Pay It Forward: Giving Others A Helping Hand

Person petting a golden retriever

At the Humane Society of Utah, we know the immense joy and significance of the human-animal bond. Our pets are not just animals who happen to live with us. They are sources of happiness, love, and companionship — they are our family. And no one knows this truth better than our loving community. We are grateful to know that our circle of friends, adopters, and supporters is full of people who have found a meaningful connection with the pets in their lives. This connection is, after all, at the core of our mission!

Why Do We Pay It Forward?

The Pay It Forward fund aims to ensure that every family has the opportunity to experience the same bond with an animal that we and so many of our supporters have come to cherish. Barriers like medical costs and access to adoption should not be the reason a pet in need and loving guardian cannot find each other. Pay It Forward gifts help eliminate these barriers. Loving supporters who have already found love and happiness with a pet can ‘Pay It Forward’ and help others do the same. These gifts help cover things like: adoption fees, emergency medical expenses for low-income pet guardians, and low-cost veterinary options for families in our community. The goal is to help pets and people find each other and find the support they need to stay together!

Pay It Forward Logo with a black and white dog

A Full Day Of Support!

On October 16th, thanks to a generous match from Lex Legal Services, gifts to the Pay It Forward fund went 2X as far! It was heartwarming to see our community come together to support these efforts. In one day, our caring supporters contributed over $10,000 to Pay It Forward! We are continually inspired by the generosity of our community and our partners. We are immensely grateful to our donors who show up time and time again for pets in need. You are the driving force behind our efforts. You are the reason so many pets and people will find each other in these final months of the year!

The match may be over, but you can always Pay It Forward for pets in our community. We have come so far. But there is always more work to be done to support the most vulnerable among us. Thank you for always being there to give a voice to the voiceless and to give your neighbors a helping hand!

DAF Day 2025: Growing Impact Together

Hand dropping a heart into a donation box

October 9th marks the second annual national DAF Day! Donor advised funds (DAFs) are among the fastest growing methods for charitable giving. They have gained popularity in recent years because they allow donors to make impactful contributions to the causes they care about while enjoying greater tax benefits. On October 9th, nonprofits around the nation are coming together to increase awareness about this tax-savvy giving method and encourage supporters to make DAF gifts. If you want to make a lasting impact for the vulnerable pets in our community, a DAF gift to the Humane Society of Utah is a great place to start!

What is a DAF?

A DAF or donor advised fund is set up with an initial irrevocable gift to a sponsoring organization. This can be a gift of cash, stock, or other assets. You can choose from many organizations to oversee your donor advised fund. We suggest working with your preferred financial institution to help you get started or select the option best suited to your needs. 

Assets in your fund will grow over time and you advise where you want them to go and how often. So, why does this matter? Why give from a donor advised fund instead of writing a check or donating with your credit card? DAFs have some unique benefits to both the donor and the organization!

  • Any gift you make to your DAF is fully tax-deductible.
  • Assets in your fund will grow over time (tax-free!), so you can make larger gifts to the charities you care about without hurting your wallet!
  • Avoid capital gains tax with non-cash assets donated to your DAF.

How Can I Support HSU for DAF Day 2025?

If you have a DAF set up already, consider making a gift to the Humane Society of Utah today! You will be joining supporters around the country who are making a difference for the causes they care about. Let’s see how we can come together for animals on this national DAF Day 2025!

Dog with a hat sitting in front of donation boxes

If you do not have a DAF already, consider starting one, or simply take some time to learn more about this giving option. Who knows, it may be the right fit for your charitable giving needs! You can read more on the HSU DAF webpage, or visit DAFday.com

Finally, if you already give to the Humane Society of Utah through a DAF, please let us know! When you give through a donor advised fund, we do not always receive identifying information connecting you to your gift. We want to ensure you receive the proper acknowledgement and gratitude you deserve for this incredibly thoughtful and generous gift! Happy DAF Day 2025 everyone!

