Category: Press Releases

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Dec. 2, 2024
Media Alert 

The Humane Society of Utah Announces $30,000 GivingTuesday Donation Match by Mountain America Credit Union

Murray — Utah, Dec. 3, 2024 — The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) announces an opportunity for community impact this GivingTuesday, with Mountain America Credit Union matching all donations up to $30,000. The annual day of giving will occur on Tuesday, [Dec. 3  2024], with funds supporting HSU’s lifesaving programs that benefit animals in need across Utah.

“It’s a privilege for Mountain America to support the vital work of the Humane Society of  Utah. Our members are committed to building stronger communities, and their compassion toward vulnerable animals is truly inspiring. With this match, we can amplify donors’ generosity, providing even more essential care and support for our furry friends. Mountain America’s long-standing partnership with the Humane Society of Utah is proof that shared values can have a lasting impact on the community.” Said Sharon Cook, chief marketing officer at Mountain America Credit Union. 

Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement observed on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is a significant fundraising day for nonprofits nationwide. This year, Mountain America Credit Union allows HSU supporters to double the impact of their donations. Every dollar contributed will directly support HSU’s mission to provide shelter, medical care, and placement for vulnerable animals while promoting humane education and advocating for animal welfare.

“The generous match from Mountain America Credit Union means so much to our organization and the animals we serve,” said Alexis Pagoulatos, executive director of the Humane Society of Utah. “This Giving Tuesday, donors have the unique chance to double their impact and bring us closer to achieving our goal of giving every animal in our care the warmth and love they deserve this holiday season.”

How to Get Involved:

• Make a Donation: Donations made on GivingTuesday through HSU’s website will be eligible for the match.

• Spread the Word: HSU encourages supporters to share their GivingTuesday experience on social media by sharing their posts with friends and family.

Suggested Tweet: Double your impact this #GivingTuesday! @MountainAmerica is matching donations to @Utahhumane up to $30,000. Help provide shelter, medical care, and loving homes to Utah’s animals in need. Donate: www.utahhumane.org/donate.

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

About Mountain America Credit Union

Mountain America is a full-service financial institution that provides a suite of personal and business services—including rewards checking, home loans, credit cards, SBA loans and free financial education. With more than 100 locations across the West, Mountain America is here to help guide you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Nov. 26, 2024

Media Alert 

Humane Society of Utah Invites Media to Cover Home for the Holidays

Murray — Utah, Nov. 27, 2024 — The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) invites local media to cover its  Home for the Holidays event on Wed, Nov. 27, 2024, from 10 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM – 3 PM at the shelter’s location at 4242 South 300 West in Murray.

Home for the Holidays is a short-term foster program designed to give shelter dogs a break from the kennel environment. By placing dogs in loving homes for the holiday weekend, the program helps reduce stress, improve socialization skills, and provide valuable insights into each dog’s behavior in a home setting.

Media Opportunities:

• Interviews: 15 Families participating in the program will be available for interviews to share their experiences and the positive impact of fostering on both the dogs and their families.
• B-roll Footage: After the event, you can access b-roll footage of dogs being matched with foster families by clicking on the link below.

Why Home for the Holidays Matters:

• Reduced Stress: Studies have shown that even a short period out of the shelter can significantly reduce a dog’s stress levels.
• Enhanced Socialization: Home environments provide opportunities for dogs to interact with people and other animals in a relaxed setting.
• Valuable Behavioral Insights: Foster families can provide valuable feedback on a dog’s behavior, helping the shelter staff make informed adoption decisions.

By highlighting the benefits of fostering and the positive impact of Home for the Holidays, you can help raise awareness of the shelter’s mission and encourage more people to consider fostering or adopting a pet.

Photos/videos for media use can be downloaded here.

Suggested Tweet: Looking for a heartwarming holiday story? Watch as families foster shelter dogs for the holiday weekend, giving them a break from the kennel and a chance to shine! 🐶❤️ 

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Nov. 25, 2024

Media Alert 

Humane Society of Utah Announces Kickoff of Light the World Giving Machines at City Creek

Salt Lake City – Utah, Nov. 25, 2024 – The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) is thrilled to join the launch of the Light the World Campaign and the return of the Giving Machines at City Creek Center. The machines will be operational beginning Friday, Nov. 22, with an official kickoff event scheduled for Monday, Nov. 25, at noon. The Giving Machines offer a unique way for community members to donate essential items directly to HSU and other nonprofits. Items can be purchased through the machines, which will be available throughout the holiday season, making it easy to give back and support Utah’s animals in need.

Jennie Vuich, Development Director at the Humane Society of Utah, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are grateful for this incredible opportunity to join the Light the World Campaign. The Giving Machines allow our community to support animals in need directly and make a difference during this season of giving. We’re honored to be part of such an inspiring initiative.”

The kickoff event will take place in the plaza outside the City Creek food court, near the Cheesecake Factory. Speakers from the community and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will participate, and the One Voice Children’s Choir will perform. 

