Tag: adoption

Puppy Survival Guide – Part 1: The Importance of Sleep

Posted on by Guinn
Tan puppy sleeps on white blanket.

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting experience but comes with its fair share of challenges. Proper sleep is one of the most vital aspects of ensuring your puppy’s well-being and development. In this first part of our Puppy Survival Guide series, we’ll dive into why sleep is essential and how you can create a comfortable sleep environment for your new puppy.

The Sleep Needs of a Puppy

Like human babies, puppies require a significant amount of sleep to grow, learn, and stay healthy. Sleep is a vital part of their physical and cognitive development. While the exact amount of sleep varies depending on your pup’s breed, size, and age, the general recommendations are:

  • 8-week-old puppies sleep anywhere from 18 to 20 hours a day.
  • 12-16 week old puppies require 12-16 hours of sleep daily.
  • 6-month-old puppies start to sleep about the same amount as adult dogs, 10-14 hours a day. However, their brains are still growing. When you have house guests or return from an outing with your puppy, they may need a longer nap to recover.

During sleep, your puppy’s body undergoes crucial processes such as tissue repair, growth, and memory consolidation. It’s not just about getting shut-eye— it’s about giving your puppy’s body the time it needs to thrive. Puppies are like sponges, soaking up new experiences and learning from their environment. However,  many people misjudge the amount of sleep their puppy needs, making it harder for themselves and their new puppy.

Benefits of a well-rested puppy

  • Sleep helps consolidate new memories and experiences, improving cognitive development. 
  • Like humans, dogs can experience mood swings and irritability when tired. Ensuring your pup gets enough sleep can help maintain a balanced and happy disposition. 
  • A well-rested puppy is more receptive to training. When your pup is alert and focused, teaching them basic cues, house training, and proper behavior is easier.

Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment For Your Puppy

Creating a comfortable and safe sleep environment is essential to provide your puppy with the best sleep possible. Here are some tips to consider:

  • Designate a quiet area. Choose a peaceful spot in your home where your puppy can sleep without disruptions. This will help them relax and sleep soundly.
  • Choose the right bed. Invest in a comfortable and appropriate-sized bed for your pup. Whether it’s a plush bed, a crate with soft bedding, or a cozy corner, ensure your puppy has a designated sleeping space.
  • Temperature control. Puppies are sensitive to temperature changes. Make sure the sleeping area is warm enough. However, some puppies may prefer a cool floor over a warm bed, depending on their breed type.
  • Establish a routine. Puppies thrive on routines. Establish a consistent bedtime routine with a short walk, playtime, and quiet moments to help your puppy transition into sleep mode.
  • Limit distractions. Keep the sleeping area free from loud noises, bright lights, and other distractions that might prevent your pup from sleeping well.
  • Be patient. Like any new routine, your puppy might need time to adjust to their sleep schedule. Be patient and understanding as they adapt to their new environment.

Stay tuned for the next installment of our Puppy Survival Guide series, where we’ll explore the art of management. And don’t forget, a well-rested puppy is a happy puppy!

Big Love, Big Hearts: Six Reasons to Adopt a Big Dog

Posted on by Guinn
big tan dog Billie Bean poses in studio against white backdrop.

Welcoming a furry friend into your home is a decision that comes with both joy and responsibility. While some may be drawn to small, adorable pups, cuddly cats, or other tiny creatures, there’s something truly special about adopting a big dog from the Humane Society of Utah. These gentle giants have the capacity for love and loyalty that can enrich your life in ways you might never have imagined. If you’re considering adopting a canine companion, here are six compelling reasons why you should consider bringing a big dog into your heart and home.