Making a Splash: Highlights from the 2025 Wags to Wishes Gala

Small white dog on a red carpet

The Humane Society of Utah made a splash on Saturday, September 13th, 2025 at the annual Wags to Wishes Gala. Our caring community of supporters and partners joined us at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium’s enchanting new ballroom for a night of festivity, fun, and most importantly, support for local pets. 

Thanks to our wonderful community and the generosity of our attendees, the 2025 Wags to Wishes Gala raised more for pets than ever before. It even surpassed last year’s record-holding Gala. We cannot thank our attendees enough for looking into their hearts and giving so generously.

Making Waves and Making Memories

Attendees at the Wags to Wishes Gala were treated to an unforgettable experience. Arriving on the red carpet, they were greeted by some very special (and adorable) guests of honor: adoptable pups from HSU! Continuing into the event space, guests enjoyed a magical evening complete with games and prizes, enchanting ocean-themed photo ops, and an array of fantastic auction items. 

Following a program filled with heartwarming stories of hope and compassion, attendees celebrated in style by dancing the night away! Guests flooded the after-party dance floor as joyful music rang throughout the event space. Performers clad in glowing attire danced among the attendees, giving the party an exciting and otherworldly feel. The lively atmosphere was fitting to celebrate all that was accomplished that night for pets in Utah! 

Making a Splash and Making a Difference

All proceeds from the Wags to Wishes Gala go back to the pets in our community. The event is about fun and festivity. But at it’s core it is about helping the pets who need us most. We are incredibly grateful to our Emerald Event Sponsors, KSL Classifieds and the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation for making this event possible. Just as we are grateful to all who attended for giving so generously to our cause. Every ticket purchased, every bid placed, and every paddle raised means an animal will receive shelter, medical care, or comfort when they need it most. If that is not a reason to celebrate, we don’t know what is!

Thank you to our community for making a splash for animals, and we hope to see you next year!

Celebrating 65 Years at the Humane Society of Utah!

Black and white dog in front of birthday decorations

This summer, the Humane Society of Utah is thrilled to celebrate 65 years of saving pets and supporting families in Utah. As we celebrate this special birthday, we reflect on how far we have come, and the generous community support that made this milestone possible. We have seen an incredible outpouring of gifts from our community in honor of this special birthday. Together, we honor the past and look forward to the future!

Looking Back Through the Years

The Humane Society of Utah opened its doors in 1960 at a modest facility in West Valley City, UT. We were founded with a simple mission, to protect and improve the lives of animals in our community. A sentiment that rings true to this day, even as we have expanded and evolved. As the years went by, we recognized a growing need for spay/neuter services in our community. HSU opened the first low-cost spay/neuter clinic in the Intermountain West in 1972. This essential milestone helped to prevent overpopulation in the area, and gave countless pets the chance for a healthier, happier life. 

Woman helping a small white dog

In 1992, HSU moved to our current pet resource center in Murray, UT. The larger space allowed for more animals to find hope, healing, and second chances during their time of need. With a new and improved space we continued to expand our animal housing areas. We added Kitty City in 2012, Dawgville and Tiny Town in 2014, and Critter Country in 2018. 

Over the years, with the support of generous donors, our clinic services have expanded to meet the growing needs of our community. In 2020, recognizing an absence of low-cost veterinary services in southern Utah, we opened a second spay/neuter clinic location in St. George. And in 2024 we added wellness exams to the list of services at our Murray Clinic. These preventative care services are vital to protecting pet health and wellness, allowing pets and families to enjoy longer, healthier years together. 

Donations from our caring community have been the backbone of every expansion, every new program, and every life-saving effort over the years. It is inspiring to see how our community has stepped up the plate, generously giving love and hope to local pets in their time of need.

Looking to the Future

As we reach our 65th year, there is a tangible excitement about the future. We have accomplished so much together in 65 years. We cannot wait to see what the next 65 years will bring for pets and families in Utah! In this next chapter, we plan to continue modernizing and improving our facility. With community support, we can ensure pets in need of shelter always have a place to go with comfort, safety, and the best quality care. Additionally, we aim to increase our connections and coalition building within the community. Caring for pets does not exist in a vacuum. Protecting vulnerable pets begins with supporting our human neighbors. To achieve this, we must work with other community organizations and stakeholders. We aim to build a holistic approach to caring for pets and people, together. 


