Humane Tales Archives

A Senior Pet Full of Surprises: Mr Patches’s Story

Posted on August 3, 2023August 3, 2023 by Guinn

Mr Patches laying on a blanket gets pets from owner Tom.

It was early 2020, and the world was about to change forever, but little did Tom know, his life was about to change, too, and in a much more paw-sitive way.

Mr Patches the 16-year-old cat had been waiting to find a new home for over a month, moving from room to room in Kitty City, charming everyone he met, but they were seemingly scared off by his senior pet status. Tom was visiting the Humane Society of Utah somewhat frequently to donate pet food, and each time he stopped by, he made a point to visit Mr Patches.

Senior cat Mr Patches sits in a room in Kitty City at the Humane Society of Utah.

“He was just a quiet guy, but such a happy one. I saw how old he was and was amazed at how well he was doing for being nearly 17!” Tom said.

After making a few more visits to Kitty City, self-declared dog-person Tom decided he really wanted to have Mr Patches join his home. Though he had always loved them, Tom had never adopted a senior pet.

“My intention was to give him a happy home for what I thought might be his final few months, given his age. I was very, very wrong about that. I’ve had him for nearly 3 ½ years now!”

So, after being lovingly boxed up for the trek home by HSU’s team, Mr Patches was off to join Tom and three dog siblings. This turned out to be perfect for Mr Patches, who Tom says is very dog-like himself. In fact, just the other day he pushed his dog-brother Mike out of the way to get to the kibble dish!

Senior Cat Mr Patches sits on a dog bed next his his dog brother Mike.

However, Mr Patches isn’t always pushing the pups around. Tom reports that he also likes to snuggle up with them!

“He loves his dog family to pieces. Sometimes they irritate him, but he doesn’t swipe or bite. He sleeps next to them often. It’s just Mike now since Lucky and Lovey have passed away, but he loved them both dearly, too.”

Mr Patches just celebrated his 20th birthday, and Tom says he hopes Mr Patches will be around for 20 more years!

Black and white senior cat celebrates 20th birthday by wearing a blue party hat.

“[Mr Patches] has shown us just how amazing cats are, and he’s shown so many people love. It has meant the absolute world to me, I could not imagine not having him around. Yet another reason I hope he lives to be at least 40!”

At the end of the day, Tom had some advice he would like to share with anyone considering adoption: “Get a senior pet. They’re just the best!”

Essential Advice for Traveling with Your Cat

Posted on July 17, 2023July 17, 2023 by Guinn

Traveling with Cats, orange tabby cat sits in a carrier with the door open.

Are you gearing up for summer vacation, a wedding, or a family reunion? As travel plans start filling your schedule, you might wonder how to ensure your feline companion is well cared for. Fear not! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of tips to make traveling with your cat a breeze!

Selecting the ideal cat carrier

Your cat’s safety should be your utmost priority when embarking on a journey. The simplest way to ensure their well-being is by providing them with a suitable carrier whenever they are outdoors or in unfamiliar surroundings. Although you may be tempted to expose your cat to new experiences, it’s important to remember that many cats feel secure in smaller spaces where they can seek refuge. Consequently, a carrier becomes an ideal sanctuary for your feline friend when faced with novel situations.

Brown tabby cat sleeps in carrier in a home while preparing to travel.

However, not all carriers are created equal. When purchasing a carrier for your cat, consider their size. As a general rule of thumb, the carrier should be approximately 1.5 times larger than your cat, providing enough space for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Adequate ventilation is also crucial, ensuring the carrier remains cool and well-ventilated. Finally, choose a carrier that aligns with your lifestyle and travel requirements. Some prefer a sturdy plastic carrier that is easy to clean, while others opt for a softer, rolling carrier. Regardless of your choice, allow your cat ample time to familiarize themselves with the carrier. Leave it out for them to explore at their leisure, initiating a positive association.

