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Happy New Year from the Humane Society of Utah! Please enjoy this 2025 Wrapped Video to see the amazing things you helped accomplish for pets last year!
Category: Humane Tales
Success Stories: Our Favorite Adoptions of 2025
If you follow our Facebook and Instagram accounts, you are likely very familiar with HSU Success Stories. Each week, we post an update on an adopted pet from the Humane Society of Utah that has been submitted by the pet’s adopters. While we love all of our HSU Success Stories, a few submissions from 2025 were particularly special. Without further ado, here are some of our favorite adoptions from the previous year!
Major is the Cutest Coworker Ever!
“In January, I adopted a sweet boy by the name of Major from the Humane Society of Utah. He has come a long way!
In the time I’ve had him, I’ve learned that he loves to play with anyone with 4 legs. When visiting his Nana (my mom), he met her cats, and not only did he not try to chase or show any kind of reactionary behavior, but he approached them slowly, sniffed, and even touched noses with both felines. He has also made several canine friends with whom he loves to play.
He has also shown that he loves children. My niece, who is eight, gets anxious around bigger dogs and was nervous meeting him for the first time. He seemed to sense her anxiety and was incredibly gentle with her. On a day when she was visiting me, I invited her to walk with Major and I. Major not only stayed on his best behavior, he also kept looking back to check and see if my niece was keeping up. When he saw she was falling a little behind, with no prompting from me, he slowed down and stayed next to her the rest of the walk.
His intelligence has really started to shine. On Fridays, I’ve been taking him to my office for socialization as well as to mix up his routine and give him some variety. After only a few visits, I can walk toward my office suite, release his leash, and tell him “Go Office” and he will walk down the hall and wait in front of my door for me.
Major has definitely and remarkably adjusted and has been as good a companion and best friend as I could ask for in a million years.”
Milo Picked his Family… and his Success Story
“We adopted Milo (shelter name Helios) in February of 2025, and he has been just so perfect. When we went to look at cats, he was meowing at us through the glass door and immediately sat down in my lap when came in. We knew we couldn’t leave without him!
Since then, Milo has been so sweet and playful. He loves to purr, make biscuits, and play with his string toys. He’s been such a good fit for us that we joke about calling the Humane Society and saying thank you so much for the perfect cat!”
Honey’s Wait was Well Worth It
“We had just said goodbye to our beloved German Shepherd, Major, after a long and beautiful life. The loss had left us heartbroken, and while friends and family gently told us it was too soon to think about another dog, I kept feeling a strong pull in my heart to visit the shelter. When I finally decided to go, I thought I would bring home a small companion, maybe a chihuahua. But the moment. I walked in, everything changed.
That’s when I met Honey (known as Jill at the shelter). She was brought to HSU the day before. Our eyes met, and it was love at first sight. I later learned that Honey had spent nine long months in three different shelters, waiting patiently for someone to see her the way I did that day.
From the moment she joined our family, she has been nothing short of a blessing. Her love has not only helped heal my heart, but it has also brought joy and light to our entire family. Honey now goes everywhere with me; her tail wagging, her eyes bright with happiness. She’s playful, loyal, gets along with other dogs, and is just the perfect fit for our home. Every single day, she fills my cup with love, joy, and gratitude.”
Mila’s Purr-fect Success Story
“I adopted 7-month-old Mila on September 13th. After jumping on my shoulder to say hi to me, I just had to bring her home. Now, she rules the house with her zoomies at three in the morning, escapades on top of the counters, and occasional cuddles with her person.
Mila is very food-motivated and loves to rummage through the pantry, but she is very cute while doing it. She is the best troublemaker in the world, and I’m so grateful to have her as an addition to my family.”
Callie Rose is Quite the Cuddle Bug
“We adopted Bonita and renamed her Callie Rose!
When I adopted Callie, I was actually preparing to get a puppy. I had an urge to go to the shelter that day and I’m glad I did because I found my Callie baby! I instantly fell in love with her and knew I was going to take her home.
Callie instantly blended in with our family. She loves both of my kids and they frequently take naps together. She has such personality, and I’m constantly finding out new things about her! For instance, she absolutely loves rolling in the grass on our walks… there’s a minimum requirement of three roll-abouts for each walk. Whenever the blender comes out, she will bark and dance until I give her some whipped cream straight from the can… my kids might have taught her that.
I’m so happy with my decision to go to the Humane Society that day. I found my furever friend and get to give her the best life!”
Consider adopting this year, and perhaps you could be one of our favorite success stories in 2026! All of our adoptable pets can be viewed on our adoption page.
Doggy Day Out Program: Giving Shelter Dogs a Break While Helping Them Find Homes
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!
Learn more and get started at: https://www.utahhumane.org/how-to-help/doggy-day-out
Keep the Holidays Merry and Safe: Christmas Pet Safety Tips for Every Pet Family
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.
