Wyandot County Humane Society: A Legacy of Compassion
In Wyandot County, compassion has a home — and it started in a garage.
Founded in 1985 by Dave and Lynda Balz, the Wyandot County Humane Society (WCHS) began as a simple effort to help stray and unwanted animals find safety and care. Forty years later, that small act of service has evolved into a multi-faceted organization that includes the HOPE (Helping Our Pets Everywhere) Clinic and the Wyandot County Equine Rescue, all working together to save lives of every species imaginable.
From a Garage to a Lifeline for Thousands
When the Balzes first began rescuing animals, Wyandot County lacked humane options for strays. Determined to make a difference, they opened their home — and their hearts — to animals in need. By 1992, their garage had grown into a 4,000-square-foot shelter, complete with indoor/outdoor dog kennels and separate housing for cats, small animals, reptiles, and even the occasional monkey.
The organization’s mission expanded again in 1993 with the creation of the HOPE Clinic, the area’s only low-cost spay/neuter facility. What started in a barn is now a state-of-the-art surgical center performing roughly 9,000 surgeries per year, according to Dr. Matt Heitman, a veterinarian with the clinic.
“Many people don’t realize the scale of the problem,” said shelter manager Millie Thelen. “There are thousands of stray animals, and ensuring they are spayed or neutered is one of the most powerful ways to save lives.”
Equine Rescue: A Second Chance for Hooved Friends
In 2003, the Balzes expanded their care to include large animals by founding the Wyandot County Equine Rescue in Carey, Ohio. The rescue provides a haven for horses, donkeys, ponies, mules, alpacas, and other farm animals — never turning any away.
At any given time, about 65 equines call the facility home. Thanks to strong community support and partnerships with local farmers and trainers, adoption rates remain high. “Our local farmers have been incredibly supportive,” said Thelen. “Many animals become pasture pals or pets, and others are adopted simply out of love for horses.”
A Safe Haven for Wildlife
WCHS also operates as a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center, caring for injured and orphaned native species under ODNR and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service permits. Beyond rescue work, the staff prioritizes public education about safely coexisting with wildlife — from fawns and raccoons to birds of prey.
Sustained by Community, Built on Compassion
The humane society receives no local, state, or federal funding, relying entirely on donations, charitable bingo nights, and community generosity. The shelter’s weekly bingo fundraiser — held Friday through Sunday at the WCHS Bingo Hall in Upper Sandusky — remains a cornerstone of its financial stability.
Over the years, national support has also helped the mission grow. In its early days, Bob Barker, longtime host of The Price is Right and a staunch advocate for spay/neuter programs, contributed funds to help build the shelter’s first surgical suite.
Today, WCHS employs over 30 full- and part-time staff, including veterinarians, vet techs, animal care specialists, and equine handlers. Together, they carry forward the Balzes’ original vision — that no animal should be turned away.
“It’s a privilege to be part of a place that serves such a range of people and animals,” said Thelen. “I’m proud of what’s been built here in Wyandot County.”
How You Can Help
Learn more about how you can advocate for horses and other equines across Ohio by visiting our Equines Advocacy Page and discover ways to protect these incredible animals from cruelty and neglect.
To support the Wyandot County Humane Society’s ongoing work, consider:
Donating funds, supplies, or pet food to help sustain daily care and medical services.
Attending a Bingo Night at 995 E. Wyandot Ave., Upper Sandusky — a fun way to give back to the animals.
Adopting or fostering a shelter pet or equine rescue animal in need of a loving home.
Every act of compassion helps ensure that every cat, dog, horse, and wild creature in Ohio has a safe place to call home.
Source: Sandusky Register
