Monthly Archives October 2024

Moving with your dog: What to do before, during and after

According to U.S census data, the average American moves 11 times in their lifetime. When we relocate, our dogs are leaving their familiar place behind. This can be stressful, but there are things we can do to prepare and help them adjust to their new environment. Before the move: Keep your dog’s routine consistent. Be sure your pup is microchipped, wearing a collar, and the information is updated. Take them to visit the new place a few times before the official move, if possible. Encourage positive associations with the new home by giving plenty of treats and engaging in activities
Read More

Can I make my cat a lap cat?

One of the first things people ask when they’re adopting a new cat is whether or not the cat is a lap cat. The truth is that many adult cats are uncomfortable seeking out laps for a variety of reasons, but it’s important to know that we can help our feline friends feel safe enough to seek out and enjoy being close to us, even if they’ve had unpleasant experiences that have taught them otherwise. Find out what motivates your cat. Do they love Churu-style treats? Save those for when you’d like to work on some training with your cat.
Read More

The care and handling of a new kitten

With kitten season in full swing, here are some tips to help you and your newly adopted kitten be as successful as possible! If possible, adopt two kittens! The best way to burn kitten energy is to let them play with another kitten. And trust us, burning kitten energy is possibly the most important thing you’ll need to do with your new friend! Give your kitten a safe, kitten proof space at first. A bathroom or bedroom will be perfect. Make sure they have food, water, litterbox and lots of toys in their room and let them explore the home
Read More

Why you want to get a D in Dog Training

Working on basic training is a great way to bond with your dog, increase their skillset, build their confidence, and improve their quality of life as well as your own. We always use positive reinforcement to teach dogs which behaviors are appropriate, and what we want to see more of. Did you know that there’s plenty more work to be done after your dog successfully knows how to perform a basic cue like “sit”? When we start teaching a new cue, we want as few distractions as possible, so the animal can focus on the task at hand. Once they’re
Read More

HSHV + Food Gatherers Gather Over 26,000 lbs of Donated Pet Food

Ann Arbor, MI (October 2, 2024) — Thanksgiving started early at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV), with a 26,000 lb pet food donation from PetSmart Charities and a partnership with Food Gatherers. This generous contribution marks a significant step forward in ensuring local pets stay healthy and in their homes during challenging times. “The demand for our Bountiful Bowls pet food pantry has skyrocketed over the past few years, and this greatly helps us in meeting the growing needs of our community,” said Cameron Greig, HSHV’s Community Cat and Bountiful Bowls Coordinator. In 2023, HSHV handed out more
Read More

Aphrodite: She’s Fitting in Great!

We adopted Aphrodite in early April, and she has been an absolute delight… while also being the most consternating animal I’ve ever met! I wouldn’t change a thing about her! She moves at her own pace and does things her own way, but she’s also incredibly sweet and loyal. It took about three months for her sense of humor and personality to really start coming out, but now we see her. Aphrodite isn’t our first large dog, but she is our first mastiff, and while I’ve walked plenty of dogs her size or heavier, she is the only one who
Read More

Loki Living the life he deserves

A cat does choose you. I went through multiple shelters and meetings and searched for almost half a year. I had gone to at least 3 different shelters on the day I found Loki. “Don’t pet his stomach, sometimes cats do that to test you and then they get uncomfortable if you do it.” is what the adoption counselor told me as she opened Loki’s cage. Almost immediately, Loki did his infamous flop and showed me his stomach. I remembered what she told me, but something in me told me everything was going to be okay. So I pet his
Read More

Exceptional Emily

Emily is very kind!  She loves the animals at HSHV and wanted to help them further.  Emily collected donations for her birthday and brought them to HSHV!  She donated towels, blankets, cat food, and kitten food.  Thank you so much, Emily!  We greatly appreciate your wonderful donation.
Read More

Memphis needs a forever home

Memphis the Dog Age: 4 Fixed (Spayed/Neutered)? No Declawed? Not Applicable Weight: 110 lbs Indoor? Yes Microchipped? No City in which animal is located: Ann Arbor Rehoming fee? Yes Please note: This is a courtesy listing on HSHV’s site. This animal is available through a private individual, NOT HSHV. For questions, please contact the individual below, not HSHV. Thank you! Memphis needs a new home where he is either the only dog or with other large confident dogs. Memphis is very sweet and eager to please. He knows many commands and listens very well. He does have a high prey
Read More