Day of Giving 2024 – Let’s Get Creative!

Human hand holding a cat paw

Day of Giving is just around the corner at the Humane Society of Utah. On Wednesday, March 20th, we are counting on our community to come together and support lifesaving medical care, food, shelter, and resources for Utah’s most vulnerable animals. This is a challenging time for shelters across the nation, with the cost of care skyrocketing and limited resources for pet guardians and homeless animals. That is why we want to make this the best Day of Giving yet! Thanks to an anonymous longtime donor, all Day of Giving contributions will be matched up to $25,000. Your donation will go twice as far and help twice as many animals on March 20th!

Since we are getting into the spirit of giving, let’s talk about some of the ways you can support animals at the Humane Society of Utah. You are always welcome to visit our donation page and make a quick contribution. No amount is too small, and everything helps! But what are some other creative ways to give?

Give Year-Round With a Monthly Donation

Set up a monthly donation through our website to make your contributions impactful and effortless. Your designated amount will come to HSU automatically each month, so you don’t even have to think about it! With monthly giving, even small amounts add up over time to make a big impact. It is a win-win for you and the animals who depend on your support!

Host Your Own Fundraiser

Whoever said supporting your favorite cause can’t be fun?! Get together with friends, coworkers, or club members and put together your own fundraiser for HSU. There are many creative ideas for giving to charity. You can host a donation drive, sell homemade pet toys or treats, or come up with an exciting competition at your work to raise funds. And if you need materials or support from HSU, fill out the fundraising event application on our website. 

In-person fundraisers may not be your thing. That’s okay! Starting a Facebook fundraiser is easy and effective. Visit our Facebook page and click ‘Raise Money’ to get started.

Humane Society of Utah fundraising table

Shop Creative Designs For a Good Cause

Are you looking for some unique wardrobe items or decorative styles? Why not treat yourself to creative designs, while supporting animals in your community?! Proceeds from our online store go directly back to HSU’s lifesaving programs and the animals in our care. You can find styles for just about anyone! Whether you are shopping for yourself or getting a gift for your favorite animal lover.

Ways to Give For the Future

Do you want to provide long-lasting support for the Humane Society of Utah? Visit our planned giving page to learn how charitable giving can fit into your financial plans. Maybe a gift of stock makes sense for you. Perhaps you want to make a donation from your IRA rather than your checking account. Or maybe you even want to include the Humane Society of Utah in your will. With planned giving you can leave a lasting legacy of compassion and support, while receiving tax benefits for yourself and your loved ones.

Volunteer assisting a cat

Other Ways to Support

We are always grateful for monetary donations at the Humane Society of Utah. A donation of $5 can help cover toys, treats, blankets, or other important supplies for our animals. And if everyone who reads this gives $5, think of how much that would add up! But perhaps a gift of money is not possible at this time. Or maybe you are interested in other creative ways of giving. There are other fantastic ways to support the Humane Society of Utah!  

  • Give the gift of your time and compassion by volunteering or fostering our most vulnerable animals.
  • Give the gift of supplies or pet items. Check out our donation wish list for more information.
  • Give the gift of your voice! Encourage others to adopt, donate, or volunteer. You can talk to your friends directly about our programs or just share our posts on social media. Just one click, and you can help get the word out!

Remember to mark your calendars for March 20th, and join the movement for Day of Giving 2024! However you choose to give, know that your support will help an animal find a home, receive medical attention, or get the resources needed to remain with their loving guardian. With your help, we can make this the best Day of Giving ever!

Protect Your Pets: Pet Poison Prevention Month

March is National Pet Poison Prevention Month, a time to spotlight the importance of safeguarding our pets from the unseen dangers lurking in our homes. Pets, with their curious natures, often stumble upon items that, while harmless to humans, can pose severe threats to their health. The key to pet poison prevention lies in awareness and proactive measures. Simple steps, such as storing hazardous substances out of reach, can significantly reduce the risk of pet poisoning.

Household Hazards to Watch Out For

Sweet Danger: Xylitol

Found in many sugarless gums​, candies,​ and toothpaste, xylitol is a common culprit in pet poisonings, especially in dogs. A small amount can be dangerous. Symptoms like vomiting, weakness, and seizures are red flags for xylitol poisoning.

