Humane Society of the Palouse, Inc. -- Moscow, Idaho

FAQ

What does the HSOP require for adoption of an animal?

There is an application that must be completed, including a contract outlining the requirements of ownership and level of care we expect for our animal and an application fee of $69 for cats and $90 for dogs. A picture ID, proof of address, such as: a piece of mail, and if you are renting, a copy of your lease stating you are allowed to have pets is also required.

When an animal is brought to the shelter, how long before the animal is available for adoption?

City codes require all dogs to be given 10 days to be claimed and Latah County requires only 3 days. If the dog is not claimed within that time, they will be vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and placed for adoption. Cats are given about 10 days as well to be claimed before being placing for adoption.

My landlord does not allow pets, can I still adopt?

No, the Humane Society’s main objective is to protect the well-being of the animals and if the landlord does find out about your adopted pet, it is then at risk.

Are college students allowed to adopt an animal?

Yes, pets are available to college students, but be aware of the financial responsibility that comes with owning a pet. Make sure you are financially stable before you seek adoption.

How many animals does HSOP handle each year?

It varies from year to year, but in 2007, HSOP housed 830 animals.

What kinds of animals will HSOP take in?

Cats and dogs are the most common, but the Humane Society will also take in other small animals, such as: guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, and birds.

If I find a stray animal, can I bring it to HSOP?

Yes, call the Humane Society before bringing the animal in, we may already have a description of the lost animal. If there are no matching reports, then bring the animal in.

Does HSOP euthanize?

We are considered a “no-kill” shelter so we do not euthanize an animal unless it is terminally ill, injured or aggressive. The Humane Society staff works hard to save as many animals as possible, but unfortunately sometimes the animal must be put down.

What is HSOP’s view of declawing and spay/neutering animals?

We view declawing as a last resort and depending on the case. If it is purely for vanity reasons, then HSOP believes it’s unnecessary. Spaying and neutering, we believe should be mandatory.

What is the difference between a “no kill,” “never kill,” and an “open admissions” shelter?

The “no kill” shelters, like HSOP, do as much as possible to save every animal that comes through its doors and only euthanize if the animal is terminally ill, severely injured or aggressive.

“Never kill” shelters are considered rehabilitation centers for animals. They are treated and if they are deemed un-adoptable, they are not euthanized but, will spend the rest of their lives living in the facility regardless of their condition.

“Open admissions” shelters are those that will euthanize for space. Because they are not a private organization, they are required to take in every domesticated animal that comes though their doors regardless of space availability.

Since HSOP is a nonprofit organization, where does the money come from?

The HSOP’s main focus in not our income, but the animals we house, so we rely on three major areas of income: The City of Moscow, Latah County and Donations. In 2007 HSOP had a budget of $148 Thousand. $44 Thousand came from the City of Moscow, $21 Thousand came from Latah County, and the rest came from donations and fundraisers.

Does HSOP sell any of their animals to universities for research purposes?

Absolutely not. HSOP has never done this, and will never will. We are here to protect the well-being of these animals.

*All adoptable (healthy and good-tempered) and treatable animals are adopted and euthanasia is reserved only for those animals who cannot be rehabilitated or have terminal illnesses or injuries.