Have you been thinking of visiting the Humane Society of Utah to adopt a pet, but you aren't sure what pets are available? We have an idea for you! Follow the Humane Society of Utah on Facebook.com or simply visit the Humane Society of Utah's YouTube.com channel at http://www.youtube.com/utahhumane.
Our most recent videos show animals available for adoption from the Humane Society of Utah as of February 25, 2011. Watch the videos then please come an adopt today. 4242 S. 300 West, Murray Utah. (801)261-2919. www.UtahHumane.Org
Monday, February 28, 2011
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
The Humane Society of Utah Strongly Supports House Bill 273
The Humane Society of Utah strongly supports House Bill 273, which has been introduced by Utah House Representative Jennifer M. Seelig.
H.B. 273 would amend Utah’s law requiring municipal or county animal control officers to hold any unidentified or unclaimed stray dog or stray cat for a minimum of five (5) working days. Current Utah code only stipulates a three (3) day holding period for lost or stray animals.
According to Humane Society of Utah Executive Director Gene Baierschmidt, “We believe Representative Seelig’s bill would save even more lives of the countless animals that become lost every day. The Humane Society of Utah fought long and hard back in the ‘90s for legislation requiring a holding period. Rep. Seelig’s bill will greatly improve the chances of re-uniting owners with their lost pets and reduce the euthanasia rates in our state. We encourage anyone with a dog or cat to support this legislation.”
The Humane Society of Utah also supports SB 057 sponsored by Senator Dennis E. Stowell. This bill would create standards for community feral cat management programs.
H.B. 273 would amend Utah’s law requiring municipal or county animal control officers to hold any unidentified or unclaimed stray dog or stray cat for a minimum of five (5) working days. Current Utah code only stipulates a three (3) day holding period for lost or stray animals.
According to Humane Society of Utah Executive Director Gene Baierschmidt, “We believe Representative Seelig’s bill would save even more lives of the countless animals that become lost every day. The Humane Society of Utah fought long and hard back in the ‘90s for legislation requiring a holding period. Rep. Seelig’s bill will greatly improve the chances of re-uniting owners with their lost pets and reduce the euthanasia rates in our state. We encourage anyone with a dog or cat to support this legislation.”
The Humane Society of Utah also supports SB 057 sponsored by Senator Dennis E. Stowell. This bill would create standards for community feral cat management programs.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Humane Society of Utah's Stance on the Killing of Feral Animals
The original article posted by Whittney Evans of KCPW, appeared online on January 20, 2011. If you have not heard about the Humane Society of Utah's involvement in this legislation, please read more and help support Utah's animals:
"A state lawmaker is sponsoring legislation that would make it legal for anyone to kill a feral animal. Currently, shooting them without a license is a misdemeanor. Republican Representative Curt Oda says his bill specifically targets rural areas, where people tend to abandon pets.
“If I took the animal to the shelter and they happened to be closed or something and I tell them I’m just going to leave the animal in a cage on the front step, you can take it in, in the morning they said, we’ll charge you with abandonment,” he said. “Or if you want to take it in and have it spayed, you’re required to pay for it.”
Oda says ranchers and most rural Utahns know which animals belong in the area, and which are strays. But Gene Baierschmidt, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Utah, questions how an untrained member of the public would determine whether or not an animal is feral.
“Your cat can wonder up on someone’s lawn and someone could say it’s feral and then they could kill it and you wouldn’t have any recourse,” said Baierschmidt. “The other thing too is the problem with people who get wind of this new law who have guns, or anything, clubs could just go out and kill cats and just say, well, we thought they were feral.”
Baierschmidt says feral cats should be neutered and left to live out their lives without reproducing. But Representative Oda says the capture, neuter and release program is ineffective, especially in rural areas."
"A state lawmaker is sponsoring legislation that would make it legal for anyone to kill a feral animal. Currently, shooting them without a license is a misdemeanor. Republican Representative Curt Oda says his bill specifically targets rural areas, where people tend to abandon pets.
“If I took the animal to the shelter and they happened to be closed or something and I tell them I’m just going to leave the animal in a cage on the front step, you can take it in, in the morning they said, we’ll charge you with abandonment,” he said. “Or if you want to take it in and have it spayed, you’re required to pay for it.”
Oda says ranchers and most rural Utahns know which animals belong in the area, and which are strays. But Gene Baierschmidt, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Utah, questions how an untrained member of the public would determine whether or not an animal is feral.
