Saying goodbye is one of the best and worst parts of the job. We know our role in the lives of the animals we serve is only temporary. Our goal and our purpose is to be a stepping stone on their path to happily ever after but that doesn’t mean it’s easy.

Siddalee was broken when she arrived as a “stray” at the end of December. Her frail body weighed only 18lbs and we weren’t sure she had the will to survive. She received emergency medical care and our worst fears were confirmed; there was no underlying medical condition or trauma, she had simply been starved. We got to work on getting her back to health with a slow and steady feeding plan and lots of TLC. She was so easy to love and I started to fall hard. She shared my office, not spending one day in a kennel during her stay with us.

As her weight crept up so did her strength and she started to show us her wonderful personality. Before long she was ready for the adoption floor and we were thrilled to give her the chance at the life she always deserved but never had.

Her dreams came true the day before Cupid’s birthday and letting go was the best and worst part. I choose to reflect on the relationships I’ve built with the four-legged friends who run away with a piece of my heart as a way to cope and I penned this letter to my girl.

“Dear Siddalee,

Your transformation has been my very most favorite. I’ve been thinking about how I would feel today, your adoption day, for the last week or so. I’ve been trying to find the words to explain what you’ve given me.

I’ve settled on thankful.

I want to thank you for surviving. That first night when you crumpled at my feet I felt my heart break into pieces; I was sure we were too late to make a difference but you held on. I’m so glad that you did.

I want to thank you for letting me in. I wouldn’t have blamed you for a second if you hadn’t wanted my love or attention, if you hadn’t wanted to trust me; I was prepared to earn your love but you gave it so freely despite all that you had been through.

I want to thank you for reminding me that you don’t have to hold onto your pain, you don’t have to carry it with you. Your trauma doesn’t have to control you. And that beautiful things are possible when you set it (and yourself) free.

I want to thank you for filling the void that was left in my heart and my office by a shelter dog who came before you; I wasn’t sure my heart was ready but you showed me that it was and reminded me to love the underdogs, simply because not everyone can or will.

You will forever be one of “those dogs”- the ones you never forget, the ones who change everything and the ones who remind you why you’ll be back tomorrow to do it all over again.

Thank you. I love you. I’m so proud of you.

I’ll miss you so,

Lisa”

We are back to our regular business hours at HSMC and no longer requiring appointments for casual visits to the shelter. COVID-19 taught us a few valuable lessons that we will carry into how we operate on a regular basis so some things may look a little different the next time you visit us.

The biggest change is that we are no longer allowing the public into our adoptable dog kennel area. There are a number of reasons for this change, the biggest being the safety and well being of the canines in our care. This is the only space the dogs have at the shelter that is considered “their own” and it can be very stressful when they feel that space is threatened. Some dogs have poor kennel behavior in the stress of the shelter and we do not feel this should have a bearing on whether or not they will get picked for adoption. We would prefer to bring them out for you to visit with after they have had a chance to go potty and decompress from the kennel environment. We appreciate your understanding as we navigate these changes that will ultimately improve the experience for the animals in our care.

We will also continue to require applications ahead of visiting with animals for adoption. We put a lot of time and effort into finding wonderful matches for our shelter pets and want to make sure we can devote the time and attention you need. If you are not looking to adopt but wish to visit with shelter pets, we strongly encourage you to join our volunteer program so you can help us, help them.

Masks are not required but are encouraged for visitors, staff and volunteers according to CDC guidelines:

• Everyone 2 years of age or older who is not fully vaccinated should wear a mask in indoor public places.
• In general, you do not need to wear a mask in outdoor settings. (In areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, consider wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings and for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated.
• People who have a condition or are taking medications that weaken their immune system may not be fully protected even if they are fully vaccinated. They should continue to take all precautions recommended for unvaccinated people, including waring a well-fitted mask, until advised otherwise by their healthcare provider.
• If you are fully vaccinated, to maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others, wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission.

