Humane Society of Harrison County overcomes major setback after water damage

Just days after acquiring a new building, the Humane Society of Harrison County experienced a major setback. “We turned the water on for the very first time Nov. 14, ready to take one tiny step closer to opening our doors for the animals who desperately need us,” President Cait Hulihen said. “But within three minutes, water was pouring out of the ceiling vents, light fixtures and running down the walls.”

Hulihen quickly turned to the community for help, posting an urgent call on the society’s Facebook page. Volunteers began contacting anyone they could over the weekend in hopes of finding assistance.

A few days later, Hulihen shared an update. “Restore 24 was on site bright and early. Josh was phenomenal — he cleared out all the water-soaked insulation in the attic, set up fans and dehumidifiers, and made sure the damage stayed minimal,” she said. “A plumber from the Dover area — known to us only as ‘Chops’ — came out, took inventory of what we needed and then returned bright and early Sunday morning to begin repairing the lines.”

That same day, Cadiz plumber Roy Smith arrived to install a brand-new HVAC system donated by the American Animal Alliance.

“These men worked all, well into Sunday evening, on their day off,” Hulihen said. “They could’ve been home relaxing with their families. We cannot thank them enough.”

Hulihen said plumbing and heating are now about 90% complete. A crew from the Eastern Ohio Correctional Center assisted with painting, assembling the catio and kennels, installing the water heater and cleaning.

She said volunteers are doing everything they can to keep operations running while repairs continue. Two dogs needing emergency placement had to be temporarily housed in the building. “That involves being down there anywhere from six to eight times a day for potty breaks and socializing, lugging water back and forth for them,” she said. “We’re making it work though.”

Beyond the interior repairs, Hulihen said they will also need help fixing the parking lot, which has many potholes, and securing fencing around the property so dogs cannot slip through.

“We have been so humbled and blessed by the response from the public and the outpouring of love and support,” she said. “We’re hoping to be up and functional by New Year’s, but we are at the mercy of our volunteers’ help with the timeline.”

The society’s annual meeting will be held Dec. 15 at the Puskarich Library, 200 E Market St. in Cadiz. It is a covered-dish event.

“We are still actively seeking grant writers, monetary donations for vetting the animals and, of course, more fosters willing to house animals until they’re adopted,” Hulihen said.

Call 740-582-0411 for more information.