“Your cat can wonder up on someone’s lawn and someone could say it’s feral and then they could kill it and you wouldn’t have any recourse,” said Baierschmidt. “The other thing too is the problem with people who get wind of this new law who have guns, or anything, clubs could just go out and kill cats and just say, well, we thought they were feral.”
Baierschmidt says feral cats should be neutered and left to live out their lives without reproducing. But Representative Oda says the capture, neuter and release program is ineffective, especially in rural areas."
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
2010 - A Record Year for Utah Animal Adoptions
"2010 was a record year for Utah animal adoptions. Both Salt Lake County Animal Services and the Humane Society of Utah recorded a huge increase in animal adoption numbers last year.
"It's the best year we've ever had for adoptions," said Gene Baierschmidt, Director of Humane Society of Utah.
The Salt Lake County Animal Services says they usually euthanize 5500 animals each year, but in 2010, that number was cut in half. "We euthanized just over 2000. So it decreased by half," said April Harris, the shelter operations manager.
They attribute the doubled adoption rate to new programs, a new director and an overall culture change. "We not only adopt here out of the humane society but we're adopting at retail outlets too," said Baierschmidt.
"We're actually come up with innovative ideas to get animals out the door and into new homes by offering anything from free adoptions to discounted adoptions, to including training classes," said Harris."
Thank you Fox 13 for helping get out the word about the Humane Society of Utah and the record year of animal adoptions. We hope that 2011 will be our best year for animal adoptions yet!
Both groups are glad to have the support of the community. "Our community is helping us. We couldn't do it without them. We couldn't do this because we can't take all of these animals home," said Harris. "They're helping us make a better life and a better chance for these animals."
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Keep Pets Safe During Holidays!
 |
| Keep Pets Safe During the Holidays |
Christmas Tree
Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t fall injuring your pet. Be aware that tree water, which may contain fertilizers, can cause upset stomachs!
Securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t fall injuring your pet. Be aware that tree water, which may contain fertilizers, can cause upset stomachs!
Tinsel and Ornaments
Tinsel can obstruct the digestive tract, causing vomiting, dehydration and possibly leading to surgery. Keep glass and plastic ornaments out of reach!
Tinsel can obstruct the digestive tract, causing vomiting, dehydration and possibly leading to surgery. Keep glass and plastic ornaments out of reach!
Food and Leftovers
Spicy, fatty foods...and bones...should not be fed to your pets!
Spicy, fatty foods...and bones...should not be fed to your pets!
Toys
Choose safe gifts for pets. Stick with indestructible chew toys, KONGS or chew treats that are safely digestible. The riskiest toys for cats have ribbon, yarn or loose parts. Surprise kitty with a ball too big to swallow!
Choose safe gifts for pets. Stick with indestructible chew toys, KONGS or chew treats that are safely digestible. The riskiest toys for cats have ribbon, yarn or loose parts. Surprise kitty with a ball too big to swallow!
Mistletoe and Holly
Holly can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems. Poinsettias have low toxicity. Skip them all together or choose artificial plants!
Holly can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems. Poinsettias have low toxicity. Skip them all together or choose artificial plants!
New Year’s Noise
Remember, noise can terrify pets and possibly cause ear damage. By the way, confetti can get lodged in a cat’s stomach, possibly leading to surgery.
Remember, noise can terrify pets and possibly cause ear damage. By the way, confetti can get lodged in a cat’s stomach, possibly leading to surgery.
Candles
Don’t leave lit candles unattended. Pets can burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock the candles over.
Don’t leave lit candles unattended. Pets can burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock the candles over.
As we celebrate the holidays, let’s make sure pets maintain their normal routines. If you have questions about pet safety or would like a pet to adopt for the holidays, please visit the Humane Society of Utah's website.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Salt Lake Tribune Spotlights an HSU Foster Family Sucess
When Lindsay Wheaton brought Mr. Sox back to the Humane Society of Utah, she wasn’t ready to let this gentle Ragdoll kitten go. So she stayed for about an hour, cradling her favorite foster kitten, before returning him to the organization that would find him a permanent home.
After all, foster moms are only temporary, and it was time to let Mr. Sox (along with his siblings, Boots and Mittens) grow up, away from her Murray home.
