Its time to begin adoptions for the Chinchillas seized at the end of March

After more than eight weeks, HAWS (the Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha County) is ready to adopt out nearly all of the more than 300 chinchillas in the shelter’s care since the animals were seized on March 29th from a home in the city of Waukesha.

City Police and Fire Department authorities were called to a home for a welfare check when several hundred chinchillas were discovered on the property. HAWS has been caring for the herd ever since – housing them in four different wards, providing medical care and monitoring as the herd grew with more than a dozen babies born at the shelter.

HAWS will adopt out the chinchillas using the following guidelines:

· Where it is safe to do so, the chinchillas will be neutered.

· Those on the waiting list to adopt will be contacted first to make appointments for viewing.

· An education event has been scheduled for this Saturday, May 30th at 1:00pm to ensure adopters are properly prepared for their new companion animals. A second event will be June 8th at 6:00pm.

· HAWS will announce on Facebook and at hawspets.org when the adoption waiting list has been exhausted and the remaining chinchillas are made available via special adoption events.

· To be added to the prospective adopters list, please email office@hawspets.org.

“The tremendous support from our community has been heartwarming during this challenging time for our organization. From the outpouring of donations – local and international – to the dedication of volunteers and staff, HAWS is truly blessed,” notes HAWS’ Executive Director Lynn Olenik. “This is what we do, and while it puts a strain on our resources, we know that our work is appreciated and valued. We are thankful to be a part of this wonderful community.”