As we embark on this next chapter, we feel fortunate to have a passionate community of pet lovers and animal advocates by our side. Our supporters are at the heart of our lifesaving work. We are thrilled to take these next steps into the future with all of you! Help us get started today with a special 65th birthday gift. Together we can make the next 65 years even better for pets in Utah!

Let’s Celebrate 65 Years!

We want to celebrate with our community! The Humane Society of Utah is hosting a 65th Birthday Party on Saturday, July 12th at our Murray facility! Join us from 10am to 1pm for games, summer treats, prizes, and more. Together we have achieved so much for pets in the last 65 years, and together we can celebrate our accomplishments!

Black dog standing in front of birthday decorations

How To Build Your Own Catio: A Step By Step Guide For Beginners

Grey cat with green eyes in a catio

If you’ve ever watched your indoor cat gaze longingly outside, you’ve probably wished they could enjoy the outdoors—without the dangers. That’s where a catio (cat patio) comes in.

Building one might seem intimidating, especially if you’re not a seasoned DIYer—but don’t worry. Whether you’re working with a backyard, balcony, or sunny window, this guide covers everything from planning and materials to building your first frame.

Let’s get started on a catio your cat will love—and you’ll feel proud to create.

Why Build A Catio?

First off, what is a catio? A catio—short for cat patio—is a safe, enclosed outdoor space designed just for cats. It lets them enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and nature without the dangers associated with free roaming. Whether it’s a small window box or a full backyard retreat, a catio blends freedom and safety, enriching your cat’s life and giving you peace of mind.

Large catio

More than just a play space, catios offer the sights, sounds, and scents of the outdoors—like rustling leaves and birdsong—that keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated.

Catio Health Benefits

  • Encourages exercise: Climbing, jumping, and exploring promote a more active lifestyle.
  • Improves mobility and joint health: Regular motion helps keep muscles and joints flexible.
  • Alleviates boredom: A constantly changing outdoor view keeps your cat mentally stimulated.
  • Supports natural instincts: Watching birds, smelling plants, and feeling the breeze satisfies their hunting and sensory needs.
Two cats inside a catio

Step 1: Plan Your Perfect Catio

Assess Your Space

Start by thinking about your cat’s personality. Do they love watching people or cars, or are they sensitive to noise? Choose a spot where your cat will feel safe and relaxed—it’s their retreat, after all. Aim for a balance of sun and shade, and consider access: will it connect through a door, window, or tunnel? These details will help shape a catio your cat will truly enjoy.

Consider Your Cat’s Needs and Personality

Each cat is unique, so tailor the catio to their needs. Energetic cats may enjoy climbing features, while older or shy cats might prefer low, cozy, or enclosed spots. Keep their age, confidence, and activity level in mind to create a space that feels just right.

Black and white cat looking straight on

Step 2: Choose Your Catio Style

Types of Catios

When it comes to catio design, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right style depends on your available space, your cat’s personality, and how you want them to access the outdoors. Here are three popular types to consider:

  • Window Box Catio: A compact option that attaches just outside a window, perfect for apartments or small spaces.
  • Balcony Catio: Great for upper-level homes, this type provides fresh air and views while keeping cats safe above ground.
  • Freestanding Structure: The most spacious and customizable style, often built in backyards with multiple levels, shelves, and lounging zones.

Step 3: Gather Materials and Tools

Recommended Materials

When it comes to building a catio, choosing the right materials is essential—using cheap or flimsy components can put your cat’s safety at risk. We recommend using weather, rot, and insect-resistant lumber, such as pressure-treated wood or naturally durable options like cedar or redwood.

For roofing, check out this in-depth guide on the best catio roofing options. We suggest using a strong, long-lasting material like polycarbonate panels or corrugated metal roofing to provide protection from the elements year-round.