Oscar the Husky poses against the barbie pink backdrop.
Adoptable dog Oscar.
Bella the Husky poses in the studio wearing a pink pearl collar against a barbie pink backdrop.
Adoptable dog Bella.
  1. A Lifetime of Companionship: When you adopt a big dog, you’re embarking on a journey of friendship that’s likely to span a decade or more. Their larger size means there is more to love! 
  2. Boundless Love and Affection: Big dogs are known for their enormous hearts and affectionate nature. Some thrive on physical contact, from gentle headrests to cozy cuddles on the couch. Your big dog will gladly become your constant companion, showering you with love and affection that will brighten even the darkest days.
  3. Ultimate Adventure Partners: A big dog could be your ultimate adventure buddy if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. Their size and strength make them perfect companions for hiking, jogging, and exploring the great outdoors. A big dog’s enthusiasm for new experiences can encourage you to lead a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Nessie the tan dog poses against a white backdrop wearing pastel beaded collar.
Adoptable dog Nessie.
Big black dog Hunter poses in the studio against a white backdrop.
Adoptable dog Bear.
Bid dog Hunter the silver lab poses in the studio against a white backdrop.
Adoptable dog Hunter.
  1. Large Breed Dogs Need Homes More Than Ever: 2023 has been a challenging year for large breed dogs in animal shelters nationwide. They are being surrendered more than any other animal at HSU, and other shelters are also witnessing that trend. More large breed dogs are also showing up as strays and waiting longer to get adopted than in years past.
  2. Emotional Support and Stress Relief: Research has shown that spending time with dogs can positively impact mental health. With their often gentle demeanor and inherent ability to provide comfort, big dogs can be excellent sources of emotional support. Their presence alone can help reduce stress and anxiety, making them invaluable allies in your pursuit of overall well-being!
  3. Making a Difference in a Big Dog’s Life: By adopting a big dog from the Humane Society of Utah, you’re not only changing their life but also your own. Big dogs are often overlooked in shelters, and giving one a loving home means you’re opening up space for more animals in need. Your decision to adopt a big dog is a compassionate choice that will make a big difference for one special dog.

As you consider bringing a new furry friend into your life, remember that big dogs have big hearts and even bigger capacities for enriching your life in ways you may have never imagined. So, take that step, open your heart, and experience the joy of adopting a big dog – a decision you’ll cherish for years to come. Visit UtahHumame.org/Adopt to view our big dogs currently available for adoption.

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

Posted on 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!”

Purr-fect Companions: Celebrating Adopt A Cat Month!

Posted on by Guinn
White kitten lays on table looking over shoulder at camera for adopt a cat month.

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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 by Guinn
Red doodle dog looks up at camera with open smiling mouth.

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!

Adventure is Out There: Rainey’s Story

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Adventure Dog Rainey sits atop a rocky mountain peak with snow capped mountains in the background.

If you’ve ever wondered about the definition of “adventure dog,” Rainey’s picture is right next to it in the dictionary… or at least it would be if “adventure dog” were in the dictionary. However, that isn’t how Rainey’s story began… first, she was just a dog in a shelter, waiting to find her family.

From shelter dog to adventure dog

Rainey was adopted from the Humane Society of Utah in 2014 by her human, Tiffany. Little did either of them know then that for the next 9+ years, they would be best friends, travel companions, one another’s support system, and more.

“Rainey has been at my side through career changes, moving states, and everything life has thrown at us… She loves to travel, adores the sunshine, and loves adventures and camping. She tolerates her little sister and her bird siblings and is gentle and kind with everyone she meets,” Tiffany said.

Rainey a grey and white dog with a bog blocky head looks up at camera.
Rainey a gray and white bully breed stands on a sandy red trail wagging her tail.
Adventure Dog Rainey sits on a bed wrapped in a blanket next to a jeep and camp chair.

Rainey’s interests besides adventure include popcorn and cheese (but really any snacks), meeting people wherever she goes, and being an absolute champion at always having a smile on her face.

Reflecting on her time with Rainey, Tiffany said, “She’s been my very best friend. There are no words to fully describe how amazing of a companion she’s been for almost a decade now.”

Do you have a heartwarming adoption update you want to share? Then, please post your story on our Facebook Adopted Pets group! We love getting adoption updates and adoption success stories.

Fearful Dog Gets a Second Chance

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Maverick a fearful former outdoor dog lays on a wooden deck at his new home.

Maverick, a teenage puppy, came to HSU’s Pet Resource Center in Murray five days before Christmas.  His guardian said he could no longer care for him due to having a newborn. He described the 8-month-old pup as “smart and kind” and “very fond of his soccer ball.” He also shared that Maverick had a history of being nervous around all people, both familiar and strange, and he’d almost exclusively lived outside. Maverick was a fearful dog who needed a little help from our team of certified dog trainers.

