BRIGHTSIDE ANIMAL CENTER

We are committed that the animals we take in deserve every opportunity to have a stable, loving home -- even when they do not seem to be good candidates for adoption. Therefore we developed our "fospice," or foster hospice, program. Volunteers in this program take in animals who are too elderly or terminally ill to be adoptable. These open-hearted volunteers care for the animals in their homes for the rest of their days. BrightSide provides the medical care and medicines these animals need.

Many of the animals BrightSide takes in are strays brought to us by local animal control officials and citizens. If the animals are wearing tags we work to reunite them with their owners. If they aren't wearing any identification, we scan them searching for a microchip so they can be returned. We microchip pets when they are adopted. We also sell dog licenses, which are required in Deschutes County, where we are based. We also offer below-market-cost microchipping for all pets in our community, not just those in BrightSide's care.

We strive to provide a good environment for our animals. This is more than just food and shelter. They have socialization and interaction with humans every day. Dogs get walked every day. Each day some cats are allowed to roam freely in a large room outfitted with cat trees and toys, interacting with people. In good weather, they can also go outdoors safely in our "catio."
We also have a fund of donations dedicated to doggie day care. A facility near our shelter will host one of our dogs for a daily rate. They get a day of play with other dogs and a bath. We find this is especially effective for the big dogs in our care. We actively solicit dedicated donations to pay for this enrichment activity.