If you have ever looked at adoptable dogs online, you may have noticed something: many of them are listed as “mixed breed.” People often ask, “Why are there so many mixed breeds in shelters?”
The short answer is this: most dogs in the United States are mixed breed, and accurately identifying a dog’s breed based on appearance alone is extremely difficult.
You cannot accurately identify most dog breeds just by looking at them. Research has shown that even trained shelter staff, breeders, and veterinarians often guess wrong when trying to label a dog’s breed based on appearance alone. Give this quiz a try and see for yourself!
Two dogs can look almost identical but have very different genetic backgrounds. A dog that appears to be a “Lab mix” may have little or no Labrador Retriever in their DNA at all. Many breeds share similar physical traits such as coat color, ear shape, body size, or tail length. Those features can combine in countless ways across generations.
DNA Tests Tell a Different Story
When shelters have conducted DNA testing, the results often surprise everyone.
Dogs labeled as one type of mix sometimes turn out to have three, four, or even fourteen different breeds in their background. That is why most shelters, including the Humane Society of Utah, use the term “mixed-breed.” It is an honest and transparent way to acknowledge that, without verified parentage, assigning a specific breed is simply guesswork, and visual identification alone is notoriously unreliable.
Rather than risk mislabeling and setting unrealistic expectations, we focus on what we can accurately assess: the dog’s personality, behavior, and needs.
Personality Matters More Than a Label
Breed can sometimes offer general insights about size or energy level. But it does not tell the whole story. Every dog is an individual.
Some mixed-breed dogs love long hikes in the mountains. Others prefer short walks and long naps on the couch. Some are social butterflies. Others thrive in quieter homes. Observed behavior and temperament are far more predictive of success in a home than a breed label guessed from appearance.
Primrose arrived at the Humane Society of Utah as a 2–4 day old stray, found without her mother or littermates. Like many orphaned puppies, there was no background information, no breed paperwork, and no reliable way to determine her heritage.
As she grew, Primrose looked like a puzzle in motion. She had the coloring and facial markings of a husky, but her shorter, velvety coat resembled a bully-type breed. Then her behavior added another twist: strong herding instincts. At just six weeks old, she was already nipping at the ankles of the adult dogs in her foster home and trying to herd them around the living room, classic cattle dog behavior.
Her foster family chose to do a DNA test before adoption, confirming what her personality had already suggested: Primrose was not one breed. She was many.
Stories like Primrose’s are exactly why shelters often use the label “mixed breed.” Without verified parentage, assigning a specific breed is simply guesswork. Many dogs in shelters are blends of multiple breeds, sometimes in surprising combinations. What truly matters is how they behave, how they bond, and what kind of home will help them thrive.
Find Your Perfect Match
If you are looking for a dog, try looking beyond the breed label. Ask about energy level. Ask about play style. Ask what kind of home environment would be the best fit.
Our team of staff and volunteers spends time getting to know each dog during their stay. We observe their interactions with other dogs, comfort level with people, and daily habits. That information is far more helpful than a breed guess.
The right dog for you may not come with a clear breed name. But they will come with a personality, a story, and a heart ready for a home. And that is what truly matters.
While genetics play a role in how long a cat may live, daily lifestyle choices often have a far greater impact on both lifespan and quality of life. A cat’s environment, nutrition, mental and physical enrichment, and emotional well-being shape their long-term health far more than chance alone. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone bringing a cat into their home or hoping to give their current cat the healthiest life possible.
Genetics vs. Lifestyle: What Really Determines a Cat’s Lifespan
Genetics can influence a cat’s predisposition to certain health conditions, but they don’t determine the whole story. While some cats may be born with higher risks for issues like kidney disease, heart conditions, or joint problems, lifestyle plays a major role in how, and when, those conditions develop.
What cat parents can’t control is genetics. What they can control is everything that surrounds it, diet, activity level, stress exposure, environmental safety, and emotional well-being. When lifestyle supports health consistently, cats are better equipped to live longer, more comfortable lives regardless of their genetic starting point.
