Ann Arbor, MI (August 2, 2024) – The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) has successfully rescued 34 cats and kittens from a home in Manchester, Michigan. The cats, ranging in age from newborn to 6 years old, were found living in deplorable conditions. The approximately 1,000 square foot home, owned by a senior resident who had been hospitalized, was lined with trash, urine and feces.
HSHV was alerted to the situation by Michigan State Police mid-July and immediately took action. The owner stated she was “overwhelmed,” and surrendered all animals to the care of HSHV. After many successive days of setting and checking live traps to capture the skittish, scared cats, all animals are now safe and under the care of the shelter, where they are receiving the medical attention and rehabilitation they need before being made available for adoption.
“It’s heartbreaking to see these beautiful animals—and people—living in such dire conditions,” said Tanya Hilgendorf, CEO of HSHV. “Our team acted quickly to ensure the safety of these cats and kittens. Our shelter is so full right now but we never waiver in our commitment to providing all our animals with the care and love they deserve.”
“That being said, we need our marvelous cat ladies, all cat people, to come give these kitties a loving home.”
At least one of the cats has tested FELV positive, and several have eye issues which are now being treated. Rescuers also found several litters of newborn kittens—several were cold to the touch. All but one pulled through and are currently being cared for in loving foster homes until they are ready for adoption. All of the animals are receiving spay/neuter surgery.
Eric Wright, HSHV’s Cruelty Manager, echoed Hilgendorf’s sentiments. “This was a challenging rescue due to the sheer number of animals and the state of the home. Our team did an incredible job, and we are grateful to the community for their support. These animals now have a second chance at a better life.”
The rescue highlights the importance of community vigilance and the role of humane societies in safeguarding public welfare. HSHV is seeking donations to help cover the cost of medical care, food, and other necessities for the rescued cats and kittens, as well as adopters, as the shelter is over capacity.
For more information on how you can help or to inquire about adopting, please visit www.hshv.org.
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About The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV):
The Humane Society of Huron Valley, located in Ann Arbor, is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies solely on the generosity of our supporters to provide critical community programs and services. HSHV is an award-winning organization, recognized for our best practices and highest animal “save-rate” among all similar shelters in Michigan. Charity Navigator, the nation’s top charity evaluator, awarded HSHV a 4-star ranking, the highest possible. The mission of HSHV is to promote the loving, responsible care of all animals in our community. HSHV is not affiliated with any other humane organization and does not receive funding from the United Way. More information can be found on HSHV’s website hshv.org and on our annual report hshv.org/annualreport.