Hancock County Humane Society Happenings

The Start of Another Busy Year

2012-01-14T14:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! 2011 was a very productive year at our shelter, thanks to our great volunteers and supporters. A lot was accomplished to benefit the pets and pet owners in our area. Take a look at our year-end newsletter, at http://members.petfinder.com/~IN34/2011_Newsletter.pdf to see some of the many things that happened in 2011. A big thank you to everyone who made all this possible!

Come in and see our newest residents... a litter of polydactyl (extra-toed) cats, sometimes known as Hemingway cats. Some of them are bobtails, too!

Sponsor a Shelter Pet for the Holidays!

2011-12-19T10:53:00.000-08:00

Need a last-minute gift idea? Or trying to decide how to help others in the spirit of the holidays?

Consider sponsoring one of the pets at our shelter. It's easy to do online. Just click on any of the pets on our Adoptable Pet List at http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelter_id=IN34 , then click the button that says "Sponsor Me for the Holidays." You'll get a receipt from the Petfinder.com Foundation for your taxes, and the funds will be donated directly to our shelter. You can donate in honor or in memory of someone, or even donate anonymously.

Sponsorship is available year-round, and it's a great way to help our pets even if adopting isn't an option for you. Thanks in advance for your support of our shelter!

Eden Elementary YMCA After School Program Supports the HCHS

2011-12-12T03:21:00.000-08:00

The Eden Elementary YMCA After School program (which includes grades k-3) raised money for our shelter collecting aluminum cans. They collected the cans, took them to be recycled and donated the money to the Hancock County Humane Society. Volunteers from the HCHS gave a brief presentation to the group when they accepted the check. The kids also decorated for our shelter, and you can check out their artwork during our open hours. Thanks for your support, and we had fun visiting!

Holiday greetings from the shelter kitties

2011-12-06T19:08:00.000-08:00

This is Arianna... she and her brother Axel are looking for a special home together.

They and all the pets at our shelter spent some time last weekend getting dressed up for the holidays! See more pictures soon on our website or on our Facebook page.

And please consider a donation to our shelter... that would make a really sweet gift for someone on your list!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-20T19:15:00.000-08:00

Our shelter will be closed for visitors on Thursday, November 24, 2011 to observe Thanksgiving Day. At this time of year, we'd like to express our gratitude to our volunteers and to the others who support our shelter in so many ways. Our shelter pets are thankful for you! Please come see us when our regular hours resume on Saturday, November 26.

Riley Festival 2011!

2011-10-02T06:58:00.000-07:00

Our shelter will be closed for visiting this week (Thursday Oct. 6 and Saturday Oct. 8) due to the Riley Festival in downtown Greenfield. BUT... please stop by and visit our Festival booth, right in front of our shelter on Main Street, Thursday through Sunday October 6th-9th. We'll have your favorite cat and dog treats and toys available for sale, as well as some other great pet-related items. All proceeds benefit our shelter. Hope to see you there!!!

A Fresh Look for Our Adoption Suite!

2011-08-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

Our adoption suite is getting some cheerful new updates, including some great wall murals! Thanks to Lindsey Wright for donating her time and talent. Come in and see how things are progressing, and visit our adoptable pets!

Mozzi's Pizza Fundraiser - August 15th

2011-07-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

Join us at Mozzi's Pizza, 2221 W. Main Street in Greenfield, for a pizza buffet from 5-8 pm on Monday, August 15th. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Hancock County Humane Society. Have a great dinner and help our shelter!

Weekday volunteer help needed!

2011-07-11T03:11:00.000-07:00

Our shelter is in need of adult volunteers who are available to help on a weekday. Every day, whether we are open for visitors or not, the kitten cages and adult cat litter boxes need to be cleaned, and pets need to be given food and water. If you are an adult who loves animals, and are sometimes available during the week, we could use your help! The time of day can be fairly flexible once a volunteer is trained. Some volunteers come in on a certain day every week; we can also schedule you one or two days a month. If you'd like to help our pets in this way, please call or email our shelter, and pass the information along if you know someone else who might be interested as well. Thanks!

June is Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month!

2011-06-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

Hancock County Humane Society is celebrating the national Adopt-A-Shelter Cat Month this June. It’s an ideal time to adopt a feline, since the spring and summer months typically bring a surge of kittens and cats to the nation’s shelters. Whether you’re looking for a fun, frisky kitten or a mellow, mature cat, you’ll find the perfect feline at our shelter. We have cats of all breeds, ages and personalities, and they’re all looking for loving, permanent homes. And during June, the Hancock County Humane Society will be offering reduced adoption fees! Call or email our shelter for details.