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: July 18, 2024

Murray — Utah, July 18, 2024 — The Humane Society of Utah responded to a request for help from Animal Care of Davis County after 20 domestic rabbits were found abandoned at a local trailhead. To help with the overcrowding of small companion animals, the Humane Society of Utah transferred in nine rabbits and four guinea pigs from Davis County. 

The rescued rabbits are currently under quarantine due to potential exposure to diseases in the wild. This mandatory two-week quarantine extends their typical six-day stay at the shelter to fourteen. Once cleared from quarantine, these rabbits will be spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before adoption.

“We are fortunate to have the capacity to care for these rabbits, even though we had to set up emergency housing,” said Juli Ulvestad, Pet Resource Center Director at the Humane Society of Utah. “However, the extended care required for these animals is placing a strain on our resources. We are reaching out to the community for support.”

The cost of caring for each rabbit averages $30 per day. Holding the rabbits for quarantine will cost the Humane Society an additional $3,750. To help offset these costs and support other animals in need, the public is encouraged to donate at www.utahhumane.org/adopt.

In addition to the nine rabbits transferred in from Davis County, the Humane Society of Utah currently cares for 34 rabbits. While the rabbits from quarantine are not yet available for adoption, the adoptable rabbit area at HSU is full. Individuals interested in adopting a rabbit are encouraged to visit the Humane Society of Utah or Animal Care of Davis County or visit www.UtahHumane.org/adopt.

Photos/videos for media use can be downloaded here.

Suggested Tweet: 🐇 The Humane Society of Utah stepped in to help Animal Care of Davis County after 20 domestic rabbits were found abandoned. Find out how you can help (insert your link here) 🐰

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 18, 2024

News Release

Animal Shelter Faces Unprecedented 78% Surge in Abandoned Pets in 2023, Calls for Community Action and Support

Murray, Utah, Jan. 18, 2024 — The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) reported a staggering 78% increase in abandoned animals in 2023. This trend echoes similar patterns observed in other shelters across the state, including Weber County Animal Services.

Lisa Weiss, Animal Care/Community Outreach Coordinator at Weber County Animal Services, noted a significant rise in dogs abandoned in unincorporated areas, particularly near the bird refuge. “Animal Control has encountered numerous dogs tied to poles in public places with notes pleading for a home,” Weiss said. “Recently, we found four 10-week-old puppies left in a wire crate at our doorstep in freezing temperatures without any blankets or coats.” The Humane Society of Utah took the four puppies pictured here into their care from Weber County Animal Services last week. All four puppies have since been adopted.

Housing issues have been HSU’s leading cause of animal surrenders in 2023. “We want to remind Utah residents that abandoning animals is illegal,” stated Guinnevere Shuster, Director of Marketing at the Humane Society of Utah. “However, we recognize the tough times people are facing and aim to provide alternatives for people considering abandoning their pets.”

HSU urges pet owners to explore various rehoming options. Facebook hosts local groups such as Utah Animal Rescue & Rehoming and Utah Pets for Rehoming or Rescue. People can post information and photos about their pets to potential adopters in these groups. Additionally, HSU manages a free private pet rehoming service website, which garners hundreds of daily views. Weber County Animal Services also provides many free resources for people looking to rehome their pets.

For those facing temporary crises, Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering offers short-term pet fostering for 60-90 days, allowing owners to reunite with their pets post-crisis. HSU also assists pet owners threatened with eviction due to their pets. HSU can provide letters to landlords indicating a scheduled surrender date, hoping to allow pets to remain with their owners until then.

Individuals who need assistance with pet food or supplies can access free supplies from these organizations: Salt Lake County Animal Services Pet Crew Pet Pantry, Ruff Haven Pet Pantry, or Street Dawg Crew of Utah.

Suggested Tweet: Officials @utahhumane see a 78% surge in abandoned pets in 2023, calling for community action and support. (insert your link)

Videos for media use are available here.

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

Holiday Match Challenge for HSU

Contact: Olivia Buck FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Email: oliviabuck@utahhumane.org 
Dec. 21, 2023    

News Release

Mountain America Credit Union Holiday Drive to Save Lives: Holiday Match Challenge for HSU

Murray – Utah, Dec. 21, 2023— The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) hopes its Holiday Match Challenge will inspire Utahns to support its lifesaving work this season. Thanks to a generous $30,000 match from Mountain America Credit Union, donations made to HSU through Dec. 31, 2023, will be doubled to provide twice the lifesaving veterinary care and will rescue more than 6,000 animals in need this year. To donate and double your contribution, visit www.UtahHumane.org/give. 

“Mountain America is honored to help the Humane Society of Utah with its life-saving mission by providing this match to provide critical care to the animals at the shelter,” says Sharon Cook, chief marketing officer at Mountain America Credit Union. “Since 2016, we have partnered with the Humane Society of Utah to help nearly 1,200 pets find their forever homes. This holiday season, we are grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of these pets and appreciate the community’s support as we all work together to provide critical care and save as many lives as possible.” 

