As the effects of the ongoing government shutdown continue to impact families across the Miami Valley, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton recognizes that many individuals are struggling to make ends meet. Financial hardship affects not just people, but also the pets who rely on them for care, comfort, and companionship.
“As an organization, our mission centers on the care and welfare of animals in our community,” said Brian Weltge, President & CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. “But we can’t fulfill that mission without also acknowledging and caring for the people behind those pets. Pets are vital to our mental health and emotional well-being, especially in stressful times, and by supporting families, we’re helping keep those important bonds intact.”
As families across our community face financial uncertainty during the shutdown, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton is working to ensure no one has to make the heartbreaking decision to give up their pet. The organization is focusing on providing essential pet care resources and compassionate support to help keep pets where they belong—at home with the people who love them.
“When times are tough, it’s easy to feel isolated,” added Weltge. “But this community has always been one that lifts one another up. By uniting to support both people and pets, we ensure that no family has to face the heartbreak of giving up a beloved animal simply because of financial hardship.”
Currently, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton is:
- Accepting Pet Food Donations: Unopened pet food donations can be dropped off at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. All collected items will be distributed to local food banks and community partners to ensure struggling families have access to the supplies their pets need.
- Accepting Monetary Donations: Financial contributions can be made and specifically designated to assist with pet food donations. Every dollar goes directly toward helping local families and their pets stay together.
- Offering Low-Cost Veterinary Care: Through the Dayton Humane Veterinary Hospital, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton provides affordable veterinary services to ensure pets receive essential medical care, even when their owners are facing financial hardship.
- Providing Human Support Through One Health: Through the Humane Society’s One Health Program, a licensed social worker is on staff and available to assist pet owners through our Dayton Humane Veterinary Hospital helping to connect them to resources, support networks, and community programs that can help them stabilize their situations while continuing to care for their pets.
Donations can be dropped off at:
Humane Society of Greater Dayton
1661 Nicholas Road, Dayton, OH 45417
To make a monetary contribution or learn more about available resources, visit www.hsdayton.org/donate.