Infographic by the ASPCA for Pet Poison Prevention Month. The many hiding places of Xylitol. Medications, Dental Health Products, Food, personal Care Items.

Medication Mishaps

Medicines that heal humans can harm pets. NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and antidepressants are particularly hazardous, leading to a range of issues, from stomach ulcers and kidney failure to severe neurological problems. Keeping medications out of reach can prevent accidental ingestions.

Floral Foes

The arrival of spring brings blooms that, while beautiful, can be deadly to pets. Lilies, for instance, are highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure with minimal exposure. Dogs aren’t immune to the dangers of spring bulbs either, with tulips and daffodils causing severe gastrointestinal distress.

nfographic by the ASPCA for Pet Poison Prevention Month. Identifing Poisonous Lilies for cats.

Chocolate: A Bitter Risk

Chocolate is a well-known hazard for pets, particularly dogs. The toxicity level increases with the darkness of the chocolate, with baker’s and dark chocolate being the most dangerous. The symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and even heart failure.

Garden Products: Hidden Dangers

Fertilizers may keep our gardens lush but can be deadly to our four-legged friends. Some contain harmful chemicals that can lead to drooling, seizures, and even death if ingested. Similarly, pest control products that eliminate rodents or snails can be fatal to pets, causing severe health issues without prompt veterinary care.

Prevention and Preparedness

By taking these precautions and educating others about the risks, we can make our homes safer for our beloved pets. Remember, a little effort in pet-proofing can go a long way in preventing emergencies and ensuring our pets lead happy, healthy lives. Let’s use this opportunity to spread awareness and take action to protect our furry family members from these preventable hazards.

If you suspect your pet has gotten into something toxic, please contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or your emergency veterinarian.

Priceless Patients: Supporting Cat Health

Black and white cat laying down

Odin is a large cat with an even larger personality. The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) staff and volunteers describe him as “the sweetest, most loveable kitty who adores having his ears and chin rubbed.” He is playful, good with kids, and will say hello to just about anyone. You will notice all of this if you visit with Odin. You may not notice that Odin needs a special diet to treat urinary crystals. He is one of many cats who come to HSU yearly with special dietary needs or other health challenges.

Thanks to a generous gift from our friends, Doctors Laurel & David Fedor, we are thrilled to announce our ‘Priceless Patients’ special through March 31st. This contribution from the Fedors will help cover adoption fees and medical care for some of our cats who need extra help but still deserve loving homes!

Odin the cat receiving a health assessment

Let’s Talk About Cat Health

At the Humane Society of Utah, we understand that, much like humans, animals can face various health challenges. Some temporary ailments will go away with the proper medication or procedure. Other long-term conditions will always be a part of the animal’s life in one form or another. Some of our favorite adoptable cats have chronic conditions requiring a special diet or ongoing treatment. But often we find that, like Odin, these cats are also sweet, goofy, and lovable!

When looking for a new companion, seeing a medical condition on a cat’s profile can be scary. Questions might go through your head like: “will this animal have a shorter lifespan?”, “will this animal always be sick or uncomfortable?”, or even “how much will this cost?” These concerns are all valid and understandable! We want all the animals in our lives to be happy, healthy, and comfortable. However, many cats with chronic conditions are excellent companions who lead comfortable and fulfilling lives with the proper treatment. Sometimes, a special diet is all that is needed to keep symptoms under control. Other cats may need regular medication or additional visits to the vet. Our counselors are prepared to discuss any health needs or ongoing treatment. We want to address potential concerns so adopters can make an informed decision.

A Generous Gift For Our Priceless Patients

In times of need, we all appreciate a helping hand, and our animals are no exception! We are so fortunate to have caring donors who continually make it possible to provide for our animals. Esteemed donors, Doctors Laurel & David Fedor, wanted to do something meaningful for the cats at HSU. Laurel & David are longtime supporters and avid cat lovers themselves! Over the years, some of their own beloved cats struggled with health conditions. As Laurel describes, “The extra care and attention these cats need has actually increased my bond with them, making them even more special to me.” She hopes that other adopters will consider animals with special health needs so they can “experience the unconditional love and joy of caring for these special furry friends.”

