Archives for News

Red, White and Boo

Consider July 4th the Halloween for pets. Some don’t mind it; others want to run for the hills. Though your companion animals may never see the 4th of July celebration as a treat, here are some tricks to make the upcoming days more comfortable. First, though you may want to celebrate with your entire family, chances are, your dog will be happier and safer at home. If your dog is comforted by the presence of people and loves the safety of a lap, see if someone can stay with your dog. Keep your windows and doors closed — both to block noise and
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HSHV investigating abuse of kitten by a juvenile

(June 25, 2019) – The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is investigating the alleged abuse of a four-week-old kitten by a pre-teen in Ypsilanti. Witnesses reported seeing the child kick the kitten twice, then toss him in the air several times—allowing the kitten to fall onto cement—then douse him in water. The kitten was bleeding from the mouth when seized by an Eastern Michigan University police officer. The kitten, now named Beasley, has been treated for his injuries at HSHV and is recuperating in foster care. “Beasley was terrified when he first came in,” says Melinda Szabelski, Cruelty and Rescue
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HSHV receives 8th consecutive Charity Navigator rating and 4 Best of Washtenaw awards, including Best Non Profit

(June 17, 2019) – HSHV recently received several accolades. HSHV’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency have earned it an eighth consecutive 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.  Only 4% of evaluated charities have received at least 8 consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that the Humane Society of Huron Valley outperforms most other charities in America. Since 2002, Charity Navigator has awarded only the most fiscally responsible organizations a 4-star rating.  This exceptional designation from Charity Navigator sets Humane Society of Huron Valley apart from its peers and demonstrates to the public its careful stewardship
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Disease on the rise in Washtenaw County wildlife, pets

Raccoons acting strangely. Skunks wobbling around. The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is reporting a significant increase in Washtenaw County wildlife with distemper and parvovirus, diseases that can be deadly to pets if they’re not vaccinated.
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How to Avoid Spring Wildlife Collisions

As Michiganders are waking up from winter slumber and traveling more, so, too, are lots of species of wildlife. For many, this is also baby season and the time when vehicles accidentally injure and orphan millions, the evidence of which is sadly popping up all over. “We live in a community that loves nature and appreciates animals,” says Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO and president. “Whether we are talking about our companion animals or backyard wildlife, animals are a part of who we are, and few want senseless death. The $622,000 of taxpayer money spent on culling hasn’t solved deer/vehicle conditions—worse, it may
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Could you be supporting cruelty without knowing it?

Did you know you may be supporting cruelty to animals without knowing it?  Many common products, such as cosmetics, shampoos and cleaning products, are tested on animals (like rabbits) before they are sold.  Products are usually placed on an animal’s eyes or skin to test for irritation.  Besides being painful and unpleasant for the unwilling animal participant, results from tests on animals do not always accurately predict the results on humans. But what can you do?  Look for products that have been verified cruelty-free!  There are currently three organizations that confirm products to be cruelty-free (Cruelty-Free International, PETA and Choose
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5 ways to help furry friends in frigid temperatures

Brrr… it’s cold outside!  Here are 5 tips on helping our four-legged friends when the temperature dips. Bring them in. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them! Just like people, animals are subject to frostbite — especially on paws and ears. And also just like people, our elderly and very young pets are the most vulnerable. Keep them indoors as much as possible. Gimme shelter. Make sure animals who live outdoors have a wind-free shelter; warm, dry bedding (e.g., plenty of straw); and extra food and fresh (not frozen) water. If animals don’t have fresh water to drink,
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