Operations improve animal care

In May, the shelter implemented a medical protocol that prescribes specific medical intervention for animals who need it. The protocol has saved time and resources, and improved animal care.

Staff are also being trained to conduct dog behavior evaluations, which will also conserve resources.

MCHS aims to provide a Kuranda dog bed for each dog in its care. These raised beds allow cool air to circulate underneath during the summer, and warm air during the winter, allowing a more comfortable rest.

Among the most prominent and successful efforts initiated in 2008 are the Top Cats and Wonder Dogs programs. Every week, volunteers select cats or kittens, and rescue partners staff select dogs, to feature on the MCHS website with a photo and short description. Most featured animals have been adopted.

Rescue Partners Program expands

During 2008, 18 new rescue nonprofits joined our network, increasing the overall number to approximately 200. The rescue organizations take in all kinds of animals, from farm animals to rabbits and birds, reptiles, and voles and of course, dogs and cats. 

A major change took place with the addition of Elizabeth Knowles as the first full-time rescue coordinator. With more than 30 years of experience running her own kennel, Elizabeth has facilitated timely communication between MCHS and rescue organizations both in our area and elsewhere around the country, enabling faster release of animals.

Elizabeth cuddles with Regan, a shelter dog

MCHS Private Rescue experiences jump in adoptions

Private Rescue manager Robert Henne oversaw reorganization, enlargement and upgrades to the rescue building, improving animal comfort and care and doubling space for cats. New software allows the Rescue to track expenses better and record health history of each animal. New video resources allow adopters and their children to watch programs that demonstrate proper techniques for handling and training companion animals.

Foster Program partners with PetSmart

MCHS has placed new emphasis on weekend adoption events, which feature animals in foster care. The events are held at PetSmart stores in Rockville, Germantown and Kentlands. Turnout and foster rates have been high. 

In October, Animal Planet videotaped young animals in the MCHS Foster Program for the 5th Annual Puppy Bowl, for airing on Super Bowl Sunday, 2009.  MCHS kittens were featured during the Kitty Halftime Show.

Thrift store sales soar

As the economy spiraled downward, consumers sought bargains –- and found them -– at the MCHS Wagging Tails Thrift Store.  Sales have increased steadily, and shoppers also support MCHS online by purchasing items on eBay and through iGive.

New management brings new expertise

With the departure of former CEO and President JC Crist in August, MCHS named Nicholas Gilman of HumaneLogic as interim executive director. Gilman assisted in the recruitment of a new CEO and President; at the annual membership meeting in December, the board announced the appointment of Cris Bombaugh, along with the election of new board members.

Cris Bombaugh and friend

Denise Machado, MCHS 2008 Humanitarian of the Year

Volunteer programs rejuvenated

In August, David Poole was appointed Volunteer Coordinator. Among his efforts are new recruitment criteria and formal animal handling training for volunteers.  His efforts have strengthened recruitment and retention, and provide more opportunity for volunteers to give and receive feedback. 

The Humanitarian of the Year Award went to 20-year volunteer Denise Machado, for her selfless dedication to the shelter. Her many roles have included foster, interviewer and educator.

Humane Education expands outreach

Education Director b j Altschul set a goal of 50 programs to honor MCHS’s 50th Anniversary and easily surpassed that number. 

Highlights included a Girl Scouts Silver Award Team that helped with a promotional mailing; three successful Girl Scout Gold Award projects; approximately one-third of all educational programs presented directly in classrooms; and speaking engagements to civic and business organizations. 

The high point of the year was acceptance of MCHS’s Community Impact Project proposal to Leadership Montgomery.

Senior Girl Scouts work on earning their Silver Award at MCHS

Corporate partnerships explore valuable new ground

A partnership with MCT Federal Credit Union started in 2007 led to reciprocal promotion of membership benefits for each organization in 2008. 

The Calvert Group, a socially responsible investment firm, invited MCHS for repeat participation in employee events and provided support through event sponsorships. 

Employees of the URS Corporation hosted an assortment of activities, and Adventist Healthcare System embarked on a variety of service projects and fund-raising programs that has become an on-going partnership MCHS hopes will inspire other corporate support.

Communication tells the MCHS story

Animail, the MCHS magazine, continues to be distributed to members as well as veterinary offices and public libraries. 

To conserve resources, MCHS began shifting more emphasis to electronic communication through its e-mail newsletter, an initial presence as both a Cause and a Group on Facebook, and a pilot series of interviews for a blog of “living” memories for the 50th Anniversary celebration. Interviewees recalled stories both funny and serious, showing that improved animal care was the key motivator in their lives.

Renee Adler, MCHS communications intern,

contributed to the research and writing of this review.