Blue Mountain Humane Society

In 2023, the Blue Mountain Humane Society achieved significant milestones in animal welfare and community support:1. Intake and adoption: - dogs: bmhs took in 754 dogs, including 347 strays, 103 surrenders, 280 seized, and 24 other cases (transfers, returns, etc.). A total of 407 dogs were adopted, consisting of 83 puppies, 300 adult dogs, and 24 senior dogs (over 6 years old). - cats: the shelter received 634 cats, including 344 strays, 218 surrenders, and 72 other cases. Bmhs facilitated the adoption of 537 cats, which included 318 kittens, 217 adult cats, and 2 senior cats.2. Volunteer contributions: - a total of 256 volunteers contributed 7,408 hours, valued at $258,331. Volunteers played critical roles across various shelter departments, supporting operations, events, and direct animal care.3. Veterinary services: - bmhs performed 1,104 surgeries on dogs and 1,740 surgeries on cats. The shelter also provided affordable vaccination and spay/neuter services to low-income community members. The transition of the medical director role from dr. kenneth norris to dr. ashley rice ensured continued excellence in veterinary care.4. Public spay & neuter services: - the shelter conducted 895 low-income spay/neuter surgeries, promoting responsible pet ownership and reducing pet overpopulation.5. Trap-neuter-return (tnr) program: - bmhs's tnr program performed 282 surgeries, helping to manage the feral cat population and improve their quality of life.6. Foster care program: - the foster care program placed 197 animals in temporary homes, providing essential socialization and care that facilitated successful adoptions.7. Community and inmate programs: - the partnership with Washington state penitentiary allowed 43 dogs to participate in an eight-week training program, enhancing their adoptability and providing therapeutic benefits to inmates. Despite challenges such as full kennels and a decline in donations, bmhs continued to fulfill its mission, providing a safe haven and essential services to animals in need. The dedication of staff, volunteers, and the community was instrumental in these accomplishments, ensuring brighter futures for the pets of the walla walla valley.