BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho Humane Society is still open for business and is keeping an eye on current coronavirus updates. IHS continues to develop plans to ensure they can help the most disadvantage in our community while protecting employees.
As a result, IHS has launched an online portal so people can view any found pets online that have been brought into the shelter. A link to the portal is available here.
A number of new procedures have been implemented at IHS to safeguard employees and the public. The veterinary medical center remains open for limited service, owners with sick animals and critical care are still be accepted. IHS is rescheduling any routine appointments and elective procedures (spays/neuters, dentals, etc.) booked March 18 through April 5.
Owner surrenders will continue to be accepted. If the need to surrender the pet is not urgent, IHS asks you to wait to bring in the animal to allow for assistance in emergency cases.
The public is asked to bring in stray dogs or injured cats to the shelter at this time. Cats are good at finding their way home and IHS discourages any trapping of cats for capacity reasons. If you are missing your pet, check the online portal linked above. Owners who find their pet through the portal can visit the Dorman shelter.
The adoption center is closed to the public except for those with approved adopters with appointments. Applications are available for each animal on the website and potential adopters will be given an appointment to meet the animal. IHS asks only serious adopters apply at this time.
Humane officers will remain in the field safeguarding pets and people. The essential service will continue in an ongoing manner.
The foster program also remains open, however training will be moving to an online module for the next 48 to 72 hours. Foster parents are required to make an appointment before they arrive at the shelter in order to limit the number of people inside the building. If you are interested in signing up to foster, click here.
The Meals on Wheels program is operational at this time and IHS will continue to provide food at this time.
The following programs have been closed at this time:
- Volunteer program
- SPOT (Stop Pet Overpopulation Today)
- Youth programs
Donations of pet food and treats are still being accepted. There are Amazon wishlists for both cats and dogs so you can donate from your home. Donations of gently used supplies (blankets, toys, etc.) are not being accepted at this time.
IHS recommends you have additional pet food and supplies on hand in case you need to stay inside your home or encounter restocking delays. Visit the emergency guide for more information.
IHS encourages the public to check in with members of the community that may be living alone with pets or those that are in a vulnerable position due to the virus. If you have room in your home, consider offering emergency housing to those who may need to separate from their pet due to hospitalization.