Volunteers, like Wheaton, are needed to care for the youngest kittens or puppies before they’re old enough to be placed in a permanent home. That may mean bottle feeding every three hours, or feeding with a syringe five times a day when the animal is sick. They need to be kept dry, warm and socialized so that the kitten or puppy is ready to mingle in the real world after the few weeks or months it remains in the foster home.
Although most of the 2,500 foster animals in the Humane Society of Utah’s program are cats or dogs, occasionally rabbits, guinea pigs and gerbils are part of the mix at the 100 foster homes throughout the region.
One huge benefit is that foster families act as ambassadors for adoption by spreading the word about the need.
“They let friends know what they’re doing, and you’re drawing in a potential adoption base,” said Barbara Conrad, the Humane Society’s foster coordinator.
Were it not for the program, most of these animals would end up euthanized, she said.
That’s because the shelter would probably not have the space to keep the young litters. Sick animals may not be able to recover there.
Now in her third year of fostering kittens, Wheaton estimates she has cared for about 30 animals.
The latest two, Snickerdoodle and Skippyjon Jones, which she has had since they were about four weeks old, required soft food syringed into their mouths.
“Every animal deserves a chance to have a good life and live in a good home,” said Wheaton, 25, who lives with her parents and 6-year-old daughter, all of whom help with the animals.
One of the only challenges is the household’s territorial adult cats, that aren’t thrilled about the bold kittens.
Conrad encourages both single people and families to consider fostering an animal.
One benefit of a house with children is that the atmosphere can help the creatures become acclimated to the noise and chaos of a potential adoptive family.
If you'd like to read the original article, please visit the Foster families adapt the cute and cuddly to the good life article page.
After all, foster moms are only temporary, and it was time to let Mr. Sox (along with his siblings, Boots and Mittens) grow up, away from her Murray home.
Volunteers, like Wheaton, are needed to care for the youngest kittens or puppies before they’re old enough to be placed in a permanent home. That may mean bottle feeding every three hours, or feeding with a syringe five times a day when the animal is sick. They need to be kept dry, warm and socialized so that the kitten or puppy is ready to mingle in the real world after the few weeks or months it remains in the foster home.
Although most of the 2,500 foster animals in the Humane Society of Utah’s program are cats or dogs, occasionally rabbits, guinea pigs and gerbils are part of the mix at the 100 foster homes throughout the region.
One huge benefit is that foster families act as ambassadors for adoption by spreading the word about the need.
“They let friends know what they’re doing, and you’re drawing in a potential adoption base,” said Barbara Conrad, the Humane Society’s foster coordinator.
Were it not for the program, most of these animals would end up euthanized, she said.
That’s because the shelter would probably not have the space to keep the young litters. Sick animals may not be able to recover there.
Now in her third year of fostering kittens, Wheaton estimates she has cared for about 30 animals.
The latest two, Snickerdoodle and Skippyjon Jones, which she has had since they were about four weeks old, required soft food syringed into their mouths.
“Every animal deserves a chance to have a good life and live in a good home,” said Wheaton, 25, who lives with her parents and 6-year-old daughter, all of whom help with the animals.
One of the only challenges is the household’s territorial adult cats, that aren’t thrilled about the bold kittens.
Conrad encourages both single people and families to consider fostering an animal.
One benefit of a house with children is that the atmosphere can help the creatures become acclimated to the noise and chaos of a potential adoptive family.
If you'd like to read the original article, please visit the Foster families adapt the cute and cuddly to the good life article page.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Support the Humane Society's Hope for the Holidays Drive
Dear Members and Friends,
The Humane Society of Utah's annual Holiday Fund Drive is underway again, and once again we're asking the community not to forget the ones who most truly offer the selfless, unconditional love symbolized by the season, and who most desperately need the kindness and generosity of caring people - the homeless and abused animals who rely on the Humane Society for Hope for the Holidays.
"The numbers are increasing in every department," says HSU Executive Director Gene Baierschmidt. "This year we expect to place over 7,000 animals in good new homes of their own, an all-time record. We want to maintain this high standard in not only our shelter and adoptions, but in our other programs as well - low-cost sterilizations and immunizations at our in-house clinic, humane education for schools, youth, and adult groups, full-time foster parenting, animal training classes, statewide investigation of cruelty and neglect, and keeping the public informed about important issues involving animal welfare."