Gradual introductions with short trips

One of our most vital tips for traveling with your cat is to gradually acclimate them to the experience of travel. Many cats find unfamiliar situations intimidating, and who can blame them? Taking short car rides with your cat secured in their carrier will help them become accustomed to the sensations and sights they’ll encounter during longer journeys. Remember to make these trial trips enjoyable! Bring along their favorite toys and treats, setting them up for travel success. Additionally, it’s crucial to anticipate other new experiences your cat might encounter. Familiarize them with noises, music, or other unusual circumstances they might encounter, ensuring they feel at ease throughout the journey.

Stay informed before departure

If you plan on flying with your cat, take the time to familiarize yourself with your chosen airline’s specific pet travel regulations. Ensuring your cat is up to date with vaccinations, microchipped, and equipped with all necessary tags will alleviate stress on the day of travel. If your cat requires vaccinations or microchipping, our walk-in clinics in Murray or St. George are here to assist you in preparing your feline friend for vacation!

Consult a Veterinarian before traveling with your cat

Gray cat with yellow eyes is held in vet's arms during a check up.

While gathering tips for traveling with your cat through online resources is a valuable step towards preparedness, consulting your veterinarian can provide invaluable insights for a successful trip. Your veterinarian deeply understands your cat’s unique needs and can prescribe any necessary medications to ensure their utmost comfort during travel. Remember, this journey should be enjoyable for both you and your cat, and seeking professional advice is always a wise decision!

Embark on an adventure with your feline companion!

By following these tips for traveling with your cat, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate your upcoming journeys stress-free. Remember to prioritize your cat’s well-being, gradually introduce them to travel experiences, stay informed about airline policies, and consult your trusted veterinarian. Now, prepare for an exciting adventure alongside your feline companion!

Kayaking or SUP with your dog in Utah

Posted on July 6, 2023July 25, 2023 by Guinn

You’ve seen the epic Instagram photos of a dog looking majestic at the front of a paddleboard on a gorgeous green reservoir with our unique Utah scenery in the background. If you’re thinking about trying this with your dog, read on!

Don’t just bring your dog kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) for their first time and hope for the best. If your dog has a bad first experience, it won’t be fun for anyone, and they may make up their minds that it wasn’t safe and never want to join you on the lake again. You can set them up for success ahead of time to increase the chances of a positive outing. There are also many important safety considerations to make sure everyone has a great day on the water. Don’t learn the hard way!

Don’t Force It

Some dogs may not enjoy this hobby. Hanging out on the water should be peaceful, but dogs who bark when they see other dogs or people will likely still do this on the water, and areas where people unload their boats and enter the water can be high-traffic with chaos that could be overwhelming. If your dog is uncomfortable with strangers or other dogs, you can try to avoid busier times or find lower-traffic areas to get in the water. Keep in mind that most of our reservoirs in Utah are increasingly popular when it’s hot out.

As TLC points out in their hit song, “Waterfalls” from the ’90s, you may want to “stick to the rivers and lakes that you’re used to” if your pup will be joining you. Avoid visiting a different body of water with your dog for the first time if you’re not going with someone who already knows the “lay of the land.”

Some dogs just really don’t like being wet or are afraid of water, but there are plenty of other fun activities you can do with your dog on land.

Black lab practices sitting in kayak on dry land.

Water Dangers

In Utah, it’s really important to check current conditions for deadly blue-green algae before you visit a reservoir or lake. Dogs are at higher risk than people because they tend to ingest the water, but harmful Algal Blooms also make it unsafe for people to recreate on affected waterways.

If your dog were to swallow a LOT of water (when fetching a toy repeatedly, for example), they could throw off their electrolyte balance and suffer from water intoxication. This isn’t common, but it’s something to be aware of because it does require veterinary attention. Make sure your dog takes breaks.

Practice on Land

If it’s your dog’s first time, start with your kayak or paddleboard in the yard on dry land and a bag of small, soft training treats.

