Q:
What services does the Clark County Humane Society provide?
A: CCHS provides
many different services:
ADOPTIONS First and foremost,
we are dedicated to the adoptions of homeless animals to new loving families. Whether the animals are strays
that have lost their way or pets who are being surrendered to us, we are committed to caring for our animals to the best of
our abilities while we strive to find each and every one a new home. As part of our efforts to find these
new homes, we accept adoption applications from individuals interested in adopting a new pet. These applications
are then reviewed and the best home for each animal is chosen.
LOST
& FOUND CCHS maintains information on lost and found animals, with the hope of reuniting
animals with their family. Anyone who loses a pet or finds a pet is encouraged to contact the Shelter with
the information. A “Lost or Found Pet” form may be submitted on our website. These
forms are all reviewed for possible matches within our system.
STRAY HOLDING
When a stray is brought to CCHS, we will hold the animal for the minimum number of days as required by law, so that
a family looking for a lost pet will have the opportunity to reclaim it. Pictures of stray dogs that come to CCHS are posted on our Facebook page,
www.facebook.com/petshelter. Should a lost animal not
be claimed by its family, it will then become available for adoption.
MICROCHIPPING
All animals adopted from CCHS are microchipped. This wonderful new technology allows
for permanent identification for your pet and helps to guarantee their safe return home should they be lost. CCHS
also provides microchipping services to the public upon request. Please contact CCHS to schedule an appointment
should you wish to have your pet microchipped.
LOW-COST SPAY & NEUTER Spaying
or neutering your pet is critical both for the animal’s health and for controlling pet overpopulation. Unfortunately,
this has become extremely expensive over the past few years. CCHS is proud to have recently completed our
new surgical suite. Our FixaPet program is now available to the public, providing low-cost spay/neuter surgeries
for cats. The cost is $50 for a spay or a neuter. Dogs can be neutered for $60 or spayed for $80.
TOUR
& EDUCATION We are very proud of our work at CCHS, and we love to share the Shelter with
everyone! We are happy to provide tours during our open hours. If you should be part
of a larger group, such as a 4-H Club or school class, we do ask that you schedule a reservation in advance so that we may
arrange for a Tour Guide to be available for your group. Education services are also an important aspect
of our outreach program, and we are pleased to be part of special programs such as library summer programs. We are also
happy to provide presentations to civic groups and other organizations that which to learn more about our Shelter.
Q:
What area does the Clark County Humane Society serve?
A: A very
wide area! While our name says “Clark County Humane Society”, our services are not limited
to Clark County. Our animals are adopted near and far! While many of our
adoptions are to local families, we adopt animals throughout the State of Wisconsin and to several neighboring states, including
Minnesota, Illinois and Michigan. We have had adoptions to the Chicago area, Pennsylvania, Iowa, Florida and
even Massachusetts!
Animals coming in to CCHS do come primarily from Clark County, although we do also accept
surrendered animals from neighboring counties on a space available basis.
Q:
I’ve read that CCHS is a “no-kill” Shelter. What does that mean?
A:
“No kill” means that there is not a time limit on the animals that are entrusted to us. We
do not euthanize animals due to lack of space. The term "no-kill" has recently been updated to "adoption
guarantee". Basically that means that a pet coming into this Shelter will be guaranteed to find a home. Adoptable
animals will stay with us for as long as it takes to find their new home. We have had cases when the cat
or dog has stayed at CCHS for over a year! However, the right family always comes along. We
do not euthanize for the reasons traditional shelters commonly give, e.g. broken leg, pregnant, illness requiring long-term
care, etc. Being “no kill” does mean that we are limited on space and may not always be able to immediately
accept other animals waiting to come into the Shelter. We do maintain a waiting list for those animals
waiting to be surrendered.
Q: Do you ever euthanize any animals?
