FFA Emergency Assistance Benefits Lewis & Clark Humane Society

When the Lewis & Clark Humane Society called FFA in October 1998 for help it was truly an emergency. There was no room at the Society's animal shelter for 53 dogs taken by the County in a cruelty case. Some of the dogs needed immediate veterinary care; all needed temporary refuge. FFA opened its doors to provide shelter in a building at the future home of the new wildlife rehabilitation center. The Foundation also provided funds to help cover veterinary care and other costs.

The mixed-breed dogs, including puppies, were transported from Arkansas to Montana in the summer of 1998. Concerned citizens contacted authorities who obtained a search warrant and found deplorable conditions. The dogs were chained in a building without adequate food or water and were standing in their own excrement - and most of the animals were terrified of human touch. A court order was obtained to put the dogs in the temporary care of the Humane Society.

In December 1998, the owner was found guilty of cruelty to animals and the dogs were awarded to the Society. The dogs were spayed and neutered with financial help from FFA and other donors.

All of the dogs have been adopted. For more information about other adoptable pets, call the Lewis & Clark Humane Society at (406) 442-1660, or visit the Society's web site at http://www.initco.net/humane/

Montana Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center

One challenge facing Montana is the growing number of orphaned and injured animals resulting from increased pressures on wildlife and habitat. For many years, wild animals from across the state were brought to the shelter on Custer Avenue in Helena.

While this shelter served its purpose, it was never meant to be a rehabilitation center. Located in a busy, commercial section of town, it lacked appropriate heating and light. The cages were cramped and allowed humans too much contact with the animals, thereby reducing the successful return of the animals to their natural habitat.

That's why the Foundation for Animal, in partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the USDA Forest Service is raising funds to complete a new facility. The Montana Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center is now located on the historic Stedman Foundry at the south end of Spring Meadow Lake State Park.