Extra attention from our Behavior Team

While in our care, Maverick’s nerves reached new heights.  He was uneasy with his surroundings and terrified to cross the middle divider in his kennel, separating his food area from his potty area.  Erika Newman, HSU’s Behavioral Coordinator, shared, “When Maverick first came to us, he avoided contact with me at all costs.  When I slowly introduced myself to him, he offered up low tail wags, which for a dog, translates to, ‘I want to interact, but I’m very uncomfortable right now.’ When I finally approached him, he melted into my lap and began licking my face.  It was clear he wanted affection and closeness but was unsure how to go about it.” 

During meet and greets with potential adopters, Maverick continued with his low tail wags and would even roll over to show his belly or pee when approached.  Erika pointed out that these are submissive behaviors and indicate that a dog feels frightened or threatened and lacks confidence. “The goal of our department is to help all the pets in our care to build confidence through positive reinforcement techniques.  Since behavioral issues may lead a guardian to rehome their pet, positive reinforcement training is a critical service we provide for pets and adopters.” 

Fearful dog Maverick plays fetch with a tennis ball.

A foster home for the holidays

Luckily for Maverick, the Humane Society of Utah was hosting its annual Home for the Holidays program, which places pets into foster homes, so they don’t have to spend Christmas in a kennel alone.  This meant Maverick could have more one-on-one time in the comfort of someone’s home without a scary kennel divider in his way.  Annette Perkins took on the role of Maverick’s foster mom.  With Erika’s guidance, Annette worked to help Maverick feel more at ease by going slow with her interactions with him.  And she taught him alternative ways to connect with humans through positive reinforcement.

Over two weeks, Maverick’s nerves began to subside, and he started interacting more easily with other dogs and humans at Annette’s local dog park.  Slowly but surely, Maverick was transforming from a low-wagging tail pup to one who was more adventurous and easygoing.  With his newfound confidence, Maverick was ready to return to our Pet Resource Center and find an adopter.  He didn’t have to wait long;  he found a home with a woman named Beatrice and her daughter the next day. 

From fearful to confident

Recently, Beatrice shared with our team that Maverick is thriving in his new home, where he has a doggy door and can come and go as he pleases.  Outside, he enjoys chasing balls and playing in the snow, but his favorite place is right beside Beatrice, especially when it involves cuddling up next to her at night.  Beatrice wrote in her email, “I took Maverick to a dog park this week, and he had a blast running around with all the doggies!   I am just so impressed with how well-behaved he is.  He is settling in great, and I already love him so much!” We were so happy to see this fearful dog blossom into a happy and healthy companion.

Maverick cuddles with his new owner on the couch.

A Long Road To Recovery

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Lady the brindle dog sleeping on a dog bed in her foster home.

Lady, a five-year-old bully mix, was surrendered to our Pet Resource Center in Murray because her guardian worked longer hours and could no longer give her the time and attention she needed. Before leaving Lady in our care, her guardian described her as “playful and friendly” and said her favorite things were “watermelon and sleeping on the bed .”Lady was so sweet with our staff that we thought she’d be adopted immediately without any problems, but unfortunately for Lady, this wasn’t the case. 

Accessing Lady’s health

After an assessment, our medical team discovered that Lady’s skin and ears were infected, and she had a handful of broken teeth. She also had a pretty severe limp. Upon further discovery, it became apparent that the ligaments in Lady’s knees had ruptured in both legs. If she were ever going to run or jump again, she’d need to undergo TPLO surgery, short for Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, to have these ligaments repaired. The problem was that Lady weighed 90 pounds, so our team made the decision to conduct these surgeries two months apart, so Lady wasn’t totally incapacitated. 

After her first surgery, Lady went into our Foster Program under the care of Caitlin Lisle, our Humane Education Director. Caitlin put Lady on ‘bed rest’ and helped her pass the time with food puzzles and yummy frozen treats. Caitlin explained, “Lady was such a joy to rehab. She had the best disposition of any dog I’ve ever cared for. She was just so cheerful all the time about everything. She even loved it when I iced her leg!”

Lady the brindle dog wears a pink sprinkle donut cone while she recovers from surgery in foster home.

