Your Guide to the Wichita Humane Society: Providing a Lifeline for Animals in Need

Mission: A Sanctuary for Abandoned, Abused, and Homeless Animals

The Wichita Humane Society (WHS) has been a beacon of hope for animals in Wichita, Kansas, since 1957. Their unwavering mission is to enhance the lives of animals by providing shelter, medical care, and adoption services, while also promoting responsible pet ownership and advocating for animal welfare.

What Makes WHS Unique?

Comprehensive Services: WHS offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of homeless and abandoned animals, including:

• Animal intake and sheltering
• Medical care and vaccinations
• Behavior counseling and training
• Adoption services
• Community outreach and education

No-Kill Shelter: WHS is a no-kill shelter, meaning they believe every animal deserves a chance to find a loving home. They strive to find a permanent placement for every healthy and treatable animal in their care.

Adoption Success: WHS boasts an impressive adoption rate of over 90%, demonstrating their commitment to finding suitable homes for animals in their care.

The Importance of Animal Welfare

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 6.5 million animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year. Of these, approximately 3.1 million are euthanized due to lack of space, resources, or adopters.

Shelters like WHS play a crucial role in reducing the number of homeless and abandoned animals by providing essential services that help animals find permanent homes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Adopting a Pet

Adopting a pet is a rewarding but also serious commitment. To ensure a successful transition, avoid the following common mistakes:

• Rushing the Process: Take your time researching different breeds and visiting shelters to find a pet that matches your lifestyle and personality.
• Choosing an Animal on Impulse: Avoid making a hasty decision based solely on appearance. Consider the animal's temperament, energy level, and potential health issues.
• Not Preparing Your Home: Before bringing a new pet home, ensure your house is pet-proofed with secure fencing, a litter box or dog bed, and ample food and water.
• Ignoring the Adoption Contract: Read and understand the adoption contract carefully to ensure you comply with all requirements, including vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilization.
• Failing to Provide Adequate Care: Pets require regular veterinary checkups, a nutritious diet, exercise, and socialization. Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to health problems and behavioral issues.

Pros and Cons of Adopting a Pet

Weighing the pros and cons of pet adoption can help you make an informed decision:

Pros:

• Saving a Life: Adopting a shelter animal gives a homeless pet a second chance at a loving home.
• Reducing Pet Overpopulation: Every animal you adopt helps reduce the number of animals euthanized each year.
• Companionship and Unconditional Love: Pets provide companionship, reduce stress, and can improve your overall well-being.

Cons:

• Time Commitment: Pets require significant time and attention, including daily feeding, exercise, and grooming.
• Financial Responsibility: Pet care can be costly, including veterinary expenses, food, and grooming.
• Potential Behavior Issues: Shelter animals may have previous experiences that can lead to behavioral challenges that require patience and training.

FAQs About WHS

1. How do I adopt a pet from WHS?

Visit the WHS website or contact them directly to view available pets. Submit an adoption application, and once approved, you can schedule a meet-and-greet with potential animals.

2. How much does it cost to adopt a pet?

Adoption fees vary depending on the pet's age, breed, and medical condition. Contact WHS for specific pricing.

3. What vaccinations are required for adoption?

All animals adopted from WHS are up-to-date on age-appropriate vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.

4. Is spaying or neutering required?

Yes, all animals adopted from WHS are spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter.

5. What is WHS's return policy?

If for any reason you cannot keep your adopted pet, WHS encourages you to return the animal to their facility. They will work with you to find a suitable solution.

6. How can I support WHS?

There are several ways to support WHS, including: adopting a pet, volunteering your time, making a financial donation, or donating supplies such as blankets, toys, or food.

Call to Action

If you are considering adopting a pet or supporting animal welfare, we encourage you to connect with the Wichita Humane Society. Their dedicated staff is committed to providing a lifeline for abandoned, abused, and homeless animals, and they rely on the support of the community to continue their lifesaving work.

Contact Information:

Wichita Humane Society
3313 N Hillside St
Wichita, KS 67219
(316) 264-9174
www.wichitahumanesociety.org

Tables

Table 1: Pet Adoption Statistics in the United States

Table 2: WHS Adoption Success

Table 3: Pros and Cons of Pet Adoption