Obesity In Indoor Cats: Fun Solutions to Get Them Moving
Keeping cats indoors is one of the best ways to protect them from cars, predators, disease, and other outdoor dangers. However, because indoor cats rely on their guardians to provide stimulation and exercise, they sometimes need a little extra encouragement to stay active. Without enough play or enrichment, even the most pampered house cat can gradually put on extra weight.
The good news is that maintaining your cat’s fitness doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the right mix of play, creative spaces, and gentle encouragement, you can help your cat stay physically fit, mentally engaged, and emotionally fulfilled, all from the safety and comfort of home. This guide explores fun, practical ways to help indoor cats stay active, reduce stress, and live longer, happier lives.
Why Indoor Cats Are Prone to Weight Gain
Indoor life gives cats the safety, comfort, and stability they deserve, but it also changes how they burn energy. When a cat’s daily routine revolves around lounging, napping, and eating on demand, their calorie output can fall behind their calorie intake. Over time, that imbalance may lead to gradual weight gain.
Here are a few common reasons indoor cats are more likely to gain weight, and how understanding them can help you create a healthier routine:
- Less Natural Movement
- Constant Access to Food
- Reduced Mental Stimulation
- Boredom or Stress Eating
Health Risks Associated With Feline Obesity
Extra weight can have a bigger impact on cats than many people realize. Because cats are small and built for agility, even a few extra pounds can strain their joints, organs, and overall energy levels.
Here are some of the most common health risks linked to feline obesity:
- Diabetes
- Joint Pain and Arthritis
- Heart and Breathing Issues
- Liver Problems
- Shorter Lifespan and Lower Quality of Life
Remember, this isn’t about blame, it’s about care. Weight gain happens gradually and often goes unnoticed. By understanding the risks and making small, consistent changes, cat parents can help their cats feel lighter, move easier, and live happier, longer lives.
How To Tell If Your Cat Is Overweight
Not sure if your cat might be carrying extra weight? There are a few simple ways to check at home before consulting your veterinarian.
- Feel for the ribs: You should be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily under a thin layer of fat. If you have to press to find them, your cat may be overweight.
- Check the waistline: When viewed from above, a healthy cat typically has a gentle “hourglass” shape. From the side, you should see a slight upward tuck behind the ribs.
- Watch their movement: Hesitation to jump, difficulty grooming, or tiring quickly during play can all be signs of extra weight or joint discomfort.
For the most accurate assessment, your veterinarian can perform a Body Condition Score (BCS) evaluation, a hands-on check that helps determine your cat’s ideal weight and muscle tone. Some breeds (like Maine Coons or British Shorthairs) and older cats naturally have different healthy ranges, so a professional evaluation ensures your cat’s plan is tailored to their needs.
If you suspect your cat is overweight, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. They can confirm your cat’s condition, rule out any underlying medical issues, and guide you on safe weight-loss steps, such as adjusting portion sizes, choosing the right diet, and creating an activity plan that fits your cat’s age and personality.
Fun and Easy Ways to Get Your Cat Moving Indoors
- Interactive Toys – Encourage your cat’s hunting instincts with wand toys, or feather teasers. Move toys unpredictably, like prey would in nature, to keep your cat engaged and motivated.
- Puzzle Feeders – Turn mealtime into playtime by using puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys. These mimic foraging behavior and help slow down eating while keeping your cat’s mind sharp.
- Vertical Spaces – Cats love to climb and survey their surroundings from up high. Cat trees, shelves, and window perches give them healthy outlets for climbing, jumping, and lounging, all while enriching their environment.
- DIY Obstacle Courses – Get creative with what you already have at home, tunnels, cardboard boxes, or even a few cushions can become a fun mini adventure park. Rotate items occasionally to keep things new and exciting.
- Short, Frequent Play Sessions – Aim for several 5–10 minute play bursts each day. Even brief sessions add up to meaningful exercise and help prevent boredom.
- Catios: Safe Outdoor Adventure – For cats who crave a little fresh air and variety, a catio (an enclosed outdoor space) is an excellent way to expand their world safely. Catios provide climbing spots, sunshine, and endless sensory enrichment—all without the risks of free-roaming outdoors.
Check out some catio ideas to inspire your next build and discover how these enclosures can become your cat’s favorite spot for play and relaxation.
Nutrition and Portion Control Matter Too
Exercise is only half the equation when it comes to keeping your cat healthy, nutrition and portion control play an equally important role. Even the most playful cats can struggle with weight management if they’re consuming more calories than they burn.
- Feed with intention, not availability – Instead of leaving food out all day, try scheduled meal times. This helps you monitor how much your cat eats and prevents boredom snacking.
- Measure portions carefully – Follow your veterinarian’s feeding recommendations based on your cat’s age, size, and activity level, scooping “by eye” can easily lead to overfeeding.
Consult your veterinarian before changing diets – Your vet can help you choose a balanced food and determine safe calorie reductions if weight loss is needed.
Final Thoughts — Active Cats Are Happy Cats
At the heart of every cat’s well-being is movement, whether it’s a playful pounce, a confident climb, or a curious stretch toward the window. Staying active doesn’t just keep cats physically fit; it strengthens their confidence, reduces stress, and enhances their emotional health. A cat that moves, explores, and plays is a cat that thrives.
