Category: Humane Tales

Resilience Through Love: Goober’s Heartwarming Journey

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
A German Shepherd puppy named Goober looks into the camera hopefully.

Goober’s story is one of resilience and fortitude, but it’s also a story about how love and an open heart can truly change the tides.

Goober arrived at HSU in January of 2025 as a transfer from an overcrowded shelter. The then 5-month-old pup was goofy, lovable, and sweet, but it was immediately clear to the Humane Society of Utah’s licensed veterinarians that despite Goober’s happy-go-lucky demeanor, all was not well.

Goober Battles a Nasty Infection

Goober had sustained a broken jaw at some point in his early life. Although the jaw appeared to be healing well, the break had caused major infection in his face. Our team jumped into action, removing a piece of dead bone from Goober’s jaw along with three affected teeth.

The dental procedure went smoothly, and Goober was sent to a foster home to recover. After a couple of weeks of rest, rejuvenation, and some carefully prescribed meds, HSU staff thought Goober was ready to find a new home! Unfortunately, fate came forth to test Goober’s resilience once more.

A German Shepherd puppy named Goober lays on a towel with a bully stick.

Leaving the Eye of the Storm

Things took an unexpected turn when Goober experienced a rare complication, causing his jaw to become fused shut. Even essential activities such as eating and drinking had become a struggle, let alone regular puppy activities like playing with a tennis ball. This was clearly more than a cosmetic issue; Goober needed medical intervention ASAP.

What had started as a straightforward dental procedure quickly turned into a costly and complicated undertaking. Goober was going to need diagnostic scans, specialized exams, and ultimately, surgery.

Specialists at Mountain West Veterinary examine a resilient German Shepherd puppy named Goober.

Goober’s Resilience Shines Through

Luckily for Goober, the Humane Society of Utah has a partnership with Mountain West Veterinary Specialists, and their team was more than willing to get to the bottom of Goober’s issue. Due to their generous donation of services, Goober was able to receive the life-saving surgery he needed on April 10th, 2025.

Following a diagnostic CT, Goober underwent a maxillectomy, a surgery in which a portion of the upper jawbone is removed. Immediately after his procedure, Goober was able to open his jaw normally, indicating a massive success!

Goober once again went to a foster home to recover, awaiting a recheck with MWVS, 10-14 days after his surgery. Little did Goober know, his foster home would simply become “home.”

A German Shepherd puppy named Goober undergoes a CT scan at Mountain West Veterinary Specialists.

Resilience Through Love Pays Off

Goober was officially adopted by his foster family on May 23, 2025 after being cleared of his medical strife. Through multiple vet visits and follow up appointments, a surgery, and more, Goober’s friendly and playful personality never wavered.

Goober demonstrated that resilience comes not from age, wisdom, or the mere presence of hardship, but from something far more important: love and an open heart. Today, Goober is still his goofy adorable self, finally able to have quintessential puppy experiences while he grows up in the care of his human family.

His happy ending wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of Mountain West Veterinary Specialists, Goober’s loving foster-turned-family, and of course, YOU!

A resilient German Shepherd puppy named Goober sticks his tongue out in a goofy manner and stares into the camera.

Are you interested in helping more pets like Goober? There are a plethora of ways you can lend a paw. You can donate, foster, volunteer, or simply share this post. And of course, you can always choose to make the biggest difference in a pet’s life possible by adopting! View all of our available pets today at UtahHumane.org/Adopt.

Celebrating 65 Years at the Humane Society of Utah!

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
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

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
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.
Window box catio
Free standing catio

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

How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Harmful Algae Blooms in Utah Waters

Posted on by Guinn

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.

Large blue dog stands by river edge near Harmful algae blooms and dogs in Utah.

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.

Dangers of Foxtail Grass – Protecting Your Pets from Hidden Hazards

Posted on by Guinn

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.
Collage image of three. One image is a dog's leg x-ray showing embedded foxtail. Another image is a picture of a dog's paw with swollen toes showing where the foxtail is embedded into skin. Third picture is of foxtails seeds.

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.
Beware of Foxtails safety tips infographics by Red and Howling.

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.

Temporary Family, Permanent Difference: Foster a Pet Today!

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
Foster a pet like Samwise and make a huge difference! Foster families save lives and help homeless pets through a variety of situations.

June is National Foster a Pet Month! What does it mean to foster a pet for an animal shelter, and why is it so important? Today, we’d like to answer these questions and tell you about some special types of fosters we are in need of at the Humane Society of Utah.

Why Foster a Pet?

Fostering is opening up your home to temporarily care for a shelter pet. There are many reasons that a pet may need a foster home. A few example reasons include…

  • The pet is recovering from an injury or illness
  • They’re a baby animal who is too young to be put up for adoption
  • The pet is a mother dog or cat who has recently weaned a litter and needs additional time to let their milk dry up
  • They may have behavioral needs to work on
  • Some pets simply need a break from the shelter environment

Foster families play an essential role in animal welfare, providing care and support for the most vulnerable pets in our shelter. Additionally, fostering opens up more kennel space in our facility, meaning we can save even more lives!

When you foster a pet for the Humane Society of Utah, we provide all the supplies, food, and medical care your foster pet needs. All that you need to do is provide a safe and loving space for your foster animal and communicate with our team about how they’re doing.

Big Dogs, Big Hearts, Big Need!

Do you love big dogs? Do you have some extra space in your heart and home? Have you ever considered fostering? We need your help!

