Our Mission

HSBC is on a mission to provide a safe haven for stray or unwanted animals, to foster the human-animal bond, to promote responsible pet ownership and to end pet overpopulation through spay/neuter.

Rescue. Reunite. Rehome. Rethink.

Who We Are

We are committed to fostering the human-animal bond, promoting responsible pet ownership, and ending pet overpopulation through spay/neuter.

Committed

Making a Positive Impact in Our Community

HSBC is dedicated to making a positive impact in our community. Through our efforts, we provide a safe haven for stray or unwanted animals, foster the human-animal bond, promote responsible pet ownership, and work towards ending pet overpopulation through spay/neuter programs.
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Meet Our Team

Get to know the dedicated staff and volunteers.
Brandi Marek

I’ve always known my path in life, ever since I was a little girl. My mind consistently revolved around one idea: working with animals. I always expected a wide variety because I’m not afraid of much. Little did I know, that come February of 2022, a position was up for grabs at HSBC, and I jumped on it! I quickly fell in love with the job, and all the “duties” that came along with the territory. I learned SO many new things, and continue to do so every day. Myself along with the animals in our care feed off of one another, we learn from each other, we adapt to whatever each individual animals’ needs are, and we share a lot of emotions. While most of them are happy tears, and all smiles, of course we see the sad stories, and have some not so happy endings. If I can help change one animals life a day, then I’m doing something good. From teaching a new puppy to sit, or to holding their paw and not letting them be alone in their final moments, its the animals’ that reap the benefits of our care. That is why I am here. “Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong” -W.R Purche

Shelter Manager

Carrie Miarecki

Kennel Technician

Bree Graves-Smith

Kennel Technician

Shelli Frazier

Kennel Technician

Chloe Vollrath

Kennel Technician

Connor Wesenberg

Kennel Technician

Noelle Doornik

Kennel Tech

Joyelle Luedtke

Administrative Assistant

Dedicated

Board Members

Meet our incredible board members.
Joanne Manning

President

A love for all animals, both domestic and wild and to give them a voice.

Geri Whitstone

Vice President

I love animals and want to ensure they have a safe place to go.

Peggy Tolbert

Treasurer

To raise awareness of the animals in need in our community and work to improve their lives.

Becky Popp

Secretary

To promote community involvement in order to help contribute to the well-being of animals in need.

Mary Anne Thompson

Member at Large

It’s not easy being a pet so am trying to make if easier for them.

Ann Stanga

Member at Large

The opportunity to do something positive for the community.

Becoming a board member for the Humane Society of Burnett County is an incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of animals and the community. As a board member, you will help shape the strategic direction of the organization, ensuring that we continue to provide compassionate care, shelter, and adoption services for animals in need. Your leadership will guide fundraising initiatives, community outreach programs, and partnerships that further our mission. If you’re passionate about animal welfare and ready to make a difference, volunteering as a board member offers a fulfilling way to give back while working alongside a dedicated team of like-minded individuals.

Join Our Volunteer Team Today!

Volunteer to make a difference in the lives of animals.

Compassion

Our Journey in Saving Animals' Lives

November 2000
HSBC was incorporated, and started out focused on sheltering stray dogs in foster homes.
November 2002
The first building, located on Midtown Road in Siren, opened its doors on 13 acres of land leased to HSBC by Burnett County.
June 2019
HSBC moved into their current home which was made possible in large part by a generous donation from the late Hugh Schilling, Jr. in memory of his wife Peggy.
October 2023
Between January 2008 and October 2023, over 5000 animals have been helped by the HSBC.