White River Humane Society remains over capacity, continues fundraising for new shelter

The Bedford Times-Mail talked with the White River Humane Society Development Director Sarah Turpen about what's currently happening at the WRHS.

T-M: So, I understand that there you have a very full shelter right now.

Turpen: What a lot of people don't realize is that the shelter has been operating at near capacity or total capacity for the last two years. We are equipped to handle about 100 animals. Right now, we are at 110.

T-M: What about adoption discounts?

Turpen: Because we are not funded by tax dollars, the only way we can do a discount is to have a partner that can pay down the adoption fees. Our adoptions don't make us money. We invest more in vet care than we charge to adopt an animal. We do have contracts with the county, but it's only about 25% of our operating costs. That's why we do a lot of fundraisers.

T-M: You mentioned a couple of points you wanted to discuss about the new shelter?

Turpen: We are committed to raising money for a new shelter. Some folks say, "Why don't you just fix the shelter you have?" A lot of it has to do with wear and tear on the building. (The WRHS) has been here for three decades. We have issues with the septic system. We have poor water pressure. We did just repair our fresh air intake. It's kind of like a car — at some point, you need to replace it. This shelter was built when the old shelter burned down. (A new shelter had to be built hurriedly). The model of the shelter is antiquated; the dogs can see each other inside their enclosures. This adds to their stress.

T-M: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Turpen: For people who want to see available dogs and cats, you can see them online at WhiteRiverHumaneSociety.org. They can also start their application online.