While waiting for her second TPLO surgery, our medical team found that Lady was also suffering from entropion in both eyes. Entropion is a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes and surrounding hair to rub against the dog’s sensitive cornea, which results in eye irritation, and, if not remedied quickly, can lead to corneal ulceration. 

Caitlin shared, “I felt so bad for her. Poor Lady couldn’t catch a break! She eventually had three surgeries within 16 weeks. Regardless, she never cried once and always gave her full attention while doing her physical rehabilitation therapy activities. She was the best girl ever!”

Over the four months they shared, Caitlin and Lady became very attached. When Lady was all healed and ready for adoption, Caitlin was happy for her but also teary-eyed. “It was bittersweet because I was so in love with her. But since I already have four dogs of my own, I knew I couldn’t keep her.”

Lady finds a home

Caitlin screened potential adopters to ensure Lady went to the perfect home. A few weeks passed, but Caitlin didn’t find the right fit until a woman named Katie reached out after seeing Lady’s story on our Instagram account. 

Katie shared, “The day I saw Lady’s post was the first anniversary of when our beloved labrador, Ryder, passed away. We’d had Ryder for almost 11 years, and our family was heartbroken when he passed. I didn’t know if we were ready for a new dog, but I reached out to Caitlin on a whim.”

Lady in her adopted home watches a toy train in the living room.

Caitlin invited Katie, her husband, Dan, and their two young kids, Liam and Lucas, to meet Lady. But Dan was resistant. He told Katie, “Unless this dog gives me a sign by jumping into my lap or something, I don’t think I’m ready for a new dog.” Lady must have superman hearing because as soon as Dan walked in to meet her, that’s exactly what she did. 

Katie recalled, “Lady ran directly over to Dan and jumped in his lap. We were all stunned. Not only this, but she was very gentle and tolerant with our kids. We fell in love with her immediately, and she’s been a member of our family ever since.”

Lady wears a Christmas sweater in her adopted home while watching over her a young boy playing in the snow.

These days you can find Lady riding shotgun alongside Katie to pick up the kids from school or glued to Dan’s hip. “The loss of Ryder was so hard on my husband, but now, he’s Lady’s biggest fan. They’re like little comfort buddies. She always seems to know when we’re having a bad day, and if she senses we are, she’s at our side to offer comfort. She is exactly what our family needs.”

What to Expect When You’re Expecting… a New Furry Friend!

Posted on by Guinn
3 small puppies pose a purple blanket.

Have you ever wondered what the process of adopting from the Humane Society of Utah looks like? Well, we’ve got you covered! In just 5 easy steps, you can bring home a new best friend!

Start out with a meet and greet

Has someone special caught your eye? Step one is to set up a meet and greet through one of our adoption counselors. After going over the available information we have about that animal, they’ll set you up with a meet-and-greet area.

Fill out a quick application

Once you’ve decided that you’d like to take Fluffy or Fido home, you’ll be asked to fill out a short (less than one page) form with some basic information such as your address, phone number, and email. This form can be filled out digitally or with a pen and paper.

Women looks at shelter cat while giving it chin scratches in Kitty City.

Have a chat with an adoption counselor

After our adoptions team has received your application, you’ll sit down with a counselor to go over details about the pet and their history, have any of your questions answered, and sign an adoption contract which essentially says you agree to love and take care of the animal you are bringing home with you. Our adoption staff is equipped with a plethora of resources to help you and your pet’s go as smoothly as possible, from how to handle cat-dog introductions to how to deal with resource guarding.

Inside HSU's adoption lobby facing adoption check out desks.

Pay your adoption fee, receive your new pet’s records, and head home!

Following your chat with one of our adoptions counselors, all that’s left is to pay your pet’s adoption fee, receive any medical records we have on hand (i.e., vaccinations, medications), and a supply of medications to get you through the next few days (if applicable), and get ready to head home! You will be required to take your new pet home either in a pet carrier or on a harness and leash, but if you didn’t bring your own, we have some available for purchase in our onsite store. We are also proud to offer a free exam through our partnered vets in the area, which we encourage all adopters to take advantage of.

After Your Adoption…

Our adoption team will reach out to you via email after one week and after three weeks to check in and make sure all is going well. This offers an opportunity to ask any questions that have come up, request more resources, or send us some cute photos showcasing what your new pet has been up to!

