Category: Press Releases

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Animal Shelters Across Utah are Full: Humane Society of Utah Offers Half-Off Adoption Fees to Encourage Adoptions. 

Posted on by Guinn

Contact: Guinn Shuster
Email: [email protected]                              

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 15, 2022

Murray — Utah, June 15, 2022 — Humane Society of Utah (HSU) offers half off all adoption fees through June 30, during the Summer of Love adoption special. Each pet for adoption has been spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and medically and behaviorally assessed.

“Shelters across the state are at or over capacity.”, said HSU Associate Director of Marketing and Communications Guinnevere Shuster. “Adoptions are slowing down, and animals are waiting longer than usual to get adopted. By making adoption affordable for everyone we hope to move homeless pets into loving homes.”

There are additional benefits of adopting from the Humane Society of Utah:

  • HSU offers training advice from certified dog trainers and educational information to support pet families for the animal’s life span
  • 10% off preventative veterinary care services at our Murray location clinic for the pet’s life
  • Speak or email with an expert about any behavior or training concerns
  • By opening your heart and home to a new pet, you will help create space in the shelter for other homeless companion animals in need

Adoptable pets come with a free wellness exam from one of our Participating Veterinary Clinics within 30 days of adoption

HSU works with numerous local and rural animal shelters throughout the state of Utah to transfer in at-risk animals. Year-to-date, HSU has transferred in 290 cats and dogs from Utah animal shelters to provide relief from overcrowding and help these homeless pets find homes.

“Many of our shelter partners here in Utah have reached out to the transfer department pleading for assistance with overcrowding,” said HSU Transfer Department Supervisor Spenser Betenson. “For example, in the first six days of June, Uintah County Animal Shelter brought in 54 animals, which is a massive number for a small rural shelter.”

By hosting this adoption special, the Humane Society of Utah hopes to encourage adoptions and make room for the increasing number of homeless pets.

Humane Society of Utah Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips For Pets

Posted on by Guinn

Contact: Guinn Shuster                        
Email: [email protected]   

News Release
Humane Society of Utah Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips For Pets

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 27, 2022

News Release
Humane Society of Utah Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips For Pets

Murray – UT, May 20, 2022 – As the temperatures rise, it is important that pets and pet owners alike take precautions to stay safe and healthy in the summer heat. While many animals spend quite a bit of their time outdoors, some extra precautions are necessary this time of year to prevent heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and other hot-weather ailments.

The Humane Society suggests the following hot weather tips this summer season:

  • Keep pets indoors more often during extreme heat, do not leave them outside all day
  • Make sure pets have a cool place to retreat to in the yard, such as a shady spot. Keep in mind that some outdoor dog houses can be hotter than the outdoor temps
  • Cool and fresh water should be available to pets at all times, both indoors and outdoors
  • If the asphalt is too hot for your hands and feet, it is too hot for your pets. Place your hand on the sidewalk for 10 seconds to test the temperature
  • Check pets for ticks, foxtails, and grass seeds following outdoor activity
  • Ensure that your yard is free of plants that are toxic to dogs and cats such as lilies, sago palms, and rhododendrons, and be careful with the use of insecticides and weed killers, which may be poisonous for your pets
  • If your pet wants to share your plate at a summer BBQ, know what foods are not pet-safe, such as onions, avocados, olives, garlic, grapes, cooked bones, and alcohol
  • Do not leave pets unattended near water– not all pets can swim! Limit the amount of pool water your pets drink, chlorine and other chemicals can be dangerous, and rinse your pets off after taking a swim in chlorinated or salty water.
  • If you have a brachycephalic (short-nosed, flat-faced) breed such as a pug, persian cat, or any type of bulldog, know that their short noses cause them to overheat quicker than other animals. Overweight and older pets are also at higher risk for heatstroke, so keep these furry friends in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible
  • Do not leave pets unattended in vehicles! Doing so is a major risk for heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and heat-related death.

