Dr. Warner examining a dog at AHS’s Wellness Fair. (Photo by Pam Burgess)
Asheville Humane Society (AHS) is excited to announce a new position statement reflecting its expanded focus: Asheville Humane Society is about hope, not heartache. As Buncombe County’s critical safety net since 1984, we are always here to save and protect every animal. We have mastered the art of saving lives within our walls and now we are going even further, helping our community’s pets and their people thrive together. We are going beyond a no-kill community to ensure that each animal has the quality of life they deserve—a life worth living.
“We remain completely committed to the remarkable improvements we have made for shelter animals,” says Tracy Elliott, AHS’s executive director, “but now we can prevent animals from coming into the shelter by solving problems in the community, in neighborhoods and in homes.”
The organization, founded in 1984, has implemented programs that help families keep their pets safe and healthy by providing services ranging from vaccinations and flea treatments to complex medical procedures. Two full-time behavior specialists assist cats and dogs in becoming eligible for adoption and a relocation program transports animals to shelters that have a better chance of finding them a home.
“It took many years, backbreaking work, persistent political advocacy and millions of dollars to make the Buncombe County Animal Shelter one of the best public open-admission shelters in the country,” says Elliott. “We are fortunate to have the resources from this generous community to do extensive medical and behavioral rehabilitation if that is what is needed.”
Those interested in contributing to the mission can attend the 13th annual AHS Taste of Compassion presented by Animal Hospital of North Asheville, A Night at the Moulin Rouge, on Saturday, November 5, from 6–9 p.m., with a VIP pre-gala reception from 5–6 p.m. The themed event includes vegetarian cuisine, wine, beer and both live and silent auctions.
“Our sponsors, guests and bidders help fund Asheville Humane Society’s lifesaving programs, giving every local animal the opportunity to live and thrive,” says Carla Musgrove, AHS’s event coordinator.
The event will be held at the Morris Hellenic Cultural Center, 227 Cumberland Avenue, in Asheville. Advance tickets are $75 and $125 VIP and can be purchased at ashevillehumane.org/TOC-2016. Tickets at the door are $90 and $140 VIP.