"The numbers are increasing in every department," says HSU Executive Director Gene Baierschmidt. "This year we expect to place over 7,000 animals in good new homes of their own, an all-time record. We want to maintain this high standard in not only our shelter and adoptions, but in our other programs as well - low-cost sterilizations and immunizations at our in-house clinic, humane education for schools, youth, and adult groups, full-time foster parenting, animal training classes, statewide investigation of cruelty and neglect, and keeping the public informed about important issues involving animal welfare."
To keep up with such a demanding schedule, he says, the Society relies heavily on the help and support of the public. "We are a private, non-profit organization that receives no funding from taxes or other government sources," Mr. Baierschmidt points out. "We are also an 'open-admissions' shelter, which means that we take in any animal that we can legally accept."
This holiday season, please continue to give our paws a hand. People can make online credit card donations by CLICKING HERE , send a check in the mail to P.O. Box 573659, Salt Lake City, UT 84157-3659, or cash donations by visiting in person at 4242 South 300 West.
We'll also have our traditional Christmas tree in the shelter lobby, and we welcome any gifts that people would like to place under it for the animals. Some of the things that we can always use include the following:
- Puppy and kitten milk replacement formula, as well as small feeding bottles
- Adult cat and dog food, both bagged and canned
- Kitty litter (non-clumping, please)
- First-aid supplies
- Cleaning supplies
- Pet toys
- Towels, blankets
At this wonderful time of the year, please keep on helping us help those who have no one else to care for them. You can give them the best gift of all - Hope for the Holidays.
Sincerely,
Gene Baierschmidt
Executive Director
The Humane Society of Utah
Gene Baierschmidt
Executive Director
The Humane Society of Utah
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Short Term Foster Homes in Need!
The Deseret News published the following article on November 5, 2010. The Humane Society of Utah still is looking to the Utah community for short term foster homes.
The Humane Society of Utah is reporting a greater-than-usual need for available foster homes because of the increasing number of animals being brought to its facility.
The HSU Foster Care department is looking for volunteers willing to take "mama" cats with kittens too young to be placed for adoption, kittens without a mother cat who are in need of round-the-clock bottle-feeding and kittens who are no longer being bottle-fed but still need several weeks in a home until they are old enough to be adopted.
Occasionally, the Humane Society needs foster homes for young puppies with or without the mother dog, too.
There is also need for adult dogs to be socialized. In these cases, some animals are just "cage-shy," while others become depressed from being institutionalized at the shelter — causing them to stop eating. From time to time, adult dogs just need peace and quiet to recover while receiving medications.
Those who wish to volunteer for the Humane Society's Foster Care program can expect to have animals in their home anywhere from approximately three weeks to three months. Family pets already in the home must be vaccinated, including Bordetella vaccinations to prevent kennel cough.
"Foster parents serve a vital role for the Humane Society — a rewarding role that saves lives," said foster care coordinator Barb Conrad, who started the program in 2003.
While foster families are asked to provide all food, toys, kitty litter and love, the Humane Society provides all necessary medical care.
Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Barb Conrad at bconrad@utahhumane.org or by calling 801-261-2919, ext. 215.
The Humane Society of Utah is reporting a greater-than-usual need for available foster homes because of the increasing number of animals being brought to its facility.
The HSU Foster Care department is looking for volunteers willing to take "mama" cats with kittens too young to be placed for adoption, kittens without a mother cat who are in need of round-the-clock bottle-feeding and kittens who are no longer being bottle-fed but still need several weeks in a home until they are old enough to be adopted.
Occasionally, the Humane Society needs foster homes for young puppies with or without the mother dog, too.
There is also need for adult dogs to be socialized. In these cases, some animals are just "cage-shy," while others become depressed from being institutionalized at the shelter — causing them to stop eating. From time to time, adult dogs just need peace and quiet to recover while receiving medications.
Those who wish to volunteer for the Humane Society's Foster Care program can expect to have animals in their home anywhere from approximately three weeks to three months. Family pets already in the home must be vaccinated, including Bordetella vaccinations to prevent kennel cough.
"Foster parents serve a vital role for the Humane Society — a rewarding role that saves lives," said foster care coordinator Barb Conrad, who started the program in 2003.
While foster families are asked to provide all food, toys, kitty litter and love, the Humane Society provides all necessary medical care.
Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Barb Conrad at bconrad@utahhumane.org or by calling 801-261-2919, ext. 215.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Come In and Adopt A Pet Today!
The mid-term elections are almost upon us...so NOW'S the time for you to cast your vote and find a new "running mate" at the Humane Society of Utah. We have many qualified "candidates." While none of them will balance the budget or reduce the crime rate...each and every one of them is running on a platform promising to bring more love and devotion into your life.