The best part? Keeping your cat active doesn’t require major lifestyle changes, just small, consistent moments of enrichment. A few minutes of play each day, a puzzle feeder at mealtime, or a cozy catio that encourages natural movement can make all the difference.
As cat parents, we have the joy and responsibility of creating spaces that bring out the best in our feline companions. With a little creativity, we can give our cats the joy of movement, safely, sustainably, and with love.
Pay It Forward: Giving Others A Helping Hand
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!
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
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!
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
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!
Day in the Life of a Dog Foster Parent: Foster Diaries
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to foster a dog for the Humane Society of Utah? Join us to explore what a typical day in the life of a dog foster may look like!
Rise and Shine!
When you think of the morning, events such as preparing a nice breakfast, brewing a pot of coffee, or going for an early hours jog may come to mind. Sans the coffee (can you imagine the chaos of a puppy who’s had caffeine?!), many of these activities may overlap for your foster dog!
AM’s in the life include feeding your foster dog breakfast, taking a potty break, and maybe going for a nice walk. One luxury foster pups have that we humans often do not is the option to take a mid-morning snooze. This may also play a part in your morning routine.
Puppy fosters in particular may experience some variety as their foster dogs grow up. Liz Fonua, a longtime HSU foster, explains.
“The needs of the pup are always evolving. So, if we have tiny puppies that are still growing, they nap so much in the beginning, but between weeks 6-8 before they are ready for adoption, they become fun little terrors as they chomp, chew, and need more play time.”
Afternoons in the Life of an HSU Foster
The middle portion of the day is often somewhat less structured. Afternoons may fluctuate based on your schedule and the needs of your foster. Activities may include playtime, naps, potty breaks, or even adventures like going on a hike together.
In some cases, a hybrid foster program may be available. One HSU foster, Misty Johnson, speaks to this:
“Our last foster had pretty bad separation anxiety, so after a week of leaving her home alone while I went to work, I called and worked out a plan to drop her off in the morning and pick her up after work,” Misty said. “It worked out perfectly for me since I work near by, and it worked out perfectly for her with her separation anxiety. She was so excited to see me every day when I picked her back up from HSU.”
Fostering can also be a family affair. Liz explained how fostering has helped her teach her teenagers valuable life skills.
“Anytime we are considering taking a new foster into our home, I am able to have a discussion with my children about the dog, the needs, and what we anticipate the responsibilities each person will need to take on in order to make it work will be,” Liz said. “This communication has been a good skill for my children to learn; to evaluate a situation and what would be expected of them before saying yes or no.”
“It has been amazing to see my children become comfortable with giving medication, recognizing needs through behaviors, sacrificing by getting up early or staying up late, and snuggling doggos in need of safety and comfort. It’s been an amazing launch pad for us to teach. We’ve had 83 fosters to date and each and every one has had different needs.”
Winding Down
As the sun begins to set, evenings offer an opportunity for both you and your foster pup to wind down after the day. In addition to tasks such as giving any necessary medications, you may develop a routine to get to know your foster dog’s personality.
“Generally, we work on socialization that will prepare foster dogs to be able to be adopted into a variety of homes,” Liz said. “We touch their toe beans, tug on the tails, play with their ears, get our faces close to give kisses, and engage in all the sensory types of activities we can to help them be ready for their forever home.”
“If there are behaviors or traits that we notice, we communicate those to the foster team so it can be added to the notes to help ensure that when they are adopted, it is the best fit for both the doggo and the humans.”
Once your nighttime routine is complete, it’s time to settle in for a good night’s rest! You can sleep easy knowing your day of hard work will make a true difference in the life of your foster pup!
Why Foster?
Although a day in the life of a foster parent may vary, the impact fostering makes is life changing!
“Seeing the pups grow in the ways they need is my favorite part,” Liz said. “For the littles, it’s all their firsts, like climbing stairs or starting to roam the yard further away from the safety of the pack. For other dogs, its mourning from surrender or the shock of an unexpected injury that changed their lives. It is hard work and sometimes inconvenient, but to see the dogs learn to trust us and find safety in human care is such a precious experience.”
We asked Liz and Misty what they would say to someone considering becoming a foster, and if they had any advice for newbies.
“Do it!” Liz said. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and find a niche for where you can help. You can fill a need without having to fill all the needs.”
“Fostering is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done, but it is very hard to let a pet go when they’re ready to be adopted,” Misty said. “All of the employees at HSU are amazing and do everything they can to make your foster experience enjoyable. They check in on you and the animal often. They ask how they’re doing, offer training classes, swimming classes, food, toys, collars, etc. I absolutely love HSU and all of the employees and will forever continue fostering and adopting from them.”
Eager to explore what your own foster day in the life entails? Submit your foster application today at utahhumane.org/foster!
Resilience Through Love: Goober’s Heartwarming Journey
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.
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.
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.”
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!
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.