The Brevard Humane Society: Your Guide to Making a Difference in Cocoa, FL

Introduction

The Brevard Humane Society (BHS) is the leading animal welfare organization in Cocoa, Florida, dedicated to providing a safe haven for animals in need. With a mission to prevent animal cruelty and promote responsible pet ownership, the shelter has been a cornerstone of the community for over 50 years.

Services Offered

Adoption:
BHS offers a wide variety of cats and dogs available for adoption. Each animal is fully vetted, spayed or neutered, and microchipped.

Foster Care:
Foster homes provide temporary shelter and care for animals who cannot stay at the shelter, such as those recovering from illness or kittens who need socialization.

Veterinary Care:
The shelter's veterinary clinic provides affordable vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and other essential medical services to the community.

Humane Education:
BHS offers educational programs to schools, community groups, and individuals to promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

Community Outreach:
The shelter collaborates with local organizations to provide pet food assistance, pet therapy programs, and disaster relief efforts.

Why Animal Welfare Matters

• Improve Public Health: Animals can spread diseases to humans, and controlling animal populations reduces the risk of these diseases.
• Reduce Animal Suffering: Neglect, abuse, and abandonment cause immense suffering for animals.
• Foster Responsible Ownership: By educating the community about proper pet care, BHS promotes lifelong bonds between pets and their owners.
• Contribute to the Community: Animals enhance our lives, reduce stress, and provide companionship.
• Save Lives: By adopting animals from BHS, you give them a second chance at a loving home.

Benefits of Supporting BHS

• Save Animal Lives: Your donations and support directly contribute to the care and well-being of animals in need.
• Strengthen the Community: BHS provides essential services that foster responsible pet ownership and enhance the quality of life for animals and humans alike.
• Experience the Joy of Giving: Volunteering or adopting a pet from BHS is a rewarding and fulfilling way to make a difference.
• Set an Example: By supporting BHS, you encourage others to prioritize animal welfare and create a more compassionate community.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying Pets from Pet Stores or Breeders: Mass-bred animals often come from mills where they are treated poorly. Support ethical breeders or adopt from shelters.
• Not Spaying or Neutering: Uncontrolled pet populations lead to overpopulation, abandonment, and euthanasia.
• Ignoring Animal Cruelty: If you suspect animal abuse or neglect, report it immediately to authorities.
• Overcrowding the Shelter: Do not surrender animals unnecessarily. Consider fostering or finding them alternative homes if you cannot care for them.
• Choosing the Wrong Pet: Research and understand the breed and personality of an animal before adopting it to ensure a compatible match.

Tips and Tricks for Volunteering

• Be prepared: Arrive on time and dress appropriately for the task.
• Listen to instructions: Follow the shelter staff's orders to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and the animals.
• Interact with the animals: Spend time playing, walking, and socializing with the animals to reduce their stress and improve their chances of adoption.
• Be patient and understanding: Shelter animals may have experienced trauma or have special needs. Approach them with patience and compassion.
• Have fun: Volunteering should be an enjoyable experience. Take a break when needed and enjoy the time you spend with the animals.

Stories of Success

1. Lucky the Cat:

Lucky was found abandoned in a parking lot, emaciated and injured. Thanks to BHS's medical care and foster program, Lucky recovered and found a loving forever home.

2. Daisy the Dog:

Daisy was an abused and neglected dog who came to BHS covered in scars. With the shelter's support, she healed both physically and emotionally and was adopted by a family who gave her the love and care she deserved.

3. The Hurricane Heroes:

During Hurricane Matthew, BHS staff worked tirelessly to evacuate over 1,000 animals and provide temporary shelter for displaced pets. Their dedication and compassion saved countless lives.

Conclusion

The Brevard Humane Society (BHS) is an indispensable resource for animal welfare in Cocoa, FL. By providing a lifeline for animals in need, educating the community, and promoting responsible pet ownership, BHS makes a positive impact on both animals and humans. Whether you adopt a pet, volunteer your time, or support the shelter financially, you can play a crucial role in saving lives and creating a more compassionate community for all.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Animal Admissions and Adoptions at BHS

Table 2: Reasons for Animal Surrenders in Brevard County

Table 3: Impact of BHS's Veterinary Clinic