Hancock County Humane Society offers a Offer Top 10 Checklist for Cat Parents and Parents-To-Be:

1. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two. Cats require exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction. Two cats can provide this for each other. Plus they’ll provide more benefits to you. Cats’ purring has been shown to soothe humans as well as themselves – and they have an uncanny ability to just make you smile.
2. Find a cat whose personality meshes with yours. Just as we each have our own personality, so do cats. Shelters and rescue groups have all kinds of cats – from playful kittens to mellow seniors – making them great places to find your perfect match.
3. Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption. You’ll want to take any medical records you received from the adoption center on your first visit. Regular veterinary care is critically important to the health and well-being of your cat and your veterinarian will work with you to develop a plan to help your new pet live the happiest, healthiest, longest life possible.
4. Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before your new pet comes home. Visiting the shelter should be a family affair. When adopting a new cat with existing pets at home, discuss with the shelter staff how to make a proper introduction.
5. Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat. Understand any pet is a responsibility and there’s a cost associated with that. A cat adopted from a shelter is a bargain; many facilities will have already provided spaying or neutering, initial vaccines, and a microchip for permanent identification.
6. Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives. Be prepared so your new cat can start feeling at home right away. Your cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers.
7. Cat-proof your home. A new cat will quickly teach you not to leave things lying out. Get rid of loose items your cat might chew on, watch to ensure the kitten isn’t chewing on electric cords, and pick up random items like paper clips (which kittens may swallow).
8. Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family. It can take several weeks for a cat to relax in a new environment. It’s a great idea to keep the new addition secluded in a single room (with a litter box, food and water, toys and the cat carrier left out and open with bedding inside) until the cat is used to the new surroundings; this is particularly important if you have other pets.
9. Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan. Add phone numbers for your veterinarian and closest 24-hour animal hospital to your “in-case-of-emergency” call list, and be sure to have a several-day supply of your pet’s food and medications on hand.
10. If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process. Though well-meaning, the surprise kitty gift doesn’t allow for a “get-to know-one-another” period. Remember, adopting a cat isn’t like purchasing a household appliance or a piece of jewelry – this is a real living, breathing, and emotional being.

Paper Recycling

2011-06-06T04:35:00.000-07:00

Have you brought newspapers or other paper recycling to our shelter, only to find that the green and yellow paper bin is no longer there? We have had to temporarily suspend our paper recycling program, due to issues with our parking lot that require the bin to be moved elsewhere. We are currently looking for a location to re-locate the paper bin. If you know of a local business or facility that might be willing to host it for us, please contact our shelter. Our aluminum can recycling continues, and we hope to have the paper recycling program reinstated soon. Thank you for your support!

Low-Cost Vaccination Clinics

2011-06-06T04:29:00.000-07:00

Our annual low-cost vaccination clinics for dogs and cats are taking place, with dates through September. Local veterinarians are administering the clinics at various locations in Hancock County. See our website (link at right) for dates, locations, and prices. No appointment is necessary, but your pet must be on a leash or in a carrier. Now is a great time to make sure your pets are vaccinated!

Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny!

2011-04-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

The Easter Bunny is coming to town! On Saturday, April 9th, from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm, you can have your pet's photo taken with the Easter Bunny.

The Nutty Mutt will host Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny and Easter Egg Hunt. The Nutty Mutt is located at located at 1506½ N. State St., Greenfield, IN. All proceeds will benefit local animal shelters and rescue groups including the Hancock County Humane Society.

Cost is $5 for a 4x6 professional photograph. No reservations are required. All pets are welcome but must be on a leash or in a carrier. Thanks to our sponsors for the event: Nutty Mutt, Walgreens and Precise Pet Foods. Please contact the Nutty Mutt for additional information at 317-468-0448, or click here for a flyer.

Spay/Neuter Your Pet Now!

2011-02-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

February is a great time to spay or neuter your pet. The heat season will start soon for many animals, and by doing this now, you will be doing your part to reduce the number of unwanted animals looking for homes. Plus, special deals are available in February - click here for information now! But do it soon... appointments fill up rapidly. Or see the Spay/Neuter Information section of our website for year-round information.

Holiday Greetings!

2010-12-05T15:31:00.000-08:00

Holidays can be a lot of fun for you and your pets... but it can be a stressful time too, and there can be new hazards around your home. Be aware of what your pets can "get into", and be extra vigilant for their safety so everyone can have a very happy holiday season!

For more holiday fun, check out our website and see more special pictures of our pets during the month of December!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T14:09:00.001-08:00

Wishing you a restful Thanksgiving holiday, from our adoptable pets at the shelter! And to all of our volunteers and supporters... we are thankful for YOU!

Riley Days!

2010-09-08T18:21:00.000-07:00

If you're visiting the Riley Festival in Greenfield, October 7-10, be sure to stop by our booth! It's on U.S. 40, right in front of our shelter at 214 E. Main St. We'll have pet items and homemade dog treats for sale, and much more!

And check out our new expanded website (link at right)!

