New Beginnings
Clay Foley
Humane Investigator/Educator
Issue 2.1 - Spring 2008        

Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal.  And in the spirit of the season, I thought it would be nice to share some recent stories of animals that have turned their lives around thanks in part to the Humane Society’s cruelty investigations. 

Understandably, many victims of animal neglect arrive at the shelter with both physical and mental scars.  CCHS volunteers play an enormous part in helping these animals to regain their faith in humanity.  Thanks for all of the patience and compassion that you’ve shown these deserving animals!

Shorty and Isaac – Shorty and Isaac were living in unbelievable conditions when I first met them.  The two pit bull terriers spent approximately 20 hours a day locked in travel crates; and were isolated inside of a cramped, dark, and smelly room.  The dogs arrived at the Humane Society the day before Thanksgiving.  Despite being treated so cruelly, both still showed a remarkable desire for human interaction.  As they moved up for adoption, few knew about the dogs’ lonely pasts.  Within a month, both dogs were adopted into homes, and celebrated New Year’s Eve in the loving embrace of their new families.          

Bud and Corvo – When I met Bud and Corvo, both dogs were living outside on chains.  Not only were they being deprived of food, water, and shelter; the dogs’ owner had also ignored obvious signs that the dogs were either malnourished or ill.  Faced with having to make substantial changes in the way that she was caring for her dogs, the owner relinquished them to the Champaign County Humane Society.  The dogs arrived at the shelter in less than adequate health.  But with basic veterinary care, regular feedings, and a healthier living environment, both dogs’ prospects improved.  Corvo, the outgoing German Shepherd, was soon adopted.  Bud, the more reserved personality, stayed with us longer.  During his extended stay, the dingy black dog continued to gain both weight and confidence.  And in January of 2008, Bud was adopted into a warm and nurturing home where he is now surrounded by love.   

Roxy - By now, many have heard the story of how Roxy ended up at the Champaign County Humane Society.  The handsome cat one day climbed a tree, quickly realizing that he had failed to plan an escape route.  With the help of CCHS staff, neighbors, and a professional tree trimmer, Roxy made his way down from the towering tree five days after scaling it.  With quite a story to tell, Roxy joined the Humane Society’s feline population, and was adopted in February 2008.  These days, the only trees made available to Roxy are six feet tall and covered in carpet.