Category: Humane Tales

“Spring” into Prevention! Warm-Weather Safety for Dogs

Posted on by Maddie Cushing

Ahhh, birds are singing, flowers are blooming, and you’re ready to return to the great outdoors with your pup at your side. But how do you ensure that your number-one companion stays safe and healthy as you venture back into the beautiful nature that Utah has to offer? Follow these tips and tricks to prepare for warm-weather adventures with your dog!

Up-to-Date? Vaccinate!

As the frost begins to thaw, so do many nasty illnesses that call the soil home. This combined with heavier foot traffic outdoors makes having up-to-date vaccinations more crucial than ever. Cases of Leptospirosis and Lyme disease in particular increase in the warmer months, but don’t fear! Our Murray clinic has an “Adventure Dog” vaccination package for this exact purpose.

Watch for Water Wellbeing

We know how tempting it is to dust off the old life jackets and get right back into water activities as soon as temperatures warm. However, Utahns must remember that spring snowmelt causes lakes, rivers, and streams to rise. Be extra cautious of even lazy-looking waterways, as they are likely faster and higher than they appear.

Check the ‘Chip

More trips to the great outdoors mean more chances for your dog to wander off and potentially get lost. Studies show that lost pets who have microchips with accurate information are more than 50% more likely to be reunited with their two-legged family members. Don’t have a microchip? Stop by our Murray clinic to snag one!

Thorns Among the Roses

Among all the beautiful foliage that blooms in the spring, there are bound to be a few weeds. Unfortunately, a few of these fauna are doggo-dangerous. Foxtails and burrs are just a couple of the harmful plants that dictate some extra warm-weather safety protocols. Be sure to thoroughly examine your pup following outings and remove seedlings from their paws, fur, noses, and other extremities.

Keep their Heart Healthy

Unfortunately, many creepy crawlies like to enjoy the warmer weather, too! Pest-related ailments become more common as spring rolls around, including issues with fleas, ticks, and worms. Increase your pet’s defenses against parasites with heartworm medication! Our Murray clinic is proud to offer monthly tablets to help boost your pup’s warm-weather safety.

Spring into prevention! Find more information about all the spring safety services our Murray clinic offers at utahhumane.org/clinic-locations/murray-clinic.

From the Puppy Mill to the Real Deal: Batman’s Story

Posted on by Maddie Cushing

The Nebraska transfer van finally pulled into the Humane Society of Utah’s parking lot on January 26th, 2024 at 1:30 PM. After delays due to poor weather, mechanical issues, and even a breakdown on the road, the highly anticipated arrival of nearly 50 dogs rescued from one of The Humane Society of United States’ “Horrible Hundred” puppy mills, had come.

Various rescues from around the state gathered to pick up portions of the fleet. HSU took in nine dogs, consisting of four corgis, two german shorthaired pointers, and three labs. One of the corgis was a 6-year-old male with intensely blue eyes and a spirit that could not be broken.

An Uphill Climb Ahead

Despite spending his life thus far as a breeding male, likely primarily in a small kennel and with little to no access to humans or dogs outside of breeding scenarios, Batman showed a certain bravery and determination soon after arriving at HSU. That’s how he got his name— HSU staff decided that surviving all he had endured surely made Batman a hero. So, he and his fellow corgis became HSU’s very own Justice League.

Although they were now safe from the horrors of the mill, Batman and his fellow puppy mill dogs did not have an easy road ahead of them. They had likely never walked on a leash, had access to the outdoors, or had anyone to love and care for them outside of the bare minimum. Even with Batman being the most courageous of the group, he was still apprehensive about interacting with staff and the wide world around him. Walks were a challenge, and often he preferred to stay in his kennel entirely. 

Still, HSU team members were persistent. With spray cheese, encouragement, and a whole lot of love and care, the staff watched in awe as Batman and the other puppy mill dogs made great strides. They became more confident, curious, and open to the possibility that life had so much more to offer than they had experienced. Soon, it was time for them to hit the adoption floor.

A Light at the End of the Tunnel

HSU wanted to be clear and transparent with adopters that the puppy mill rescues had been through incredible trauma. These pups would have some unique challenges adjusting to their new homes. One interested adopter, Aryn, was prepared for just that. After seeing a post from HSU on social media, Batman caught her eye.

“I’ve always known I wanted to get a puppy mill dog or dog with a traumatic past, and I finally was in a place [where] I felt I could give one everything,” Aryn said. “The day we got him, there was a lot of emotion. Excited to have him, heartbroken for his past, and a bit intimidated. My fiance and I always wanted a dog, but as soon as we saw Batman, I had to have him.”

After heavy counseling. Aryn and her fiance met Batman. They instantly knew he was the perfect fit for their family. Aryn describes Batman as “exactly what we needed.” They took him home that very day.

From Puppy Mill to Real Deal

Today, Batman is happy in his new home. Aryn said that she and the rest of Batman’s family have been careful to go at his pace. They dial things back if he seems unsure or scared. Batman is a very spoiled dog now, and he means everything to his new family.

“Our favorite thing is his bigger-than-life personality,” Aryn said. “He is so energetic and playful, he loves to chase and be chased, and he is also so cuddly. Batman demands to sleep in our bed and loves to follow me around. He is the sweetest and most funny dog.”