Wooden catio structure

When selecting your screening or fencing, keep in mind that it needs to withstand even the most determined escape artists and curious predators. Our top choice is 1×1 black PVC-coated critter fencing—not only is it visually clean and unobtrusive, but it’s also tough enough to keep out predators like coyotes, owls, hawks, and more.

Additionally, be sure to use galvanized steel screws, rust-resistant fasteners, and heavy-duty hinges and latches. These elements will help your catio stand the test of time by resisting corrosion and maintaining structural integrity through all kinds of weather. Every detail matters when building a space that’s secure, durable, and built to last.

Step 4: Build Your Catio

Before picking up a hammer, start with a plan. A basic sketch can guide your build and help prevent costly mistakes. If designing from scratch feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Companies like Cat Topia specialize in catio design and construction, helping bring your imagination and vision to life. DIYers can also find free templates and inspiration through online communities with a little digging. Having a clear design upfront makes the entire building process smoother and more enjoyable.

With your plan and materials ready, begin by constructing a level, sturdy frame—the foundation of a safe and lasting catio. Securely attach wire mesh or fencing, checking for gaps or sharp edges, and reinforce vulnerable spots, especially in wildlife-prone areas. Finish by adding a weather-resistant roof, durable flooring like pavers or decking, and entry points such as a pet door or tunnel connecting to your home. Don’t forget a secure door for human access. Prioritize safety, comfort, and ease of maintenance at every step.

Conclusion

Building your own catio is more than just a weekend project—it’s a meaningful investment in your cat’s health, happiness, and safety. Whether you’re crafting a small window box or a spacious backyard retreat, every step you take brings your cat closer to a life full of fresh air, stimulation, and adventure—all within the safety of your home’s boundaries.

Don’t be afraid to get creative, take your time, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your cat will thank you with every sun-drenched nap and bird-watching session. And when you’re done, we’d love to see what you create—share your build, spread the word about humane outdoor alternatives, and be sure to check with the Humane Society of Utah for more resources and inspiration.

Black cat in a catio

A Great Dog Party: Reflecting on Bark at the Moon 2025!

Black and white pointer dog

On Saturday, May 3rd 2025, nearly 750 community members and their dogs gathered at the Gateway in downtown Salt Lake City. It was a beautiful spring day, and the atmosphere was bursting with energy and fun. What, you may ask, brought these pet guardians and their pups together on a random Saturday evening? It was the best dog party in town of course – the 8th annual Bark at the Moon! Hosted by the Humane Society of Utah with the support of our generous sponsors, including prominent sponsors 103.5 The Arrow and Mountain West Veterinary Specialists, this lively event is an annual favorite for local dogs and their families. Not only was Bark at the Moon a great party, but it raised vital funds for vulnerable pets and lifesaving programs. Now that is truly a reason to celebrate!

A Party for the Dogs (And the People)

Walking around the event, there were so many sights, sounds, and scents to take in: delicious smells wafting from local food trucks, laughter and live music, and creative vendor displays. But what was our favorite part of Bark at the Moon? Seeing so many happy dogs! Dogs of all shapes and sizes came to the event to make new friends, get showered with treats, and enjoy an evening out with their favorite humans.

Back by popular demand, our lick painting station allowed dogs to create their own works of art (and eat some yummy peanut butter in the process!). And our water loving guests got to cool their paws in the Gateway splash pad. As always, the evening wrapped up with a dog-friendly glow walk. Dog and human attendees alike donned colorful glow necklaces and sauntered off in style as the sun began to set. From start to finish the event was full of happy, tail-wagging moments.

A Good Time for a Good Cause

What’s better than a fantastic dog party? A dog party for a good cause! While attendees enjoyed an evening of fun with their pups, they were also supporting vulnerable pets in our community. All proceeds from Bark at the Moon went directly back to lifesaving programs, medical care, and shelter resources for pets at the Humane Society of Utah.

