"More than happy to help out:" HAWS takes in 23 dogs in Jefferson County rescue situation

WAUKESHA (WITI) -- HAWS, the Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha County, has taken in 23 dogs from a neighboring county when the Jefferson County Humane Society requested HAWS’ take control of a dog rescue situation.
“Last Monday, October 20th, Jefferson County asked for our assistance with the intake of dogs from a rescue situation. It was the worst possible time for our sister shelter as they are in transition, but we were able to step in and more than happy to help out," HAWS’ Executive Director Lynn Olenik said.

The dogs arrived at HAWS terribly matted, and in need of spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations and other medical treatment. Breeds included Cairn Terrier and Schnauzer mixes, plus two lab mix puppies.


“The transformation of these dogs has been a remarkable team effort. On Monday afternoon, local groomers volunteered their time to turn each pup into an adorable, clean little dog. On Tuesday and Wednesday, HAWS’ performed spays and neuters, secured the necessary foster homes and got in the routine of caring for an additional 20 dogs in our kennel. HAWS’ Behavior Department team worked to socialize and calm the dogs while completing evaluations to get them ready for the adoption floor," Olenik said.

Several dogs have been transferred to foster homes – including a new mother and her puppies.

Many are now available for adoption at HAWS, 701 Northview Road. For information on the available dogs, prospective homes are asked to call 262-542-8851 or visit during shelter viewing hours. HAWS is open for adoptions seven days a week:  Monday – Friday from 1:00-6:00 p.m., Saturday from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00-4:00 p.m.