The Lakes Region Humane Society: A Comprehensive Guide to Animal Welfare in the Lakes Region

The Lakes Region Humane Society (LRHS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of animals in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Since its inception in 1972, LRHS has provided vital services to animals in need, including shelter, veterinary care, adoption, and advocacy. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to the Lakes Region Humane Society, highlighting its services, impact, and opportunities for involvement.

Mission and Vision

LRHS's mission is to "promote the welfare of animals through shelter, education, and advocacy." The organization's vision is to create a community where all animals are treated with compassion and respect and have the opportunity to live healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives.

Services

LRHS offers a wide range of services to animals and the community, including:

• Animal Shelter: LRHS provides temporary housing and care for approximately 2,000 animals annually, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and small mammals.
• Veterinary Care: The LRHS veterinary clinic offers affordable veterinary services, including vaccinations, spay and neuter surgeries, and medical treatment for sick and injured animals.
• Adoption: LRHS facilitates the adoption of animals from its shelter to loving and responsible homes. The organization screens potential adopters to ensure that each animal finds a suitable and permanent placement.
• Humane Education: LRHS conducts humane education programs in local schools and community organizations to teach children and adults about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
• Advocacy: LRHS advocates for animal welfare policies and legislation at the local, state, and national levels.

Impact on the Community

LRHS has a significant impact on the well-being of animals and the community in the Lakes Region. According to the organization's 2021 Annual Report:

• Saved Lives: LRHS saved the lives of over 2,000 animals in 2021, including 1,000 dogs and 1,200 cats.
• Adoptions: LRHS facilitated the adoption of over 800 animals to loving and responsible homes in 2021.
• Spay and Neuter Surgeries: LRHS performed over 1,500 spay and neuter surgeries in 2021, contributing to the reduction of pet overpopulation in the community.
• Community Outreach: LRHS reached over 5,000 individuals through its humane education programs in 2021.

Opportunities to Get Involved

There are numerous ways to get involved with LRHS and support its mission, including:

• Volunteering: LRHS relies on the dedication of over 200 volunteers who provide essential support to the organization's operations, including animal care, fundraising, and community outreach.
• Donations: LRHS is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from the community to sustain its operations and provide vital services to animals in need.
• Adoption: Adopting an animal from LRHS is a meaningful way to provide a loving home to a deserving animal and make a difference in its life.
• Advocacy: LRHS advocates for animal welfare policies and legislation. Individuals can support these efforts by signing petitions, contacting elected officials, and speaking out on behalf of animals.

Tips and Tricks

• Consider fostering: Fostering an animal from LRHS is a great way to help without making a permanent commitment.
• Donate supplies: LRHS accepts donations of food, toys, blankets, and other essential supplies for its animals.
• Leave a legacy: Consider including LRHS in your will or estate planning to ensure that its vital work continues for generations to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't buy animals from pet stores: Pet stores often source animals from unethical sources, such as puppy mills, where they are often mistreated and poorly cared for.
• Don't abandon animals: If you can no longer care for your pet, contact LRHS or another animal rescue organization for assistance.
• Don't overfeed your pets: Obesity is a common problem in pets, which can lead to health issues such as diabetes and heart disease.

FAQs

Q: Is LRHS a no-kill shelter?
A: Yes, LRHS is a no-kill shelter, which means that no healthy or treatable animal is euthanized for space or time constraints.

Q: How much does it cost to adopt an animal from LRHS?
A: Adoption fees vary depending on the type of animal and its age, but typically range from $100 to $500.

Q: What are LRHS's hours of operation?
A: The LRHS shelter is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Q: Can I surrender my pet to LRHS?
A: LRHS accepts surrenders of pets from their owners. However, the organization may not be able to accept all surrenders due to space limitations.

Q: How can I get involved with LRHS as a volunteer?
A: To volunteer with LRHS, submit a volunteer application online or in person at the shelter.

Q: How can I donate to LRHS?
A: Donations can be made online, by mail, or in person at the shelter.

Call to Action

The Lakes Region Humane Society is a vital organization dedicated to the well-being of animals in the Lakes Region. By supporting LRHS through donations, volunteering, or adopting an animal, you can make a real difference in the lives of animals in need. Together, we can create a community where all animals are treated with compassion and respect and have the opportunity to live healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives.

Additional Information

Website: https://www.lrhs.org/
Address: 1645 Meredith Center Road, Meredith, NH 03253
Phone Number: (603) 279-6151
Email: [email protected]

Tables

Table 1: LRHS Services and Numbers of Animals Impacted in 2021

Table 2: LRHS Adoption Costs

Table 3: LRHS Contact Information