This event was truly a community effort, and all who participated should be proud of their role in supporting local pets and families. This event would not be possible without dedicated staff and volunteers, generous sponsors, exciting local vendors, and of course our attendees and their pups! The Humane Society of Utah expresses gratitude for everyone who made this a fantastic event. You helped raise over $43,000 at Bark at the Moon! Think of all the animals who will be sheltered, fed, and cherished thanks to your participation. Not bad for a fun day with some dogs in downtown SLC!

View the Photo Gallery

A Community Comes Together: Helping Weber County Dogs

Brown and white puppies in a crate

On April 17th, Weber County Animal Services contacted the Humane Society of Utah for help with an urgent situation. Authorities were notified of a severe hoarding situation in the area. 152 dogs were removed from a home where they lived in close quarters without sufficient access to care. With so many dogs suddenly in need of shelter, it took a village to house and care for them. We gladly agreed to help our neighbors to the north, and our generous community came together to support the sweet pups. The Humane Society of Utah took in 45 of the animals, including mother dogs, puppies, and dogs with special medical conditions.

A Complex Situation

Cases like this are difficult for the animals and people involved. However, they also demonstrate the immense capacity of a community to come together. Several animal welfare organizations, including the Humane Society of Utah, stepped in to help. We loaded our transfer van with puppy food, pee pads, flea and tick medication, and other much needed supplies. Many of these items were donated by our caring community members. We commend Weber County Animal Services for their tremendous efforts in responding to the situation and finding safe shelter options for all of the dogs. As 45 of the dogs arrived at our facility, we provided immediate medical treatment, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, and behavioral support to start the healing process. 

The Humane Society of Utah recognizes that animal hoarding is a complex mental health issue, and not simply a case of cruelty. In many cases, individuals who hoard animals have the best intentions for their pets, but find themselves overwhelmed and unable to provide adequate care. As we respond to the needs of pets in our community, we encourage folks to have compassion for the people involved.

A Caring Community’s Response

Whenever we get a large influx of animals at once there is a need for additional space and resources. All incoming animals need food, basic care, and comfortable space during their time at our facility. The need for resources is even greater when pets have unknown medical or behavioral challenges. Luckily, our amazing community stepped up in a big way! We are immensely grateful to our donors who gave generously so these sweet animals had immediate access to medical treatment and compassionate care. Our generous supporters are central to our lifesaving work.

But the work is far from over! By now, many of the Weber pups have received the care they need. We are thrilled to report that as of writing this, 29 have been adopted already! But some of the younger or sicker animals will require more support before they can start their new chapter. There is still time to help!

  • Donate to support the Weber pups! Your gift will help provide medical care, foster resources, and behavior support for dogs who need some extra TLC. Any amount helps!
  • Adopt or foster! Many of these sweet friends will become available for adoption in the coming days and weeks. Whether you adopt one of the 45 Weber dogs or another animal at our facility, you will give a deserving animal a second chance at life and open up space for more pets to find their loving homes. 
  • Spread the word! Share stories on social media or talk to your friends about pets in need. If we all pitch in, we can ensure local pets will always have loving support.

Between the tireless efforts of Weber County Animal Services, the support of other local animal organizations, and the generosity of a caring community, we have been inspired by the compassionate response to this situation. Our community came together for these animals and gave them hope for a better future. It is amazing what we can achieve together for the local pets we all love and cherish!

Community Care For Pets: Daisy’s Story

Hand holding small dog paws

For many animals and pet guardians in southern Utah, the Humane Society of Utah St. George Clinic is an important source of community care. The clinic provides essential veterinary services like vaccinations and spay/neuter surgeries at an affordable price for pet guardians. These preventative services are important for protecting pet health and reducing overpopulation. At a time when shelters around the nation are facing overcrowding, these services are more important than ever. In some cases, the St. George clinic can also provide emergency services to vulnerable pets who need more specialized care. Sweet senior dog, Daisy, was one such pet who turned to the St. George clinic in her time of need. 

Daisy’s Second Chance

Daisy’s loving guardians, Barry and Renee, rescued her from a rough situation. We don’t know much about her life before finding a home with them. But Barry tells us that it took a lot of patience and care for her to come out of her shell and feel comfortable in her new home. He credits his wife, Renee, with putting so much time, energy, and love into building a good life for Daisy following her struggles as a young pup. For the better part of a decade, Daisy and her doggy brother, Franky, have enjoyed a loving home with Barry and Renee. 