Age-Specific Lifestyle Needs Throughout a Cat’s Life
A cat’s lifestyle needs naturally evolve as they move from energetic kittenhood into adulthood and, eventually, their senior years. While the goal of good care stays the same, the way cats engage with their environment, activity, and enrichment changes with age. Recognizing these shifts helps cat parents support health and comfort at every stage of life.
Kittens and young adult cats thrive on frequent play, exploration, and opportunities to climb, chase, and practice natural hunting behaviors. As cats mature, their energy levels often stabilize, making structured play sessions and consistent routines more beneficial than constant stimulation. Adapting enrichment to match a cat’s age helps prevent injury while still supporting physical and mental health.
For senior cats, lifestyle choices should prioritize comfort, warmth, accessibility, and gentle movement. Soft resting areas, easy access to food and litter, lower climbing options, and low-impact play help aging bodies stay mobile without strain. Importantly, slowing down does not mean eliminating stimulation; senior cats still benefit from interactive play, sensory engagement, and environmental variety tailored to their abilities.
By adjusting lifestyle choices over time, cat parents can help ensure that every stage of life remains enriching, comfortable, and supportive of long-term well-being.
The Human-Cat Relationship and Daily Interaction
The relationship a cat has with their human plays a powerful role in emotional health and overall well-being. Consistent, positive interactions help cats feel secure, reduce stress, and support healthy behavior patterns. Cats who feel safe and understood are better equipped to handle changes, recover from illness, and maintain stable routines over time.
Daily play and engagement provide more than entertainment; they support physical activity, mental stimulation, and emotional connection. Even short, regular play sessions help satisfy natural instincts and strengthen trust between cats and their humans. Just as important is daily observation: noticing changes in appetite, energy, movement, or behavior can reveal early signs of discomfort or illness.
Attentive cat parents often detect health concerns earlier because they’re familiar with what’s normal for their cat. In engaged households, subtle shifts are less likely to be overlooked, allowing for quicker veterinary care and better long-term outcomes. In contrast, hands-off care can delay detection, leading to more advanced health issues before intervention occurs.
Strong human-cat bonds aren’t just about affection; they’re an essential part of a lifestyle that supports longevity, comfort, and a higher quality of life.
Stress Levels and Emotional Well-Being
Chronic stress can quietly take a toll on a cat’s health over time. When stress is ongoing, it can weaken the immune system, disrupt digestion, affect sleep, and increase vulnerability to illness, all of which can impact longevity. Because cats are skilled at hiding discomfort, stress often goes unnoticed until it begins affecting their physical well-being.
Common stressors include loud or unpredictable noise, tension with other pets, frequent routine changes, limited access to safe spaces, or a lack of control over their environment. Even well-meaning attention can become stressful if a cat doesn’t have the ability to retreat and rest when needed. Creating dedicated spaces designed specifically for a cat’s comfort and autonomy, such as vertical retreats, quiet zones, or secure outdoor enclosures like catios, can help restore a sense of control and reduce daily stress. What feels minor to humans can feel overwhelming to a cat without proper outlets or security.
Predictable routines and designated safe spaces help cats feel grounded and secure. Consistent feeding times, familiar environments, and quiet areas where cats can retreat without interruption reduce stress and support emotional balance. These small, steady comforts create a sense of safety that supports both mental and physical health.
Equally important is finding the right balance between engagement and overstimulation. While attention, play, and affection are vital, cats also need autonomy and downtime. Respecting a cat’s signals and allowing them to choose when to interact helps maintain trust, reduce anxiety, and promote a calmer, healthier life overall.
Diet and Nutrition as a Lifestyle Foundation
Nutrition plays a foundational role in a cat’s long-term health and lifespan. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on species-appropriate diets rich in animal-based protein and essential nutrients. When nutrition supports a cat’s biological needs, it helps maintain healthy organs, stable energy levels, and a stronger immune system over time.
Portion control and consistent feeding routines are just as important as food quality. Overfeeding, free-feeding, or frequent diet changes can contribute to weight gain and metabolic stress, which place added strain on joints, the heart, and internal organs. Predictable mealtimes and measured portions help support digestion, weight management, and overall stability.
