Pet adoptions on the rise in Grand Junction

In 2012, the Roice-Hurst Humane Society found homes for more than 1,000 pets; a 55% increase over 2011.

According to managers, 320 cats and 728 dogs were adopted over the year.

Managers attribute the increase to having an excellent staff that truly cares for the animals.

It was also the first full year the shelter operated in its new location on 28 Road. The previous facility was off of 33 Road.

Julie Butherus, president of the board for Roice-Hurst, said being located closer to town has been a big factor in making the service more accessible.

Roice-Hurst also brought in some fresh ideas that it plans to continue in 2013.

"We've had a trainer that's come in and trained animals, our hard to adopt animals, we've had special attention from national dog trainers that come here and help us out with ideas," said Butherus.

Some of the animals that are harder to adopt include senior animals and dogs that have been abused.

Butherus also said the shelter takes extra caution with folks who want to adopt pets around the holidays. As a result, less animals are being returned to the facility.

Officials with Roice-Hurst are hoping to build on the great year by ramping up their volunteer program, recruiting more foster homes to expand their life-saving capacity, and by continuing to improve the dog walking and exercise area outside.

For more information on adopting a pet from the Roice-Hurst Humane Society, the shelter is located at 362 28 Road.

You can also reach them by calling 434-7337, or visit http://www.RHHumaneSociety.com.