Puppy Love
- "Puppy Love" originally appeared in the May 2025 "Downtown" issue of COMO Magazine.
Four dog-loving volunteers and staff members from the Central Missouri Humane Society (CMHS) dropped by the COMO Companies office and photo studio back in March for some paws-itively nose-boppingly cute pictures. Trischa Splitter and Austin Johnson of Junebug Photography held court as the photographers.
Volunteers were Michelle Casey, associate director and campaign manager; Emily Nelson, events coordinator; Michael Mavel, foster pup parent for Biscuit; and Barb Onofrio, day volunteer.
Biscuit
- German Shepherd mix
- Neutered male
- 11 months old
- Found as a stray with his brother
Biscuit is a very energetic, young dog looking for a home with some patience and stability. His ideal family will be home often, as the thought of being without his people is just crazy talk. He has lived with other dogs in the past/grown up with them, but he may be a bit much for smaller dogs or ones that can’t keep up with his energy level. He spends a lot of time lounging on the couch; Biscuit is a big cuddler! His coat is incredibly soft, and he absolutely loves being petted and touched. Biscuit has been very well-mannered and friendly. He immediately greets guests with a wagging tail, a wiggly butt, and lots of licks.
Chicken Pot Pie
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Neutered male
- 3 years old
- Found as a stray, transferred in through Columbia Animal Control
Chicken Pot Pie is a sweet and silly guy! He really likes treats and will practically climb in your lap to get them. He needs a little TLC as he’s underweight, and his skin is a bit rough, but he will shine in the right home! His foster says, “Chicken is the sweetest guy ever! He is extremely loving, and all he wants to do is put his face in your lap and curl up. He much prefers treats and cuddles over playing with toys! Chicken is perfectly content to curl up on the couch and sleep all day long. He is very quiet, easygoing, and chill, and he loves to go on walks. He will be your shadow anywhere you go and is an amazing companion. He is a little bit shy with new people, but after a few pets, he warms up quickly! He will make someone so happy!”
Beverly
- Mastiff mix
- Spayed female
- 8 years old
- “Big sweetheart,” found as a stray; no owner came forward
Beverly is a sweet, older gal. She’s ready to find a great home where she’ll get plenty of TLC. She still has plenty of pep in her step despite her somewhat senior status!
She has been diagnosed with heartworms and will undergo treatment as part of her adoption. The Central Missouri Humane Society not only provides all of its adoptable pets with basic veterinary care, but it also goes above and beyond to treat a diverse range of health issues, including heartworm treatment, fractures, dental work, amputations, chronic illness, and more.
Rufus
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Neutered male
- 3 years old
- Found as a stray, transferred in through Columbia Animal Control
Rufus is our longest CMHS resident by far. He has been in our custody and with his foster mom for over two years. Rufus is a high-energy dog who is looking for a new home where he can get lots of playtime and exercise. He gets along great with his foster brothers and loves to wrestle, play tug-of-war, and do zoomies in the yard with his buddies.
He could definitely live as an only dog but would love a home with another active dog who could help him burn off some of his energy. Rufus has had successful interactions with older children, but his energy level and love of face kisses might be overwhelming for little ones or kids who aren’t comfortable with big, goofy dogs.
Roofie is a smart boy who knows all of the basic commands. He has a bit of anxiety and is working hard to learn things like calmly leaving his crate after being left alone and not jumping on people. He gets better and better every day and would benefit from continued training in his new home to help him with the adjustment. His active mind and athletic ability would make him an awesome candidate for activities like agility training.
This handsome doofus is such a sweetie and loves attention. He’s a big boy, but he wants to be a lap dog, and he spends every night curled up in bed as close as he can to his foster mom.
Rufus has been diagnosed with a congenital defect called pulmonic stenosis (PS). PS is a condition in which the pulmonic valve is abnormally formed and creates an obstruction of blood flow from the right side of his heart to the lungs. This then causes his heart to have to work harder to push blood to the lungs, which in turn causes enlargement and thickening. Fortunately, Rufus has had a successful surgery for this condition. It is recommended he have yearly follow-up visits to monitor his heart.
Adoption Process
CMHS makes adopting a pet easy and stress-free. The process begins with a simple adoption interest survey, helping the team match you with the right pet. Once reviewed, you can schedule a meet-and-greet appointment or visit as a walk-in to interact with available animals. To minimize stress on the pets, a staff member will guide you through the adoption areas. When you’re ready to take your new pet home, CMHS offers a convenient mobile checkout process, allowing you to complete the adoption via your phone. All necessary paperwork, including the adoption contract and medical history, will be emailed to you, making the transition smooth and hassle-free.
Capital Campaign
The Central Missouri Humane Society’s Give Them Love capital campaign is a critical effort to replace its aging shelter, which has deteriorated to the point where it is no longer safe for animals, staff, or the community. After decades of wear and tear, the current facility cannot meet the growing needs of the pets and people who rely on CMHS. Fortunately, the non-profit has secured land for a new, state-of-the-art shelter that will provide a safer, healthier environment and allow it to expand its lifesaving programs. It is still in the silent phase of fundraising, working to secure major lead gifts to make this vision a reality. With the community’s support, CMHS can build a facility that truly reflects the compassionate care it provides every day.
Foster Program
CMHS relies on its robust foster care program to provide temporary homes for animals that are not yet ready for adoption, such as those recovering from illness, requiring socialization, or nurturing unweaned litters. Foster families offer these pets individualized care, which not only aids in their development, but also alleviates overcrowding at our shelter. Fostering plays a crucial role in our mission, ensuring that each pet receives the attention and care they deserve while awaiting their forever homes. It’s free to participate — CMHS provides the supplies, and fosters supply the love!