The Animal Shelter Responds To Turbulent Few Weeks
by Hi Tor Animal Care Center Board of Directors
We, the Hi Tor Animal Care Center Board of Directors thanked the people of Rockland County for their recent tremendous help and support. Much needed donations have been being dropped off on a continuous basis.
Over the past week, our new Shelter Manager has been able to facilitate the transfer of 44 cats and 8 dogs to other local shelters and animal rescues to address our serious overcrowding issue. Our smaller animals that had been surrendered this week have all been transferred to an animal rescue, and foster homes. We have continued with adoptions.
A coalition of area veterinarians, in consultation with the Board’s veterinarian advisor, are working to establish a schedule for vet techs and vets to provide medical services to animals in our care, and training to Hi Tor employees and volunteers in industry best practices. New policies and procedures are being implemented to increase record keeping and improve animal care.
Thanks to our dedicated volunteers Hi Tor has been able to continue site cleanup. Cages and crates that are broken, deemed unsuitable for use (due to rust, etc.). We truly appreciate those volunteers who had temporarily stopped coming now returning to care for the animals. Of course, and our dedicated volunteers who have continuously been there for our animals.
Hi Tor continues to host The Animal Rights Alliance, Inc. (T.A.R.A.) clinic offering discounted spay and neuter services to the community. Hi Tor also continues its service dog program. This provides service dogs and related training support to Veterans free of charge.
The planning process for constructing a new, modern shelter building is well underway. Hi Tor has hired Shelter Planners of America to perform a needs assessment study. This critical part of the process which will be completed in February of 2019. We look forward to working closely with the County of Rockland to ensure the new shelter building meets the needs of our community.