When it comes to wet versus dry food, each option has considerations. Wet food can support hydration and urinary health, while dry food may offer convenience and dental benefits for some cats. Many cat parents find that a balanced approach, guided by veterinary advice and a cat’s individual needs, works best for maintaining overall health.
Hydration and obesity prevention are two of the most significant nutritional factors influencing lifespan. Encouraging water intake and maintaining a healthy body weight helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, and joint issues. Over time, these daily nutritional choices play a powerful role in how long and how comfortably a cat lives.
Mental and Physical Enrichment for Long-Term Health
Mental and physical enrichment play a vital role in supporting a cat’s health throughout their life. Daily play encourages movement, maintains muscle tone, supports joint health, and keeps the brain engaged. Just as importantly, regular activity helps prevent boredom and supports emotional balance, both of which contribute to overall well-being and longevity.
Activities that mimic natural hunting behaviors, such as wand toys, food puzzles, and interactive games, allow cats to engage their instincts in safe, satisfying ways. Puzzle feeders and treat-
dispensing toys slow down eating, promote problem-solving, and provide mental stimulation, especially for indoor cats. These small challenges help keep minds sharp while encouraging healthy movement.
Environmental variety also matters. Access to vertical space, window views, and changing sensory experiences gives cats opportunities to climb, observe, and explore. In some homes, secure outdoor enclosures can safely expand a cat’s environment by offering fresh air, natural sights and sounds, and additional space to move, all while maintaining safety and control. These enriched environments reduce stress by offering choice and stimulation without overwhelm.
Consistent enrichment supports more than entertainment; it helps reduce stress, prevent obesity, and maintain both physical and cognitive health over time. When enrichment is part of a daily lifestyle, cats are more likely to remain active, curious, and comfortable as they age, contributing to a longer and higher-quality life
Why Lifestyle Choices Matter Before You Bring a Cat Home
A cat’s lifespan and quality of life begin long before their first day at home. Preparation plays a critical role in shaping the environment, routines, and care a cat will experience over many years. Thinking ahead allows future cat parents to create a lifestyle that supports health, comfort, and emotional well-being from the very beginning.
Before bringing a cat home, it’s important to consider whether your space, schedule, and resources can support their needs throughout every life stage. This includes planning for daily interaction, enrichment, veterinary care, nutrition, and safe environments that adapt as a cat ages. Lifestyle choices made early often determine how smoothly a cat transitions into adulthood and senior years.
Approaching cat ownership with intentional lifestyle planning is an act of long-term responsibility and care. When a cat’s physical, emotional, and environmental needs are considered from the start, they’re more likely to experience a life that’s not only longer, but healthier, calmer, and deeply fulfilling.
We’re excited to welcome Christine Wzorek, CEO of White Label Advisors, as the new Chair of the Humane Society of Utah Board of Directors.
Christine joins HSU at a critical moment as we continue to expand access to care, invest in organizational capacity, and plan for long-term, sustainable impact for pets and the people who love them. With more than 20 years of experience in business strategy and human capital leadership, she offers a thoughtful, future-oriented perspective on governance and growth.
Christine is well-known for assisting organizations align people, strategy, and financial health while championing women in leadership and workforce development. Her experience and values closely align with HSU’s mission and our commitment to strong stewardship.
We’re grateful for her leadership and excited for what’s ahead!
Every dog deserves a chance to stretch their legs, explore the world beyond kennel walls, and show who they really are. That’s exactly what happens through the Doggy Day Out shelter dog program at the Humane Society of Utah.
This community-based program offers community members the opportunity to take a shelter dog out for a few hours, whether that involves a walk around the neighborhood, a hike on a local trail, or a quiet afternoon nap at home. It’s a simple idea with a big impact for both dogs and people.
What Is the Doggy Day Out Program?
This program allows community members to temporarily take an adoptable dog out of the shelter for enrichment, exercise, and socialization. These short adventures provide dogs with a break from the shelter environment, helping them relax, recharge, and shine.