Doctors Laurel & David Fedor at the Humane Society of Utah Gala

In December 2023, the Fedors made a generous donation of $10,000 designated for the medical care and adoption fees of our ‘Priceless Patients’. With their background in medicine, it is fitting that they chose to support the medical needs of our animals! This contribution has a profound impact on the lives of our cats. Diagnosis and treatment can cost hundreds of dollars for each cat. By funding these expenses, the Fedors make it possible for homeless cats to remain healthy and find homes faster. Adopters can look for the ‘Priceless Patient’ kennel cards to find adoptable cats with fees covered by this generous contribution. 

Our goal is to remove as many barriers to adoption as possible so we can connect animals with loving families who want to give them homes. At HSU, we perform the bloodwork, diagnosis, and treatment for cats showing any sign of illness while in our care, so those expenses are not passed on to the adopter. Thanks to the Fedors’ generous donation, we can provide medical services for even more cats who will end up in loving homes as a result! Cats like Odin, who finally found a home after 3 months of waiting!

Waiting for the Right Home: Sage’s Story

A brown and black dog sits in a camping chair inside of the right home for her.

It was June 13th of 2023 and Sage (formerly Natalia) tilted her head in curiosity as a potential adopter peered excitedly into her kennel. Sage’s initial surrender into HSU’s care, as well as a return following an adoption that didn’t work out, were both attributed to her energetic personality feeling like too much to handle for previous guardians. She was beginning to lose hope that she would ever find the right home. But, as it turned out, Sage’s luck really was about to change!

Setting Sage Up for Success

Emilee knew from the moment she met Sage that this sweet, scruffy pup belonged with her family. During her chat with our adoptions counselors, HSU staff disclosed to Emilee that Sage may not be the easiest dog in the world. They let her know that Sage had been adopted and returned, and they told Emilee about how high-energy Sage was.

HSU staff had fallen in love with Sage during her stay. They wanted to be completely transparent about Sage’s needs to give her the best chance of going to the right home… and not coming back.

“[The counselors] told us that Sage had been brought back to the shelter, and we are still blown away by this. She’s such a gentle but energetic dog, and she blended perfectly with our family,” Emilee said.

So, as you might have guessed, Emilee was not deterred by Sage’s past but rather chose to look to her future. Sage left HSU that day with her tail wagging behind her; this time, she did not have to return.

A brown and black dog lays on her human's lap and looks directly into the camera in the right home for her.

The Future Sage Deserves

Today, Sage is absolutely thriving with Emilee and the rest of her found family. Emilee said that Sage is full of personality and is always making her laugh. Sage’s favorite pastimes include hanging out with her cousins, camping, and getting plenty of snuggles!

Emilee even had a funny story to share about Sage’s favorite seat in the house… a multi-seat camping chair! Sage is actually pictured in this chair at the beginning of this blog.

“Every time we would go camping, Sage would kick my husband out of his spot on the double chair. Eventually, one of my family members gifted us a three-person chair. Now we can all fit around the campfire!” Emilee laughed.

Emilee concluded Sage’s story with strong encouragement for others to adopt: “Our lives truly wouldn’t be the same without Sage. I love that HSU is sharing her story so people know shelter doggies are just as good as any!”

A brown and black dog sits outside in the fall leaves along with a cream dog and a black dog in the right home for them.

Big Heads, Bigger Hearts: Large Dog Adoption Special!

Large Dog Adoption Special banner

If you want to add a large and loveable companion to your life, now is the perfect time! Presented by Xfinity, the ‘Big Heads, Bigger Hearts’ adoption special runs through Valentine’s Day at the Humane Society of Utah (HSU). Thanks to generous support from Xfinity, adoption fees are waived for all adult large-breed dogs!

Love For Large Dogs

Find love this Valentine’s Day, and consider adopting a large dog! On average, large-breed dogs experience a longer length of stay at HSU when compared to their smaller counterparts. A big dog can seem like a big commitment, so large-breeds often get overlooked. But we know a large dog can be a great companion for the right adopter. And who knows what you might learn if you take a look around! That 65 lb pup might be a gentle and easy-going couch potato. Or maybe that large-breed sweetheart is the perfect companion for getting out and exploring nature.

