Humane Society of Huron Valley Seeking Donations During the Holidays

What happens to a stray or unwanted animal in Plymouth and Canton? 

According to Deb Kern, marketing director for the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV), not many people know the answer to that question. But HSHV contracts with both Plymouth and Canton to provide animal care to the communities, even though they are in Wayne County and the shelter is located in Washtenaw County. 

"People do not realize that all humane societies are independent and have service areas," Kern said. "It’s so important that people do their homework when they are giving donations to any non-profit... too many people in Plymouth and Canton, and even here in Washtenaw County, give to Michigan Humane Society (MSH) because they think that they help their animals. MHS fundraises by mail, newspaper, billboards and TV and misleads people into believing they are a State-wide organization. We need to let our community know who is really caring for and saving the lives of animals."

According to Kern, HSHV has an 86 percent save rate so far in 2013, while MHS, which service areas include Wayne and Oakland Counties, has a 34 percent save rate.

In addition, the average cost of caring for an animal at HSHV is $302, far more than the adoption fees charged by the shelter. 

"As we expand our services and programs in hopes of saving even more animals it takes more money to do so," Kern said. "Every December we have to raise close to 50 percent of our operating costs. It’s always difficult and especially when donation are not directed to the organization that save the animals in that community." 

• Make a one-time gift
• Setup a monthly donation
• Sponsor a cage
• Purchase a brick paver
• Join the leadership giving club
• Donate HSHV WishList Items

Stay informed and check out the Michigan Pet Fund Alliance website at www.michiganpetfund.org/save-rate-reports-awards/2012-save-rate-report-and-awards.

For more information about HSHV, visit www.hshv.org.