Pet Tips for a Safe July 4th Holiday

2010-07-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is a time for celebration but it can also be very stressful for pets. Every year we receive dozens of calls about pets lost during this holiday. Fourth of July can be a frightening time for our animals, and the loud sounds of firecrackers and fireworks can cause pets to flee looking for security or shelter. To keep your pets safe and healthy on the July 4th holiday and all summer long, the Hancock County Humane Society recommends keeping the following tips in mind:

 Make sure your pet wears a collar with an identification tag at all times, even if he only lives indoors. The ID tag should include your current address and phone number, so you easily can be contacted should your missing pet be found. Have your pet microchipped in case his collar or tag becomes lost.
 Keep your pet indoors in a cool, quiet room. Close all the windows and curtains to muddle the sounds of the fireworks. Turn on the TV or radio for them.
 Do not leave your pets in your backyard or outside during fireworks displays that are audible or visible from where you live. Do not leave them outside unattended if they are within hearing range of fireworks.
 Leave your pet at home during firework displays. Animals have a heightened sense of hearing so the loud “booming” noise can be deafening causing your pet to panic and want to hide.
 Never leave your pet unattended in a car during firework displays. He can become extremely frightened, overheated, agitated and/or destructive and even find a way to escape from the vehicle.
 If your dog or cat still experiences severe anxiety, consult your veterinarian about prescribing a mild sedative to ease your pet’s stress. Consider boarding your pet if you will be out of town.
 Never use fireworks around pets. Do not leave matches or candles around them either. Your pet could easily knock them over and start a fire.
 Take any lost animal to a local animal shelter right away, so you can help reunite owners with missing pets.
 Clean up firework debris before letting your pet outside. If your pet eats the debris, it may cause digestive problems or serious injuries.

Volunteer Open House - July 17th

2010-06-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what you could do to help the shelter pets at the Hancock County Humane Society? We need volunteers to help with all aspects of caring for animals and running our shelter. We are having a Volunteer Open House on Saturday, July 17th, at the Humane Society (214 E. Main Street, Greenfield) from 10am-3pm. There will be face painting, a dog wash, door prizes, and an opportunity to get more information about volunteering while you're having fun! If you'd like more details, please call 462-5404 or email hancohumane@yahoo.com . Or just drop by, and bring a friend!

Best Buy Car Show - July 24th

2010-06-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

Love cars? Have a car, truck, or motorcycle people would like to see? The first annual Best Buy Car Show is being held at the Eastside Best Buy (9977 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis) from 11am-2pm on July 24th. Proceeds will benefit the Hancock County Humane Society. Free hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be provided for anyone enjoying the show, and raffles will be held every 15 minutes for participants to win Best Buy gift cards! Trophies will be given for best car, best truck, best motorcycle, best import, best audio system, and Participants' Choice. Pre-register (before July 1st) for $10 and get a free T-shirt! Registration on show day is $15, from 8-11am. Pick up an entry form at the Washington Street Best Buy, at Hancock County Humane Society, or email HCHS at hancohumane@yahoo.com. Questions? Call Roy or Amanda at 317/897-3941. See you there!

Some Great Tips for Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month

2010-06-06T16:51:00.000-07:00

June is Adopt-A-Cat Month!

2010-06-02T06:50:00.000-07:00

The month of June has been Congressionally recognized as Adopt-A-Cat Month! For more information, visit http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/special-events/adopt-a-cat-month/aacm-congressional-record.html . Come visit our great adoptable cats and kittens... our pet list can be viewed at our homepage (link to the right).

Vaccination time!

2010-05-01T16:23:00.000-07:00

We're offering our low-cost vaccination clinics for dogs and cats in May, June, and July! See our homepage (link at right) for dates, times, and costs!

And it's kitten season... we've got lots of cute ones! Come in and see them!

Your old cell phone can help!

2010-04-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

Got an old cell phone you no longer need? Donating it to our shelter for recycling will help us raise funds. (No accessories or chargers, please.) Bring your old phone to our shelter (see our homepage link to the right for our address, a map link, and open hours), and say hi to our volunteers and pets!

Spring Fever!

2010-03-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

Spring is here, and everyone is ready for fun! Come on in and visit!

Finding a Great Pet

2010-02-28T14:18:00.000-08:00

Kitten season won't be here for awhile yet, but this month several families have discovered loving pets for their home among our young adult residents. Older kittens and adult cats have plenty of love to give. Come on in and see them!

Spay or Neuter Your Pet Now

2010-01-16T16:01:00.000-08:00

Now is a great time to have your pet spayed or neutered. Don't wait until the weather starts to get warmer and the heat season for pets begins... by that time you could be responsible for an unwanted litter of puppies or kittens. If you need information about spay/neuter availability in our area, contact your local veterinarian (our shelter has a list of vets in our area). Or for more information, check out Spay Neuter Services of Indiana for some low-cost programs. Our shelter pets thank you!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T12:27:00.000-08:00

On behalf of all the pets at our shelter, we'd like to say how thankful we are for the great volunteers who give so much of their time to care for us while we're looking for our permanent homes. And on behalf of the pets who've been adopted from our shelter and others, thank you to the people who have made a shelter pet part of their own families, and to those who support our shelter in so many ways.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Welcome to our new Blog!

2009-10-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the blog site for the Hancock County Humane Society, in Greenfield, Indiana! On this site we'll post informal photos of our pets, keep you up to date on their activities and on the activities of our shelter and volunteers, and discuss current topics of interest to animal lovers and our shelter supporters. We welcome any suggestions, comments, or questions... and thanks for your support!