Reward your dog for standing, sitting, and laying down on the vessel while keeping as still as possible.
Practice sitting in the boat with them and pretend to paddle while a helper feeds the dog treats. (Some dogs think grabbing the paddle with their mouth is fun, so watch out for that).
Watch your dog for signs of stress, but if they’re still having a great time, you can gently let the kayak move side to side and keep those treats coming. Slowly increase the movement of the kayak.
Move the kayak to different areas and have multiple sessions until the dog thinks the kayak is a pretty cool place to be.

Red heeler rides stand up paddle board (SUP) in Utah reservoir.

Focus

If you want your dog to sit, stay, or lay down on the kayak, you have to first practice those skills at home without any distractions, then in the yard, then slowly increase distractions.

Keep in mind that even if you know how to do something, it’s hard to focus on it when you’re super excited, scared, or distracted. So give your dog a break if they have a hard time while on the water the first time.

Practice on water

Once they are comfortable in the kayak on dry land, load them up and go to a body of water, ideally on a calm/quiet day.

Practice getting in the kayak, then having them settle in the kayak. Have a helper, “fake paddling,” on the edge of the water.
If they’re still comfortable, remain in the kayak with them and have a helper gently push the kayak out into the water. The helper will steady the kayak. Feed your dog treats while this happens.
If the dog is still calm and settled, then you can do a test paddle in the kayak.
If they are still calm and settled, move out further into the water with your helper still holding onto the kayak.
If still calm, push out a little further, and watch the dog for signs of stress.
If still calm, do a few paddles. Feed more treats.
Keep this first session on the water short and sweet!

Lifejacket Practice

You should also start getting your dog used to their lifejacket at home before you even leave the house. If your dog is used to wearing a harness, they might be fine with the lifejacket, but it is bulkier than a harness. Show them the lifejacket and give them a treat immediately afterward. Practice having your pup wear the life jacket for really short periods with treats. Slowly work up to longer time intervals. Lots of treats will help your dog associate the new safety vest with Very Good Things!

Be Prepared

Cut and file your dog’s nails before visiting the lake, especially if you are renting a flotation device or if you have an inflatable watercraft. Having long nails can also make it harder for them to have a good grip on the surface of a hard plastic kayak. It’s also important to make sure you don’t get scratched if your dog panics or falls in.
It’s always important to have dogs microchipped and ensure they wear a collar with updated ID tags in case you get separated.
The plan is always that the watercraft will stay upright, but especially if you have a large dog, make sure you’re prepared to fall in or tip over. Don’t bring any items you’d be devastated to lose.

Essential Supplies

Lifejackets

Make sure you have a well-fitting life jacket for your dog and yourself. In Utah, you are required to have a coastguard-approved lifejacket for each person on your vessel, and this includes kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. DNR has patrol boats, and they will ticket you if you don’t have one. On rivers, you must be physically wearing your life jacket.

Your dog may be a great swimmer but may become fatigued or disoriented, so just don’t risk it.

Some dog lifejackets have a clip for a leash, and some less expensive ones do not. You don’t want to “reel” your dog in by his neck while he’s trying to swim, so attaching the leash to a collar isn’t as ideal as a clip on the securely fitted lifejacket. We also recommend your dog have a lifejacket with a handle on the back in case you need to lift your dog back onto the boat.

Poop Bags

Additionally, you should bring poop bags and a sealed container like an empty plastic jar or smell-proof pet waste pack-out pouch so that you’re not contaminating the water when your dog inevitably poops. It’s also the law to pick up after your dog and pack out any waste. Plus, rain brings all that poo into the water we’re splashing around in. Remember that reservoirs also store most of our drinking water!

Also… the excitement or the stress can affect your dog’s bowels, so be sure to give them a potty break before hitting the water. If they get restless while you’re paddling, they may need to go back to shore for another potty break.

Treats

Bring a waterproof treat pouch with high-value soft treats to make sure you’re more exciting than any ducks, fish, or other dogs/people floating by and to reward the behavior you want to see more of. Always Bring Treats! You can go above and beyond by bringing a stuffed kong or a bully stick to help your dog settle.