Every vote counts at the Humane Society of Utah. Whether you're a member of the "DEMO-CATIC" or "RE-PUP-LICAN PARTY," we will keep track of each adoption (every one counts as one vote) between now and election day. We'll have the returns of this all-important race as soon as the polls close! Do your patriotic duty and come cast your "vote" at the Humane Society of Utah. I'm Sparky the dog and I approve of this message.
Get out and vote next week Utah - while you're out voting, come by the Humane Society of Utah and adopt a pet!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Donate Your Vehicle to HSU
Do you have a car, truck, boat or RV that you are considering donating? There are many worthy causes that you can donate your vehicle to, but have you thought about donating it to the Humane Society of Utah?
It’s a little known fact, but the Humane Society of Utah is not supported by tax dollars or any government funding. The Humane Society of Utah operates as a non-profit organization. Donations by individuals and members as well as corporations and local businesses are what provide the much needed funds for HSU. Anytime you make a donation to the Humane Society of Utah, you are helping to care for thousands of Utah animals who need food, shelter and the opportunity to be placed in a loving home. HSU wants you to see how easy it is to receive to donate a vehicle and benefit from the maximum legal tax deductions and possibly a partial cash payment.
The Humane Society of Utah works with ActionDonation.org. By donating you vehicular item, you do not have to worry about selling the property yourself, mechanical repairs, liability issues or advertising expenses. The time consuming process of showing and selling your property to a complete stranger could pose a potential risk to you or your family.
ActionDonation.org will repair, refurbish, and properly prepare donated property for sale. The ultimate goal is to maximize the selling price. The importance of giving this kind of superior attention to improving donated property prior to sale significantly increases the chances for greater income for HSU. It also can dramatically increase the maximum legal tax deduction available for you, our generous donors.
There is no charge to the donor for picking up vehicle donations. Please keep in mind that donations can be picked up anywhere in the continental United States, so if you know of friends or family who might be considering donating a vehicle, let them know they can help our the Humane Society of Utah from the comfort of their own state.ActionDonation.org will provide a "no obligation" evaluation of your potential vehicle or other property donation. ActionDonation.org will do an evaluation on cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, RVs, jet skis, boats, planes, heavy equipment that you’d like to donate to the Humane Society of Utah. If you are not sure if the item you have is able to be donated, please give ActionDonation.org a call. They are a professional group who want to make this process as easy and rewarding for you.
Here are the 5 easy steps to donating a vehicle to the Humane Society of Utah via ActionDonation.org:
1. Call our toll free number (866) 2-GIVING or (866) 244-8464.
2. When you call, please have your title or registration handy to provide important information necessary to begin the donation process. All property must be transferable and free of liens.
3. After ActionDonation.org has received all of the pertinent information including: year, make, model, VIN #, license #, correct spelling of name(s) from title, and description of property, pick up address, etc; then your information will be forwarded to our review committee to determine if the property is acceptable. If the property is acceptable, a pickup agent will contact you promptly to schedule a convenient date and time for pickup.
4. At the time of pick up, you will be asked for the title and you will be required to sign any necessary transferring documents. At this point you will receive a temporary receipt for your donation.
5. As soon as your property is sold you will receive your tax receipt.
If you have questions about how to donate a vehicle, you can contact ActionDonation.org at (866) 2-GIVING. Remember, when you donate a car, boat, RV or other property donation, you can improve the quality of life for the thousands of animals that the Humane Society of Utah shelters day to day.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Come to the 6th Annual Muttster Mash Saturday, October 16th!
6th Annual Muttster Mash Saturday, October 16th.Dress your pet up, bring a potluck dish and celebrate an Autumn mash. All of you Utah chefs, come join us for our chili cook-off. There will be prizes for best chili!
For more information please visit www.dogsrusslc.com or call them at (801) 485-PETS (7387)
Event will be held at Dogs R Us located at 1458 S. Main Street in Salt Lake City from 6:00 to 8:00 PM
Brought to you by: Dogs R Us - Equality Utah - Humane Society of Utah
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Hats Off To Harmons & Purina: HSU's State-Wide Adopt-A-Thon Was A Huge Success!
The Humane Society of Utah staged a state-wide adopt-a-thon this past Saturday at each of Harmons’ 13 grocery stores located throughout the state of Utah (including St. George). With Harmons playing host and Purina presenting $25 coupons to all who adopted a new pet (not to mention food/water bowls for dogs and cats) the Humane Society of Utah found new homes for 53 animals in just one day! 