5th Annual Bark at the Moon Dog-Friendly Event Returns to The Gateway

Posted on by Guinn

Contact: Guinn Shuster

Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: May 20, 2022

Media Alert 

5th annual Bark at the Moon dog-friendly event returns to The Gateway on May 21, 2022 

Salt Lake City — Utah, May 21, 2022 Join us this Saturday from 4-8 p.m. for a family fun event that will raise funds to support the lifesaving programs at the Humane Society of Utah (HSU). The fundraiser is Presented by Mountain West Veterinary Specialist and supported by Fuzzy, Subaru USA, and The Arrow. Ticket prices begin at $20 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. 

“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.”

The fundraising event will feature over 35 local vendors, food trucks, craft beer, live music, a splash zone for the dogs, a food truck for the dogs, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, and more. 

“We are excited to be a part of Bark at the Moon and support the Humane Society of Utah with all the wonderful work they do for homeless pets in Utah,” said Kirsten Gull, Mountain West Veterinary Specialists spokesperson. “We are so glad to be part of this great community and love to be able to give back and support our local shelters, rescues, nonprofit organizations, and educational programs.

At 8 p.m., pets and people can participate in a group stroll around The Gateway.

$5,000 reward offered for Utah puppy thrown from a car window

Posted on by Guinn

Contact: Guinn Shuster                         
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 17, 2022

News Release
$5,000 reward offered for Utah puppy thrown from a car window

Murray – Utah, May 17, 2022 — Humane Society of Utah offers a $5,000 reward for information leading to arrest and conviction in Malin’s case. According to Kevin Hansen of the South Salt Lake Animal Services, a bystander saw a 2-month-old puppy thrown from a moving car at 3300 S 300 W on Friday, May 13, 2022. South Salt Lake Animal Services named the critically injured puppy “Malin,” who is now receiving medical attention for two broken legs, two fractured ribs, and a punctured lung.

The Humane Society of Utah’s advocacy director, Rachel Heatley, praised South Salt Lake Animal Services’ response. “South Salt Lake Animal Services handled Malin’s injuries with urgency and deep compassion, ensuring Malin received the treatment she needed,” she said. “We only hope this reward will help bring the perpetrators of this cruelty to justice.”   

Malin is currently in the care of South Salt Lake Animal Services and will be brought into a foster home to help her heal this evening. The Humane Society of Utah is grateful for the tireless efforts of animal control officers in helping animals like Malin and caring for animals in our community. 

The Humane Society of Utah urges anyone with information regarding who injured Malin to contact the South Salt Lake Animal Service’s Office dispatch at 801-840-4000. Any tipster can choose to remain anonymous.

Protection of Animals Amendments passed in Utah Legislature

Posted on by Shae

Contact: Rachel Heatley
Cell: (385) 202-5782
Email: [email protected]

Contact: Kristina Pulsipher
Cell: 801-898-0925
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 17, 2022


News Release

Utah Legislature Passes H.B. 175, the Protection of Animals Amendments, Making It Possible for Domestic Violence Victims To Include Pets in Domestic Violence Protective Orders


On February 17, 2022, with a 69-2 vote in the House and a unanimous “yea” in the Senate, the Utah State Legislature passed H.B. 175, a bill that enables victims of domestic violence to include their pets in domestic violence protective orders. The Humane Society of Utah, Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering, and Utah State Representative Angela Romero, the bill’s sponsor, combined efforts to emphasize the importance of this legislation.

“We are thrilled the Utah Legislature understood the gravity of passing this bill, and what it means to pet families across our state,” said Kristina Pulsipher of Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering. “Survivors of domestic violence now have a path to leave their abuser, ensure their pets are protected, and take comfort in knowing there are now options in place to secure their safety. This statute will literally save lives.”

Nearly 50% of domestic violence victims have delayed leaving their abusers out of fear of harm to their pets. Abusers often use violence or threats of violence against a victim’s pet as a psychological tool to manipulate and further control the victim.

