Local animal lover wills $50,000 donation to Placer County Animal Services


Published on December 09, 2016

Madeleine Huff was well-known for her generosity. She donated to charity, taught in local schools and, upon her recent passing, left $50,000 in her will to the Placer County Animal Services Division to supplement caring for dogs in Placer County.

“My mom loved all animals, but her total weakness was dogs,” Huff’s daughter, Danielle Malher, remembers. “She was a smart, caring person who valiantly wanted to do the right thing. That was important to her.”

Huff was born in France. During World War II, she served as a civilian interpreter for the United States Army. After moving stateside, she worked as a general insurance broker for United States Fidelity and Guaranty in Monterey County. She went on to become the first female vice president of the Salinas Chamber of Commerce and also served as secretary treasurer of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of California.

Madeleine Huff Holding a Dog

Through it all, Huff maintained a love for animals. In her final will, it was important that she give back to Placer County Animal Services, an organization to which she felt very close.

The money that she donated will be placed into a fund set up by the Placer County Board of Supervisors to benefit dogs at the county’s new animal services center in North Auburn, including providing care, vaccinations, medical treatment, and spaying or neutering services.

“I know that would please her,” Malher said. “That a dog got walked, cared for, petted or lived a longer life through her gift.”

Placer County Animal Services greatly appreciates any type of donation, monetary or otherwise and will make sure that every act of generosity is carried forward to the animals they care for.

The new animal services center is located at the Placer County Government Center, 11232 B Ave. View more information on Placer County Animal Services. You can also find further details on donations, volunteering, and the local shelters.