The mission of the Bitter Root Humane Association is to provide shelter and care for animals; to offer programs and services which enhance the bond between animals and people; to be advocates for animals. We speak for those who cannot speak for themselves!
Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization. Whether your knack is stuffing envelopes, cuddling with cats, grooming dogs, working on special projects, or walking dogs, you are making a positive contribution and difference in the lives of the animals at the Shelter. Without your support, we would not be able to assist nearly the number of animals who need help in our community.
Here are just a few areas in which volunteers can provide meaningful assistance:
If you are interested in becoming a vital part of our cause, please contact Vicki Dawson at brha@bitterroothumane.org or Jan Schmidt at janschmidt@micro-mania.net.
Tails are wagging and cats are meowing in excitement over your participation.
The Bitter Root Humane Association was formed in 1972 by a group of local animal lovers. At that time they built a shelter on Adirondac Street in Hamilton. In December of 1982 the City of Hamilton took over the property for a septic treatment plant. Without the necessary funds to relocate, the shelter was forced to close. Homes were found for the remaining animals and the shelter was dismantled.
The BRHA logo designed in the early 1980's by Jenny Laing The BRHA logo got a facelift with a new design in 2004. A new Board was chosen in 1983 and in 1984, Countess Margarite Bessenyey came to the rescue and gave the group land on Fairgrounds Road with a ninety-nine year lease. Six years later, in 1990 the Bessenyey Estate deeded the land to the Bitter Root Humane Association.
Betty Cook, as President in 1984, led the volunteers in raising money for the shelter. They did everything from holding dances to bake sales and raffles. Even without a shelter, they did the best they could and placed many stray animals and answered cruelty calls.
By January of 1985, they had enough money (approximately $100,000.00) to put out for bids to build their shelter and building began in May 1985. That building is the current shelter facility at 262 Fairgrounds Road.We thank the founders of the Association and the volunteers that worked so hard and were so dedicated to the cause to get this far. As with all things in time, the Association has outgrown its current space and is again looking to move and expand. A Capital Building Fund has been started with the goal of building a new Shelter in the future. If you have information about a possible property or would like to contribute to this fund, please contact us. Thanks!