Sunscreen and probably a sun hat that can get wet. Some dogs are also susceptible to sunburn, so be mindful of that when the hot Utah sun is burning down, and there’s no shade to be found. You may need to avoid the middle of the day.

Plenty of clean, fresh water for you and your dog– Stay hydrated and avoid a trip to the vet to treat your dog’s upset tummy afterward due to potential giardia in the water.

Respect Wildlife

That leads us to the final tip. Keep your distance from wildlife and keep your dog on a leash so they can’t chase. Wild animals expend a lot of energy running, swimming, or flying away and might not be able to find enough food to replenish those energy stores when they need it. Also, stress can kill even if your dog doesn’t catch them. There’s a fatal condition that can affect wild animals called “capture myopathy,” which is caused by intense exertion or stress.

Additional supplies

Mat for your dog – If you’re using a hard plastic kayak or SUP, you may want to cut up an old yoga mat to place it in the area where your dog will be standing. The slick surface can be stressful for dogs, so having a grippy mat will make them more comfortable and secure. If your dog is mat-trained, it can be helpful to bring that, provided you don’t mind it getting soggy.

Dry bag for your phone that goes around your neck that you keep tucked into your lifejacket. If you do use a drybag, it’s a good idea to have a float attached so that it won’t fall to the bottom of the lake if you tip. If you want to be extra safe, just leave the phone in the car. Or bring an old phone for taking photos and leave your expensive new phone in the car.

Sunglasses or eyeglasses retainer so your cool shades don’t sink to the bottom of the lake.

Float for your car keys, which will also drop to the bottom of a lake before you have time to react. Or seal them in a zippered pocket on your life jacket or shorts.

Water shoes or secure sandals other than flip-flops – Flip-flops float away.

Backseat Cover and Towels – Be ready for a soggy doggy!

We hope these tips and pack lists make a splash on your next adventure with your dog on Utah’s reservoirs. But remember, you don’t have to bring your dog if they won’t realistically enjoy this. It’s okay to just enjoy nature with your two-legged friends/family if bringing a dog will make it hard to relax.

Kayaking or SUP with your Dog-Pack List

Lifejackets for everyone!
Leash
Collar with tags
Poop Bags
Sunscreen, Sunhat
Treats and Treat Pouch
Water Bottle and Water Dish
Grippy Mat for your dog
Dry bags
Sunglasses retainers
Floats
Water shoes
Backseat Cover and Towels

Don’t forget to check water quality conditions before you go.

Unveiling Unforgettable Moments: HSU’s Exclusive Members-Only Reception

Posted on June 23, 2023July 6, 2023 by Guinn

The Humane Society Of Utah hosted our first-ever Members-only reception, welcoming an inaugural group of members to this new annual event. Our members gathered in the auditorium to meet with HSU Directors, enjoy a spread of donated local hors d’oeuvres and drinks, and learn more about the programs supported by their generous donations. Our staff saw instantly that we were surrounded by passionate supporters with various backgrounds and experiences but a shared love for animals.

The evening included a clinic tour hosted by our Medical Director, Dr. Timna Fischbein. Members looked inside the clinic, where over 140,000 vaccines and over 10,500 spay/neuter surgeries are administered annually, providing a low-cost option for pet guardians in the community. HSU Member Riley Alexander expressed the importance of these services, saying, “Animals are a vital part of many families, some with means and some without. But those without means do not love their animals any less. Having an organization that helps those with fewer means keep their beloved animals is a wonderful pursuit.”

HSU Members were also treated to a tour of the Education Department and even interacted with some of our favorite coworkers: the education animals! Attendees met Snoop Hoggy Hog the hedgehog, Sasha the rabbit, Milton and Nellie the Ferrets, and Matilda and Carolina the rats, to name a few. Our education program offers a look at some of the more unique animals that we see come through HSU. When asked what he learned during the reception, Member David Swift responded: “I learned that chinchillas bathe in volcanic dust. It was the cutest thing to see one roll and flip around in the dust.” Haley Kroepfl, the HSU Education Manager, shared her expertise about our education program and the importance of teaching our animal welfare values to the next generation. HSU Member David Swift puts it perfectly: “Education is the key to getting animals treated better.”