Large Dog Adoption Photo with Family

An Adoption Special: Presented by Xfinity

From Sunday, February 11th through Wednesday, February 14th, HSU waives adoption fees for all adult dogs over 60 lbs. Thanks to our generous friends at Xfinity, we can help remove financial barriers so more adopters can bring these loveable large-breeds home! We are so grateful for our partnership with Xfinity, allowing us to address the needs of our animals and our community. If you are looking for a companion with a big heart, a big personality, and a big paw print, the time has never been better! Swing by for our ‘Big Heads, Bigger Hearts’ adoption special, presented by Xfinity!

Smile Bright: Celebrating Pet Dental Awareness Month

February is Pet Dental Awareness Month. This is a time to spotlight the importance of your pet’s dental health and how it impacts their overall well-being. The Humane Society of Utah is thrilled to join this cause, emphasizing the value of dental care in pets’ lives. With the introduction of affordable dental services at our Murray Clinic, you can ensure your pet’s smile is as healthy as their tail is waggy.

The Importance of Pet Dental Health

Dental health is a crucial component of a pet’s overall health. Neglecting dental care can lead to more than bad breath; it can cause periodontal disease, tooth loss, and even affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Understanding the signs of dental problems and seeking prompt care can protect your pet from unnecessary pain and potential systemic health issues.

Learn more about the importance of pet dental health from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

A close up photo of human fingers picking up a dog lip to show pet dental health.

Dental Care Tips for Pet Owners

While professional veterinary care is paramount, there are several steps pet owners can take at home to maintain their pet’s dental health:

  • Regular Brushing: Like humans, pets benefit significantly from regular tooth brushing. Use a pet-safe toothpaste and start slowly to get your pet accustomed to the process.
  • Dental Treats and Toys: Many products are designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Always choose products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
  • Routine Check-Ups: Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch dental issues before they become severe.

A Healthy Pet is a Happy Pet

This Pet Dental Awareness Month, we invite you to prioritize your pet’s dental health. Whether it’s scheduling a dental check-up, starting a new tooth-brushing routine, or learning more about pet dental care, every step you take makes a difference.

A Sweet Cat’s New Beginning

Sweet cat laying down

Our staff fell in love with a sweet cat named Mags (formerly Lucy Goosey) when she came to the Humane Society of Utah (HSU) in October 2023. This affectionate senior girl loved nothing more than getting cuddles from the staff and volunteers at HSU. Unfortunately, Mags’s sweet demeanor was not the only thing we noticed about her. Staff quickly recognized that she was in pain and struggling with her health.

Sick cat looking forward

Foster To The Rescue

Mags came to us with a swollen face and discharge coming from her nose and eyes. Her symptoms pointed to a chronic respiratory infection. Medical staff immediately started Mags on antibiotics to manage the infection and ease her discomfort. She was placed with Laura, one of our foster volunteers, so she could recover in a safe and comfortable environment. Foster volunteers are crucial to the healing process for so many sick and injured animals who come through our doors. We take pride in our clean and state-of-the-art facility and our excellent medical resources. But when an animal needs time to recover, we can all agree that nothing competes with a comfy couch, one-on-one attention, and the calm of a home environment. This is where our foster volunteers come in – opening up their homes and hearts to animals like Mags. 

Laura took excellent care of Mags as we continued to monitor her health and progress. She needed multiple rounds of antibiotics and remained in foster for almost a month. As Laura recounts, “despite all of Lucy’s trials, she remained so sweet and cuddly. She would jump in your lap almost before you could sit down”. 

A New Development

Although Mags was showing signs of progress in her foster home, she was not out of the woods just yet. Our medical team grew concerned, as Mags’s symptoms were not responding as expected to the medication. It was time to switch gears and try something new. Additional tests revealed that Mags was suffering from stomatitis, a severe oral inflammation. Poor Mags’s case was so severe her own teeth were causing her discomfort! Extreme as it may sound, the best solution was to remove her teeth entirely. With the problem identified, we wasted no time getting Mags into surgery so her path to comfort and healing could continue. Of course, Laura the caring foster volunteer was right there to help her through the final stage of recovery. Mags even got to spend the holidays out of the shelter and in the comfort of Laura’s home.

