Humane Society Offers More Than Shelter for Local Animals
As 2023 begins, the Auglaize County Humane Society has just finished up their busy season. The months leading up to Christmas see the shelter adopting out animals at a rapid pace. “Winter slows us down every year. January and February are our slowest months, not for intakes, but for adoptions, then we usually pick up again in March and April,” said Deb Logan, the manager of the facility.
Logan has been with the humane society for ten years, the first year working part time and the last nine years as its Manager. Working with animals as a vet tech in a veterinarian’s office was how she got started in the field, but she said that those animals are different. “In a vet’s offices, the animals are owned and well cared for. Here I just feel like I can use my talents and abilities better,” said Logan.
“We are a 501c3 organization, which means we do not get any government funding at all. We survive solely on fees from adoptions, and donations, so all donations are needed and welcomed,” Logan noted. Being an experienced vet tech has helped Logan save the shelter money which is important because of their non-profit status. “With my experience, I’m able to recognize different things, things I’ve seen, or smelled before, and known what it is. I have a good relationships with local vets who I can call, and they’ll ask me what medicines I have on hand, and they tell me what to use. It saves vet visits, all of which cost money.”
Logan also made clear that she is not a veterinarian and can’t diagnose animals, but when she explains all the symptoms the veterinarians have a good idea of what is going on with the sick animal.
The Humane Society takes in animals that are found wandering, or that are surrendered by their owners. Logan noted that they also have a great relationship with the Auglaize County Dog Warden who will bring them dogs whose owners can’t be located, and whom otherwise would be euthanized.
The Humane Society of Auglaize County isn’t just a shelter for wayward animals, they also offer other services. “We have a dog boarding facility here that we’re really proud of. Its newly renovated, and completely separate from animals housed here for adoption,” said Logan. Also on site is Mandi’s Pet Salon, a grooming business that rents the space from the society.
Mandi Bronson, a certified master groomer and the owner of the salon, also donates her time and skills to the shelter when needed. When asked why, she said this; “I love animals and want to help them so they can go to a good home.”
The shelter is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m, Wednesday from 1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m, and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For more information you can visit them in person at 616 North Dixie High Way, Wapakoneta, OH 45895, or visit their website at Achs-pets.com.