The member reception was an excellent opportunity to make in-person connections with the donors who do so much to support our programs and operations. Donors like you are vital to HSU; our funding comes almost exclusively from community grants, sponsorships, and individual donors. The excellent care and resources we can provide for animals in need would not be possible without the caring individuals who choose to support us.

Dive into Safety: Water Safety Tips for Your Canine Companion

Posted on June 12, 2023June 2, 2023 by Guinn

Water activities can be a great source of fun and exercise for dogs, but it’s important to prioritize their safety while enjoying these adventures. Recent incidents, like the unfortunate one reported in the news article “6 Dogs Die Following Visit to Wildlife Conservation Training Area in Salt Lake,” highlight the need for dog owners to be vigilant and well-informed about water safety precautions. In this blog post, we will discuss essential tips to ensure the safety of your canine companion during water-related activities.

Assess the Environment:

Before heading out to any water location, it’s crucial to research and assess the environment. Understand potential hazards, such as strong currents, toxic algae blooms, or wildlife, that may threaten your dog’s safety. Stay up-to-date with local news and check for any advisories or warnings regarding water conditions.

Supervision is Key:

Always supervise your dog closely when they are near or in the water. Accidents can happen quickly, so ensure you’re keeping a watchful eye on them at all times. Avoid distractions like talking on your phone, and be prepared to react swiftly in an emergency.

Teach Basic Water Skills:

Introduce your dog to water gradually and at a pace they are comfortable with. Teach them basic swimming skills, such as how to enter and exit the water safely and stay afloat. Believe it or not, not all dogs are natural-born swimmers, and certain breed types can’t keep their heads above water. Some dogs may benefit from wearing a properly fitted life jacket for added buoyancy and security, especially those like bulldogs or heavy bully breed types.

Choose Safe Water Sources:

Select bodies of water that are known to be safe for dogs. Look for designated dog-friendly beaches, swimming areas, or lakes where water quality is regularly tested. Avoid letting your dog swim in unknown or potentially contaminated waters to minimize the risk of waterborne illnesses.

Avoid Dangerous Substances:

Be mindful of potential toxins or harmful substances in the water. Keep your dog away from areas where pesticides, chemicals, or harmful algal blooms are present. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, seek immediate veterinary assistance. If traveling outside of your local area, research the closest veterinarian clinic before you go in case of an emergency.

Hydration and Breaks:

Just like humans, dogs can become dehydrated while playing in the water. Bring fresh water for your dog to drink and encourage regular breaks for rest and hydration. Avoid extended periods of intense activity to prevent exhaustion or heatstroke.

Golden Retriever plays in outdoor pool with pink ball in mouth.

Water activities can provide wonderful experiences for dogs and their owners, but safety should always be the top priority. By following these water safety tips and staying informed about potential risks, you can ensure that your furry friend stays safe and enjoys their time in and around water. Let’s make every adventure a memorable and secure one for our beloved canine companions. Looking for your next water dog? Visit utahhumane.org/adopt!

Purr-fect Companions: Celebrating Adopt A Cat Month!

Posted on June 5, 2023June 2, 2023 by Guinn

The Humane Society of Utah is thrilled to announce the arrival of June, officially designated Adopt a Cat Month, a time to celebrate the joys and rewards of feline companionship. HSU encourages potential pet parents to consider adopting a cat or kitten from their shelter and experience the numerous benefits of feline adoption.