According to Humane Society Outreach Director Kris Smith, “Harmons and Purina are great partners and supporters, and they really helped us exceed our goal for this adopt-a-thon. The employees at all of the Harmons stores welcomed us, and our animals, with open arms and a few employees even adopted a cat or dog. We would like to thank Harmons, Purina and everyone who adopted for making this such a great event.”
Saturday’s adopt-a-thon was the second one hosted by Harmons this year. Plans are already underway for the next state-wide adopt-a-thon with Harmons in the spring of 2011.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Warning: Beware of Online Vaccination Fraud
On September 22, 2010, Lynn Arave with the Deseret News published this story about how online dog sellers may be commiting vaccination fraud. If you or anyone you know is considering purchasing a dog online, you might want to read this article and be sure that the animal that you are buying has been vaccinated.
"The Humane Society of Utah has issued an alert to consumers regarding a fraudulent practice being used by a breeder selling dogs online and possibly at roadside locations.
The HSU has recently become aware of a situation where a seller gave the buyer documents/invoices indicating the animal had been vaccinated at the HSU clinic, when, in fact, they had never been. The seller in question has taken HSU invoices obtained from previous vaccinations for other dogs and doctored them to indicate the animal now being sold has been vaccinated.
On Sept. 17, an owner brought two 3-month-old Australian shepherd mix puppies to the shelter to verify the dogs had been vaccinated. They had not been, but papers indicated otherwise. When the owner contacted the seller, he was told there would be no refund.
Fortunately, the dogs appear to be healthy.
However, the HSU is concerned about consumers purchasing dogs they find online, or from roadside vendors, and not receiving proper/legitimate documentation verifying the animals they are buying have been vaccinated."
"The Humane Society of Utah has issued an alert to consumers regarding a fraudulent practice being used by a breeder selling dogs online and possibly at roadside locations.
The HSU has recently become aware of a situation where a seller gave the buyer documents/invoices indicating the animal had been vaccinated at the HSU clinic, when, in fact, they had never been. The seller in question has taken HSU invoices obtained from previous vaccinations for other dogs and doctored them to indicate the animal now being sold has been vaccinated.
On Sept. 17, an owner brought two 3-month-old Australian shepherd mix puppies to the shelter to verify the dogs had been vaccinated. They had not been, but papers indicated otherwise. When the owner contacted the seller, he was told there would be no refund.
Fortunately, the dogs appear to be healthy.
However, the HSU is concerned about consumers purchasing dogs they find online, or from roadside vendors, and not receiving proper/legitimate documentation verifying the animals they are buying have been vaccinated."
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Record Number of Adoptions for Humane Society of Utah's 50th Anniversary Celebration
The Humane Society of Utah experienced a one day record for adoptions during the 50th Anniversary Celebration and Adopt-A-Thon this past Saturday, August 28. A total of 117 animals found new homes during the day long celebration, far exceeding the goal of 50 adoptions on HSU’s 50th Anniversary.
“This will be remembered as one of the greatest days in the 50 year history of the Humane Society of Utah,” according to Executive Director Gene Baierschmidt who also revealed plans aimed at possibly expanding and remodeling the current shelter to create a better environment for cats.
“Much of the credit for this successful event, “ continues Baierschmidt, “goes to the the dedicated people on our adoption, outreach and volunteer staffs...not to mention everyone who came to the Humane Society and went home with a new pet.”
Even with the record number of adoptions this past Saturday, Baierschmidt is mindful of all the animals still waiting for their forever home. The Humane Society encourages anyone thinking of adopting a cat or a dog to check the animal listings on the HSU website.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Don't Forget About the 50th Anniversary Celebration on August 27th, 2010!
The Humane Society of Utah's 50th Anniversary Celebration is this Saturday, August 27th. Here is part of an article by Lynn Arave of the Deseret News:
The Humane Society of Utah is turning 50 years old this month and is planning a public anniversary celebration for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at its facility, 4242 S. 300 West.
To mark the milestone, they will be offering 50 percent off on all adoptions during the one-day celebration. Everyone adopting Aug. 28 will receive a gift and be entered in a drawing for a grand prize — a gift certificate for Humane Society merchandise — to be awarded once they reach their one-day goal of 50 adoptions.