For many dogs, time outside the shelter reduces stress and provides valuable insights into their behavior in everyday settings. For people, it’s a chance to enjoy the companionship of a dog, no long-term commitment required.
Why Doggy Day Out Matters for Dogs
Shelter environments, even the best ones, can be overwhelming. New sights, sounds, and routines can make it hard for dogs to show their true personalities. The program gives dogs the opportunity to decompress, which can lead to:
Reduced stress and anxiety
Improved behavior and confidence
Better sleep and overall well-being
More accurate insight into their likes, habits, and needs
Many dogs return from their outings calmer, happier, and more relaxed, making their transition back into the shelter smoother and their adoption journey more successful.
How Doggy Day Out Helps with Adoption
One of the biggest benefits of the Doggy Day Out program is how it supports adoptions. When participants share photos, stories, and observations from their day together, potential adopters gain a more complete picture of the dog.
A dog who enjoys car rides, walks politely on a leash, or curls up for a nap at home may not show those traits in a kennel. Doggy Day Out helps bridge that gap by showcasing dogs in real-world settings where adopters can truly imagine life together.
A Win for the Community, Too
The Doggy Day Out program isn’t just beneficial for dogs; it’s also meaningful for people. Participants often say the experience is joyful, grounding, and deeply rewarding. Spending time with a shelter dog can reduce stress, increase physical activity, and provide a sense of connection, all while supporting animal welfare in Utah.
For those who may not be ready to adopt or foster long-term, Doggy Day Out offers a flexible way to make a difference.
The Humane Society of Utah welcomes participants who want to help dogs experience life beyond the shelter. Each outing helps dogs gain confidence, collect valuable feedback, and move one step closer to finding a home.
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to support local animals, the Doggy Day Out program is a powerful reminder that even one day of kindness can change a dog’s future!
When our team at the Humane Society of Utah first learned about a crowded situation involving 14 unspayed female dogs and multiple litters of puppies in southern Utah, we knew immediate action was needed. What began as a difficult emergency quickly became a powerful puppy parvo rescue story, highlighting the importance of early intervention, medical care, and community support.
A Call for Help in Southern Utah
In November, the Humane Society of Utah’s St. George Clinic was informed of a home with 14 unspayed female dogs. Many were pregnant, and others were already caring for newborns. The guardian loved her pets but found herself overwhelmed by the sudden population boom. Understanding she could not manage this alone, she reached out for help. Her willingness to seek support ultimately saved the animals’ lives.
Our medical team partnered with local rescue Jackson Day to provide immediate care for the adult dogs, including vaccinations, spay surgeries, and health evaluations. Once the mothers were safe and stable, attention shifted to the puppies who needed additional monitoring and long-term support.
A Five-Hour Journey and a New Beginning
The puppies were transported from southern Utah to our Murray facility, where they would receive ongoing care and the chance to eventually find homes. Upon arrival, however, our staff quickly noticed concerning symptoms. The puppies were tired, refusing food, and showing signs commonly associated with parvovirus. This highly contagious and potentially fatal illness often affects young, unvaccinated puppies, and rapid treatment is essential.
A Puppy Parvo Rescue Story Takes a Critical Turn
Testing confirmed the presence of parvovirus in the litters. Parvo treatment is intensive and requires medical expertise, isolation, and continuous support. For several days, the puppies were closely monitored in our Parvo Ward while receiving fluids, medication, and supportive care. The situation felt uncertain, and our team prepared for the possibility of significant loss. Still, we remained committed to giving each puppy every chance to survive.
Thirteen Puppies Beat the Odds and Find Homes
While it was heartbreaking to lose one puppy to the illness, thirteen others made a remarkable recovery. After days of consistent medical care, their energy returned, their appetites improved, and their personalities began to shine through. As they grew stronger, these puppies transformed from fragile patients into playful, thriving companions.
The best outcome of this puppy parvo rescue story is that every surviving puppy has since been adopted into a loving home. What began as a crisis ended with thirteen new families opening their doors to puppies who fought hard for their second chance and ended in triumph.