In addition we ask that if you have any cold-like symptoms regardless of vaccination status that you wear a mask when interacting with our staff or volunteers.

We are looking forward to moving back into fundraisers and more of our normal activities and are happy to be seeing you on the other side.

We are still here for you

*8/6/21 update: Following local health department guidelines HSMC is again requiring masks while interacting with our staff or volunteers. If you are unable to wear a mask we will assist you curbside. We continue to operate by appointment only and are requiring applications to be submitted prior to scheduling. We appreciate your patience as we navigate this difficult time.

*6/17/21 update: HSMC continues to operate by appointment only and requires applications to be submitted before visiting with adoptable pets. Masks are not required when inside the facility and interacting with our staff and volunteers. CDC recommends that unvaccinated individuals continue to mask and practice social distancing. Please contact us directly at 715-845-2810 if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment after your application has been submitted.

*5/20/21 update: HSMC continues to operate by appointment only and requires applications to be submitted before visiting with adoptable pets. Masks are still required when inside the facility and interacting with our staff and volunteers. Please contact us directly at 715-845-2810 if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment after your application has been submitted.

*4/10/21 update: HSMC continues to operate by appointment only and requires applications to be submitted before visiting with adoptable pets. Masks are still required when inside the facility and interacting with our staff and volunteers. Please contact us directly at 715-845-2810 if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment after your application has been submitted.

*1/12/21 update: We definitely didn’t think we would starting the New Year and still in the middle of a pandemic, but here we are. We have the same precautions in place and have been able to continue to serve the animals and humans in our community. Please contact us directly at 715-845-2810 if you have any questions about services!*

*8/1/2020 update: Masks are required to be worn by employees, volunteers and those visiting HSMC*

HSMC is still offering services by appointment only for the time being and our front doors remain locked as we are not accepting casual visits to the shelter. We are in the process of welcoming volunteers back into the building and want to make sure everyone is comfortable and that our staff remains healthy and able to care for the animals.

Available animals are able to be viewed online at www.catsndogs.org and applications can also be submitted from the site. Visitors wanting to see adoptable pets must have an active application on file before entering the facility. We are still taking appointments for surrenders and reclaims and accepting strays. You can contact us directly at 715-845-2810 and we would be happy to advise you further.

If you will be visiting the shelter via appointment we ask that you not come in if you are sick, have recently traveled by plane or recently attended a large gathering.

If you are looking to drop off donations we have a sign out front where you can leave them and we so appreciate it. If you would like a receipt for your donation please call us or wait for a staff member to come to the door.

We have so many pets adopted right now and going home in the coming days and we are so thankful for that. You remind us over and over again how wonderful of a community we live in.

We can’t wait for things to get back to their new normal but we aren’t in a hurry to get there if it means jeopardizing the animals, volunteers or staff.

Who will care for your pet?

While it’s not fun to imagine, now is an important time to create a plan for your pet in case you get sick. This weekend, we strongly encourage you gather any members of your household and walk through the following steps to ensure your animals will be well cared for in the event of an emergency.

1. Know the facts: According to the CDC, there is no evidence that people can get COVID-19 from pets. The best place for your animal is inside the home they know and love. If you aren’t feeling well but are still able to provide care for your pet, please keep them at home with you where they’re most comfortable.
2. If you do become too ill to physically care for your pet or you need to be hospitalized, who can take over for you? Is there anyone else in your home who could help? Maybe a neighbor, friend, coworker, or family member who could take them in? Even a groomer, daycare, or boarding facility may be able to help in your time of need with advance notice. But the most important thing you can do today is come up with two potential pet plans and talk directly with those people so they’re prepared in case they’re called to action.
3. Prepare a pet supply kit. It may not seem necessary today, but we promise it will be hugely helpful if you find yourself in an emergency situation without the ability to track down the proper supplies. Your kit should include the following, as best as you’re able:

• Name and contact information for the person who can care for your pets
• Name and contact information for your back-up in case your go-to is no longer able to help
• Food, treats, a leash, a couple of toys, and any other supplies necessary to care for your pet for at least two weeks
• A crate or carrier to transport your pet
• Vaccination records
• Collars with ID tags (and don’t forget to make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date)
• Medications and prescriptions, along with a list of instructions
• Daily care instructions
• Contact information for your veterinary clinic

With your whole family on board and a plan in place, you’ll feel a bit better about your pet’s safety knowing they’re in good hands no matter what challenges may arise. ❤

If you’re planning to visit us

In addition, we ask you not visit the facility if you:
• Travelled to an area where coronavirus is spreading within the past 14 days. This includes both international travel to Level 2 and 3 countries with widespread illness and domestic travel to states with more than 10 cases. The CDC updates this information daily.
• Had direct contact with anyone who has been confirmed to have COVID-19 or visited a high risk area within the past 14 days.
• Have a higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19, including older people and people of all ages with severe underlying health conditions.
• Feel sick, especially if you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing or any flu-like symptoms within the past 14 days.

We will continue to monitor the situation and encourage you to read some of the resources below.

CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

WHO: https://www.who.int/emergen…/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

We have some exciting news!

HSMC has partnered with Eastbay to open a mobile store fundraiser for the shelter! You can get your paws on HSMC Adopt gear and show your support wherever you go!

For our first ever store launch we decided to stick with the basics- hoodies and t-shirts. We are happy to offer adult and children’s sizes! The sweatshirts are Gildan brand and are true to size and unisex. T-shirts come in men, women’s and youth sizes and HSMC receives a proceeds back on each item sold.

The store will be open until February 7, 2020 so get your orders in before it’s too late. Once the store closes orders will be processed and shipped directly to your door. Items are expected to arrive at the beginning of March. We are hoping to open and close the store regularly throughout the year and offer a variety of products. If you do order an item, we would love your feedback on the item itself and the process!

You can do your part to help support homeless pets and look great while doing it, visit the store by clicking here and place your order today!

It really is the most wonderful time of the year. The snow is falling, the holiday music is playing and the decorations are up. What better time to share with you some ideas for the pet lover on your list?!

There are a number of gifts for the pet lover on your list that can be purchased at HSMC! HSMC adoption decals look great in any car window and can be yours to gift for a $15.00 donation! We also have a Donation Station that is constantly being replenished with must-haves for your furry family member- from leashes and collars to sweaters, booties and more! Items from the Donation Station can be yours for a donation of your choice but you better stop in soon because they go quick! Donations received from both go directly to supporting the operations and programs at HSMC.

You can also purchase a microchip for the pet lover on your list! Microchipping is an easy, cost-effective way to help your pet get home safely if they happen to get loose. Microchipping can be done for $10.00 plus tax during business hours at HSMC; come in today and purchase the gift of a microchip to help keep your loved ones furry friends safe this holiday season! Remember to keep your pet’s microchip information current and tags updated, especially during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Maybe the pet lover on your list already has everything they need- we still have options for you! You can sponsor the adoption fee for a pet currently waiting for a home in their honor! Adoption fees vary from $5-$250 and fees can be sponsored partially or in full. How great it would be to help find a home for a shelter pet AND warm the heart of someone you care about this holiday season?

Maybe you aren’t looking to shop or even spend money; you can give your time and your talents to the animals at HSMC. Sign up to be a volunteer when our program re-opens in January, stop out to visit the animals, share our Facebook posts, attend one of our events and tell the story of the animals and people you meet. Every little bit helps!

You may also choose to give a homeless pet a home this holiday season. Applications for adoption are available online or at the shelter and we have a number of furry friends hoping their holiday wishes will come true. Please know that HSMC does not do adoptions as gifts, as we do require each family member to be active in the adoption process. Gifting an animal can teach children that animals are material items and not a valued family member.

A visit to the shelter is sure to put you in the holiday spirit and will raise the spirits of those around you, too!