A: All animals coming in to CCHS are evaluated for their health status
and temperament. We will provide whatever medical care is needed to ensure the health and well-being of
our animals. Should any animal be so ill that it cannot be treated, we may choose to have that animal euthanized
to end its pain and suffering. In addition, should any animal be dangerous and a threat to the public and
our volunteers, that animal may be euthanized. We do not provide euthanization services at CCHS; all such
work is done in cooperation with a local veterinarian.
Q: Where are you located?
A: CCHS is located at W3926 State Hwy 73, Neillsville, Wisconsin.
To get to CCHS, take Highway 73/95 South from Neillsville. 3 1/2 miles south of Neillsville Hwy 73 makes a sharp turn to your left. Stay on 73; we
will be located 4 miles down the road on your left hand side. The sign is out in front and our name is on the building!
Q: Why are you located so far out of town?
A: Because we are so far out of town! Being 7 miles
out of town is a huge advantage for us. It eliminates any problems we may have had with the noise from
barking dogs. We are fortunate to have 4 acres of land, which allows us to have large tie-out areas and
large exercise pens for our dogs.
Q: How many animals do you have at CCHS?
A: Our capacity is 22 dogs and 44 cats, plus the rescue room can house
an additional 20 small breed dogs if needed. We have on rare occasions (such as a rescue) housed
more animals at CCHS, but that results in cramped conditions for the animals and stressed-out volunteers.
Q:
How are you funded?
A: CCHS is a privately
funded organization. As such, we rely on donations from our members and the community. We
are not county-funded, as we wish to be able to establish our own animal guidelines. We are also located
in a rural area with limited industrial and commercial opportunities, so individual supporters are critical to our on-going
success. We would not be here without each and every one of our members! We do many
fundraisers throughout the year, including our annual vaccination clinic, bake sale, and fall raffle. We also operate CC Resale
in downtown Neillsville.
Q: What does it take to be a member?
A: Annual membership in CCHS is just $20.00 a year. As
a member, you will receive quarterly mailings from CCHS, including three issues of our newsletter, “Great and Small”,
and our annual Holiday Appeal.
Q: How many volunteers do you have?
A:
We currently have a wonderful group of 38 volunteers. Most volunteers focus on either the cat or
the dog area, although we do have some who work in both areas. We are quite flexible with our scheduling.
Some volunteers choose to be at the Shelter several times a week, while others may come once per month.
Q:
I think I might like to volunteer. Do you need more help? How do I get started?
A: We are always looking for additional volunteers. If
you are interested, please submit a volunteer application on our website or contact us at the Shelter. We
will then schedule the appropriate training sessions for you. Please come join our team!
Q:
What medical care do your animals receive?
A: Each
animal coming in to CCHS is evaluated for any medical needs. Should there be any urgent situations, they
are addressed immediately. A healthy animal is weighed and vaccinated (rabies, distemper, upper respiratory,
dogs for Bordetella and cats for Leukemia) as soon as it comes in. We do a blood test for every cat or dog
too to ensure that only healthy animals are being adopted as pets. We also begin a standard protocol for
deworming. Every animal adopted from CCHS is microchipped. Every animal, age permitting, is
spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Each animal is monitored by staff and volunteers while at CCHS so that we are
aware of any other conditions. For example, should a cat exhibit symptoms of an upper respiratory infection,
it will be quarantined and begin treatment in our isolation room right away.
Q: I
read about Shotgun, the cat with severe injuries. What do you do when a very sick or injured animal comes
in?
A: Each case is unique. In the
case of Shotgun, his injuries were extremely severe and life threatening. In such a situation, we immediately
transport the animal to our veterinarian. We are very fortunate to have a great working relationship with
several vets in our area, including Dr. Jean Liljegren at Grassland Vet Services, as well as Drs. Kubica & Thorne at Castlerock
Veterinary Clinic. We will see to it that the injured animal receives whatever veterinary care is needed
to give it a fighting chance. Not every animal in this situation survives. Nevertheless,
we are committed to doing all we can. Such decisions are never made based on the financial implications.