Community Support Made This Puppy Parvo Rescue Story Possible
Treating parvovirus requires significant resources, and the cost can be a barrier for pet guardians facing emergency situations. Because of donors and supporters like you, we were able to act quickly and provide lifesaving treatment without hesitation. Your generosity funds emergency medical care, vaccinations, transportation, and support services for overwhelmed pet owners. Every contribution helps transform stories of crisis into stories of hope.
Although these thirteen puppies found happy endings, many more throughout Utah still face preventable illnesses. Vaccinations and early intervention are key, but when emergencies happen, your support allows us to respond immediately. If you would like to help more puppies survive parvovirus and other medical emergencies, please consider joining our Faithful Friends Circle.
The holidays bring cozy gatherings, sparkling décor, and plenty of tasty treats. They also bring a few sneaky hazards for pets that can turn festive fun into an unexpected veterinary visit. To help your season stay merry and bright, our team at the Humane Society of Utah put together essential Christmas pet safety tips for Utah families.
1. Food Safety: Holiday Treats to Avoid
Between charcuterie boards, turkey trimmings, and yummy dessert spreads, pets see the holidays as an all-you-can-sniff buffet. However, some seasonal favorites are surprisingly dangerous!
Keep pets safe by avoiding:
Chocolate, sugar-free baked goods containing xylitol, and rich desserts
Turkey bones or fatty table scraps can cause pancreatitis
Grapes, raisins, garlic, onions, and alcohol in any form
If you want your pet to enjoy a holiday treat, choose a vet-approved snack or a small portion of their regular food.
2. Decoration Safety: Sparkle Without the Snags
Holiday décor can be irresistible to curious cats and playful pups.
Use décor with care:
Keep tinsel, ribbon, and string out of reach to prevent ingestion
Place breakable ornaments higher on the tree
Unplug light cords when you are not home
Securely anchor your tree to prevent toppling if your cat decides it’s a jungle gym.
3. Cold Weather Safety: Protecting Pets in Utah’s Winter
Utah winters can be beautiful, but they are also brisk! Pets need extra care when temperatures drop.
Help pets stay warm:
Limit outdoor time in freezing temperatures for sensitive breeds, young, or senior pets
Wipe paws after walks to remove chemicals like ice melt and salt
Provide warm bedding away from drafts
Senior pets and small-breed dogs benefit from sweaters or jackets during short outdoor trips.
4. Sensory Overload Management: Holiday Stress and Routine Changes
Everyone talks about food and décor safety, but very few highlight the issue of sensory overload. The holidays can be overwhelming for animals, who thrive on routine.
Reduce stress during the season:
Create a quiet room with familiar bedding, toys, and water
Keep routines as predictable as possible
Offer enrichment toys or slow feeders when hosting guests
A calm environment reduces the chances of door dashes, overstimulation, and stress-related behaviors.
Protect your pet during outdoor adventures by learning to identify toxic algae
Utah has incredible outdoor spaces to explore with your dog, including reservoirs, rivers, and mountain streams. But as the weather warms up, it’s essential to be aware of a growing seasonal danger: harmful algal blooms. These naturally occurring algae can pose serious, sometimes fatal, health risks to pets. In partnership with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Division of Water Quality (DWQ), we share what every dog guardian should know to prevent exposure and protect their pets this summer.
What Is Harmful Algae and Why Is It Dangerous for Dogs?
There are two types of harmful algae that dog owners should watch out for:
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs): Also known as blue-green algae or cyanobacteria, these blooms float on the water’s surface and can look like pea soup, spilled paint, or scummy foam.
Harmful Algae Mats (Benthic Mats): These grow along the bottom of water bodies and can break loose, washing ashore where curious dogs may sniff or eat them.
Both types can release toxins that affect the liver, nervous system, or skin, posing a serious risk to dogs that drink the water, lick their fur, or ingest the algae directly.
