July 15, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The High Costs of Saving Lives at Blue Mountain Humane Society
Walla Walla, WA – Animal shelters and rescue organizations across the country work tirelessly to provide compassionate care for every animal that comes through their doors, no matter their condition. Such was the case with Gus, a tiny Pomeranian-mix dog that arrived at Blue Mountain Humane Society in dire condition this spring.
Gus was struggling to breathe, with a suspected fluid buildup in his lungs. Beneath the severely matted fur, the medical team discovered multiple festering wounds filled with maggots. Gus also suffered from dental disease and a severe heart murmur. Without immediate intervention, Gus would not survive.
The dedicated BMHS medical staff provided emergency care including sedation to safely shave matted fur and address wounds, flushing and cleaning maggot-infested lesions, administering antibiotics to fight infection, giving fluids to treat dehydration, providing pain medication for comfort, medications for breathing issues and suspected heart failure, and performing dental procedures to address rotting teeth.
BMHS is not a full-service veterinary clinic; however, they strive to provide the highest level of care possible with the resources available to them. Between these extensive medical procedures, around-the-clock care from staff, medications, and typical daily needs like food and shelter, the costs to save a critically ill animal like Gus and nurse them back to health can easily exceed $5,000. For nonprofit animal welfare organizations like BMHS, these expenses put an enormous strain on always-tight budgets.
In 2023, BMHS spent $1,542,318 on operating expenses, highlighting the financial strain on its resources. Notably, BMHS does not receive federal or state funding and relies almost solely on the generosity of the community to sustain its operations. Despite these pressures, BMHS remains committed to delivering quality care and shelter services.
Highlighting its successes, and its needs, BMHS is proud to release its 2023 Annual Impact Report, showcasing:
1,388 Animals Taken In
944 Pets Adopted
2,844 Spay/Neuter Surgeries Completed
244 Lost Pets Returned to Their Homes
"These accomplishments demonstrate our unwavering commitment to our mission," said Dian Ver Valen, CEO of BMHS. "But the work is far from over. We rely on community support to continue providing essential services."
And community support is at the heart of Blue Mountain Humane Society’s fundraising campaigns. To that end, BMHS is pleased to announce its annual Fall Furr Ball fundraising gala on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the Marcus Whitman Hotel & Conference Center. The elegant evening will feature silent and live auctions, games, dinner, local wines, and special guest auctioneer Colin McArthur. The fundraising goal is $275,000, directly supporting the shelter's operating expenses.
Tickets for Fall Furr Ball are $175 per person. Patron VIP Table Host packages are available for $1,750, including 10 VIP tickets, prime seating, and special recognition. Sponsorship opportunities range from $500 to $20,000.
"In 2023, the Fall Furr Ball raised nearly $247,000," said Steve Lenz, Communications Manager. "With the community's generous support, we aim to surpass this amount in 2024 and make an even bigger impact for the animals who need us most."
For more information on tickets, sponsorships, auction donations, and to see the 2023 Impact Report, visit bluemountainhumane.org.
About Blue Mountain Humane Society
Blue Mountain Humane Society is a nonprofit organization that has been serving Walla Walla County since 1967. We provide shelter, medical care, and adoption services for animals in need, relying solely on community support to sustain our operations.
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Photo cutlines:
IMG_3768: BMHS surgical staff shave Gus shortly after intake on May 16, 2024. Maggots can be seen infesting a wound. (Photo courtesy of Blue Mountain Humane Society staff)
4I0A5203: Medical Dr. Ashley Rice DVM, with help from Sugery Assistant Jennifer Catlett, cleans wounds on Gus’s hind quarters. (Photo by Steve Lenz, courtesy of Blue Mountain Humane Society)
4I0A5212: Medical Director Dr. Ashley Rice DVM cleans wounds on Gus’s hind quarters. (Photo by Steve Lenz, courtesy of Blue Mountain Humane Society)
4I0A5272: Medical Director Dr. Ashley Rice DVM observes Gus’s teeth while Veterinary Technician Beth Howell performs a dental cleaning. (Photo by Steve Lenz, courtesy of Blue Mountain Humane Society)
4I0A5277: Gus shortly after waking up from several medical procedures. (Photo by Steve Lenz, courtesy of Blue Mountain Humane Society)
4I0A5302: Gus wrapped in warm blankets in the infirmary for observation and rest. (Photo by Steve Lenz, courtesy of Blue Mountain Humane Society)