Sweet cat looking to the side

A New Beginning

Mags remained her sweet and cuddly self through all of her discomfort, treatment, and recovery. When she was healthy and ready to find a home, we knew someone would easily fall in love with her. Malena came to the Humane Society of Utah looking for a companion and instantly connected with Mags. She remembers, “After interacting with her and seeing how loving she was I knew I wanted to give her a home.” She knew right then and there, Mags was coming home with her.

Malena is happy to report that Mags has been in great health since her adoption. She has gone from the sick and injured cat who first arrived at HSU to an energetic and playful gal. Malena marvels at how Mags does not let her senior status or previous health challenges slow her down! “Although she is an old girl, she still has her zoomies and loves to play”. And of course, at the end of the day, Mags is still the sweet cat she has always been. As Melena describes, “she is the best at late night cuddles, and the most excited buddy to see you when you come home.” 

Mags’s transformation was possible thanks to the vigilance of our medical staff and the dedication of our foster volunteers. Laura reflects on her experience as a foster volunteer, and the impact it had on herself and the animals. “It’s been such a meaningful experience for me and my kids while they were growing up. It’s such an important part of HSU so they can adopt out as many animals as possible.” We couldn’t agree more!!

If you are interested in fostering an animal like Mags, you can visit our foster page for more information. You can also support sweet cats like Mags by making a donation!

Compassion in Action: The Humane Society of Utah 2023 Year in Review

The front entrance to the Humane Society of Utah's Adoption Center with blue skies and pink flowering trees in front of building.

As we reflect on the past year, it’s heartening to see how our collective efforts have shaped a better world for animals. We have been at the forefront of this compassionate journey, tirelessly working to ensure the welfare of animals across our state. In this 2023 Year in Review, we proudly share our milestones, challenges, and the spirit of our community that has made all the difference. Accompanied by a heartfelt video message from our Executive Director, this review is not just a recount of our accomplishments but a testament to the power of collective action and support from individuals like you.

Remarkable Rescues and Successful Adoptions

Thanks to our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community support, the Humane Society of Utah has successfully placed 5,529 homeless animals into loving homes. We assisted 1,189 community-owned pets through our Pet Retention and Shelter Diversion Program. Each rescue story is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the difference we can make together.

Innovations and Community Engagement

Innovation has been a key theme of the Humane Society of Utah in 2023. We’ve expanded our programs and improved best practices to better care for the animals and streamline our adoption processes. 

Community engagement has been pivotal in our 2023 journey. Through our Preventative Care Clinics, Humane Education Program, fundraising events, and volunteer initiatives, we’ve strengthened our bond with animal lovers across Utah. Engaging with just over 85,000 Utahns. Our community’s support has been instrumental more than ever in making our work possible.

Humane Society of Utah Year in Review 2023 infographic. 5,529 pets adopted, 1,438 pets fostered, 1,189 owned animal served through pet retention and shelter diversion, 593 free behavio consults, 3,943 bags of pet food distributed to local food banks & rescues, and 7,339 animals spayed/neutered.

As we look forward to another year of challenges and opportunities, we are reminded that every small act of kindness contributes to a larger impact. Join us as we continue to make a difference in the lives of animals in need, and together, we can change their world.

The Five Domains: Animal Welfare and Wellbeing

Animal welfare science tells us that the welfare of an animal includes both their physical and mental state.

five domains paw print graphic

Ways you can apply the Five Domains for your pets

Nutrition

  • Providing a balanced diet suitable for your pet’s age, breed, and health status
  • Using feeding as an opportunity for enrichment e.g. puzzle feeders!
  • Making sure they always have access to clean, fresh water

Environment

  • Creating a safe, comfortable, and stimulating living space with:
    • Adequate space and freedom of choice
    • Opportunities for your pet to do the things they love, like being active!
    • Private places where they can retreat and a cozy sleeping area
    • Be aware of potential environmental stressors like loud noises, unpleasant smells, temperature variations, and other animals

Health

  • Keeping them up to date with preventative health care (e.g. parasite control, vaccinations) and routine veterinary care. Being aware of any signs of illness or injury and seeking veterinary care ASAP if you notice anything out of the ordinary about them!

