HELENA – The Lewis and Clark Humane Society (LCHS) are asking for community support after receiving thirty new animals on Thursday, August 23.
23 dogs and 9 cats have been voluntarily surrendered to the humane society from a home in the north valley of Helena.
According to the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Department, Animal Control received a call to check on the welfare of an animal.
Once on scene animal control and a sheriff deputy met with the homeowner who ultimately agreed to surrender a number of the animals on the property for the betterment of the animals.
“I appreciate the owner’s help in this that they’re willing to give up the animals to a better place,” said Sheriff Leo Dutton.
At this time the homeowner is cooperating with law enforcement which Dutton says is appreciated.
“Our goal is not to rush out there and charge people,” said Dutton, “It’s to get the animals healthy and get them to a safe place.”
Due to the number of animals and their condition, animal control then contacted LCHS for assistance in transporting and caring for the animals.
Dutton said he very grateful for the quick response from LCHS staff and asks the public to help them out if they are able.
“The Humane Society could use your help,” added Dutton, “If you have the ability to help them buy some food, they’ll need some vet care.”
With the newly added animals, the shelter is currently caring for 55 dogs and over 40 cats, as of Aug 24.
In order to accommodate the new animals, the shelter is holding greatly reduced adoptions fees for the dogs and cats currently available at LCHS. Some animals are also being made for adoption free of charge.
Potential adopters will still need to fill out an adoption application for any animal the wish to adopt.
Executive director Gina Wiest says the best thing people can do to help the surrendered animals is make a monetary contribution to the shelter.
The animals are in relatively good health but need veterinary treatment and staff estimate care for the animals will total over $10,000.
“That seems like a tremendous amount but that you know we’ll have to have a spay and neuter clinic with a veterinarian to come do that,” said Wiest, “We have to pay them, we have to do all the medical care and grooming. I mean, it adds up.”
Wiest said she is incredibly proud of her staff and how the tackled this new situation head on.
“Our staff seems to excel at crisis,” quipped Weist, “I’m so proud of them. They’re a good group.”
The Humane Society staff is currently assessing the condition of the animals and will update the public once they’re ready to discuss adoption opportunities.
People are also being encouraged to reach out about the foster animal programs the shelter offers for their cats and dogs.
For more information about programs, animals available for adoption and how to support LCHS visit here.
