All staff and volunteers complete the Fear Free Shelter Program. It’s a free, online training designed to help animal shelter staff and volunteers reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in animals during their stay at the shelter. The program teaches simple, science-based techniques to create a calmer environment, improve animal well-being, and make handling safer and easier for both pets and people. It’s focused on making the shelter experience more positive, from intake to adoption.
In addition to our adoption program, OCHS offers a variety of other services to the community, including:
- Adoption counseling and support: OCHS staff helps potential adopters find the right pet for their lifestyle and provide support throughout the adoption process.
- Spay and neuter programs: To help reduce the pet overpopulation problem, OCHS often offers low-cost or free spay and neuter services to qualified pet owners.
- Educational programs about responsible pet ownership: OCHS provides educational programs to schools, community groups, and individuals on topics such as animal care and pet adoption.
- Lost and found pet services: OCHS helps reunite lost pets with their owners. If you’ve lost a pet, you can contact OCHS to report it lost and to check for any matching pets that have been brought to the shelter.
- Volunteer opportunities: OCHS relies on volunteers to help with a variety of tasks such as walking dogs, socializing with cats, cleaning kennels, helping with adoption events, thrift store staffing, and general office help.
OCHS is a vital part of our community, and we rely on the support of donors and volunteers to continue our important work. If you’re interested in learning more about the OCHS or how you can help, please give us a call.
Here are some additional ways to support the OCHS:
- Fostering: Foster parents provide temporary homes for animals in OCHS’s care until they can be adopted.
- Donating goods or services: OCHS is always in need of donations such as food, bedding, toys, and veterinary care. You can also donate your time and skills by volunteering your services.
- Shopping at the OCHS Thrift Store: OCHS Thrift Store is a great way to find gently used clothes, furniture, and other items at affordable prices. Proceeds from the Thrift Store support OCHS programs and services.
- Attending OCHS events: OCHS hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as adoption events, fundraisers, estate sales, and educational workshops. Attending an event is a great way to learn more about OCHS and to show your support.
OCHS is your hometown shelter. Together we can make a real difference in the lives of animals and people in the community. Please consider getting involved today!