At Columbus Humane, our mission is simple: to fight animal cruelty, help animals in need, and advocate for their well-being. But the journey from kennel to forever home isn’t always easy, and sometimes, it takes a little extra time, patience, and care.
Forest is an 11-month-old white pit bull–type mix whose life took an unexpected turn when housing restrictions made it impossible for his family to move with him; a challenge faced by far too many renters across Central Ohio. When his family realized they could no longer keep him, they turned to Columbus Humane for help.
Our Animal Support Center counselors worked closely with them, exploring every possible option to keep their family together. When it became clear that surrender was the only path forward, Forest was welcomed into the shelter, a difficult goodbye for his family, but the start of a new chapter filled with hope, healing, and the promise of a brighter future.
From the moment Forest arrived, our veterinary team ensured he was healthy and comfortable, while our behavior team spent time learning his unique personality. At first, he was shy, but once he felt safe, Forest’s affectionate and playful nature began to shine. He loved romping with other dogs, mastering new cues, and going on field trips where he could meet new friends.
Despite his progress, Forest was overlooked for months. Throughout, our team remained committed to ensuring he felt supported and valued. When his first birthday arrived, we threw a party complete with his very own cake, a joyful celebration that reminded us all of home.
This level of care is what every animal at Columbus Humane receives, no matter how long their stay. Daily enrichment, playgroups, time outside the kennels, and special experiences such as field trips or quiet afternoons in staff offices help create an environment where animals feel safe, loved, and truly at home. For many, the shelter becomes a haven, a home away from home, until their forever family comes along.
In December, the perfect family walked through our doors. The moment they met Forest, the connection was instant. After more than 90 days in our care, Forest finally found his forever home, a life now filled with playtime, cozy naps, and full-speed zoomies. His new family shared:
“Forest is the sweetest little dog, and we still can’t believe he was there for so long. He and his sister play and nap all day, and he has been so well-behaved on walks. Thank you for all the work you do.”
Stories like Forest’s happen because of supporters like you. Your generosity provides lifesaving veterinary care, behavior support, and adoption services that help animals heal, grow, and find loving homes.
In 2025, your support made a record-setting year possible: more than 3,400 animals across 30 species found homes. Each adoption represents a life changed and a family made whole.
Right now, you can be the reason the next happy ending happens.
$250 provides veterinary and behavioral support, including treatment for heartworm and upper respiratory infections, as well as individualized behavior plans to support successful placements.
$100 funds critical diagnostics, allowing our veterinary team to identify and treat medical issues early so animals can move safely toward adoption.
$50 provides essential vaccines that protect animals in crisis and keep our shelter community healthy and adoption-ready.
$25 supports daily care and nutrition that help animals maintain strength, reduce stress, and continue their journey toward a safe and loving home.
Give today to provide lifesaving care, compassion, and second chances, the kind that turns a shelter stay into a forever home, just like it did for Forest.
