The Olympic Peninsula Humane Society is continuing to see a reduction in its euthanasia rate thanks to commitment by the staff to save the adoptable animals that come to the shelter each year.

 

The year-to-date euthanasia rate at the shelter is 7 percent, down from last year’s rate of 10.5 percent. Just five years ago, the number was well over 30 percent. (All euthanasia numbers include feral cats, which make up the majority of the animals euthanized at the shelter.)

 

“We are thrilled to continue to see the euthanasia rate drop,” said Mary Beth Wegener, executive director of the shelter. “We are committed to helping adoptable animals find homes either by adopting them out at the shelter, transferring them to other shelters in more populated areas or finding a suitable rescue group for them.”

 

Wegener attributes much of the success for reducing the euthanasia rate at the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society to Dr. Suzy Zustiak, who was hired as the shelter’s veterinarian two years ago.

 

“Having a full-time vet on staff is wonderful,” Wegener said. “Dr. Zustiak is able to catch and treat illnesses early and she is absolutely committed to saving every animal possible. We are very fortunate to have her at the shelter.”

 

The Olympic Peninsula Humane Society has maintained an active presence in the community since 1947. The society shelters and cares for animals of all types. A private, nonprofit corporation, the society is financed primarily by private donations and gifts. No animals are turned away and annually about 2,000 animals pass through the doors of the facility. For more information or to volunteer, call the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society at 457-8206.