We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachael Kappius and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachael, how does your business help the community?
Grand Rivers Humane Society was formed in 2005 in Grand Junction Colorado by Dr. Joseph Maruca to find loving homes for Mesa County homeless pets. He wanted to eliminate the euthanasia of healthy adoptable cats and dogs at the Mesa County Animal Services shelter.

It took only 5 years and in 2010, Dr. Maruca’s dream was realized. Mesa County Animal Services stopped euthanizing healthy adoptable cats and dogs.

Grand Rivers Humane Society works tirelessly in assisting Mesa County Animal Services to find forever homes for cats and dogs. We run social media platforms to advertise adoptable dogs and cats and generate interest and awareness in our community. GRHS hosts dog adoption events every Saturday in addition to Having adoptable kittens and cats located at Kitty Korner (1649 Main St. Grand Junction, CO 81501) and at local pet stores. GRHS also has a dog and cat foster program which enlists the help of volunteers to keep dogs or cats in their home who may be struggling at the shelter.

Grand Rivers Humane Society also pays for extensive medical costs for dogs and cats that end up at Mesa County Animal Services injured or sick, as Mesa County Animal Services is unable to pay for these costs. When an owner does not claim their pet, Mesa County Animal Services works with Grand Rivers Humane Society’s donations to cover the medical costs. We then make sure to find a loving home for the unclaimed pet. If Grand Rivers Humane Society did not pay for these extensive medical costs, the pet would be euthanized.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Grand Rivers Humane Society is exclusively focused on local homeless pets and works very closely with Mesa County Animal Services to find loving homes for adoptable puppies, dogs, kittens and cats that end up at their shelter. We do not obtain pets from other counties, states or countries.

Grand Rivers Humane Society is run almost entirely by volunteers. We have 2 employees at our Kitty Korner location, but our board of directors and everyone else volunteers their time. We rely on donors, volunteers, and fosters to continue our live saving work.

The current challenge is that all shelters across the country are full and there are less adopters to take in rescue pets. There are many theories as to why this is, but the economy is definitely a factor. People don’t have extra money to spend on pets when they need to pay more at the grocery store or other places. We have reached deep to find new ways to advertise and find new adopters in order to keep up with our goals as a humane society. The work is never easy, but it is rewarding when a dog or cat finds their new forever home.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Grand Valley has numerous attractions – outdoor activities ranging from hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, etc. Luckily we have lots of active dogs who enjoy going on adventures and doing these activities with their owner! Our downtown areas are very dog-friendly so you can bring your new furry friend to one of the local breweries, outdoor dining areas, or just for a stroll downtown.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Grand Rivers Humane Society would not exist if it wasn’t for our founder Dr. Joe Maruca. He passed away on 10/23/2019 and we have continued his goal of eliminating euthanasia of healthy pets in Mesa County. We would like to thank Dr. Maruca for a lifetime legacy of saving almost 7,000 local homeless pets. We have set up a legacy foundation in his name in order to continue his lifesaving work.

Website: https://grandrivershumane.org/

Instagram: grand_rivers_humane_gj

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grandrivershumane?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@grandrivershumanesociety4621

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