June 30, 2004, marks the end of an era for the Sequoia Humane Society. Beginning July 1st, stray animals will all go to a new county-owned facility near the airport in McKinleyville. After more than 38 years, the SHS will be able to shed, once and for all, its "pound" image. On July 1st, it will become a "No-Kill" Humane Society and Pet Adoption Center.

Many people don't realize that the new shelter at the airport will not be run by the SHS. It will be operated by the Sheriff's Department and funded by taxpayers. The McKinleyville facility will serve the unincorporated areas of Humboldt County as well as the cities of Arcata, Eureka, Blue Lake and Trinidad. Miranda's Rescue contracts with the cities of Fortuna, Ferndale and Rio Dell to provide shelter services for those areas.

The Sequoia Humane Society is a private non-profit 501(c) (3) humane organization that receives no government funds or subsidies. It depends solely on charitable donations and fund-raising for its financial support. The small staff is augmented by a group of dedicated volunteers who help with everything from cleaning kennels to cashiering at the Tailwaggers Thrift Shop.

The Sequoia Humane Society has always done much more than care for impounded animals. Since our shelter opened in 1981, we have opened our hearts to nearly 140,000 lost, abandoned and abused animals who needed humane care, medical treatment and a second chance at finding a good home. Thousands of puppies, dogs, kittens, cats, rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, and other pets have been re-homed through our efforts. Thousands more have been spayed or neutered at low cost with our vouchers. We have been a visible, vocal community resource promoting responsible pet care, spaying and neutering, and vigorous prosecution of people who abuse or neglect animals.

The Society has accomplished a lot in its first 38 years. We have grown into a strong and vital organization. Our successful adoption programs have earned national recognition and we are just beginning to hit our stride! The Pet Adoption Center, located just east of the King Salmon exit, will continue to help animals find new homes. Our Spay/Neuter Vouchers will continue to help low-income families afford spay/neuter surgeries for their pets. And, we will continue to speak out for the animals whenever and wherever they need us.

The end of an era is a good time to thank all those people who have supported us over the years with gifts of time, money and materials. Though we have been the hands who carried out the work, they have been the hearts behind it all. It takes all of us, working together, to create a no-kill community where no healthy, adoptable animal has to die for lack of a good home. And, with your support, that's just what we are going to do! It's a new era for the Sequoia Humane Society; let's make it the best yet for the animals!

Note: A volunteer orientation is held at the Pet Adoption Center on the first Saturday of each month. For more information about volunteer opportunities, call 442-1782