Local organization continues mission in a new location and facility.

Trudging along the shoulder of a country road, I dreamed of a morsel to eat, a sip of water, and a kind face. It had already been a long journey, my journey to NOWHERE. That was my destination as I endured the cold wind under a dark midday sky, which began to clap and shout and send a deluge of rain downward. Now drenched and cold, I continued on and soon was delighted to find my thirst could be quenched from a recently formed puddle. As I lapped up the precious gift from above, I was startled to hear tires on gravel, an opening door, and footsteps headed in my direction. My sad eyes peered up into a concerned face with warm eyes and a soft voice. My drooping ears were treated to kind words as I was bundled and placed in the vehicle. Exhausted but hopeful, I continued my journey in a deep sleep, now a journey to SOMEWHERE.

Awakened way too soon, I was carried into a large building bearing the name “Rita B. Huff Humane Society.” That had a good sound to it! As we entered the facility, my now perky ears were met with exclamations, “Oh, you must be hungry!” “Get this sweet fellow dried off!” and “You must be so tired!” Yes! Yes! And yes! I was now at my destination, SOMEWHERE, and I liked what I was hearing. My tail, formerly low to the ground, defeated and forlorn, was wagging uncontrollably.

The first order of business was to scan for a chip to see if I belonged to a human who loved and cared for me. If communication were not an issue, I could have told them there was no such human in my life. If a chip had been present, these kind people would have contacted that human to come and get me. With no chip, I was available for adoption by some nice person yet to be discovered. But first things first. They checked me over for any foreign critters in my system that needed to be removed, such as worms and the like. I’m delighted to report minimal critters onboard! The remainder of the day was dedicated to tasty food, plenty of water, and restful sleep in my nice, clean kennel. With thirty-eight kennels, I see the possibility of making lots of new canine friends! There are also kennels for kitties and older felines in addition to isolation kennels for rabies observation in other sections of the building.

The next morning, following a rejuvenating sleep, I was full of happy energy and ready to run and play outside in the fenced area under a bright morning sun. A family was there to add a new pet to their home. To ensure that this new canine member would be compatible with their family pet, the dogs got acquainted through adjoining enclosures. No scuffles and growls. I think it was a good match! Hopefully, my day will come!

I was shampooed, groomed, dewormed and de-‘everything’ed. And I got a real name! I was now “Charlie.” I felt like a new dog. Yep, I’m ready for my forever family to come and get me. The day came when I was led to a special “Meet and Greet” room in the front lobby area. I was on my best behavior! This could be the day I’ve longed for. As I entered the room, a ten-year-old boy leaped up and shouted with excitement! I had found my new human forever friend whom I could previously only dream of! Before I knew it, I was wrapped in his arms and starting my journey anew. Not a journey to NOWHERE, not a journey to SOMEWHERE. I was now on my journey HOME! Thank you, all my wonderful friends at Rita B. Huff Humane Society, for the excellent care and companionship you provided. Forever grateful, Charlie

Charlie gave us a sneak peek into the new Rita B. Huff Humane Society of Walker County (RBH), but there is much, much more to see. Let’s take a “human” tour of this spacious and artistically appointed 9700 square foot facility, located at 1495 Veterans Memorial Parkway in Huntsville. This critically needed resource opened in February, after several years of meticulous planning and with significant contributions of land and money from donors, including Mac Woodward and others, with Ken Watford being a major contributor. And now, under the leadership of Executive Director Lori Toliver, the operation of RBH moves forward each day with excellence and compassion.

RBH welcomes dogs and cats found in Walker County. Animals found within the city limits of Huntsville should be taken to the City of Huntsville Animal Control Facility at 590 IH 45 N. (For help with this, call 936-291-5988 or contact the City of Huntsville Police.) Animals accepted by RBH need to be in relatively good health and physical condition, non-aggressive, and deemed “adoptable” since this is a no-kill facility. Aside from limited Walker County funding for a spay and neuter program, the shelter receives no government assistance. This low-cost procedure is available to the public by appointment on Tuesdays, and vaccinations are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis every Monday. RBH contracts with two local veterinarians who provide these services, utilizing the two surgical units designed to meet these needs.

Funding for the entire facility—including utilities, maintenance, staffing, medical supplies, laundering supplies, food, equipment, landscaping upkeep, and all other needs—is met through private donations. All contributions, large and small, are appreciated, but there is a great need to find individuals who will provide sustained giving. The facility is staffed by a small handful of capable individuals who are grateful for the energy and goodwill that cheerful volunteers provide. From playing with kitties, to cleaning kennels; walking and feeding dogs; washing and drying laundry; and folding endless stacks of towels (to name only a few of the chores), the volunteers are priceless and appreciated!

For a quick tour, the front desk and two “Meet and Greet” rooms begin our journey as we walk in the front door. Continuing down the hallway, our eyes are treated to delightful visions of playful kitties and “not-a-care-in-the-world” older felines, some sleeping and others finding adventure on the cat tree (recently assembled for the shelter by members of Christ the King Methodist Church). Volunteers and those looking to adopt a new pet were seen stroking and playing with the frolicking felines. Around the corner, we visit the laundry room complete with huge commercial-sized appliances, stacks and stacks of towels, and an endless supply of detergent. Located across the hallway are isolation rooms for dogs needing a little peace and quiet or special attention. A large conference room, two surgical suites, a grooming center, and storage rooms populate this wing.

The Ken Watford canine kennels are located in a building at the back of the facility, with 38 kennels in the main portion and 6 isolation kennels farther back behind an additional locked gate. RBH contracts with Walker County to take in dogs for observation of possible rabies. These animals are observed for ten days and, if deemed rabies-free, are returned to their owners. All kennels have an indoor and an outdoor area, with the dogs closed in at night. A safety fence surrounds the property, and several fenced enclosures provide dogs with ample space to exercise. Additionally, a family can bring their pet to see how he or she reacts to a potential adoptee. Walking trails are available, and plans are in the works to install outdoor equipment to keep animals in good physical shape while awaiting adoption.

RBH has been wholeheartedly welcomed by many in this area. Steven Lindquist, President of the Board of Directors, shares, “We want to give back to this wonderful community, so we find ways to make that happen.” One way is to offer to the public items that have been donated to the shelter. These are quality items that, for one reason or another, RBH is unable to use. These donations include dog and cat food, blankets, bedding, leashes, and other items. The public is invited to come in during regular business hours, browse through the items, and take what they need, no questions asked.

The Rita B. Huff Humane Society of Walker County—a long-awaited, well-planned, and meticulously maintained facility—will provide crucial services and acts of humane kindness to our feline and canine friends for many years to come. The Board and staff want to express gratitude for the many financial gifts, the artwork, the publicity, and services that have made and continue to ensure RBH is a top-of-the-line facility, providing the best of care to all animals who enter its doors. Some of these contributors include KSAM Radio (101.7), Good Morning Huntsville, and Precision Pest Control.

If you can provide a loving home to one of the many dogs and cats who are fortunate to be in the care of this facility, please call Rita B. Huff Humane Society at 936-295-4666 and welcome one of these precious furry friends into your home. They await your visit (with Charlie’s approval)!

Rita B. Huff Humane Society of Walker County
1495 Veterans Memorial Parkway
Huntsville, TX 77340
936-295-4666
rbhhumanesociety.org

Facebook: Rita B. Huff Humane Society