A Comprehensive Guide to the Lehigh County Humane Society: Rescuing Abandoned Animals in Need

Introduction

The Lehigh County Humane Society (LCHS) is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to providing compassionate care and protection for homeless and abandoned animals in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. With a long-standing history of serving the community, LCHS has made significant contributions to animal welfare, fostering a humane environment for both animals and the people who love them.

Mission and Values

• Mission Statement: The mission of the Lehigh County Humane Society is to protect and provide care for homeless, neglected, and abused animals; to promote responsible pet ownership; and to strengthen the human-animal bond.
• Values:
• Compassion: Treating animals with empathy and understanding
• Responsibility: Promoting responsible pet ownership and preventing animal cruelty
• Advocacy: Speaking out for animal welfare and influencing public policy
• Cooperation: Collaborating with other organizations to enhance animal well-being
• Integrity: Maintaining transparency, honesty, and accountability

Services Provided by LCHS

LCHS offers a wide range of essential services to meet the needs of animals in the community:

• Animal Rescue and Intake: LCHS operates a 24-hour animal rescue service, responding to calls about stray, abandoned, or injured animals. Animals are brought to the shelter for assessment, veterinary care, and placement in adoption programs.
• Adoption Services: LCHS provides adoption services for dogs, cats, and other companion animals. Potential adopters undergo a thorough screening process to ensure that animals are placed in safe and loving homes.
• Veterinary Care: LCHS's in-house veterinary clinic offers comprehensive medical services, including vaccinations, spaying and neutering, dental care, and emergency treatment.
• Behavioral Counseling: LCHS provides behavioral counseling to help animals and their owners address behavioral challenges, such as aggression, anxiety, and housetraining issues.
• Community Programs: LCHS conducts various community programs, including pet obedience classes, animal-assisted therapy, and educational programs to promote responsible pet ownership.

Statistics and Impact

• According to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy (NCPPSP), approximately 6.5 million cats and dogs enter U.S. animal shelters annually.
• LCHS has rescued over 50,000 animals since its inception in 1906.
• In 2021, LCHS placed over 1,000 animals in loving homes.
• LCHS's adoption rate is consistently above the national average.

Effective Strategies for Supporting LCHS

• Adopt a Pet: LCHS encourages adoption as the most effective way to give a homeless animal a second chance at happiness.
• Volunteer Your Time: LCHS relies heavily on volunteers to assist with shelter operations, animal care, and community programs.
• Donate to LCHS: LCHS accepts monetary donations, in-kind donations (such as food and supplies), and planned gifts to support its programs and services.
• Spread the Word: Share LCHS's story on social media, recommend their adoption services to friends and family, and support their fundraising events.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving Animals Outside: Never leave animals unattended outside, especially during extreme weather conditions.
• Not Spaying or Neutering: Spaying and neutering prevents unwanted litters and reduces pet overpopulation.
• Ignoring Warning Signs of Distress: If your pet is showing signs of stress or aggression, seek professional help immediately.
• Surrendering Pets Without Considering Other Options: Explore other options, such as rehoming your pet through friends or family, before surrendering it to a shelter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I adopt a pet from LCHS? Visit LCHS's website or call their adoption center to view available animals and schedule an appointment.
2. Does LCHS offer low-cost spay/neuter services? Yes, LCHS offers discounted spay and neuter surgeries for qualifying pets.
3. How can I volunteer my time at LCHS? Visit LCHS's website or contact them directly to learn about volunteer opportunities.
4. What are the adoption fees at LCHS? Adoption fees vary depending on the animal's age, breed, and medical history. Please contact LCHS for more information.
5. Can I bring my own shelter to LCHS? Yes, you can bring your own shelter for animal intakes during regular business hours.
6. What are LCHS's hours of operation? The shelter is open for adoptions, pet surrenders, and other services during specific hours. Visit their website for more information.

Call to Action

The Lehigh County Humane Society is a vital organization that relies on the support of the community to continue its life-saving work. Consider adopting a pet, volunteering your time, donating to their cause, or simply spreading the word about their services. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless animals and strengthen the bond between humans and animals in our community.

Animal Welfare Statistics in Pennsylvania

Animal Adoption Benefits

• Companionship: Pets provide companionship and reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Health Benefits: Pets encourage physical activity, promote mental well-being, and lower stress levels.
• Protection: Dogs can act as deterrents to crime and provide security.
• Responsibility: Pet ownership teaches children about responsibility and empathy.
• Enhancement of Life: Pets bring joy, laughter, and unconditional love to our lives.

Tips for Responsible Pet Ownership

• Provide your pet with a safe and clean environment.
• Feed your pet a healthy diet and ensure access to fresh water.
• Exercise your pet regularly.
• Train your pet using positive reinforcement techniques.
• Socialize your pet with other animals and people.
• Take your pet for regular veterinary check-ups.
• Spay or neuter your pet.
• Microchip your pet for identification in case of loss.
• Consider pet insurance to cover unexpected veterinary expenses.