Even in the wake of a challenging time in the agency’s history, the Humane Society of the Nature Coast is staying on course and fulfilling its mission of bringing sunshine into the darkened lives of animals in need. They aim to provide resources to animals in need while advancing the no-kill culture.
Throughout its history the agency, based at 7200 Mobley Road Brooksville, boasts a track record of 1,023 animals saved, 7,360 spays and neuters, 21,144 animals healed, and 352 volunteers. And they’re just getting started! “We are so blessed to have so many wonderful people who support us in our mission to save these animals,” said Humane Society Director Lori Bainum.
In the wake of its construction of a designated space for its feline residents, the society is planning its next phase: A doghouse consisting of greatly expanded kennel space, essentially doubling the space that canines occupy as they wait for their forever homes. “The more we can house, the more we can get out to adoptable homes,” said Bainum.
And now on a day to day basis, the Humane Society aims to enhance its care of the many cats and dogs that fill its halls. “We offer full medical services to all the animals that come into our care. We want to continue our low-cost spaying and neutering services. We would like to hire a full-time veterinarian, and add more indoor shelter spaces for cold nights,” said Bainum.
As more and more families struggle to make ends meet in the wake of a global pandemic, some are faced with the unfortunate possibility of surrendering their animals to shelter care. At the same time, the shelter keeps on hand a box of free pet supplies for the public to use to keep their pets healthy. The free boxes include leashes, food, cleaned and sanitized pet toys, etc. Things that can empower people to keep their furry family members!
Volunteers are needed at this time to provide and sustain services at the Humane Society. Bainum explained, “We need dog walkers and we need people to clean pet toys and do housekeeping. We have a job for everyone.”
One valued Humane Society volunteer is Bev Morgan-Nuzzi who is a longtime friend of the shelter who wished to put out a plea for aid and donations on behalf of the Humane Society of the Nature Coast. She states, “The staff, myself, and other volunteers of the Humane Society of the Nature Coast are committed to continue our heart’s work for the animals and our plea to the public at this time is to help make this possible. With the availability of less funds, this financial burden we are all presently experiencing should not be allowed to affect the lives of the hundreds of abandoned or surrendered animals needing our help in supplying food, medical supplies and love. Our goal and joy is to find each dog or cat a loving home and a happy, healthy life. As a community, we ask you to step up, be a voice for the voiceless and an advocate and donate, be it food, your checks or your time. Please stop by our kennels and see the wonderful work that we do here. Let us all do the right thing.”
And even as the shelter has seen some hard times, Bainum and crew are more determined than ever to succeed and to save. “There is great strength to be found in our volunteers and committee. We will take care of the dogs and cats, and help them find forever homes,” said Bainum. To support The Humane Society of the Nature Coast, visit https://humanerescue.org/give/.
