Humane Society of Jackson County, NC - ARF

04/09/2025

We get our puppies vaccinated on time because we love them and we want to lessen the likelihood of infectious diseases that can cause illness, suffering and even death. Why then, don't people get their dog the vaccination against fear, anxiety, stress, panic and phobia?

Isn't emotional suffering and potential euthanasia enough of a reason to protect puppies as any other infectious disease?

Just like vaccinations, the timing of socialization is critical. You can't do it later. It has to be done before 14 weeks in most breeds.

Not only is the exposure important, but the nature of the exposure. Positive exposures put value in the emotional piggy bank and negative ones withdraw value.

There is no reason to avoid socialization if done well and safely, but there are lots of negative consequences to waiting to expose your pup to the world.

Give your puppy the best of both worlds—protection and preparation for a happy, confident future!

04/09/2025

Love dogs, but aren't in a place to adopt right now? Please considering fostering for ARF. You can get your canine cuddles and save a life.

Visit our website to learn more about fostering: https://arfhumane.org/volunteer/

04/08/2025

Dashing Dango: The Good Boy You’ve Been Waiting For

This 1-year-old blonde and white heartthrob is 45 pounds of zoomies, snuggles, and tail wags. Dango has energy for days and love to give—he’s a total sweetheart with a goofy side that’ll keep you smiling.

Found as a stray, Dango has quickly become a favorite at the Jackson County Animal Shelter. He gets along great with other dogs (especially the ladies) and absolutely adores the shelter volunteers.

If you’re looking for a loyal adventure buddy with a soft side, Dango is ready to be your ride-or-die.

Call the Jackson County Animal Shelter at 828-586-6138 to schedule a meet and greet.

04/07/2025

Next Week is Dog Bite Prevention Week.

The ASPCA has some great tips to avoid dog bites. Read the article linked below to learn more about how to:

Recognize Warning Signs: Learn the signals that indicate a dog may feel threatened.

Teach Safe Interactions: Understand how to supervise and educate children on respectful behavior around dogs.

Promote Responsible Pet Ownership: Find out how monitoring a dog’s behavior during stressful moments can prevent bites.

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite-prevention

04/04/2025

Meet Geordie, a sweet, affectionate boy with a heart as big as his love for playtime! He’s great with familiar dog friends but prefers a stable home without a revolving door of new pups.

Geordie was abandoned but rescued just in time. He adores his foster dog siblings but struggles with new introductions—so he’d thrive with an experienced dog owner or as your one-and-only best friend. Looking for a loyal hiking partner, protector, and cuddle buddy? Geordie’s your guy!

✅ Housebroken (just don’t distract him!)
✅ Crate trained & great on a leash
✅ Super affectionate & loves his humans 💛
✅ Neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, & on preventatives

To meet Geordie, fill out our application here: https://arfhumane.org/arf-adoption-application/

Geordie is an adoptable Dog - Carolina Dog searching for a forever family near Sylva, NC. Use Petfinder to find adoptable pets in your area.

04/01/2025

Stop and meet Rosellen—the sweetest, most affectionate girl looking for her forever home. She loves to follow her nose on little adventures, but more than anything, she just wants to be by your side. She gets along well with other dogs and has a heart full of love to give.

If you’re looking for a loyal companion who will brighten your days, Rosellen is waiting for you. Want to meet Rosellen? Fill out an adoption application: https://arfhumane.org/arf-adoption-application/

03/31/2025

Heartworm disease is a serious threat to your pet's life and is spread by mosquito bites. Keeping your pet on a heartworm preventative every year is essential to avoid dangerous and costly treatments later. Read the full FDA article for more simple tips and information on protecting your furry friend: https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/keep-worms-out-your-pets-heart-facts-about-heartworm-disease

03/27/2025

Cedar is a super sweet Pointer mix who is looking for someone to love. Cedar is healthy, spayed, and up to date on her vaccinations. Cedar's current foster dad rescued her from wandering the streets and has made sure that she is a healthy, happy girl. She's ready to be someone's best friend and companion. You can learn more about Cedar here: https://www.petfinder.com/dog/cedar-75793682/nc/sylva/jackson-county-humane-society-arf-nc204/

03/25/2025

ADOPTED!!! Congrats to Elvis and his new family!

Meet Elvis – the canine king of cool and the ultimate playtime companion! This 9-month-old beagle mix weighs in at about 30 pounds. Crate trained, neutered, and brimming with energy, Elvis is an affectionate hound who is ready to rock and roll his way into your life. Whether he’s chasing his favorite chew toy, strutting like a true hound dog, or confidently greeting fellow dogs, he's always ready to make a new friend.

Just a heads-up: while he’s the life of every party with moves smoother than a Vegas performance, his playful, mouthy greetings might be a bit much for the tiniest fans or inexperienced owners. If you're ready for lots of cuddles and laughs, Elvis is set to shower you with all the love of his Jailhouse Rock charm and a whole lot of burning love.

Want to meet this delightful dynamo in person? Fill out an adoption application on our website: https://arfhumane.org/arf-adoption-application/

03/25/2025

UPDATE: Millie has been returned to her family. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers Nick and Ann Marie for reuniting this sweet girl with her people!

FOUND DOG!!
This sweet girl was found recently in Dillsboro. She has a collar, but does not have a tag or microchip. She appears to have been on her own for a bit, as she is very underweight.

If you know this dog, please comment below or call ARF at 877-273-5262.

03/24/2025

Bird Flu & Cats: What Pet Owners Need to Know

Avian influenza (H5N1) isn’t just a risk for birds—it’s now affecting cats, too. Cats can catch bird flu by hunting or eating infected birds, or by coming into contact with contaminated environments.

What to Watch For:
- Sudden fever
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Neurological symptoms like tremors or seizures

How to Keep Your Pets Safe:
- Keep cats indoors and away from wild birds & rodents
- Don’t feed raw poultry or wild game
- Clean food and water bowls regularly
- Watch for signs of illness and contact your vet if concerned

Stay informed and help keep your pets safe! To learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/risk-factors/bird-flu-in-pets.html

03/22/2025

Share your goofiest pet pictures for National Goof Off Day!

03/21/2025

Big thanks to our friends at Sylva Animal Hospital for their support of ARF and Catman2 Shelter and for the superb care they provide to our animals!

03/20/2025

Max is a 2 year old male Bulldog mix at the Jackson County Animal Shelter. He weighs 56 lbs and is a very happy and sweet dog. He loves treats, running around, and chewing on toys. He’s great at fetch and enjoys being brushed! He doesn’t always show well in his kennel, so give him a chance outside! We think he’d be fine with children and he seems to get along with most dogs through the fence, but meet and greets with both are always recommended. Please call the shelter at 828-586-6138 to meet Max!

03/19/2025

Ever dreamed of the joy of having a dog without the long-term commitment?

Fostering a dog lets you experience unconditional love and companionship while giving a loving home to a pet in need. It’s the perfect way to trial dog ownership, rekindle your love for canines, or simply enjoy a furry friend when a permanent commitment isn’t possible. Open your heart, make a difference, and discover the incredible rewards of fostering today!

Visit our website to learn more or to become an ARF foster: https://arfhumane.org/volunteer/