Humane Society of Southwest Washington Expands to Cowlitz County: A New Era for Animal Welfare
The Humane Society of Southwest Washington (HSSW) is embarking on an exciting new chapter in its mission to serve animals and their owners in the region. Recently, HSSW announced its acquisition of a facility in Cowlitz County, marking a significant expansion from its current operations in Clark County. This strategic move aims to enhance the organization’s capacity to provide essential services to pets and their families, ultimately benefiting the entire community.
A New Campus for a Growing Mission
The acquisition of the Longview location will allow HSSW to operate two campuses—one in Vancouver and the other in Longview. This expansion is not merely a logistical change; it represents a commitment to improving the welfare of animals across both counties. HSSW’s executive and leadership teams will oversee operations at both campuses, ensuring a seamless integration of services.
Cindy Nordstrom, President of the Humane Society of Cowlitz County Board, expressed optimism about the merger. “The HSCC board sees this as the best opportunity to provide the support our community needs,” she stated in a news release. By leveraging the resources and strengths of HSSW, the organization aims to do even more for pets in need.
Streamlined Services for Pet Owners
One of the most significant advantages of this expansion is the ability to provide a more streamlined and efficient service for pet owners. HSSW President Andrea Bruno emphasized that the integration will allow for an economy of scale, creating a consistent network of accessible services and programs for both Clark and Cowlitz counties.
A key feature of this new operational model is the shared website that will cater to both regions. “We will be able to do lost and found for both Clark County and Cowlitz County on one website,” Bruno explained. This means that pet owners searching for lost animals or looking to adopt will have a centralized platform to access information about available pets at both facilities. This streamlined approach is expected to enhance the community’s ability to find lost pets and adopt new ones.
New Veterinary Services on the Horizon
In addition to the expanded humane society services, HSSW is also planning to open a low-cost veterinary clinic in the Hazel Dell area of Clark County next summer. This clinic will cater specifically to low-income families who require veterinary care for their pets. Bruno highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that it will provide much-needed support to families who may struggle to afford veterinary services.
Winter Care for Pets
The timing of this expansion coincides with the winter season, a period that presents unique challenges for pet care. HSSW Communications Director Sam Ellingson noted that while winter operations may not drastically change, the organization is eager to share crucial winter safety information with the new community.
Ellingson explained that most pets can handle typical winter weather, but extreme conditions warrant special attention. For outdoor pets, such as cats, he recommends providing warm shelter or keeping them indoors. Additionally, pet owners should be vigilant about potential poisons that can be more prevalent in winter, such as antifreeze and certain ice treatments. “Antifreeze is a dangerous poison that can be fatal to pets if consumed,” Ellingson cautioned. He urged pet owners to ensure that antifreeze is stored safely and not accessible to curious animals.
Addressing Seasonal Challenges
While HSSW does not typically see an increase in stray pets during the winter months, there is a notable uptick in stray animals around New Year’s Eve due to fireworks. This seasonal challenge highlights the importance of community awareness and proactive measures to keep pets safe during celebrations.
Conclusion
The expansion of the Humane Society of Southwest Washington into Cowlitz County represents a significant step forward in animal welfare for the region. With two campuses, streamlined services, and new veterinary resources on the horizon, HSSW is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pets and their owners. As the organization integrates its operations and shares vital information about pet care, it is clear that the future is bright for both HSSW and the communities it serves.
For more information about HSSW and its resources, visit southwesthumane.org. Together, we can create a safer, healthier environment for our beloved pets.