Seven years ago this month the Brown County Humane Society SPOT team’s first field visit took place. An old, beat-up van packed full of straw and pet food went into the community and began building relationships.
That month, SPOT delivered more than 60 bales of straw and provided food for 16 dogs and four cats. Little did we know how badly our Brown County neighbors needed this help and how enthusiastically the community would support the program.
Over those seven years, a total of 897 bales of straw and 43.5 tons of pet food have been provided to people in need.
Countless dog houses have been provided and fenced enclosures erected for chained dogs.
In addition, the SPOT program has coordinated low-cost spay/neuter surgeries for more than 4,600 pets. The results of the spay/neuter effort speak for themselves. In just four years, the population of unwanted pets at the shelter plummeted by a whopping 50 percent.
The most important lesson learned through the SPOT program is that people of all socioeconomic classes love their pets.
SPOT has visited with people who sacrifice their own health to provide for their pets. Together the SPOT team works with folks to find good solutions for their pets — always with the goal of keeping pets with families that love them. Sometimes, just helping a family with dog or cat food for a few months ensures that the pet can stay with the family that loves him.
As the temperatures drop, SPOT is once again providing free straw to outside dogs and cats.
SPOT is also running a $1 spay/neuter special in December.
Throughout the year, food for cats and dogs is provided to needy families as long as supplies last. Dog houses are available, as well as runner lines to keep dogs exercised and safe.
For residents struggling with too many outdoor cats, the SPOT program can also provide support for feral cat colonies.
For any of these services call the SPOT phone at 812-703-0797.
Who knew that on that cold December day seven years ago when the first SPOT delivery took place that the need was so great and the support so steadfast? SPOT is truly a Brown County community success!
— Brown County Humane Society
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Hera is the ultimate lap cat. It doesn’t matter if she’s just met you, she’s ready to climb onto your lap and settle in. Once she’s comfortable, she likes plenty of head and chin scratches, a nice conversation and your undivided attention. Her love doesn’t always extend to other cats if they want to share her space on your lap. After all, she’s named after a Greek goddess and deserves a throne of her own.
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Spay/neuter your pets for $1 through the end of the year.
Call SPOT at 812-703-0797.
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