“With the passage of H.B. 175, Utah is now the 37th state to offer these life-changing and life-saving protections,” notes Rachel Heatley, Director of Advocacy and Investigations for the Humane Society of Utah. “Our state just took a giant step forward in protecting domestic violence survivors and their pets.”

Suggested Tweet: With the passage of H.B. 175, Utah is now the 37th state to offer these life-changing and life-saving protections for domestic violence survivors and their pets. (insert your link)

Domestic Violence Survivors with Their Pets

Humane Society of Utah Offers Holiday Safety Tips For Pets 

Posted on by Shae

News Release

Humane Society of Utah Offers Holiday Safety Tips For Pets 

Murray – UT, Dec. 20, 2021 – “The holiday season is a joyous time when everyone decorates, cooks, and comes together to celebrate with loved ones, including their furry family members.” Says Guinnevere Shuster, associate director of marketing and communications at Humane Society of Utah. “ With the holiday hustle and bustle, it is easy to forget about the potential dangers of holiday festivities for pets.” The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) offers these tips to keep your pets healthy and safe this holiday season.

Holiday safety tips for pets:

  1. The following foods can cause anything from vomiting and diarrhea to liver failure. Ask guests not to share food with your pets during holiday parties. Your family and friends may mean well, but this is an excellent opportunity to share healthy pet tips like these.
  • Cooked bird bones, skin, turkey fat, ham, and gravy.
  • Stuffing and other dishes with onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins.
  • Desserts. Especially those containing chocolate or xylitol.
  1. Avoid these winter plants, which are poisonous to cats and dogs: Poinsettias, Holly and Mistletoe, Lilies and Daffodils, and Amaryllis.
  2. Christmas trees may pose a danger to pets if they knock them over or ingest tinsel or ornaments, which may resemble their regular toys in shapes and colors. We suggest placing baby gates in doorways to keep pets away from the tree if they are overly interested in your tree.
  3. Keep all food and trash out of reach. This can be one of the hardest things to remember on a busy holiday. Those table scraps may be too tempting to your pet. If you do not have a locking lid on your trash can, try placing it in the pantry or taking your trash out before enjoying dinner.
  4. If you add a new kitten or puppy to your family, keep them safe by getting them vaccinated.
  5. Keep fresh water available to drink. Dogs typically pant more when they feel stressed, so they may require more water on a busy holiday.
  6. Provide access to a quiet place to retreat from the crowds. This gives your pets the option to venture out to visit if they feel like it and will help them be more at ease if they need space.
  7. Provide them with some pet-friendly fun!
  • Give them a treat dispenser, such as a treat stuffed Kong for dogs or a long-lasting chew.
  • Surprise them with a new toy! 
  • Consider playing some tunes or leaving TV or cat-friendly Youtube videos in a separate room for them.

Photos for media use can be downloaded here.

Suggested Tweet: Tips from @utahhumane to keep your pets safe this #Holiday season. (insert your link) 

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About the Humane Society of Utah

The Humane Society of Utah is dedicated to the elimination of pain, fear, and suffering in all animals. Since 1960, the Utah Humane Society has been sheltering homeless animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and creating an atmosphere of respect, responsibility, and compassion for all animals. As the largest open-admission private animal resource center in the state, the Utah Humane Society welcomes any companion animal that can legally be admitted. We work hard to ensure that every healthy and treatable pet that enters the facility will be placed into a loving home. The Humane Society of Utah is a local, independent 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization that does not receive any state or government funding and is not a branch of any national organization. It is funded by the contributions of individuals, businesses, and foundations. Read more online at www.utahhumane.org.

