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... Hinsdale Humane Society     ...       Throughout its long history, the Hinsdale Humane Society has consistently emphasized the important role pets play in peoples' lives. But the society was founded initially because of a concern for stray animals in the community.   ... In the early 1950s, Hinsdale faced a growing "dog problem," with too many roaming strays and an increase in bite reports. Imposition of a stringent leash law brought many dog owners to the local "pound" for the first time-and what they saw was appalling.     The Hinsdale Humane Society was created by a small group of concerned women responding to that community need. When they took over an existing wooden structure with poor ventilation, no heat and a single light bulb dangling from its rafters, they found several animals kept in each cage-with straw on the bottom of each-and the only available water from a garden hose.     These women helped charter HHS as a not-for-profit organization on August 21, 1953. Those original members answered phone calls at their own homes, purchased cleaning products, and worked long hours to turn the pound into a real shelter.     The present HHS shelter, built in 1958, has undergone major renovations to keep up with its growing pet-related needs. Kennel space for dogs was doubled in 1974, and extensively renovated in 2001/2. To accommodate the 2,000 animals cared for this year, the shelter includes 22 kennel runs, separate rooms for cats and kittens, and counseling rooms. Next up is a planned "suite" for our resident cats, to relieve the stresses of shelter life and help cats get adopted more quickly.           Today, our mission is fivefold:     Saving lives. by offering shelter and medical care to the animals left at our door, and foster care to sick, injured, pregnant or young animals.     Making friends. with our resident cats and dogs through our staff and our dedicated volunteers, who offer more than 4,000 hours annually to exercise, groom, train and socialize our animals.     Speaking out. in the community through a variety of programs focused on the importance of a lifelong commitment to pets and the benefits of animal companionship. Efforts include humane education programs for children, dog obedience classes, a behavior hotline, and a Friends for Life program to match senior citizens with older animals.     Touching hearts. through our 20-year-old Pet-a-Pet program, which has made more than 3,000 therapy visits to local hospitals, nursing homes, assisted-living facilities & rehabilitation centers.     Going home. in our first 50 years, we have helped more than 100,000 animals find new homes, enriching the lives of those pets and the people who love them.         Hinsdale Humane Society - 22 North Elm Street, Hinsdale, IL 60521. Tel: 630.323.5630     www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org