Emily Hayden, who works in customer service at the Butler County Humane Society, holds Fluffy, a kitten up for adoption at the shelter. Julia Maruca/Butler Eagle

Changes to daily operations have helped the Butler County Humane Society stay afloat during a year and a half of COVID-19 pandemic conditions.

Despite increased activity, COVID-19 restrictions and a flurry of adoptions, humane society representatives said volunteers, employees and donors have risen to the occasion.

The Butler County Humane Society is a no-kill shelter and continued operating, albeit with adjusted hours, during the pandemic. The shelter is open on an appointment-only basis from Wednesday to Sunday, and closed on Monday and Tuesday.

“We need people here every day, and our volunteers have stepped up,” said Michelle Edinger, director of development and community engagement at the Butler County Humane Society. “We're doing OK, but there's still lots of animals that need love and care and medical treatments.”

A portion of this story is shared with you as a digital media exclusive. To read the full story and support our local, independent newsroom, please subscribe at butlereagle.com.

Emily Hayden, who works in customer service at the Butler County Humane Society, says that kittens are often adopted the fastest. Julia Maruca/Butler Eagle

The Butler County Humane Society continued to be open on an appointment-only basis even after pandemic restrictions were removed. Employees say it’s helped make the process of adoptions go smoother. Julia Maruca/Butler Eagle

Veterinary technician Lyndsay Newhart holds Louie, a cat up for adoption at Butler County Humane Society. Julia Maruca/Butler Eagle

Emily Hayden, who works in customer service at the Butler County Humane Society, says that kittens are often adopted the fastest. Julia Maruca/Butler Eagle