Blue Earth Nicollet County Humane Society
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In the Know

BENCHS begins transition to HQHV spay neuter clinics

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Blue Earth Nicollet County Humane Society
November 2021
Contact Susan Kroon  info@benchs.org

In-house spay/neuter surgeries for the cats and dogs at BENCHS are becoming faster and safer with High Quality High Volume (HQHV) techniques. HQHV surgery means more cats and dogs can safely be sterilized in an 8 hour clinic day. A $15,000 grant from PetSmart Charities supplemented the costs of training so the BENCHS surgical team could learn these new concepts. Dr. Mountin says, “The new program allows a greater volume of spays and neuters to safely be completed and the animals do not need to “wait their turn” to go home."

Training in Asheville, North Carolina has been completed and the BENCHS surgical team is transitioning to these new concepts in High Quality High Volume spay neuter surgery. Manager Liz Brunner says, "In the past we would frequently have to delay sending a pet home for a week or longer while their family is eagerly waiting for them. HQHV means we can have more animals ready to go home at their meet and greet. Adoption without delay!" Cats and dogs can be ready to go home faster than before. 

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​BENCHS Named the 2019 Service Above Self Organization Recipient 

The Board of Directors is proud to announce that BENCHS has been named the 2019 Service Above Self Organization Recipient by the Greater Mankato Rotary Club! The purpose of this award is to recognize an organization in the community which demonstrates the Rotary's spirit of service. What an honor! 
On February 27th, we will be celebrating the work we do at a noon lunch with members of the Rotary Club. 
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2019 Annual Report
Spring 2019 Newsletter
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​New Executive Director Hired at BENCHS

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Andrew Burk, Executive Director
The Board of Directors of Blue Earth Nicollet County Humane Society (BENCHS) is pleased to announce new leadership in the organization. The Board of Directors conducted a national search at the end of 2018 which generated 50 applicants. At their monthly board meeting on Monday, January 14th, the Board of Directors introduced Andrew Burk of North Mankato as the shelter’s Executive Director. 

Burk has a bachelor of arts degree in Speech Communications from the University of Illinois Urbana. He has spent his career in the field of retail management, customer service, marketing, and branding. Most recently, he served as the Store Manager for Lowe’s Home Improvement in Owatonna. Susan Kroon, president of BENCHS’ Board of Directors, noted that “Andrew brings a wealth of leadership experience to the shelter.” 

As the Executive Director for BENCHS, Burk will oversee overall management of the organization. His experience in management, budget, operations, and marketing will allow BENCHS to plan more effectively for the future and introduce innovative approaches to sharing our mission. He will continue the shelter’s efforts with business partners, and will lead the shelter in communications with city and county animal welfare communities. BENCHS currently maintains contracts for animal sheltering services with City of Mankato. The board decided to maintain the shelter’s manager position. 

Burk began his new role at the shelter on January 9, 2019. The transition of adding an Executive Director to the shelter management has been smooth and effective. Burk said Sunday, as he began his career in animal welfare, “I have found what I was truly meant to do!” Burk and his wife Brooke have two little girls, as well as rescue dogs of their own.
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Founded in 1969, BENCHS is a community driven, nonprofit organization, serving the needs of the greater Mankato area. BENCHS, a no-kill shelter, is dedicated to providing excellent comprehensive care, rescue, and re-homing for lost, abandoned, and neglected animals. In 2018, BENCHS helped over 1,200 cats and dogs find loving forever homes.  ​
News & Headlines 2018
News & Headlines 2017
Celebrating Past Events
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Contact Us

1250 North River Drive
Mankato, MN 56001
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​Answering Service: 507.625.6373

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We are currently making appointments for adoptions, surrenders, and strays. Please see details on our COVID-19 Updates. Here is a link to that page - click here. 
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