During the day, there will be many events for pets and their owners: Course A Lure, Splash Dogs, a dog wash and grooming, K-9 demonstrations, pet portraits, the Pet Psychic, music, food, beverages and even a historical photo exhibit.
The Humane Society of Utah was founded in the summer of 1960 to house homeless animals, provide statewide investigation of animal abuse and cruelty issues, and to develop a statewide education program promoting responsible pet ownership.
Fifty years later, the overall goal of the Humane Society remains much the same — prevent fear, pain, suffering and inhumane treatment of all animals throughout the state.
To mark the milestone, they will be offering 50 percent off on all adoptions during the one-day celebration. Everyone adopting Aug. 28 will receive a gift and be entered in a drawing for a grand prize — a gift certificate for Humane Society merchandise — to be awarded once they reach their one-day goal of 50 adoptions.
During the day, there will be many events for pets and their owners: Course A Lure, Splash Dogs, a dog wash and grooming, K-9 demonstrations, pet portraits, the Pet Psychic, music, food, beverages and even a historical photo exhibit.
The Humane Society of Utah was founded in the summer of 1960 to house homeless animals, provide statewide investigation of animal abuse and cruelty issues, and to develop a statewide education program promoting responsible pet ownership.
Fifty years later, the overall goal of the Humane Society remains much the same — prevent fear, pain, suffering and inhumane treatment of all animals throughout the state.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Benefit Days from Borders
On September 3 and 4 the Utah Borders Bookstores are holding benefit days for the Humane Society of Utah. When you purchase your books on these days and give the Humane Society of Utah coupon to the cashier, they can scan the coupon and a portion of your purchase will go toward helping the homeless animals in Utah. All the Utah Borders Stores are taking part in our benefit days, so from Logan to Provo buying books will help the homeless pets of Utah.
Visit UtahHumane.org to print out your coupon today!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
The Humane Society of Utah's YouTube.com Channel
Become a UtahHumane channel subscriber and keep up to date with what's happening at the Humane Society of Utah.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Success Story: Hope the 3 Legged Dog
We posted the story about Hope the 3 Legged Dog a few months ago on the Humane Society of Utah's website, but wanted to post it again to remind everyone what a difference you can make in the life of a special animal.
A snowstorm, fate and a good samaritan all had a hand in keeping “Hope” alive. Had it not been for a snowstorm in Arizona, Dave Birkley, a Salt Lake resident en route from Atlanta to San Francisco, would not have taken a detour through Gallup, New Mexico and the Navajo Reservation. Along the way, Birkley noticed a little red animal bobbing up and down in the snow and decided to take a closer look. At first glance he thought it was a fox. But it turned out to be a small dog with a broken leg that was in dire need of medical attention.
“I knew she would die out there,” says Birkley, who has long been involved in animal rescue. “It was cold, there was alot of snow and nobody was going to help her.”
After overcoming the objections of less than friendly locals in Tohatchi, New Mexico, Birkley loaded the little dog, whoʼd recently had a litter of puppies, and hit the road for Salt Lake. Along the way, he began calling various animal organizations, reaching out for help and medical assistance for ʻHope.ʼ “The Humane Society of Utah stepped up and saved this little girlsʼ life,” says Birkley.
To save ʻHope,ʼ Dr. Paul Chapin had to amputate her severely broken right front leg. Within a week, ʻHopeʼ was running and playing like a puppy and soon after she was adopted by Dr. Katie Jolma. “Iʼve had an Indian reservation dog before who I loved dearly and miss very much,” says Katie, adding “I thought it would be nice to help out another dog who needed help and a home.”
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Come to the Humane Society of Utah's 50th Anniversary Celebration
A lot of things have changed in the past 50 years, but one thing that has remained the same is the love and care and spirit of animal advocacy in action at the Humane Society of Utah. On Saturday, August 28th, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., the Humane Society of Utah will be hosting a celebration event with:
The Humane Society of Utah has a goal to have 50 animals adopted during the 50th Anniversary Celebration. If you or a friend or family member have been wanting to visit the Humane Society of Utah to adopt a pet, this is the perfect day to add that new pet to your family!
Everyone adopting an animal will receive a gift certificate for Humane Society merchandise and once we reach our goal of 50 adoptions, we’ll enter every adopted animal’s name into a drawing for our grand prize.
Come out and show your support for the Humane Society of Utah and the animals.
