As part of a summer campaign, the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri has achieved their goal of finding homes over 500 animals in less than four months.
The shelter kicked off their “Save Them Summer” campaign on May 1. It was intended to last through August 31, that is, until they reached 512 animals adopted by August 20.
Development director Jennifer Sokolowski says the campaign was inspired by their drive to become a no-kill facility.
“We were looking at different avenues to do so, and decided that we had to bring the community in and help educate them,” said Sokolowski. “Because we couldn’t do this alone.”
Over the course of the summer, the shelter took in over 1,800 animals. With the help of other area rescues, the Humane Society was able to manage the overflow.
A variety of pets found their way through the facility’s doors since May.
“We had mainly dogs and cats, we had guinea pigs, we’ve actually had a few chickens come into the shelter this summer, a hamster, and a rabbit,” said Sokolowski.
They are currently above a 90% survival rate, and their dog population is officially at “no-kill” status. But according to Sokolowski, saving lives doesn’t stop there.
“We take in over 3000 animals in a year, and so we need the community’s support by coming out to donate, adopt, and volunteer for us,” says Sokolowski.
The shelter intends to pick up a similar campaign next year with an increased goal.