During Adopt a Cat Month

HSU emphasizes the following advantages of adopting a cat or kitten from their shelter:

Lifelong Companionship: Cats provide loyal companionship and unconditional love. Whether curling up on your lap or greeting you with a purr after a long day, cats are known for their unique ability to bring joy and comfort to their owners.
Health and Happiness: Numerous studies have shown that interacting with cats can have a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. Cats are excellent stress relievers, helping to reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure.
Save a Life: By adopting a cat from HSU, you become a hero by giving an animal a second chance at life. Each adoption opens up space in the shelter, allowing HSU to rescue and care for more animals in need.
Expert Guidance and Support: The Humane Society of Utah provides valuable resources and assistance to adopters, ensuring a smooth transition for both the cat and their new family. From behavioral tips to medical guidance, HSU is committed to supporting the bond between pets and their owners.
Pre-Adoption Care: All cats and kittens available for adoption at HSU receive thorough medical examinations, necessary vaccinations, microchipping, teeth cleanings if needed, and are spayed or neutered before joining their new families.

“We are excited to celebrate Adopt a Cat Month and raise awareness about the countless benefits of feline adoption,” said Juli Ulvtad, Pet Resource Center Director of the Humane Society of Utah. “Our dedicated adoptions team works tirelessly to match cats and kittens with loving homes and ensure their lifelong happiness.”

To learn more about the adoption process and view the available cats and kittens, visit www.utahhumane.org. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #AdoptACatMonth and help spread the word about the importance of feline adoption.

Shelter Mythbusters: Unpacking the Myth of Hypoallergenic Pets

Posted on May 31, 2023June 1, 2023 by Guinn

Allergies are frustrating for many reasons, but for pet owners, they can be incredibly daunting. Enter the idea of a hypoallergenic pet, and animal lovers rejoice! But do hypoallergenic pets truly exist? According to organizations such as the AKC, VCA Animal Hospitals, and The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, the short answer is no.

What are Pet Allergies?

To understand why this is the case, we need to look deeper into what it is about pets we are actually allergic to. The idea of a hypoallergenic dog or cat suggests that dander and pet fur are the primary sources of pet allergies. While dander can potentially spike allergies, saliva, and even urine are often the real culprits. As there are no terrestrial mammals that don’t salivate or urinate, finding a truly hypoallergenic pet can be a challenge.

Blue cat with green eyes sits on a blue blanket looking at camera.

Further complicating matters, allergies vary from person to person and from pet to pet, so it can be hard to pinpoint a dog or cat that will be hypoallergenic in an all-encompassing sense. In addition, Genetics is a fickle science, and you can never know for sure what traits are going to pass to the offspring of any given pet. So, for example, even if a Goldendoodle you met in the past did not trigger allergies for you, that doesn’t mean all Goldendoodles will carry the exact same traits, and you could be allergic to one and not another.

Finding the Right Pet for Your Allergies

But animal lovers with pet allergies don’t despair! Just because hypoallergenic pets aren’t what common belief often suggests doesn’t mean there aren’t pets that affect certain people’s allergies less than others. People who are allergic to cats may not be allergic to bunnies. Again, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula, so our best recommendation is to spend time with the pet you are considering bringing into your home affects you before sealing the deal with adoption. You can also work with your doctor or an allergist to see if there are alternative methods of controlling your pet allergies.

We’d consider the shelter myth of hypoallergenic pets officially busted!

An Unexpected Friendship: Phoebe’s Story

Posted on May 19, 2023May 24, 2023 by Guinn

When Ashley visited Kitty City back in October of 2020, she had never had a cat before and described her expectations for what she might find as being low. She had some doubts about how affectionate and full of personality felines could be. But never did she imagine that she would find Phoebe— a 5-year-old kitty with the most enchanting blue eyes and sweetest demeanor.

Ashley decided to take a chance on Phoebe and brought her home. When they arrived, Ashley’s partner told her to “take a good look at [Phoebe] because she was going to be her best friend for the next 10-15 years.” Ashley said she wasn’t so sure he was right at the time, but she never should have doubted him.

Now Ashley can’t imagine her life without Phoebe. After about a month of living together, Phoebe began to open up and show off her personality and quirks, and the pair became absolutely inseparable. Phoebe now spends her days greeting Ashley the minute she gets home and cuddling on her lap while she reads. She also loves playing fetch, watching cat TV, and pondering on art pieces (and the wall), Ashley says.

