The Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley
In 1970, Joyce Martin, along with other dedicated volunteers, formed the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley. These humble beginnings, operating out of a garage, have now grown into an organization that services over 83,000 animals annually. Martin’s vision was centered around offering quality, low-cost services to the residents of San Bernardino Valley for their pets. Rather than duplicate the important work the City & County Animal Shelters were already doing, Martin strove to attack the pet over population crisis by developing a much needed low-cost spay and neuter clinic.
The Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley operates a low-cost spay & neuter wellness clinic, along with a Cruelty Investigation Department, and a Humane Education Department.
Low-Cost Veterinary Clinic
Pet over population is preventable! The Veterinary Clinic performs affordable quality spay/neuter surgeries on over 11,000 cats and dogs annually. We believe “low-cost does not mean low quality.”
While we do not provide all veterinary services as a full service veterinary hospital, our Low Cost Wellness services include canine and feline spay and neuter, vaccinations, dentals, Feline leukemia testing and vaccination, annual testing for Heartworm disease, as well as monthly internal and external parasite prevention for your pet. Our low cost vet exam allows our veterinary staff to address minor illnesses and refer pets to local full service community veterinarians when more intense medical care is needed.
To make an appointment in the Veterinary Clinic, please call 909-386-1400.
Cruelty Investigation Department
The HSSBV Cruelty Investigation Department consists of two humane officers sworn in by the Superior Court to investigate reports of cruelty and neglect and enforce California laws pertaining to animal cruelty. Last year alone the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley received over 1,000 complaints of animal abuse, neglect, and unsafe environments. Reports of abuse include dogs, cats, horses, and animals that are forced to fight illegally.
In many cases, educating the owner is sufficient to correct the problem; however there are times when an animal has to be taken into protective custody due to the owner’s negligence or unwillingness to appropriately provide for their animal’s needs. The humane officers have successfully prosecuted multiple animal abusers. In addition to cruelty cases, the humane officers are often called on by other local animal welfare and government agencies to help rescue animals in need.
The humane officers can also be seen out in the community helping financially challenged families provide for their pets. Recently, the HSSBV began a partnership with Mary’s Table in San Bernardino to help provide food for pets and people in the area.
If you witness animal cruelty or neglect, please call 909-386-1400 ext. 215 or 216.
Be a voice for those who don’t have one!
Humane Education Department
Every day the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley credentialed Humane Education teacher visits elementary schools in the San Bernardino, Rialto, and Colton School Districts. Students learn about kindness and safety around animals, as well as kindness to each other. This early instruction is an important step in breaking the link between animal abuse and human violence. In 2011 alone, more than 10,000 children received this message of compassion for all living creatures from this program.
In addition to visiting local classrooms, the HSSBV Humane Education Program holds two, week long “Critter Camps” for off track students in the spring. This educational day camp gives students the opportunity to be introduced to animals they might not otherwise have the opportunity to meet. Visitors to Critter Camp include, but are not limited to horses, possums, snakes, birds, and therapy assistance dogs. Students are taught about kindness to animals, each other and the environment in a hands on experience.
The Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley could not offer these vital programs and services without the support of our generous donors and dedicated volunteers! By donating to the HSSBV, you too are making a difference in the lives of animals and children!