Smiling dog with big blocky heads lays in grass.

So, there you have it! Congratulations on your new furry family member, and thank you so much for choosing adoption first. 

Pebbles, The Itty Bitty Kitten That Could

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Pebbles an itty bitty one-eyed calico kitten cuddles a stuffed animal.

Pebbles, an itty bitty kitten weighing less than two pounds, arrived at the Humane Society of Utah’s St. George Clinic in the Summer of 2021 with a painfully swollen eye. Her eye was simmering with infection making it completely unusable. Pebbles didn’t have a family to look after her – she was a junkyard kitten who had grown up with a large feral cat colony that lived in a dumping ground littered with broken-down car parts and decaying trash.

Teaming up to help Pebbles

Fortunately for Pebbles, she had been trapped and brought to our clinic by Kris Neal, who volunteers for a local rescue called The Jackson Day Foundation. This rescue took Pebbles in after she had been trapped for our Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program. TNR involves fixing, vaccinating, and ear-tipping feral and stray cats, then returning them to their territory. TNR is a humane way to control the community cat population and stop the spread of fatal viruses, such as rabies and distemper.

Rescuer stands in junk yard with piles of trash looking for injured kitten.
St. George Clinic staff sits with Pebbles after her surgery.
Pebbles sits in a kennel on a pink and grey blanket.

After assessing Pebbles, our veterinarian, Dr. Gray, was deeply concerned. She’d discovered Pebbles had a severe upper respiratory infection that had moved up into her eye and was causing so much pressure that her eye would need to be removed immediately. Dr. Gray explained, “I was concerned because putting animals as small as Pebbles under anesthesia is incredibly risky. Most veterinarians won’t do it because of the risks involved, but Pebbles’ infection was so bad that if it continued to go untreated, it would most likely move into her lungs and other areas of her body, and she would die. So, performing eye removal surgery for her was critical to saving her life.”

Kelsie Watters, HSU’s St. George Clinic Manager, also knew that only a few veterinarian clinics in St. George have the capacity to help out the feral cat population, HSU being one of them. She shared, “For our staff, it doesn’t matter if the animal has a paying owner or is feral and without a home; we treat them all with the highest standard of care possible. Every pet’s health matters to us, even pets like Pebbles, who are not a priority to most.”

The surgery went well, but not without a hitch. Pebbles’ eye had so much built-up pressure that it ruptured as Dr. Gray removed it. But thankfully, Dr. Gray was able to stabilize her, and Pebbles’ recovery went smoothly. She went home with Kris, who looked after her and gave her antibiotics so her little body could heal.

Two kittens are better than one

While at Kris’ home, she found that Pebbles didn’t like touching or cuddling, which is not uncommon for feral cats. But to Kris’ surprise, Pebbles began to bond with another kitten, Daisy. Eventually, the two became buddies. One day, two women named Belinda and Beth came to adopt Daisy, but Kris told them that Pebbles and Daisy were now a bonded pair and that if they wanted one, she’d have to adopt the other.

Kelsie shared, “Belinda and Beth recognized that this was a special pair and decided to adopt both Daisy and Pebbles so they could stay together. Kris periodically sends updates on Pebbles, who has completely transformed in her new home. She now loves being cuddled and sung to by her caring adopter. It’s nice knowing that this junkyard kitten who had suffered so much now has a loving, happy life, thanks to our and Kris’ team. Everyone went the extra mile for Pebbles because we knew we were her last resort, and her transformation is what makes our work worthwhile.”

Pebbles sits on the counter in the St. George Clinic for her check up after surgery.
Pebbles cuddles with her adopted sister cat, Polly.
Polly's adoption picture with new guardian.

Over a year later, Kris brought a sweet and affectionate kitten named Polly into HSU’s St. George Clinic, who was in the same situation as Pebbles. She was a tiny feral kitten with a very infected eye who had been trapped for TNR and needed medical care. Dr. Gray performed the same eye removal surgery on Polly, who was up and ready to play again the next day. Kris is caring for Polly and keeping her from being too active while she recovers. When Kris shared Polly’s story with Belinda and Beth, they knew Polly was meant to be in their family, too. Once Polly is healed from surgery, she will join her new sisters, Pebbles, and Daisy, in their home.