At the end of the day, this is what Ashley has to say about Phoebe: “I couldn’t have made a better match if I tried. I love her more than words can describe, and couldn’t be happier that the humane society made it possible for us to find each other.”

You found stray kittens? Now what?

Posted on May 10, 2023May 10, 2023 by Guinn

Ahhh, kitten season. It’s that magical time of year when the weather gets warmer, and suddenly, an influx of kittens are born into the world. As kitten season picks up speed, so do phone calls to local animal shelters from concerned citizens wondering what they should do with stray kittens they have found.

What to do if you find warm, clean, stray kittens:

Our answer may surprise you, but most of the time, the answer is to leave stray kittens where you find them. We know this advice can be difficult to heed after so many years of hearing that you should bring stray kittens to the shelter. Still, data from organizations such as Ally Cat Allies and the ASPCA shows that kittens have a much better chance of survival if left where their mother cat can care for them. Even kittens that appear to be unattended likely have a mother cat looking out for them who will be distressed should they go missing.

Tiny gray and white kitten is held in a human hand.

Here’s a trick to make sure that mom is coming back to look after her litter: take some flour and spread a circle around the kittens, then leave. If a few hours later, there are paw prints in the flour. You can rest assured that a mother cat is keeping an eye on her kittens.

What to do if you find cold, malnourished, or sickly stray kittens:

There are a few cases in which leaving stray kittens where they are may not be the best course of action. If the kittens appear malnourished, sickly, and/or overly dirty, and you have not seen a mother cat return within a few hours of finding the kittens, there are a couple of things you can do.

Tiny white and tabby stray kitten gets bottle fed milk by shelter staff.

Foster: If you feel equipped to care for and bottle-feed the kittens until they are old enough to be spayed or neutered, fostering the kittens may be a good option. Contact our Foster Department for information and resources.
Contact Your Local Animal Services: Your local animal services will be able to help you determine the next best steps for the kittens. They may have you bring them to their shelter, or they may come and pick them up.

What about Trap Neuter Return?

Another way you can help your local community cats and reduce the number of homeless cats in your area is to see if your local shelter or rescue has a TNR (trap-neuter-return) program. These programs involve humanely trapping stray cats, bringing them into a shelter to be spayed or neutered, and returning them to the area in which they were found. Kittens can participate in TNR programs as young as 8 weeks of age so long as they weigh at least 2 lbs.

Outdoor mom cat sits on rock surrounded by her litter of kittens.

Our TNR program is called CATNIP. For more information on CATNIP, humane trap rental, and more, visit the TNR Page on our website.

Subaru Presents Bark at the Moon

Posted on May 3, 2023May 3, 2023 by Guinn

Join us on Saturday, May 20th, from 5–9 pm for Bark at the Moon, a dog-friendly event to raise funds to support the lifesaving programs at HSU. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for kids and include admission to the festival. Dogs must be six months of age or older, up to date on vaccinations, and socialized with other dogs and people.

Tan dogs visits Subaru Booth at Bark at the Moon event.

Silver lab jumps in water fountain at Bark at the Moon event.

“This is a fun community event to raise money for our homeless companion animals,” said Kaya Nielsen, HSU event manager. “We’re excited to return to The Gateway this year and grateful to the participating businesses for their support that allows us to bring people and pets together.”

Bark at the Moon will feature over 30 local vendors, food trucks, craft beer, live music, a splash zone for the dogs, a doggy food truck, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, and more. At 9 pm, pets and people can participate in a glow walk around The Gateway.

As a local private nonprofit, the Humane Society of Utah relies solely on donations and small fees for some services; we do not receive state or federal funding and are not a branch of any national organization. However, we are grateful for our sponsors like Subaru and community supporters like you! To purchase your tickets to Bark at the Moon, click here.

Category: Humane Tales

A Senior Pet Full of Surprises: Mr Patches’s Story