This is one of the hardest updates for us to share. Many of you followed the story of Cletus, who came to us after lack of veterinary care in his previous environment.
Our team and veterinary partners worked tirelessly to give him a fighting chance. He received routine care, antibiotics, and all the love we could offer while we hoped to get him strong enough for surgery. Sadly, his little body had been through too much for too long, and the signs of him shutting down became clear. On our veterinarian’s recommendation, we faced the compassionate decision to let him rest and give him the peace he deserved.
Cletus left this world surrounded by love, comfort, and dignity.
Please, let his story be a reminder of why we speak out, why we advocate for responsible pet ownership and veterinary care and why we strongly believe in the importance to spay/neuter your pets.
Run free, sweet Cletus. You were loved deeply, even if only for a short time.
In 2024 alone, we sheltered 1,120 animals and achieved an incredible 96% out-alive rate—a testament to the dedication of our staff, board, volunteers, and the support of our amazing community.
However, things were not always this way. White River Humane Society (WRHS) has come a long way in its mission to save and protect homeless animals. Over a decade ago, the euthanasia rate stood at 51% for cats and 44% for dogs. These numbers were heartbreaking, but with hard work, determination, and a commitment to a pro-life philosophy, WRHS has transformed into a true safe haven for animals in need.
This success would not be possible without the tireless efforts of our staff, adopters, volunteers, board members, foster families, rescue partners, and generous supporters. Over the years, we have saved thousands of animals—giving them a second chance at a loving home.
But our work is far from over. To continue our lifesaving efforts, we rely on the community for support through donations, fundraisers, volunteering, adoptions, and foster care. Every dollar, every hour, and every adoption makes a difference. Together, we can give more animals the future they deserve.
Join us in our mission—because every life matters.
Here are only a few of the many animals that have passed through White River Humane Society.
What is happening with animal welfare in our community? Check out the White River Humane Society blog for facts about our shelter, government contracts, and our mission to provide the best care for animals in need. https://whiteriverhumanesociety.org/pawsing-for-a-tail/f/what-is-happening-with-animal-welfare-in-our-community
To help White River Humane Society go to https://whiteriverhumanesociety.org/help-us
To view all our available cats go to https://whiteriverhumanesociety.org/cats
To view all our available dogs go to https://whiteriverhumanesociety.org/dogs
Time is crucial when pets are lost. It is important to contact Animal Control in your area to verify if your pet was picked up and to verify where the pet is being held during the local stray hold period per local ordinances (in most cases 5 days). At WRHS, when a pet is brought in by a Good Samaritan or an Animal Control Officer, we will post their photo to our Facebook page. You are welcome to visit the shelter to take a look to see if your pet is here Monday through Saturday. Visit us at www.WhiteRiverHumaneSociety.org/lost-pets for tips and more information.
*Please note due to contract changes some lost pets are being held at government locations or other third-party providers. Animal pickups via Animal control are reportedly lower in frequency than in the past, so animals may be with another citizen or still roaming.
Accidents happen. Please take steps to keep your pets safe and on your property. We highly advise microchipping your pet to increase the chances of them being returned to you if they are ever lost or stolen.
Pets can be microchipped at WRHS with proof of ownership for a ONE time fee of ONLY $15. Please call for an appointment 812-279-2457.
Heart-Touching Senior Story: Meet Zarha
At 18 years old, sweet Zarha found herself at the shelter through no fault of her own. When she was brought in, we discovered she was microchipped — but despite our best efforts, we were unable to locate her owner. Now, this gentle senior girl spends her days quietly waiting for someone to give her the loving retirement home she deserves.
Zarha is calm, affectionate, and seems healthy for her age. She would love nothing more than a warm spot to nap and a caring person to share her golden years with.
If you have room in your heart and home for a calm, loving companion, please consider opening your home to Zarha. She comes with a special adoption fee to an approved application.
Give a senior cat the comfort of a forever home — she’s been waiting her whole life for someone like you.📝 Submit an adoption application online:
https://form.jotform.com/91533427148155
📞 Call us: 812-279-2457
📧 Email: wrhsmgt@gmail.com
⏰ Business Hours:
• Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 12 PM – 6 PM
• Saturday: 12 PM – 4 PM
• Thursday: By Appointment Only
• Closed: Wednesday & Sunday
🌟🐾 Dog of the Week:Archie! 🐾🌟
Archie Says Be Safe This Halloween!
While the ghosts and goblins are out tonight, Archie will be waiting quietly in his kennel, hoping that someone will fall in love with him.
This 1 ½-year-old sweetheart is friendly, lovable, and ready for adventure! Archie is the perfect buddy for an active person or family — he walks well on a leash, seems to be housebroken, and even loves other dogs!
He’s up to date on vaccinations, tested for heartworms, neutered, and will be microchipped before heading to his forever home.
If you’re looking for a good boy to make every day brighter, look no further than Archie. He’s ready to be your forever friend! Come meet him at White River Humane Society
Archie is up to date on vaccinations, tested for heartworms, has been neutered and will be microchipped before being adopted. Apply online: https://form.jotform.com/91507320300138
All this for only $150 with an approved application.
Call 812-279-2457
Email: wrhsmgt@gmail.com
Your donations help the lost, abandoned, neglected and homeless dogs and cats of Lawrence County