4242 South 300 West Murray, UT 84107 / 801-261-2919 / UtahHumane.org / @utahhumane 

Rise in Canine Distemper Cases

Posted on by Shae

Contact: Guinn Shuster
Cell: 801-638-4685
Email: [email protected]

Contact: Callista Pearson
Cell: 801-910-9079
Email: [email protected]


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12/1/2021
Press Release
The Humane Society of Utah and Salt Lake County Animal Services see a rise in canine distemper cases

Murray – Utah, 12/1/2021 – The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) and Salt Lake County Animal Services is notifying the public of a critical animal health situation along the Wasatch Front after seeing an increased number of dogs test positive with the canine distemper virus.
“Common signs of distemper in dogs include discharge from the eyes or nose, fever, coughing, lethargy, disorientation, tremors, and seizures.” Says Dr. Timna Fischbein, medical director at the HSU. “There is no treatment for distemper, so preventing the disease by getting your dogs vaccinated is crucial.”
Distemper is a highly contagious virus that can infect dogs and wildlife. However, puppies and unvaccinated dogs are at the highest risk for infection with distemper. Dogs can become infected from direct contact with a sick animal or being near an infected animal when coughing or sneezing. The virus can also be transmitted through shared food and water bowls or other objects that an infected animal contaminated.
“Many people add new puppies to their families during the holidays.” Says Guinnevere Shuster, associate director of marketing and communications at HSU. “We want to remind people to be cautious and keep their new furry family members safe by getting them vaccinated.”

HSU and Salt Lake County Animal Services shares the following advice for pet owners:

  • Vaccinate dogs: Puppies should receive a series of 3 or more distemper vaccines between 2 and 4 months. The vaccine should be boostered a year later, then every three years for life.
  • Protect your puppy: Keep puppies at home and away from unfamiliar dogs until they have completed the vaccination series. Use caution when socializing dogs or in high-traffic dog areas such as dog parks, dog daycare, and boarding facilities.
  • Keep dogs away from wildlife: Never allow companion dogs to have contact with wildlife.
Person wearing PPE holding a puppy

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About the Humane Society of Utah

The Humane Society of Utah is dedicated to the elimination of pain, fear, and suffering in all animals. Since 1960, the Utah Humane Society has been sheltering homeless animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and creating an atmosphere of respect, responsibility, and compassion for all animals. As the largest open-admission private animal resource center in the state, the Utah Humane Society welcomes any companion animal that can legally be admitted. We work hard to ensure that every healthy and treatable pet that enters the facility will be placed into a loving home. The Humane Society of Utah is a local, independent 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization that does not receive any state or government funding and is not a branch of any national organization. It is funded by the contributions of individuals, businesses, and foundations. Read more online at www.utahhumane.org.

4242 South 300 West Murray, UT 84107 / 801-261-2919 / UtahHumane.org / @utahhumane 

Oversight of Pet Care Facilities

Posted on by Shae

The Humane Society of Utah Welcomes State Executives to Their Campus to Discuss Utah’s Problematic Lack of Oversight of Pet Care Facilities

Contact: Rachel Heatley
Cell: (385) 202-5782
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Oct. 13, 2021

News Release

The Humane Society of Utah Welcomes State Executives to Their Campus to Discuss Utah’s Problematic Lack of Oversight of Pet Care Facilities

On October 7, 2021, Humane Society of Utah leadership met with Utah state executives from the Governor’s Office and the Department of Agriculture to discuss the risks associated with a lack of state oversight of pet care facilities, such as shelters, rescues, board-and-train facilities, and more. 

This lack of oversight results in no standardization of facilities or training for the employees running the facilities. This may lead to potentially dangerous situations for both the animals and the employees. In an effort to keep both animals and pet care facility employees safe, the Humane Society of Utah is calling for the enactment of a licensing and inspection program in order to standardize pet care facilities in Utah. 

Several other states, including Georgia, Missouri, Colorado, and Michigan, have already enacted effective licensing programs. “A licensing and inspection program is key to increasing worker safety,” said Rachel Heatley, Utah Humane Society’s Advocacy and Investigations Director, “This program would help ensure that pet care facilities are safe and healthy for pets and the people that care for them.”

In an effort to emphasize the importance of and need for a licensing and inspection program for pet care facilities in Utah, the Humane Society of Utah invited state executives to its campus to discuss the problems and the proposed solution as well as ask for their assistance in launching a successful program. 

