Posts by Wendy Welch

Breaking news: Washtenaw County urges State to let retired research animals be adopted

The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) applauds the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners for the Washtenaw County Resolution in Support of Teddy’s Law passed Wednesday, March 16, 2022. The resolution notes that though it is standard practice for research facilities to kill the dogs and cats “at the end of their use… companion animals used in research can and should be given a chance at finding a loving home.” “Teddy’s Law,” named after a former research beagle, was introduced into the Michigan State House by Representatives Kevin Hertel (D) and Tommy Brann (R) over a year ago, but has
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Casting Call for Ann Arbor Pets

Award-winning local pet photographer Kat Ku hopes to tell heartwarming “tails” of Ann Arbor. She’s calling on area pet owners to share stories of their pets while helping her support the homeless animals at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV). For $150, which includes a $50 donation back to HSHV, folks will receive a custom photo session of their pet anywhere in Ann Arbor (including their home), and their pet will be featured in a 2-page spread in the upcoming coffee table book “Tails of Ann Arbor,” to be published in the fall of 2022. “We’ve all been through
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Ypsilanti Woman Pleads Guilty to Animal Cruelty, Again

Ann Arbor, MI (March 4, 2022) — Faced with a repeat felony charge of Cruelty/Neglect to more than 25 animals, Ypsilanti resident Suzanne Marie Thompson reportedly will make a plea bargain for Abandonment/Cruelty to 2-3 animals, a misdemeanor. In November 2020, Cruelty Investigators at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) executed a search warrant on Thompson’s residence, seizing 21 cats and 1 dog due to the severity of the situation. Several of the animals were emaciated, and many had untreated medical issues. All animals seized received veterinary care and behavioral treatment at HSHV and have been since adopted into
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Ypsilanti Man Charged with Animal Cruelty

Ann Arbor, MI (March 1, 2022) — Charged with abandonment/cruelty to an animal for allegedly leaving his young dog tied to a door with no food or water, Ypsilanti resident George Clark is to be arraigned March 16. In late August 2021, following reports from concerned citizens, Animal Cruelty Investigators from the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) found the dog in an apartment that was reportedly in disarray, with garbage, feces and urine scattered about. The approximately 1-year-old dog appeared to be a severely emaciated black lab mix. Concerned complainants reported Clark declined their offers to feed or care
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Dog found frozen in cage, Tips wanted – CASH REWARD

Ann Arbor, MI (February 17, 2022) — Ann Arbor, MI (February 18, 2022) — Thanks to donations by concerned individuals, the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is offering up to $500 cash reward for information leading to the prosecution of the person(s) responsible for the dead dog found in a cage frozen to the ground near Ypsilanti’s Village Grove Apartments on Sunday. HSHV Cruelty investigators found the dog following a report received by the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. Based on the snow and ice covering the dog and cage, it’s likely the cage was placed in the small field
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Pets in Cold Weather

When temperatures drop, of course you’ll want to keep your pets inside as much as possible– to keep them safe and warm. Just like us, our pets are vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia, especially in places on their bodies where they have no fur. And also just like people, our elderly and very young pets are the most vulnerable! Here are some additional tips:   Wipe those bellies and paws. Salt, antifreeze, and other ice-melting chemicals can get on their undersides and feet; be sure to wipe it off before they have a chance to lick it off and make
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5 cats rescued from Lodi Township

On January 26, 2022, Cruelty Investigators at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) in coordination with the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s department executed a search warrant on a structure in Lodi Township, leading to the rescue of five adult cats. The cats were reportedly found without water and in a state of physical and medical neglect. The five adult cats were allegedly living for an extended period of time in a car with the two suspects, who previously were in and out of motel rooms over several years. The cats were purportedly sickly, in need of basic care and medical
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