Common Ways Dogs Are Exposed to Harmful Algae
Dogs are at higher risk of algae-related illness than humans because they are more likely to:
Drink from contaminated water sources
Ingest algae mats found near shorelines
Lick algae residue off their fur or paws
Even small amounts of exposure can be dangerous. If you think your dog has come into contact with harmful algae, rinse them with clean water immediately and monitor for signs of illness.
Symptoms of Harmful Algae Poisoning in Dogs
Symptoms can vary depending on how much and how long your dog was exposed to harmful algae. In some cases, symptoms can appear within minutes.
Ingestion-related symptoms:
Vomiting or diarrhea
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
Loss of appetite
Stumbling or weakness
Difficulty breathing
Skin contact symptoms:
Rashes or hives
Itching or redness
Allergic reactions
If your dog shows any of these signs, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (855) 764-7661 (note: consultation fees may apply).
How to Tell if Water is Safe for Your Dog
During Utah’s recreational monitoring season, you can check current harmful algae advisories on the DEQ’s water quality page.
Even if no official warning is posted, water conditions can change quickly. Learn to visually identify suspicious water:
Harmful blooms often appear bright green, turquoise, or brown and can resemble spilled paint or floating scum.
Harmful mats are thick, dark-colored growths on rocks or the bottom of shallow areas.
Some harmless aquatic vegetation, like duckweed or stringy green algae, can look similar but doesn’t produce dangerous toxins. When in doubt, keep your dog out of the water.
Are At-Home Algae Test Kits Reliable?
No, rapid water test kits for algae are not approved by the U.S. EPA and may not reliably detect toxins. The best defense is visual awareness and avoiding questionable water bodies altogether.
Final Tips for a Safe Summer
Bring clean drinking water for your dog when you go hiking, camping, or swimming.
Avoid letting them drink from puddles, ponds, or slow-moving water.
Rinse your dog off with clean water after outdoor water play.
Know the signs of algae poisoning and act quickly if symptoms occur.
Spending time in Utah’s beautiful outdoors is one of the best parts of pet ownership. A little knowledge and prevention go a long way in keeping your dog safe, healthy, and by your side for many future adventures. Learn more and visit DEQ’s socials and newsletter at: Instagram, Facebook, and newsletter sign up.
Summer brings sunshine and outdoor adventures for pets, but also hidden dangers of foxtail grass. This common weed’s barbed seed awns can burrow into fur and skin, causing severe health problems.
Understanding Foxtail Grass
Foxtail grass has a bushy, spike-like seed head that resembles a fox’s tail. The grass awns, designed to burrow and plant seeds, can also burrow into a pet’s skin, causing pain and infections.
The Dangers of Foxtail Grass
Unlike typical grass blades, foxtail awns are barbed and don’t dissolve. They can penetrate a pet’s skin, eyes, ears, nose, or other openings. The barbs prevent them from backing out, allowing them to move deeper and cause serious injuries and infections. Left untreated, they can even reach internal organs and become fatal.
Symptoms of Foxtail Embedding
Be aware of signs your pet might have a foxtail awn embedded:
Persistent licking or biting at a specific area, especially paws.
Swelling, redness, or limping.
Sneezing, coughing, or nasal discharge (if inhaled).
Head shaking or ear scratching.
Preventing Foxtail Grass Problems
The best defense is avoidance. Here’s how to protect your pet:
Yard: Remove all grasses with barbed seeds.
Leash walks: Keep your dog leashed in areas with potential foxtail grass, avoiding fields, overgrown paths, and tall, dry grass.
Regular inspections: After walks, thoroughly check your pet’s paws, ears, and between toes.
Grooming: Regularly groom and trim fur, especially around the feet, to prevent foxtails from attaching.
Protective gear: Consider dog booties or body suits for frequent walks in foxtail grass areas.
If Your Pet is Affected
If you suspect a foxtail awn embedment, seek veterinary care immediately. Depending on the location, removal often requires sedation or surgery. Early intervention is crucial for a quick recovery and to prevent complications.
Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most responsible and impactful decisions you can make as a pet owner. While these procedures are beneficial at any age, performing them before your pet reaches six months of age provides unique advantages for both your pet and the community.