We do not limit the care provided to our animals because it is expensive. We believe that we are
doing what is right, and that our supporters will help us to raise the funds necessary. We will appeal
to our community for financial assistance. Should we receive donations exceeding the current medical bills,
any excess funds will be placed in an Emergency Medical Fund to help animals such as Shotgun in the future.
Q:
What are your adoption fees?
A: Our regular adoption
fees are $30.00 for a cat and $60.00 for a dog. The adoption fees are the same regardless of whether or
not an animal is spayed or neutered. There may be exceptions to these fees for highly desirable animals,
such as purebred cats or dogs, or small breed dogs such as Lhasa Apsos or Chihuahuas and oftentimes for puppies too.
A higher fee on such highly adoptable animals helps us to provide extra care for those animals that are less in demand.
Q:
How do I adopt an animal from CCHS?
A: Great
question! There are several ways to begin the adoption process. You may visit the Shelter
to meet our available animals in person. We encourage potential adopters to spend as much time with the
animals as they wish. This enables you to get to know the animal better, as well as discuss your decision
with your family. When you have decided which animal you are interested in, you will need to complete an
adoption application. Our application includes questions regarding the home you will be providing, as well
as information on your other pets. All of this information is used by our Adoption Staff to ensure that
the animal you are interested in is the best match for both of you. This application may be completed while
you are at the Shelter. Applications are reviewed upon submission. A same-day adoption
may take place depending on the application, but it cannot be guaranteed. You may also view adoptable animals
on our website, www.cchs-petshelter.org. You can see pictures and read descriptions of the animals.
You may also submit your application online. This is a very nice option, as it allows you to complete
your application in the comfort of your own home with no time limitations. Your application
will then be reviewed. If your application is chosen for that particular animal, you will be contacted
and an appointment will be scheduled for you to meet the animal. Even though you have applied for a particular
animal and been approved for adoption, the decision still depends upon your meeting the animal. It has
to be a great match, and you cannot know that until you meet the animal. Should you still feel that it
is a perfect fit after meeting the animal, you will need to sign an adoption contract. Medical information
regarding the animal will be provided to you, along with an adoption folder with some great information. Adopted
cats must leave in a carrier, and dogs must leave with a collar and leash. All are available for sale at
reasonable prices in our “Paws ‘n Claws” store at our Shelter.
Q:
Can you help with an animal that is being neglected or abused?
A:
Unfortunately, we hear about way too many cases of animal abuse or neglect. CCHS does not have the
authority to intervene in such situations. You will need to report the case to your local authorities.
If outside city or village limits, please contact your local sheriff's department. If inside city or village
limits, please contact the city police or village constable. It is important that you report all details that you
are aware of regarding the case, including the location and what you have witnessed. Anonymous reports
can be made by calling the Tipster Line at 1-888-847-2576. The authorities will need to investigate the
situation and take the appropriate action. Unfortunately, if shelter, food and water have been provided,
there is little the authorities can do, even though we perceive the care as inappropriate or inadequate.
Q:
I’ve found a stray kitten. What do I do?
A:
The care needed for the kitten will depend on the age of the kitten. The first thing is to make
sure the kitten is safe and protected. Many times kittens will need very special care if they are unable
to eat on their own. You may need to provide special food and bottle-feed them. We recommend
the use of KMR (Kitten Milk Replacement), available at Fleet Farm and veterinarians. Feeding amounts are
listed on the cans. If the kitten is able to eat on its own, provide Kitten Chow and fresh water.
DO NOT GIVE MILK OR CANNED TUNA!!!! Although it is common to think those are the best foods for
kitties, they may actually result in severe diarrhea. Contact the Shelter as soon as possible to report
the stray. They will advise if and when you should bring it to the Shelter. Please do not just show
up at the Shelter with the kitten without first calling to make arrangements.
Q: I’ve
found a stray dog. What do I do?