The number one type of pet that we need foster families for are large breed dogs. Oftentimes, these gentle giants are overlooked due to their size and spend a longer time waiting for a foster than other pets in our care. We’re here to tell you that a bigger furry friend just means more to love!

Ruger, a yellow lab and big dog in need of a foster home, poses in front of a backdrop of purple tinsel.

Slumber Paw-rty at Your Place?

Recently, we’ve discovered a need for a very special type of foster volunteer at the Humane Society of Utah. We need overnight emergency fosters for baby animals!

Lately, we’ve frequently found ourselves with baby kittens and puppies coming into our care late in the day. These cuties are too young to stay in the shelter overnight by themselves, so they need a home to land in for the night while we search for a more permanent foster for them.

Overnight emergency fostering is an excellent opportunity for short-term fostering. It’s just a night or two of commitment rather than the days to weeks that a pet may typically spend in a foster home. If you choose to become an overnight emergency foster, you’ll receive a call from HSU when baby animals come in, then you can come pick up your emergency overnight fosters for the world’s most adorable sleepover!

If you are interested specifically in overnight emergency fostering for HSU, be sure to include that in the comments section of your foster application.

Fizz, a black and white kitten too young to be adopted, is an example of an emergency overnight foster pet.

Become a Fostering Pro!

If you choose to foster a pet and want to go the extra mile, we have a few ways you can help!

  • Tell us all about your foster! Foster families are in a unique position to get to know a pet’s personality. Since foster pets are in a home environment, it’s often easier to get a picture of how they may behave in their adoptive homes. Not only can you help a homeless pet during their time staying with you, but through learning and sharing about your foster pet’s personality and their needs, you can help them find an adopter, too!
  • Create photo and video content! They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so imagine just how much a video is worth! Taking cute photos and videos of your foster pet during their stay with you and sharing that content with the shelter can really help them find a home. The content doesn’t need to be professional quality or over the top— even a cellphone pic of your foster pet snoozing on the sofa can go a long way!
  • Teach an old dog a new trick! By that we mean teach any pet, of any age, any new thing! Setting aside 5-10 minutes a day to work with your foster pet on a new cue or skill can really help them out once they hit the adoption floor. Do they know how to sit? How nice are their leash manners? If you’d like to help your foster pet learn a new thing, we’d be happy to help give some guidance about fear-free training techniques!

Foster a Pet: Be A Hero!

We aren’t exaggerating when we say fostering saves lives! Become a hero for homeless animals today when you sign up at utahhumane.org/foster.

June is National Microchip Month! Microchip for Peace of Mind.

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
A dog sits on the grass outside with their head tilted. A microchip can help reunite guardians with a lost pet who has wandered off outdoors.

With June comes warmer weather, school break, and the beginning of summer activities. You and your pets may be spending more time adventuring in the great outdoors. But what if your beloved pet wanders off a little too far and becomes lost? A microchip could be the key to a quick reunion!

What is a Microchip?

Microchips are small implants, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that are injected into the back of a pet’s neck. The chip contains an identification number which is unique to your pet and is linked to your contact information so you can be reached if a lost pet is found.

It’s important to consider that microchips are not GPS trackers. When a chip is scanned at a veterinary office, shelter, or by an animal services officer, it brings up the pet guardian’s information. With this information, whoever has scanned the lost pet’s chip can contact the pet guardian.

For this reason, it’s very important that pet guardians ensure their pet’s microchip information is up to date. If you’ve moved or had a change in phone number or email, be sure to update your pet’s chip information to reflect that.

Why are Chips Important?

According to a study from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), lost pets with microchips are far more likely to be reunited with their guardians than lost pets without microchips. The rate of lost dogs with microchips who were returned to their families is more than double the rate of dogs without chips. The difference for cats was even more dramatic, with the rate of return with a microchip being more than triple the rate without a chip.

Microchips are a permanent form of identification for your pet. Once a chip has been implanted, it can be scanned at any time in your pet’s life. Chips work across boarders, and are even often a requirement for international travel and moves.

Studies also suggest that having your pet microchipped can help to deter pet theft. If you pet is stolen, microchips can offer proof of ownership. This makes chips a key tool in reuniting you with your furry friend, and in catching wrongdoers.

A gray, fluffy cat peers out of a window. Even indoor-only pets should have a microchip, just in case they are able to get outside and wander off.

If Your Pet has a Microchip…

That’s great news! Your pet only needs to be microchipped one time in their life. However, it is very important for pet guardians to make sure their pet’s chip information stays up to date. Updated information helps to ensure that you will be able to be contacted should your pet ever get lost.

You are able to update the contact information associated with your pet’s chip through the manufacturer’s database online. If you are unsure which manufacturer your pet’s chip is associated with, you can have the chip scanned at your veterinary office to find out.

If Your Pet doesn’t have a Microchip…

The Humane Society of Utah can help with that! Our Murray clinic offers microchipping services on a walk-in basis. For an affordable, one-time cost of $40, your pet will be protected for life!

After your microchip has been implanted, our clinic will give you an informational handout about registering your microchip online. This is a very important step in the process because this is how you attach your contact information to your pet’s chip.

The Humane Society of Utah's Murray clinic location offers microchipping services for pets on a walk-in basis.

Don’t wait to protect your pet! Have them microchipped today at our Murray clinic for a lifetime of peace of mind. Find hours of operation, pricing, and more at utahhumane.org/clinic-locations/murray-clinic.

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

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
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

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
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.

  • Loading a van with pet supplies
  • Tan puppy held by a person

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

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
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!