At the Humane Society of Utah, we’re passionate about educating pet owners on the importance of early spay/neuter. We are excited to offer a special promotion at our St. George clinic to help make it easier than ever.
Why Spay or Neuter Before Six Months of Age?
1. Prevent Unwanted Litters
Did you know cats and dogs can mature sexually at four to six months old? By spaying or neutering your pet before this age, you eliminate the risk of accidental litters and help reduce the number of homeless animals entering shelters each year.
2. Health Benefits
Early spay or neuter can help protect your pet from certain cancers and infections. For female pets, spaying before their first heat cycle significantly lowers the risk of uterine infections and breast cancer. Neutering males can prevent testicular cancer and reduce the risk of prostate issues.
3. Behavioral Improvements
Spaying and neutering can also prevent hormone-driven behaviors such as roaming/escaping, spraying/marking, or aggression. Pets who undergo these procedures early are often calmer, more focused on their people, and better companions.
4. Easier Recovery
Younger pets recover more quickly from spay or neuter surgery than older animals. At six months or younger, pets experience shorter healing times and fewer post-operative complications, making it an ideal time for the procedure.
Special Offer: $25/$15 Off Spay/Neuter for Dogs/Cats Under Six Months!
To encourage early spay and neuter, the Humane Society of Utah’s St. George clinic offers $25 off spay and neuter procedures for dogs under six months of age!
Here’s what you need to know:
• Eligibility: This offer applies to dogs and cats six months of age or younger at the time of the procedure (not the time of scheduling).
• Offer Period: The promotion will run until May 1, 2025.
• How to Schedule: Contact our St. George clinic to book your pet’s spay or neuter appointment online; enter code EARLY to receive $25 off a puppy spay/neuter or $15 off a kitten spay/neuter.
Why Take Action Now?
Spaying or neutering your pet early is a simple yet profound way to improve their quality of life, protect their health, and contribute to the fight against pet overpopulation. By scheduling your pet’s surgery before six months of age, you’ll give them the best possible start while ensuring your community benefits as well.
The Humane Society of Utah’s Murray Clinic now offers the Leptospirosis vaccine in accordance with the updated guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association. This vaccine helps protect dogs from Leptospirosis, a serious, potentially life-threatening, and preventable disease.
What is Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can affect both animals and humans. It is transmitted through contact with the urine of infected wildlife, typically from contaminated water sources such as puddles, lakes, or rivers. Dogs that spend time outdoors or near wildlife are at risk.
The infection can cause severe health problems, including kidney and liver failure, and may be life-threatening. Dogs that recover from Leptospirosis can continue to shed the bacteria in their urine, putting other pets and people at risk. If you suspect your dog is ill, please take them to a full-service veterinarian.
Why is Vaccination Important?
Vaccinating your dog against Leptospirosis is the most effective way to prevent the disease. It also helps reduce the risk of transmission in the community. Vaccination protects your dog and those around them from exposure to this potentially harmful disease.
Vaccination Options at the Murray Clinic
The Murray Clinic offers two convenient vaccination options:
DAPP/Leptospirosis Combination Vaccine: This vaccine covers multiple core illnesses, including Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Leptospirosis. The cost is $50, and no appointment is needed. The leptospirosis vaccine requires a booster 3-4 weeks after the first time it is given and then once yearly after that.
Individual Leptospirosis Vaccine: For dogs not due for the DAPP vaccine, the standalone Leptospirosis vaccine is available at a reduced price of $30 per dose (previously $45). No appointment is needed.
Protect Your Pet Today
Leptospirosis is a serious disease, but it’s preventable with proper care. The Murray Clinic offers affordable and accessible vaccination options to help protect your dog.
Visit the clinic today to take advantage of these services. We’re open Monday–Friday:9:00 am–11:45 am / 1:00 pm-5:45 pm Saturday: 9:00 am–11:45 am / 1:00 pm-3:45, and no appointment is necessary. To learn more, visitwww.utahhumane.org/clinic-locations/murray-clinic
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