So, Batman and his fellow puppy mill rescues beat the odds, and they are now living the lives they deserve. We want to give great amounts of thanks to HSU’s community, who shared posts on social media, made donations, and took a chance on these sweet pups who had been through the unimaginable. It is with your support that we are able to make stories like this one possible.

Wissy’s Story: A Dog’s Health Journey

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Small dog health check-up

There is nothing scarier than watching a beloved pet endure a medical emergency. All you want to do is help your pet, but it is difficult to know where you can turn in a crisis. That is where the Humane Society of Utah’s St. George Clinic came in when Wissy the small dog needed urgent health care. We never want to see an animal suffer, and we never want to see a family lose their pet because medical care is not available. We are honored to provide a service in the St. George community so animals like Wissy can get the care they need. 

Wissy the chihuahua at the clinic

A Small Dog’s Big Health Scare

Sweet senior Chihuahua Wissy was in bad shape when she arrived at HSU’s St. George Clinic in December 2023. She suffered from a protrusion in her groin that was painful and inflamed. Desperate for assistance, her guardian contacted Susan Barrett with Angel Network. Susan runs a rescue group and helps connect Southern Utah pet guardians with animal resources. When she visited Wissy, Susan saw a sweet, incredibly loved, and cherished senior dog. She also noticed that Wissy needed immediate medical attention for her injury. Wissy’s guardian was tearful as she pleaded with Susan for assistance to save her beloved dog. 

Susan brought Wissy to our clinic in St. George. Although we are not a full-service clinic, we do our best to provide care when a pet guardian needs extra assistance. Our goal is to keep animals with their families who love and care for them whenever we can. We know that most people love their pets and just want the best for them. But with inflation and medical costs increasing, more and more pet guardians struggle to afford emergency procedures like this one. When we can help relieve that financial burden and keep a pet in their loving home, nothing is more rewarding! In Wissy’s case, we performed the mass removal, blood work, dental work & spay surgery for a minimal cost, which Angel Network covered.

Wissy’s Road to Recovery

Our St. George Clinic staff wasted no time getting Wissy into surgery to save her life. With older animals like Wissy, there is always a greater risk of complications. However, our experienced veterinary staff performed a successful surgery and guided the sweet old girl through her recovery. Susan and the clinic staff were thrilled to watch Wissy bounce back splendidly! She arrived at the clinic sick and in pain. By the time she left, she was practically prancing back to her loving guardian. 

Susan is pleased to report that she has since followed up with Wissy’s family, and the small dog is in great health! Her recovery went smoothly, and she is back to her happy self. Stories like this remind us of the important service we provide for pet guardians throughout the state of Utah. Without the intervention of Angel Network and our St. George Clinic, Wissy’s story might have ended very differently. When we can save an animal’s life and send them back to a family who loves them, we know we are making a difference for both the animals and the humans in our community. 

Stories like this are possible thanks to our skilled clinic staff and our rescue partners in the community, like Angel Network. And of course, all of our lifesaving programs are possible because of community support and individual donors. We can’t thank our supporters enough for choosing to save lives every day!

Day of Giving 2024 – Let’s Get Creative!

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Human hand holding a cat paw

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

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

Give Year-Round With a Monthly Donation

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

Host Your Own Fundraiser

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

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

Humane Society of Utah fundraising table

Shop Creative Designs For a Good Cause

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

Ways to Give For the Future

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

Volunteer assisting a cat

Other Ways to Support

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

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

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

Protect Your Pets: Pet Poison Prevention Month

Posted on by Guinn

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

Household Hazards to Watch Out For

Sweet Danger: Xylitol

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

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

Medication Mishaps

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

Floral Foes

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

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

Chocolate: A Bitter Risk

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

Garden Products: Hidden Dangers

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

Prevention and Preparedness

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

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

Priceless Patients: Supporting Cat Health

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Black and white cat laying down

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

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

Odin the cat receiving a health assessment

Let’s Talk About Cat Health

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

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

A Generous Gift For Our Priceless Patients

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

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

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

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

Waiting for the Right Home: Sage’s Story

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
A brown and black dog sits in a camping chair inside of the right home for her.

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

Setting Sage Up for Success

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

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

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

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

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

The Future Sage Deserves

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

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

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

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

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

Big Heads, Bigger Hearts: Large Dog Adoption Special!

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Large Dog Adoption Special banner

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

Love For Large Dogs

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

Large Dog Adoption Photo with Family

An Adoption Special: Presented by Xfinity

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

  • Large black dog
  • Large dog with bandana
  • Large white dog
  • Large white dog with brown face
  • Large dog grey and shaggy
  • Large speckled dog

Smile Bright: Celebrating Pet Dental Awareness Month

Posted on by Guinn

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

The Importance of Pet Dental Health

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

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

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

Dental Care Tips for Pet Owners

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

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

A Healthy Pet is a Happy Pet

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

A Sweet Cat’s New Beginning

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Sweet cat laying down

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

Sick cat looking forward

Foster To The Rescue

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

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

A New Development

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

Sweet cat looking to the side

A New Beginning

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

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

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

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