Even with the best care, it is normal for dogs to experience health challenges as they age. However, Daisy’s case became complicated when she escaped from home and got injured. Her guardians are not sure what happened to her, but when she returned home, she exhibited signs of abdominal pain. That is when they turned to the St. George clinic for help with their sweet girl.

Small dog on a vet exam table

Community Care For Daisy

When Daisy arrived at the clinic, our staff determined that she was suffering from a severe hernia in her uterus. She needed an emergency spay surgery to fix the painful ailment. We also determined that Daisy needed substantial dental work. This is quite common, especially for small dogs as they age. Unfortunately, dental work for pets can be incredibly expensive. Barry and Renee were determined to help their beloved dog, but could not afford a costly dental procedure. Listening to Barry, we could tell that Daisy was an important member of the family, and we wanted to help. Thanks to a recent grant from the Grey Muzzle Organization, we offered the dental services for Daisy at a minimal cost and completed her spay surgery. 

Today, Barry reports that Daisy is healthier than ever and thriving! Cases like this remind us why low-cost services and community support are so important for pets and families. Dogs like Daisy are not just pets, they are family. And together we can work towards a future where cost is never a barrier to keeping families whole. Help create more success stories like this one today. By donating to the Humane Society of Utah, you are expanding low-cost veterinary services for pets and families and building a brighter future for animals like Daisy!

When It’s Time to Say Goodbye: A Compassionate Guide to Humane Euthanasia

Woman's hand holding dog paw.

Saying Goodbye with Love and Compassion

One of the hardest decisions a pet guardian will ever face is knowing when it’s time to say goodbye. Pets are family, and making the choice to let them go peacefully is heartbreaking—but it can also be the greatest act of love and kindness we can offer. If you are struggling with this decision, you’re not alone. This guide will help you recognize the signs that your pet may be suffering and offer guidance on making the most compassionate choice.

Recognizing the Signs of Suffering

Every pet’s journey is different, but there are some key indicators that your beloved companion may be experiencing more pain than joy in life:

  • Chronic Pain That Can’t Be Managed—If your pet is in pain despite medication or veterinary treatment, their quality of life may decline. Signs include whining, limping, excessive panting or licking, or difficulty moving. 
  • Loss of Appetite and Extreme Weight Loss—When a pet no longer eats or drinks, even when offered their favorite treats, it may indicate that their body is shutting down.
  • Difficulty Breathing—Labored breathing, chronic coughing, or frequent respiratory distress can be distressing for pets and their families.
  • Loss of Mobility—If your pet struggles to stand, walk, or control its bladder or bowels, their quality of life may be severely impacted.
  • Excessive Paw Licking—This can be a sign your dog is experiencing chronic pain, gastrointestinal, or spinal pain. 
  • Sleep Startle – Pets who suddenly wake up react fearfully or aggressively.
  • Withdrawal from Family and Favorite Activities – Pets who once loved snuggling, playing, or greeting you at the door may become distant, disengaged, or disinterested.

The Quality of Life Scale

Veterinary professionals often use a Quality of Life Scale to help pet owners evaluate their pet’s well-being. Ask yourself:

Is my pet experiencing more bad days than good days?

Can my pet still find joy in daily activities (eating, playing, cuddling)?

Is my pet comfortable, or are they in frequent distress?

If your pet’s bad days consistently outnumber their good ones, it may be time to have an honest conversation with your veterinarian about end-of-life services.

What to Expect During Humane Euthanasia

Understanding the process of humane euthanasia can help ease fear and uncertainty:

1: A Peaceful Setting – Many pet owners choose to say goodbye in a veterinary office or at home, where their pet feels safest.

2: Sedation for Comfort – Your pet will first receive a gentle sedative to help them relax and feel no stress or pain.

3: Peaceful Passing – Once your pet is calm, the veterinarian will administer a second medication that allows them to pass peacefully and painlessly within minutes.

