Written By: Mark Neff, President & CEO of Forsyth Humane Society At Forsyth Humane Society, we believe in the power of the human-animal bond and its importance in promoting mental health and well-being. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we are reminded of the significance of mental health and the resources available to support those facing mental health challenges. This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Month, “Tools 2 Thrive,” emphasizes practical tools that help improve mental health and well-being. One tool in the mental health support toolkit is the human-animal bond, highlighting the mutually beneficial relationship between people and animals. Research has shown that interacting with animals can positively improve mental health by reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and stress reduction, is one of the primary ways animals benefit mental health. This hormone is released when humans interact with animals, leading to feelings of calm and relaxation. In addition to releasing oxytocin, interacting with animals can improve social skills and provide a sense of purpose. For individuals who struggle with social anxiety or feel isolated, having a pet or participating in animal-assisted therapy can provide opportunities for social interaction and help to build meaningful relationships. Caring for an animal can also give us a sense of purpose and help us get out of bed in the morning. If you are looking for a furry companion, you can view our adoptable animals at https://forsythhumane.org/adopt/how-to-adopt/ Animal-assisted therapy is a growing field that involves partnering with animals to treat mental health disorders. This therapy can include working with trained therapy animals, such as dogs or horses, in a clinical setting to help individuals work through challenges related to mental health. Equine therapy, in particular, effectively treats PTSD and other mental health disorders. Locally, Elite Canine Comfort Dogs visits organizations and assisted living communities for animal-assisted therapy.  Volunteering with animals is another way to cultivate the human-animal bond and improve mental health. Many organizations, including Forsyth Humane Society, rely on volunteers to help care for animals. Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, as well as opportunities for social interaction and connection with others who share a love of animals. You can learn more about volunteering with Forsyth Humane Society at https://forsythhumane.org/volunteer/ Coming soon, members of our community can take a dog from the shelter for a Dog Day Out field trip as another way to volunteer your time and receive a mental health boost.  Forsyth Humane Society is an animal welfare organization that celebrates the wellness of companionship. We are committed to promoting the human-animal bond and its role in supporting mental health. Whether through pet ownership, animal-assisted therapy, or volunteering with animals, interacting with animals has been shown to have numerous benefits. Companionship reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, improves social skills, and provides a sense of purpose. We also want to destigmatize conversations around mental health and promote resources available to those suffering in silence. A cat scratching at your bedroom door, asking you to get up to play during a depressive episode, or walking a dog through a beautiful park is a small dose of medicine that benefits everyone. As we continue to observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let us remember the importance of the human-animal bond and the resources available to support mental health and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s important to seek immediate help. Here are some directions to contact a suicide hotline: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988. This hotline is available 24/7 and offers free, confidential support to individuals in crisis. Or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ Please note that while these resources can provide immediate help, they are not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, please call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. Remember, reaching out for support is a brave and important step toward healing. You are not alone, and there are people who care and want to help you through this difficult time.

Maggie is the new forever name of who was once called #73. She was rescued a few months back, a story you may remember where, in less than two days, we adopted or had in foster care, over 70 dogs. Susan adopted #73 and shares this, “Her name is Maggie, and she has added so much to our family.  We already had two other furbabies and they have all bonded together beautifully.” Susan is a local artist, SH Morris Art, who has so kindly donated a gift certificate that our overall Mutt Strut winner will take home. Her work is beautiful. She is a colored pencil artist out of Lewisville, NC who specializes in pet portraits. Make sure to register for Mutt Strut, stop by and see Susan at the vendor market, and say hi to #73, Maggie!

Rick has been a longtime donor, volunteer, community advocate, and friend of Forsyth Humane Society and UnChain Winston. If FHS has a problem, Rick can fix it, and he is always willing to lend a hand or utilize his talents. When we asked Rick about his dedication to FHS, he said, “It’s a good organization with good people who commit to reaching goals.”  In addition to volunteering, Rick is a monthly supporter of FHS. “It’s easier than donating in one shot, and as a retired person, it’s easier to blend in with your pay schedule,” Rick said. “Monthly giving is also better for the humane society because they are supported year-round.”  Rick has been an FHS volunteer since 2014. “The skills I’ve accumulated in my lifetime, I can use here. If you are retired, it gets you out of the house to volunteer,” said Rick.  Rick comes from an extended family who believes in lending a hand and supporting their community. “It’s generational!” Rick said. “My mom and her mom always volunteered. My family of volunteers goes back to the revolutionary war. It’s something we do.” Rick also mentioned he loves the companionship of volunteering with FHS. “We’ve always had dogs, and now that we’re in NC living in a condo, it’s not dog appropriate. We’re not little dog people, we are Pitbull mix people. Coming to FHS, I get my dog fix.”  Rick and his friends at UnChain Winston recently came to FHS to build cat trees and beds for our shelter animals. “I love working with UnChain Winston. People are so grateful for the service we provide for their pets.” UnChain Winston provides free fencing for tethered dogs and other resources to our community. When Rick reflects on all the families he has helped, he says, “The moment when the dog realizes they can run and aren’t hooked up, the dogs go nuts and have fun. It’s amazing to see.” 

Kate Michalek has been an FHS supporter since 2014 when she started as a volunteer at the Miller Street location. “I love animals and thought about volunteering every time I passed FHS,” says Kate. “One day I decided to stop in to see how I could help. I fell in love with the animals, the people, and the mission.” Kate continued volunteering when FHS moved to its Country Club location. “Working with the animals and customers is such a rewarding experience,” she explains. “Connecting an animal with the right family and their forever home brings such joy.” The Michalek’s have adopted three pets from FHS, cats Noche and Murray, and Shih Tzu Martha, a recent winner in the pet calendar contest. “We have also adopted animals from AARF and the county shelter. Rescues are so full of love and appreciation. They know you are giving them a second chance.” Photo Left: Martha & Baxter In 2016, Kate joined the board of directors where she served for six years. “Animal welfare is a rewarding but emotionally challenging business. FHS has faced many changes and challenges during my time on the board. I cannot say enough about the staff and leadership at FHS. They face every issue with resolve, focus and grace. I am proud to know them and work with them.” Two years ago, Kate joined the Legacy Society. “As a volunteer and board member I have witnessed all aspects of FHS and how animal welfare benefits our community. I deeply believe in the FHS mission to support the bonds between animals and humans. FHS programs foster compassion and understanding in our community – two things I think most people would agree we need more of right now. FHS will always be a part of me. Joining the Legacy Society ensures my support for the FHS mission now and in the future.” Photo left: Murray