What motivated the decision to merge?
OHS and WHS realized that to accomplish our mission, they could help to save more animals and be more efficient with their resources.

How was the discussion initiated?
OHS was exploring options for more ways to help animals and one of their considerations was to collaborate with other shelters in the region. They began an examination of regional animal welfare cooperation nationally. They were also talking with WHS about expanding the existing positive working relationship between the two groups. After many discussions, both groups decided that they had a lot to offer each other by merging.

What are the economic benefits?
This new relationship will be more cost effective for both groups because WHS already has much of the infrastructure needed for both groups, including staff in the following areas: veterinary, human resources, animal behavior experts, fundraising, accounting and community education. Although OHS had their own infrastructure for many of these critical services, their Board was committed to invest in as many resources as possible to help animals without duplication and this partnership enabled OHS to do that. In addition, many of the OHS innovations can be also be easily adapted for use by WHS, including educational programming.

Were the two groups already collaborating on any programs or services?
For several years the OHS staff and the WHS veterinary staff have been working together to end pet overpopulation by OHS bringing animals to WHS for spay or neuter surgery. Now, by combining resources, both groups plan to provide even more valuable services to animals and their communities.

How many animals does each humane society rescue?
Currently WHS provides services to nearly 20,000 animals each year. OHS provides service to approximately 1,800 animals annually.

What services are provided at the OHS and WHS animal shelters?
Both organizations provide adoption, foster care programs, education programs and volunteer opportunities. OHS has animal control contracts with 6 of the communities in Ozaukee County; WHS provides adoption and veterinary care for stray animals that have not been redeemed at Milwaukee’s animal control facility. WHS has a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic and provides spay neuter services to animals from low income households. WHS has a staff of four veterinarians and eight veterinary technicians and specialists. In addition, WHS has an animal behavior department and a wildlife rehabilitation hospital, while OHS helps wildlife through education and referral.

Were there differences in philosophy and organizational practices between the two groups?
The two organizations shared a common philosophy. In some situations, the approach was different. Because the two communities and shelters are unique, both groups have made some changes in their practices to be consistent, efficient and cost effective; another way that our partnership is allowing both groups to expand services for animals and people. However, many unique practices at each shelter remain.

Will OHS be moving?
New sites are being explored for a new adoption center for OHS. Because of the need to replace the existing shelter, additional funds, in addition to those already collected for a new building, will be raised and put toward a new facility. A campaign to create a new OHS adoption center will be announced at a future date.

What is happening at the current OHS shelter?
With the help of Ruvin Brothers and Peter Schuyler Architects, a pro bono project to expand the current facility was completed in early 2006 with the assistance of many trades’ people who donated their time and materials to help animals. In addition to the additional space, upgrades were made to the entire OHS facility to make life safer and more comfortable for animals and staff. These changes and the fact that many administrative functions now occur at WHS, enabled a trailer that was located on the site for many years to be removed.

Does OHS still have a Board of Directors?
Several members of the OHS Board joined the joint WHS/OHS Board. In addition, the OHS Board has become an Advisory Board, continuing to work on behalf of OHS animals in Ozaukee County. The current OHS Advisory Board President is Laurie Yingling.

If I make a donation to one of these groups, will my dollars stay in their respective community?
Yes. Although the groups will share many functions and activities, donations made to either OHS or WHS are used exclusively at those organizations. As always, donors have the opportunity to designate their gifts to address specific interests or concerns.

How old is OHS and how did it get started?
In 1977, a small group of people concerned about animal welfare issues in Ozaukee County formed the Ozaukee Humane Project. The main focus of their efforts was to provide educational programs for the area schools. As this group increased in number and received community recognition and support, the name was changed to Ozaukee Humane Society. In 1982, an office was established in the Manchester Mall in Grafton. This office, staffed by volunteers, was a referral service with a lost and found pet hotline. Membership in the organization continued to grow. Over the next four years, plans were developed to provide a shelter for the Ozaukee Humane Society. This plan became a reality in October 1988 when the shelter in Grafton opened its doors.

If WHS serves Milwaukee County, why is it called the Wisconsin Humane Society?
The Wisconsin Humane Society was established in Milwaukee in 1879 to prevent cruelty toward animals and children and served the entire state. As the first and only humane organization in Wisconsin, the organization’s founders were disgusted at the mistreatment of horses and mules; the abandonment of companion animals; the inhumane methods of transporting chickens, sheep, and cattle; and the proliferation of neglected and abused children, many of whom found refuge on the streets as beggars. Around 1910, with the advent of associations designed specifically to protect children, the Wisconsin Humane Society focused on animal welfare.

Over the years, the Wisconsin Humane Society’s facilities, education, and outreach programs have expanded to meet the growing needs of animals and the Milwaukee. In 2006, more than 8,500 animals were adopted from the WHS into loving new homes. More than 5,000 sick, injured or orphaned wild animals receive cared for in the WHS wildlife hospital. In addition to insuring that all animals are healthy and sterilized before being placed in adoption, WHS veterinarians provide spay/neuter and preventative medical services to thousands of animals from low-income households annually. Nearly one thousand volunteers from the greater Milwaukee area provide hundreds of thousands of hours of service to animals annually.

Learn about our recent accomplishments.

If you have questions or comments, contact the Director.