This process ensures your pet is surrounded by love in their final moments.

Coping with Grief & Honoring Their Memory

Saying goodbye is incredibly painful, but there are ways to honor your pet’s life and find comfort:

Create a Memory Keepsake – A paw print, lock of fur, shadow box with collar, or framed photo can help keep honor their memory.

Hold a Tribute or Memorial – Acknowledging their impact, whether through a private moment of reflection or a small ceremony with loved ones, can bring healing.

Consider Pet Loss Support – Grief is real, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Some veterinary offices and animal shelters offer pet loss support groups.

Adopt When You’re Ready – Welcoming another pet into your life doesn’t replace the love you had, but it can bring healing when the time feels right.

You Are Not Alone

Knowing when to euthanize a pet is a deeply personal and emotional decision, but it’s one guided by love, compassion, and the desire to prevent suffering. If you are facing this choice, contact your veterinarian for support. They can help guide you through the process and ensure your pet’s final moments are peaceful and filled with love.

The Humane Society of Utah is here for you if you need additional support or resources. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance.

Helping Our Puppies: How You Can Support

Brown and tan puppy looking forward

Homecoming arrived at the Humane Society of Utah along with his siblings from another shelter. They were transferred to our facility in an effort to relieve overcrowding and make space for more animals to find loving homes. Upon arrival, the puppies appeared healthy, active, and thriving. They seemed like a normal, happy litter of pups! We were hopeful they would be ready for adoption in no time. However, our team became concerned when several of the puppies started showing signs of illness. After careful monitoring and testing, our fears were confirmed – the puppies had parvovirus. The road forward would be difficult, but luckily, Homecoming had the support of our community on his side.

A Serious Illness

Homecoming’s litter was one of several to be diagnosed with parvovirus (or parvo) over the first three months of 2025. This highly contagious and fast-acting illness is an unfortunate reality that plagues many animal shelters. The Humane Society of Utah is no exception. Homecoming was one of over 45 puppies transferred to the Humane Society of Utah in the month of March alone. As shelters across the country experience overcrowding at alarming rates, our transfer program is more important than ever. Transferring animals is one of the most effective ways to help pets throughout our community and save more lives, both at our facility and at other shelters. However, we acknowledge that with an increased number of animals entering any facility, there is a greater risk of contagious illnesses.  

But we can take action! With the right protective equipment, medical treatment, and safe housing, we can protect more pets, and lessen the impact of this devastating illness. We are asking for community support, to ensure our animals will always receive the best treatment and protection against parvo or other serious diseases. 

Homecoming and his siblings began treatment right away. We placed them in safe housing so the disease would not spread to other animals. The puppies were lethargic and had no appetite. Some were vomiting in their kennels. It was heartbreaking to watch, but we were determined to help these sweet pups. Sadly, some of the puppies succumbed to their illness. Parvo is a serious disease, and even the best treatment cannot save every life. But thanks to our caring supporters, Homecoming and his sibling, Pep Rally, both made it through and are on the mend. We can confidently say that our community of donors helped save their lives.

Black and tan puppy looking up

How Can I Help More Puppies?

Homecoming’s story had a happy ending thanks to the support of our community. But we know there is still work to do. A donation today might be a valuable lifeline the next time a puppy like Homecoming falls ill. Or better yet, consider becoming a monthly donor. Your reliable support will mean young puppies and kittens always have access to medical treatment and recovery care when they need it most. 

You can take action in your own home by ensuring your pets are fully vaccinated. Keeping animals up-to-date on vaccinations is one of the best defenses we have against illnesses like parvovirus. Not only are you keeping your own pet safe, but you are helping to stop the spread of disease in our community. Visit the Humane Society of clinic page to learn more about vaccinating your pets!

Whether you have donated to the Humane Society of Utah, adopted a pet in need, or educated your friends about the importance of pet vaccines, you are giving animals in our community a chance for a healthier future. Thanks to you our sweet friend Homecoming is on the mend and getting ready for the permanent homecoming he deserves!