Many people often have questions about the Lehigh County Humane Society and we would like to help answer those questions. Here are some of the more commonly asked questions we encounter on a daily basis.
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| Question: Is the Lehigh County Humane Society a "branch" of HSUS or local government agency? |
Answer: NO! Many people
see the name "Lehigh County" and immediately think we are a part of
the government but fact is that we are not affiliated. We service the Lehigh
County area and that is why many people ask that question. We DO NOT receive
funding for our operating expenses from the county. We do,  however, provide animal
control services for local townships and municipalities within Lehigh County
on a yearly contract basis. LCHS is a private, non-profit, full accredited organization
that is separate from any other agency, anywhere. 100% of our funding comes from
private donations, bequests and services we provide at a low cost rate. HSUS
and other national groups do great work, too, so definitely consider donating
to them after you supported your local animal shelter. National groups state
that they help "local shelters"
but it does not mean financial help in Lehigh County. |
| Question: Where do your animals come from?
Answer: We receive from 4,500 to 6,000 animals each year. A little more than half of the 6,000 animals we shelter each year are strays. The rest are owner surrendered. |
| Question: I have kids and other pets at home.
Will this pet get along with them?
Answer: We strongly suggest bringing the kids in for a visit in one of our two get-acquainted rooms. We also suggest bringing in any dog that resides in the household (in fact, it is a requirement). We will make a supervised decision based by our experience. We will also gladly judge a dogs' behavior toward our cats in the cat room. |
| Question: How long do you keep the animals
before putting them to sleep?
Answer: Pennsylvania law requires that stray dogs be held a minimum of 48hrs. The Lehigh County Humane Society extends this law to apply to all stray animals that enter the shelter. For owner surrendered animals and those strays that have not been claimed after the 48 hours, their time in the shelter depends on the health, temperament, age and the amount of space available. We do not have a set time limit and we try our best to give every adoptable pet an opportunity to be adopted. Some animals have spent months in the shelter before being adopted. We recommend that if you have concerns or require counseling or advice, or need help or support that would allow you to keep your pet, please call us first. Our staff will do everything possible to help you. |
| Question: Do you have a low cost spay and neuter
program?
Answer: YES! Our spay and neuter program is one of the best in the Lehigh Valley. If you're interested, all you have to do is come to LCHS and purchase a certificate. Our office staff will gladly give you directions to the veterinarian's office. |