A: Contact
CCHS right away! You may call during our open hours or you may submit a “Found Dog” form on
our website. Please provide as much detail about the dog as you can. Several municipalities
and townships have arrangements with CCHS to bring stray dogs to us. We will be able to advise you on your
next step when you contact us. Please do not just show up at the Shelter with the dog without first calling to make
arrangements.
Q: My dog is missing! What do I do?
A:
Contact CCHS right away! You may call during our open hours or, even better, you may submit
a “Lost Dog” form on our website at any time. Please provide as much detail about the dog as
you can, including a picture if you have one available. We will check to see if we have a match, and will
keep your information on file if we don’t.
Q: I cannot keep my pet anymore. Can
you take it? What do I do?
A: Please
contact CCHS during our open hours. We will ask you for information regarding your pet, including the type
and age, if spayed or neutered, if current on vaccinations, and why you need to surrender the pet. The
more information you can provide the better. We will be able to advise you on your next step when you contact
us. Please keep in mind that as a “No Kill” Shelter we do not always have space available immediately.
If you know you will be moving and cannot take your pet, contact us as soon as possible to be placed on our waiting
list. Do not wait until the day you are moving to call us!
Q: Wisconsin
State Law requires that my dog be licensed. Where do I get a license?
A:
Contact your city or township treasurer to obtain a dog license. You will be required to provide
proof of rabies vaccination and pay a small fee. They will also be able to assist with cat licensing, if
needed.
Q: I hear a lot about Puppy Mills. What are they and
why are they so bad?
A: “Puppy Mill” is a term used for breeders
who breed dogs only for making a profit. They specialize in small “designer” dogs, such
as cockapoos or puggles. They usually have a wide variety of dogs available at high prices.
The dogs are not kept in good conditions. Very often they are kept in small cages, living in their
own filth. Their only purpose is to breed puppies for a profit. Their quality of life
is deplorable, and adult dogs are discarded when they can no longer produce enough puppies. You
may go to visit a “breeder” without knowing that it is a puppy mill until you get there. You
may find out that you are not able to see the parents of the puppy you are interested in, and you may not be allowed to see
where the animals are living. They may bring out one puppy for you to look at. They
cannot provide vaccination/medical records, and are not willing to guarantee the health of the puppy. They
cannot provide papers for “purebred” animals. If you start to ask for more information and
ask questions about the puppy, they are unable to provide the answers you need. This may very well be a
puppy mill. There are more and more of them in rural areas of central Wisconsin all the time.
While you may think that buying a puppy from a puppy mill is “rescuing” it from a horrible life, all you
are actually doing is lining the pocket of the puppy mill owner, and making it possible for him to continue to do his despicable
business and maybe expand it. It is also important to know that many puppy mills sell their ‘crop’
of puppies to pet stores. You may have no idea what you are getting into when you buy that designer puppy.
We feel that it is very important that you deal only with reputable breeders who are breeding dogs for the right reasons.
There are good breeders out there. Raising sound, healthy, well-socialized puppies is difficult
work with some very specific demands. Quality breeders care about the animals they produce, and most say that if someone is
making money breeding puppies, that person is doing something wrong. It is critical that you do your research
before you buy that puppy! For more information on puppy mills, please visit www.nowisconsinpuppymills.com. And please consider adopting a Shelter dog instead
of buying that designer dog. Our dogs have tons of love to give and are just waiting for the right family
to come along!
Q: Puppy Mills sound horrible!
What can be done to stop them?
A: Wisconsin
has passed Act 90, the Commercial Dog Breeders Licensure Law. Act 90 allows for licensing and inspection of facilities
that sell more that 25 dogs/puppies in a year. The law became effective in June, 2011, so it will take time for all
of the licensing and inspections to take place. But it's the first step to ending puppy mills in Wisconsin!
The law also applies to humane societies, and CCHS is proud to say that we passed our inspection with flying colors and now
hold License #268235-DS.
