The numbers are in and they look good for the animals. According to the Coulee Region Humane Society, adoptions rose almost 55 percent from 2004 to 2007.

The CRHS saw adoption rates increase as follows:

2004-05: Adoptions increased by 10 percent, from 571 animals to 628

2005-06: Adoptions increased 28.6 percent, from 628 animals to 808

2006-07: Adoptions increased 9.4 percent, from 808 animals to 884

Humane society officials attribute more animals finding homes to increased awareness about adoption and increased awareness about the CRHS and its role in the community. The organization offers many other services and programs as well, including humane education programs, pet therapy, the R.E.A.D. program, training and behavior assistance, volunteer opportunities, animal control services, owner relinquishment services and tours of the facility

However, the number of domestic animals needing assistance has also increased over the past three years by 31.3 percent. The increase from year to year is as follows:

2004-05: Animal intake increased by 19.3 percent, from 2,366 animals to 2,822

2005-06: Animal intake increased by 7.2 percent, from 2,822 animals to 3,025

2006-07: Animal intake increased by 2.7 percent, from 3,025 animals to 3,106

The CRHS also saw an increase in wildlife assistance cases as follows:

2004: 791 wild animals

2005: 798 wild animals

2006: 837 wild animals

2007: 858 wild animals

CRHS offers 2-for-1 cat deal

The Coulee Region Humane Society recently launched a promotion called Twice the Love, offering the adoption of two cats into the same home for just one adoption fee.

Most feline behaviorists agree that cats typically lead a healthier, happier life if they are able to share it with a feline companion.

“Even if cats never become bosom buddies, just sharing the house with another living creature while you are away helps to break the monotony and loneliness,” according to Cats International. “Of course, if they become playmates, there is the added benefit of exercise and entertainment that is especially needed by kittens and young adult cats. Many cases of playful aggression directed toward the owner as well as various forms of household destruction, can be prevented if the cat’s energies are focused on a playmate.”

Adoption counselors are available to assist with matching cats for those interested in adopting more than one cat. The Twice the Love program runs through March 31.

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