Behavioural Interactions

  • Providing them with opportunities to play, socialize, and explore e.g. toys and scratching posts
  • Making sure they have choice and control over what they do and who they spend time with (as long as it’s safe!)
  • Spending quality time with them every day to help strengthen your bond
  • Using reward-based training techniques to reinforce good behavior and discourage undesirable behaviors

Mental State

  • Protecting them from situations where they might become scared, frustrated, or distressed
  • Doing your best to ensure they get all the love, care, understanding, and companionship they need to live their healthiest and happiest life!

What are the Five Domains?

The Five Domains framework is a way of thinking about animal welfare – going beyond just eliminating or minimizing negative experiences to achieve a neutral state of animal welfare. Instead, we’re encouraging positive experiences in four functional domains, which affect the fifth domain, the animal’s mental state.

To determine an animal’s well-being the following should be considered:

  1. Nutrition
  2. Environment
  3. Health
  4. Behavioural interactions
  5. Mental State

For every physical experience an animal has, there may also be an effect on their mental well-being.

The emotional needs of animals are important as well as their physical needs like food, water, exercise, etc.

To ensure all animals have a life worth living, they must have the opportunity to have positive experiences – such as excitement, anticipation, and satisfaction.

Pet owners and those that care for animals need to provide environments that allow and encourage animals to express behaviours that are rewarding. 

Blog written by Emma Lagoon, Communications & Media Manager for RSPCA Qld

Celebrating Compassion: Highlights from HSU’s 2023 Wags to Wishes Gala

The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) was thrilled to host our annual Wags to Wishes Gala on Saturday, November 11th, 2023, at the luxurious Little America Hotel. It was a night of celebration and enchantment, thanks to the incredible support of our presenting sponsor, the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation. The Gala is the pinnacle of HSU’s fundraising calendar, an evening to celebrate our accomplishments and the incredible compassion of our donors and sponsors.

Embracing Firsts and Celebrating Advocates

From the beginning, the 2023 Gala stood out as a night of ‘firsts.’ Renowned reality star, author, and animal welfare advocate Lala Kent dazzled as the event emcee. She held the audience captive from start to finish with her trademark charm and wit. Moreover, this year’s Gala marked the debut of HSU’s new Executive Director, Alexis Pagoulatos. We are thrilled to begin a new era of leadership under her experienced direction. The Gala was the perfect event to introduce Ms. Pagoulatos to our most esteemed donors, sponsors, and community supporters. 

Amidst this night of glitz and glamour, we took the opportunity to recognize some of our biggest champions for animal welfare. The first annual Charitable Giving Award recognized Mountain America Credit Union for their outstanding support year after year. The first annual Legacy Award honored the late Curtis Lipke, who left a remarkable gift to the Humane Society of Utah after his passing. Both awards are a testament to the compassion and generosity of the community that surrounds us.

Paw-fect Stars on Stage: From Struggle to Stability

What Humane Society of Utah Gala would be complete without the true stars of the show: the animals! A heartwarming doggy runway show featuring HSU alumni, was a highlight of the evening. As these precious pups took to the stage in front of an adoring audience, we shared their touching journeys from adversity to long-lasting companionship. Their tales of transformation are a testament to the impact of our collective efforts. 

Inspired by these stories of hope and resilience, the Gala attendees opened their hearts and their wallets. Generous contributions poured forth during the program, lighting the path for even more stories of success and healing. 

Gratitude for a Record-Breaking Evening

The collective dedication of our staff, volunteers, and attendees culminated in a night to remember. Together, we raised nearly $250,000! This astounding success will empower HSU to help Utah’s homeless pets even more heading into the new year. 

As the curtains closed on this remarkable evening, our hearts swelled with gratitude. To everyone who contributed, attended, and supported our mission: you are the driving force behind our lifesaving work. We eagerly anticipate the years to come and the continuation of our cherished partnerships. We hope you all will join us for another fantastic Gala in 2024 and another opportunity to celebrate our shared devotion to the animals!