The Humane Society of Utah has a goal to have 50 animals adopted during the 50th Anniversary Celebration. If you or a friend or family member have been wanting to visit the Humane Society of Utah to adopt a pet, this is the perfect day to add that new pet to your family!
Everyone adopting an animal will receive a gift certificate for Humane Society merchandise and once we reach our goal of 50 adoptions, we’ll enter every adopted animal’s name into a drawing for our grand prize.
Come out and show your support for the Humane Society of Utah and the animals.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
The Humane Society Reaches Out to the Community
 |
| Domino - This Week's Pet of the Week |
Thomas is a match maker for the Humane Society of Utah. Which means he’s part of an elite corp of adoption counselors who go out each weekend on special assignment.
“We have 8 vehicles, 8 trucks and 12 employees,” says OutReach Director Kris Smith.
“We schedule 8 stores or events each weekend. I’ve got people calling me to schedule events with different Petcos and Petsmarts. It’s a big deal...”
And a big operation. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning, Outreach Counselors load about 10 dogs and 10 cats into each of the trucks and van in the Humane Society fleet. Like a convoy, they roll out acros the valley, heading for Petcos, Petsmarts and Harmons Grocery Stores, whey they will unload their precious cargo and try to find each one a precious new home.
“Alot of people come in and wonder if they’re bored,” says Kaitlin Lisle, an Outreach Adoption Counselor at a Salt Lake City Petsmart store. “But I tell them the animals can catch up on their sleep out here because the shelter’s noisy...they get their own space, blankets, toys, treats...we spoil ‘em...we walk ‘em all around. So they really like it.”
And the people shopping in the stores do too...especially after a little education.
According to “Squirrel,” one of 12 Outreach Counselors, “alot of people think our animals are broken, but then they see them here and realize they’re wonderful animals that are just down on their luck.”
Luckily, most see their fortunes improve once they enter the Outreach Program.
“Alot of people prefer to just come here where there’s a smaller selection and it’s less over-whelming,” says Squirrel. Kris Smith adds, “most of the people who come into the stores make a better decision because they get to spend more one on one time with the animals, and my staff can give them more time and one on one attention.”
This “recipe” for rescues creates a more relaxed atmosphere to showcase cats and dogs, helping capture the hearts of unsuspecting shoppers, many of whom had no intention of adopting when they walked into the store.
“I remember a woman came in once to get a goldfish for her turtle and walked out the next day with a dog,” says Thomas Bakke.
“People tell me that all the time, we just came in to get a fish!” according to Squirrel.
“They had no plans of coming over here, then they come over and see this adorable little dog and 3 hours later they walk out with a new dog.”
And when that happens, it’s a golden moment for these canine crusaders who consider their work a labor of love. “Even when I do just one adoption, that’s worth it to me...coming out for the whole day,” says Kaitlin Lisle. “It’s worth it when you see an animal you’ve been working with 3 months walks out the door,” says Thomas Bakke. “There’s no better feeling.”
According to Squirrel, “Some weekends you’re just on a roll. You’ll adopt out 3 pit bulls! And the dog nobody thought would get adopted, gets adopted first.”
The real reward comes even further down the road when these outreach counselors really get their pay off. “We get to see alot of the dogs and cats we adopted out,” says Squirrel. “They come back every weekend, go shopping, come say hi to us. It’s really fun.”
On average, Outreach handles 35 to 40 adoptions each weekend...giving many animals a chance they might have never received. “My staff prefers the big older dogs and cats that would not have found a home in the shelter cause everyone likes the kittens and the little dogs. But my staff takes a combination out and we adopt out quite a few who get overlooked in the shelter.”
“They get to know you,” says Squirrel, “and they get to trust you. You see them transform into this wonderful animal, and you find them a home. And then you think...if no one had bothered...what would the outcome have been?”
Fortunately the Outreach Staff is writing so many happy endings the day may soon arrive when no one has to wonder what the outcome might be. As Kris Smilth says,
“I really don’t see it going backwards. More trucks, staff, locations! The sky’s the limit...we can do it!”
To find out about upcoming Outreach locations, go to UtahHumane.org or the Humane Society of Utah's official Facebook page.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Juno Returned Safe and Sound to the Humane Society of Utah
Last week Wednesday, Juno, a four year old Rottweiler/German Shepherd mix was apparently stolen from the Utah Humane Society. We would like to thank all those who showed concern and helped spread the news of Juno's disappearance. Read more about Juno's return here.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