“We greatly appreciate the Governor’s Office and the Department of Agriculture for taking the time to hear our concerns and brainstorm possible solutions,” said Vaughn Maurice, Utah Humane Society’s Executive Director, “We feel confident that we can continue to work together to improve pet care facilities here in Utah.”

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About the Humane Society of Utah

The Humane Society of Utah is dedicated to the elimination of pain, fear, and suffering in all animals. Since 1960, the Utah Humane Society has been sheltering homeless animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and creating an atmosphere of respect, responsibility, and compassion for all animals. As the largest open-admission private animal resource center in the state, the Utah Humane Society welcomes any companion animal that can legally be admitted. We work hard to ensure that every healthy and treatable pet that enters the facility will be placed into a loving home. The Humane Society of Utah is a local, independent 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization that does not receive any state or government funding and is not a branch of any national organization. It is funded by the contributions of individuals, businesses, and foundations. Read more online at www.utahhumane.org.

4242 South 300 West Murray, UT 84107 / 801-261-2919 / UtahHumane.org / @utahhumane 

Increase in Canine Parvovirus in Utah County

Posted on by Shae

Contact: Guinnevere Shuster
Cell: 801-638-4685
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sept. 22, 2021

News Release

Humane Society of Utah is seeing an alarming increase in community members asking for assistance with the Canine Parvovirus in Utah County.

person wearing PPE and holding a puppy

Multiple community members seeking assistance for a total of 32 dogs and puppies sick with the Canine Parvovirus (parvo) have contacted the Humane Society of Utah in the last four days. Parvo is highly contagious, and without proper disinfection, the virus can survive in the environment for months and even years under the right conditions.

Dogs and puppies can start showing signs of the disease between three to ten days after exposure, but they are often contagious before symptoms arise. If you suspect your pet has parvo, immediately isolate your pet and contact your primary care veterinarian.

“Parvo is a very scary virus that can cause deadly vomiting and diarrhea. The good news is that vaccinating your dog provides excellent protection against Canine Parvovirus infection. Make sure to work with a veterinarian to get your dog vaccinated properly,” says Timna Fischbein DVM, Humane Society of Utah medical director. “If you have a puppy, remember that they will need multiple boosters for full protection. Beware of do-it-yourself vaccines such as those from farm supply stores, as they are often not refrigerated properly and may not be effective.”

You should not allow puppies to come into contact with unvaccinated dogs until they have received all of their vaccines. Puppies should receive their first parvo vaccination between 6-8 weeks, DHPP at 10-12 weeks, and DHPP again at 16-18 weeks. To protect adult dogs, dog guardians should keep their dog’s vaccination up-to-date. For adult dogs, this means one vaccine and a booster if their vaccine history is unknown.

While parvo typically is more deadly with puppies, unvaccinated dogs of any age are susceptible. Two of the dogs from this past weekend were improperly vaccinated adults, and one passed away due to the virus.

“As tempting as it may be for new puppy owners, we advise against taking them to parks, pet stores, or any areas highly trafficked by dogs until their puppy is fully vaccinated,” says Guinnevere Shuster, associate director of marketing and communications at the Humane Society of Utah. “You can safely socialize your new puppy with fully vaccinated dogs in a clean environment like your home.”

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About the Humane Society of Utah

The Humane Society of Utah is dedicated to the elimination of pain, fear, and suffering in all animals. Since 1960, the Utah Humane Society has been sheltering homeless animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and creating an atmosphere of respect, responsibility, and compassion for all animals. As the largest open-admission private animal resource center in the state, the Utah Humane Society welcomes any companion animal that can legally be admitted. We work hard to ensure that every healthy and treatable pet that enters the facility will be placed into a loving home. The Humane Society of Utah is a local, independent 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization that does not receive any state or government funding and is not a branch of any national organization. It is funded by the contributions of individuals, businesses, and foundations. Read more online at www.utahhumane.org.

4242 South 300 West Murray, UT 84107 / 801-261-2919 / UtahHumane.org / @utahhumane