Community Spotlight: Humane Society of Madison County – Compassion in Action

Tucked along Plain City Georgesville Road, the Humane Society of Madison County (HSMC) has been a beacon of compassion and care since its founding in 1989. What began as a grassroots effort by local residents to help homeless animals has grown into a vital resource for animal welfare, advocacy, and community education throughout Madison County.

A Mission Built on Care and Respect
The mission of HSMC is simple but

powerful: to provide shelter, medical care, and comfort to stray and surrendered animals while working to find them appropriate homes. Through spay/neuter advocacy, responsible pet ownership education, and rescue operations, HSMC envisions a future where animal shelters are no longer needed—because every pet is valued and cared for.​

In 2024 alone, HSMC cared for 852 animals, with over 230 dogs and 300 cats adopted into loving homes. Additionally, they assisted over 100 pet owners in reuniting with their lost animals and spayed/neutered more than 425 pets.

Services that Save Lives
From medical treatment and shelter to adoption and community outreach, HSMC offers a full range of services to support animals and the people who love them. Their key programs include:

• Intake and shelter services for stray, surrendered, or abused pets
• Emergency medical care and spay/neuter operations
• The Fresh Start Canine Prison Program, in partnership with the Madison County Correctional Institution
• Foster care and volunteer programs
• Humane education and adoption counseling
• Coordination with the Madison County Sheriff’s Department for animal cruelty investigations

Their work also brings economic benefits to the region, supporting local veterinarians, pet services, and creating volunteer and career opportunities.

A Story of Hope: Forest’s Journey
One of HSMC’s most heartwarming success stories is Forest, a pit bull found abandoned and tied to a tree on Easter 2023. Initially fearful and isolated, Forest slowly learned to trust again thanks to the patient care of shelter staff and volunteers. A year later, he was adopted into a loving home, where he now enjoys long naps, playtime, and companionship—proof of the power of second chances.

Facing Challenges with Creativity and Compassion
Like many shelters nationwide, HSMC faces increased demand and limited resources. Slower adoptions, a shortage of veterinary professionals, and rising pet surrenders due to housing insecurity have placed strain on the shelter. But HSMC has responded with innovation—expanding its foster program, hosting adoption events, and building partnerships to ensure that no animal is left behind.

Looking to the Future
To meet growing needs, HSMC is preparing to launch a capital campaign to upgrade its facilities and expand services. A new building will allow for better disease control, improved animal housing, and more efficient operations. The organization is also growing its Endowment Fund through the Columbus Foundation, helping secure a sustainable future for years to come.

How to Support HSMC
There are many ways for the community to get involved:

• Volunteer: From dog walking to laundry duty, HSMC volunteers logged over 15,000 hours in 2024.
• Donate: Visit www.hsmcohio.org for PayPal, Amazon, and Chewy wish list links.
• Partner: Businesses, schools, and groups can organize drives or service days.
• Adopt or Foster: Give a dog or cat a loving home—permanently or temporarily.

Stay up to date and connect with HSMC on social media:
Website: www.hsmcohio.org
Adoption Info: [email protected]
Events/Partnerships: [email protected]
Facebook: facebook.com/hsmcohio
Instagram: @hsmcohio