Columbia-Greene Humane Society finds homes for 156 animals

HUDSON—A total of 156 animals found new homes through the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA during October, a month that also saw the organization respond to a large influx of animals rescued from cruelty cases and launch a major fundraising campaign for a new veterinary facility.

The organization reported 136 cat adoptions, 18 dog adoptions and two small animal adoptions during the month, with many supported by the Subaru Loves Pets program.

As part of the nationwide initiative, the Hudson-based organization offered free adoptions of cats, dogs and small animals during the latter part of October, with Subaru sponsoring many of the adoptions.

The adoption numbers come at a particularly important time for the shelter, which recently took in 158 cats from two separate animal cruelty investigations in approximately one week.

In one of those cases, 96 cats and one dog were rescued from a Catskill residence in late October, placing additional demands on the organization's housing, veterinary care and other resources.

The large number of animals arriving in such a short period underscored the challenges facing the shelter as it worked to care for rescued animals while continuing its regular adoption operations.

“CGHS/SPCA would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who made this month possible. To those who adopted, donated, shared our posts, spread the word, and supported our staff and animals throughout this extremely busy time, we are incredibly grateful,” the organization said in a statement Wednesday.

October also marked the public launch of a capital campaign to establish the Harold Grubin, M.D. Clinic and Health Center, a proposed veterinary facility intended to expand animal care services throughout Columbia and Greene counties.

The planned center would provide veterinary services for shelter animals and affordable care for the public, along with specialized treatment and rehabilitation for animals rescued from cruelty and neglect.

According to the CGHS/SPCA, the facility would include modern surgical and dental suites, diagnostic imaging equipment, laboratory services and dedicated isolation and recovery areas for animals requiring specialized medical attention.

The project is intended to bring those services together under one roof, expanding the organization's ability to treat animals with complex medical needs.

“We've worked toward this goal for a long time, and reaching this stage is an important milestone for our organization,” said Ron Perez, president and CEO of CGHS/SPCA.

“Now we're asking the people who have supported our mission through the years to help us take the next step. Their generosity has always been the foundation of what we do,” Perez added.

The organization is seeking contributions from individuals, businesses, families and foundations to support the project. Major donors may be recognized through permanent displays or naming opportunities within the new facility.

Information about the proposed center and fundraising campaign is available at https://cghs.org/capital-campaign.