A new community education program

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The LCHS provides 5 primary services:

1. Shelter

It provides a safe, clean, and comfortable shelter for abandoned or stray pets. The organization contracts with the cities of Helena, East Helena, Townsend, Lewis and Clark County, and Broadwater County to house the animals brought in by animal control officers and citizens. It also provides shelter for the dogs and cats of families in emergencies such as forest fires, women and children in domestic crises, who don’t want to leave the family pet behind, and animal cruelty cases going to trial.

2. Adoption

The LCHS works to provide permanent homes for all healthy animals in the shelter. Adopted animals leave the shelter spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated, and with an ID microchip implant, a pet ID tag, and one free visit to a local veterinarian. Staff and volunteers ensure suitability between pets and owners, by working with animals that have behavior problems. The LCHS provides the opportunity for potential owners to try out an animal in their home for several weeks to see if the adoption will be a good fit.

3. Protection

Citizens concerned about the welfare of dogs, cats, horses, and other domestic animals can call the LCHS. Staff will investigate and work with owners to alleviate any suffering or abuse. Occasionally, they work with local law enforcement to assist in removing abused or neglected animals and then housing them during legal proceedings.

4. Public Outreach and Education

The main reason people give up a pet is due to the animal’s behavior. The LCHS works to educate pet owners on how to address those problems, so they can continue to enjoy their companion animals. Staff provide pet training workshops, visit schools, and host shelter visits by 4-H and other youth groups. The LCHS provides information to the public on responsible pet ownership, preventing abuse, and the need to spay and neuter pets to reduce overpopulation.

5. Euthanasia and Cremation

The LCHS euthanizes pets at the request of owners, due to old age, illness, or behavior problems. It also provides pet cremation services for owners who request them.