Eugene, OR: The first nine of over 100 small breed dogs recently rescued from a Lane County hoarding situation will become available for adoption Friday, October 27 at Greenhill Humane Society, 88530 Green Hill Rd.

“These first nine dogs available for adoption are some of the safest to handle. They’ve been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, micro-chipped, and are now learning how to trust people and acclimate to a regular feeding schedule,” says Sasha Elliott, Greenhill spokesperson. “We’re looking for very patient people who will make a commitment to use positive reinforcement methods to help socialize these dogs and allow them to grow into the wonderful companion animals we believe they can be.”

The remaining dogs will stay in the care of Greenhill while receiving medical care and rehabilitation. People interested in becoming adopters are advised to watch Greenhill’s website and social media sites for continued updates.

Bringing an under-socialized dog into your home can be an extremely rewarding experience, but Greenhill staff urges potential adopters to be aware of the time it may take for some of these dogs to be fully rehabilitated.

Often, dogs rescued from puppy mills or hoarding situations have lived their entire lives with very little human contact. They may not know how to live in a home, or how to do “normal” dog things. They may be frightened by everyday experiences like noises from televisions and dishwashers, kids, and vacuum cleaners. They also may not know how to go to the bathroom outdoors, play with toys, accept petting or treats from your hand, walk on a leash, come when called, or be handled or held.

“It’s extremely rewarding to help a neglected animal transition to a loved companion animal, but it may take some time,” says Elliott.

Adoptions are first come, first served, as long as it’s a good match for the pet and person. The Greenhill location opens at 11:00 a.m. on Friday morning (media may contact Sasha to arrange an earlier visit) and potential adopters are encouraged to arrive early to reserve a space in line. To view all currently adoptable animals visit www.Green-Hill.org

Greenhill is asking for financial support to help provide ongoing care and rehabilitation. Donations can be made online at www.Green-Hill.org/donate, or in person at either shelter location, or by mail or phone 541.689.1503.

About Greenhill Humane Society: Greenhill Humane Society has been caring for animals in Lane County since 1944.  It is a private, non-profit organization that relies on charitable donations.  Greenhill operates two shelters in Eugene, Oregon, 88530 Green Hill Road and 3970 West 1st Avenue.  We envision a community in which all companion animals have loving homes and are treated with compassion and respect.

Contact: Sasha Elliott, Community Engagement Manager, Sasha@Green-Hill.org, office 541.689.1503 x112