October 13, 2004

HHS Loses Precious Companion

(West Olive, MI) — The old saying “all good dogs go to heaven” eases the staff’s loss of Harbor Humane Society’s much loved mascot. Shelby passed away on Wednesday, September 15th. She first came to HHS in April of 2003. Shelby was found wandering along an area highway dazed, blinded and barely able to walk. She had been set on fire. She was transported to the humane society by Ottawa County Animal Control and placed in the immediate care of Harbor Humane Society’s Medical Director Maureen Good DVM.

Shelby drew nation-wide attention as donations flooded the society’s Hope Fund set up to provide medical care for animals with life-threatening conditions. Her story was picked up by the Associated Press and NPR. Donations came in from all parts of the country as outrage grew over who would do such an inhumane thing to an animal.

Shelby survived her injuries after months of intensive treatment. She thrived in the only way a dog can when loved and nurtured to good health. Because Shelby needed daily attention to her eyes and skin conditions due to third degree burns over her face, chest and legs, she took up permanent residence in the humane society’s surgical unit. She returned love with a wag of her tail stub to everyone she met. The cause of her death was believed to be related to an immune-based attack on her blood vessels. She died at Michigan State University and is buried on the grounds of the society.

The staff of Harbor Humane Society grieves her loss because Shelby had come to symbolize all animals who suffer at the hands of thoughtless human beings. She was also, more importantly, a good and simple dog who grew to love and trust people again. We should all be so courageous.

Contributions can be sent to the Hope Fund in care of Harbor Humane Society located at 14345 Bagley Street in West Olive, MI 49460.

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