The Shelter

The Marquette County Humane Society is a non-government funded organization of people in Michigan's Marquette County who work to find homes for unwanted pets, and reduce the suffering for those unable to find homes. Unfortunately, not every story has a happy ending, but the MCHS is dedicated to doing as much as possible for the animal's greater good.

There has been controversy in the past over the fact that the MCHS is not a "no-kill" shelter. Some animals are euthanized because there is no possible way to place them safely in a home, and there are no resources to house an indefinite number of animals for an indefinite period of time.

Some people make the mistake of thinking that by euthanizing some animals, that the MCHS does not "love the animals enough"... this view could not be more wrong. The right way to handle something is not always the easy way. It takes a strength of character for people who love animals to admit the helplessness of some situations and to be able to choose and carry out the most humane solution.

There is no such thing as a "no-kill" shelter. What ends up happening is that animals are turned away because of lack of space, and then end up either being brought to someone else who does euthanize, or even worse, abused or killed by the owner no longer wanting the responsibility of their pet. While those operating "no-kill" shelters may have nothing but the best of intentions, they are adding to the overall problem of animal suffering.

If there were enough money and space, no animal would ever need be euthanized. If this is an issue you feel strongly about, have you put your time or money where your opinion is? Not everyone can help in the same way, but the problems require that everyone help in whatever way they can.

The obvious direction to find a solution is to reduce the number of pets being born every day. Spaying or neutering your pet is one small way you can make a big difference. Don't buy animals from people or stores you know nothing about. Some people breed animals in extremely un-humane ways for the sole purpose of making a fast buck. Take the time to make sure your money is not encouraging these shameful practices. Ask your pet store or shelter for a history of the animal you're interested in.

The MCHS has an involved adoption process to help make sure that pets are appropriately placed. Not all dogs are good with kids, not all cats like other cats, and not all pet owners take the time to make sure they are making smart choices. Do your part when adding a pet to your home to make sure you're not overlooking future problems. The MCHS is here to help you with information and welcomes your questions.