our amazing fosters. Thanks to an incubator, syringe feeding, and plenty of love, the kittens now had a fighting chance. But as Uno grew, his breathing became labored. He had “funnel chest,” a condition in which his sternum and rib cage curved inward, leaving little room for his heart and lungs to grow. This is often fatal and requires costly surgery. Thankfully, due to the kindness of HSHV supporters like you, Uno
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Starving Dog Dumped in Ypsilanti; Humane Society Seeks Information
Ann Arbor, MI (July 24, 2025) — The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is investigating a suspected case of animal cruelty after a dog was found abandoned and in severe condition on the side of the road in Ypsilanti. The female dog, who looks to be approximately 5 years old and a bulldog mix, was discovered this Sunday, July 21, near the intersection of Chalmers and Washtenaw Avenue. She was found covered in urine and feces, emaciated, and in need of immediate medical care. A concerned Good Samaritan brought her to HSHV’s shelter. It is suspected she may have
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The Sister They Always Needed
After unexpectedly losing our first dog Halloween of 2024, we made it all of 3 days before we knew we needed another baby to love. After a few weeks of searching, we found sweet Zoey, who was being fostered by the incredible Gretchen after being brought into HSHV right before giving birth to her NINE babies. Poor mama was so scared of everything when we brought her home, but over time she really began to open up and show us her personality (which turned out to be way more sassy than shy) and show off exactly how smart she is.
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Pumpkin is where he truly belongs!
I adopted Pumpkin after I fell in love with an older ginger cat I had fostered, but unfortunately couldn’t adopt, due to my circumstances. That set me off on a hunt for a furry companion. Enter Pumpkin, a 10-year-old who had been abandoned by the family who had him for 6 years. His story, and medical condition, touched my heart, and I was convinced he was the one! Almost four months later I couldn’t be happier at my decision. Bringing sweet Pumpkin home has brought so much joy into my home, and he has reciprocated my love manifold times. We
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Luna’s love and adventures
Luna has been such a blessing to our family. We went to HSHV in December 2024 looking for a companion for not just us but our 7 yr old pittie Rwby. We had to say goodbye to 3 of our 4 dogs between 2/2014-10/2024(Buddy 16, Bella 14, and Tuff 10). We had met other dogs from other rescue groups but Rwby wanted nothing to do with them for one reason or another, but she had been very depressed for a couple months and not improving. She grew up with our other dogs and had never been alone. I believe Luna
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Ethel and Lucy find a fur-ever home
We met Ethel and Lucy at HSHV and instantly knew they were a catch. They were surrendered together as litter mates and we wanted to make sure they would not be separated. They greeted us with their warmth, playfulness and affection. It was an easy decision to bring them home with us. They have adapted very well to their new environment. They love toys, treats, nap time, cat trees, hiding under blankets, chin scratches, pets, playing together, and bird watching. We can’t be happier we found them when we did. They have brought us great joy, and they seem happy,
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Squiggles Needs a Foster
Age: 1 Sex: Female Breed: Pit Mix Weight: 58 Pounds Squiggles has been fearful here at the shelter and would benefit from living in a foster home! She is a wiggly little girl once she is comfortable though! She has met with a few dogs here and got a little overwhelmed by some high-arousal play styles, but did enjoy playing with a calmer dog. She should meet any potential foster dog siblings at the shelter. She can be a jumpy girl at times, but has settled in a bit and has been learning to walk nicely on a leash. She would do best in
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Huey Needs a Foster
Age: 4 Sex: Male Breed: Shepherd Weight: 56 Pounds Huey is a high energy dog who would love the opportunity to get out of the shelter and into a home environment! He’s a young guy who loves playing, especially fetch, and would love to be your play buddy! He has been working on his basic training skills and learning to engage with his person on walks. He will need a foster who is willing and able to manage his energy and continue working with him on his manners. He has been aloof and uncomfortable with other dogs here, and would likely prefer to be the
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Passion Fruit Needs a Foster
Age: 4 Sex: Female Breed: Pit Mix Weight: 52 Pounds Passion Fruit is looking for a new foster! She is looking for a home without other dogs or cats. She is a super cuddly, loving girl who just wants to be by your side. She does have some anxiety about being in her crate and may prefer to be with someone who is home often. She can also be reactive to dogs while out on walks so a secluded area or a home with its own yard would be preferable! She can be a little nervous of people upon first meeting them but will
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