Coconino Humane Association: A Comprehensive Guide to Animal Welfare in Coconino County

Coconino Humane Association (CHA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing shelter, care, and adoption services for homeless animals in Coconino County, Arizona. Established in 1985, CHA has been a vital resource for the community, helping thousands of animals find loving homes.

Mission Statement

CHA's mission is to "promote and provide for the welfare of animals through shelter, adoption, education, and community outreach."

Services Provided by CHA

1. Animal Shelter

CHA operates a state-of-the-art animal shelter that houses approximately 5,000 animals each year. The shelter provides:

• Safe and comfortable housing for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small animals
• Medical care, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and treatment for illnesses and injuries
• Behavioral training to help animals adjust to their new homes

2. Animal Adoption

CHA is a leader in animal adoption, helping hundreds of animals find permanent homes each year. The adoption process includes:

• Screening and matching of animals with potential adopters
• Counseling and advice to ensure a successful transition
• Follow-up support to monitor the animal's well-being

3. Education and Outreach

CHA offers a wide range of educational and outreach programs, including:

• Community outreach events at schools, libraries, and community centers
• School programs that teach children about responsible pet ownership
• Volunteer opportunities for community members to support CHA's mission

Impact of CHA on the Community

CHA has a profound impact on the welfare of animals and the community of Coconino County. According to Coconino County Animal Control, the number of animals euthanized in the county has decreased by 70% since CHA began operating in 1985. CHA has also contributed to:

• Increased pet adoption rates: CHA places over 95% of the animals in its care in loving homes.
• Reduced animal cruelty and neglect: CHA investigates animal cruelty cases and provides resources to pet owners in need.
• Promoted responsible pet ownership: CHA's educational programs empower community members to be informed and responsible pet owners.

Stories of Success

1. Hope's Journey

Hope was a stray dog who arrived at CHA's shelter in poor condition. She was thin, matted, and had a severe ear infection. CHA provided her with medical care, nutrition, and behavioral training. After several weeks of rehabilitation, Hope was adopted by a loving family. She now enjoys a happy and healthy life as a beloved family pet.

2. Chloe's Second Chance

Chloe was a young cat who had been surrendered to CHA after her owner could no longer care for her. She was shy and fearful, but with patience and kindness, the CHA staff helped Chloe to come out of her shell. She was eventually adopted by a family who adored her sweet and playful personality.

3. Max's Miracle

Max was a 10-year-old dog who had been hit by a car and left for dead. CHA's medical team performed emergency surgery and provided Max with round-the-clock care. Against all odds, Max survived his injuries and went on to live a happy and active life. His story is a testament to the dedication and skill of CHA's staff.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Interacting with CHA

• Do not bring animals to the shelter without an appointment. CHA has specific protocols for animal intake, and bringing an animal without an appointment can delay or prevent their care.
• Do not bring aggressive or sick animals to the shelter. Aggressive or sick animals pose a risk to staff and other animals. If you have an aggressive or sick animal, please contact Coconino County Animal Control.
• Do not donate items that are not on CHA's wish list. CHA has limited storage space, and donating items that are not on their wish list creates clutter and takes away from their ability to help animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are CHA's adoption fees?

Adoption fees vary depending on the animal's age, species, and medical condition. Please contact CHA for specific fee information.

2. How can I volunteer with CHA?

CHA welcomes volunteers of all ages and skill levels. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, please visit their website or call (928) 774-1263.

3. How can I donate to CHA?

There are many ways to donate to CHA, including online donations, mail-in donations, and in-person donations at the shelter. CHA also accepts donations of supplies, such as animal food, litter, and toys.

4. What is CHA's euthanasia policy?

CHA does not euthanize animals for space or time constraints. However, they may euthanize animals that are terminally ill, severely injured, or have aggressive behavior that cannot be safely rehabilitated.

5. How can I report animal cruelty or neglect?

To report animal cruelty or neglect in Coconino County, please contact Coconino County Animal Control at (928) 774-1237 or visit their website at www.coconino.az.gov/240/Animal-Control.

6. What are CHA's hours of operation?

CHA's shelter is open to the public Tuesday - Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. The administrative office is open Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Call to Action

Coconino Humane Association relies on the support of the community to continue its vital work of providing care and shelter for homeless animals. Please consider donating, volunteering, or adopting an animal from CHA today. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of animals and the community of Coconino County.

Tables

Table 1: Animal Shelter Statistics
| Year | Animals Sheltered | Animals Adopted | Euthanasia Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 | 2,500 | 1,000 | 25% |
| 2000 | 4,000 | 2,500 | 10% |
| 2023 | 5,000 | 4,750 | 5% |

Table 2: Adoption Fees
| Animal Type | Adoption Fee |
|---|---|
| Dogs | $150 - $300 |
| Cats | $100 - $250 |
| Puppies | $300 - $500 |
| Kittens | $200 - $350 |

Table 3: Volunteer Opportunities
| Department | Description |
|---|---|
| Animal Care | Cleaning cages, feeding animals, providing enrichment activities |
| Adoption Counseling | Assisting potential adopters with finding the right pet |
| Fundraising | Planning and executing fundraising events |
| Education and Outreach | Speaking at community events, teaching school programs |
| Administrative Support | Data entry, phone answering, general office tasks |