The Holiday Match Challenge is a fundraising initiative that enables HSU to provide comprehensive care for animals beyond basic shelter services. This includes advanced veterinary care for shelter animals, low-cost spay/neuter and vaccines for the community, Pet Retention, Humane Education, and a Behavior Training program. These programs benefit animals in need throughout Utah and offer a new lease on life to adoptable pets like Narwhal, the dog pictured here.

“The Humane Society of Utah is immensely thankful to Mountain America Credit Union for joining hands with us and extending their support to the homeless pets of Utah.” Said Shannon Egan, Development Director at the Humane Society of Utah. “Their generous contribution is helping us provide care and support to these animals, giving them a second chance at life and a loving home.”

Suggested Tweet: Double your impact during the Holiday Match Challenge! @Utahhumane teams up with @MountainAmerica to raise money for Utah’s homeless pets. Donate at utahhumane.org/give

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About Mountain America Credit Union

With more than one million members and $13 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union assists members on the right path to help them identify and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, 100 branches across six states and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. 

About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

Please accept this press release from the Humane Society of Utah. Article PDF available here. 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nov. 22, 2023

Media Alert

Humane Society of Utah Presents “Home for the Holidays”: A Heartwarming Foster Event for Shelter Dogs

Murray, Utah – Nov. 22, 2023 – The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) announces the return of  “Home for the Holidays,” set to occur on Nov. 22, 2023. This unique initiative aims to bring joy to both shelter dogs and families during the Thanksgiving weekend.

Event Details:

• What: Home for the Holidays Event
• Where: Humane Society of Utah, 4242 South 300 West, Murray, Utah 84107
• Date & Time: Nov. 22, 2023, pick up times 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Event Description:

“Home for the Holidays” is an event designed to give shelter dogs a well-deserved break from the shelter environment during the Thanksgiving holiday. Preregistered members of the public will have the opportunity to pick up a shelter dog for the holiday weekend to provide them with love, care, and a warm home atmosphere. Temporary fostering offers the dogs a break from the shelter and helps them experience a loving family environment, potentially leading to permanent adoptions.

Interview and Visual Opportunities:

Media representatives are invited to attend the event to capture heartwarming moments as families connect with their temporary shelter dog companions. Representatives from the Humane Society of Utah will be available for interviews to discuss the event’s significance and its positive impact on shelter dogs.

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oct. 24, 2023

News Release

Alexis Pagoulatos Appointed as Executive Director of Humane Society of Utah

Murray, Utah – Oct. 24, 2023 – The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Alexis Pagoulatos as its new Executive Director. Ms. Pagoulatos brings a wealth of experience and passion for animal welfare to this esteemed position, and her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the organization.

Alexis Pagoulatos has dedicated her career to advocating for the welfare of animals, with an impressive track record of leadership in the animal welfare nonprofit sector. Her experience includes work with animal shelters, rescue organizations, and animal advocacy groups, making her an ideal choice to lead the Humane Society of Utah.

In her previous roles, Ms. Pagoulatos has demonstrated her commitment to finding innovative solutions to animal welfare challenges, increasing adoptions, and implementing effective community cat programs. Her deep-rooted dedication to the humane treatment of animals aligns perfectly with HSU’s mission to eliminate animal suffering and promote the human-animal bond.

“We are thrilled to welcome Alexis Pagoulatos as our new Executive Director,” said Craig Cook,  President and General Counsel of the Humane Society of Utah. “Her extensive background in animal welfare, coupled with her visionary leadership and passion, make her the ideal person to lead our organization into the future.”

Alexis Pagoulatos expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, “I am honored and humbled to join the leadership team at the Humane Society of Utah as Executive Director. I look forward to working alongside our talented and dedicated staff, board, volunteers, supporters, and community partners to continue the lifesaving and innovative work of this organization as the needs of our community evolve.”

Suggested Tweet: Alexis Pagoulatos appointed as @UtahHumane’s new Executive Director.  Alexis’s passion for animals is evident in her work with shelters, rescue orgs, and advocacy groups. Her dedication aligns perfectly with Utah Humane’s mission to eliminate animal suffering and strengthen the human-animal bond. 

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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

Contact: Guinn Shuster
Cell: 801-638-4685                         FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Email: [email protected]                       Oct. 6th, 2023

News Release

HUMANE SOCIETY OF UTAH AND SUBARU JOIN FORCES IN FIRST-EVER BARKTOBERFEST: A HOWL-O-WEEN PAWS PARTY 

Murray, Utah, Oct. 8, 2023 — Join the Humane Society of Utah (HSU) and Subaru this Sunday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for their first-ever Halloween event, Barktoberfest: A Howl-O-Ween Paws Party. The event will occur at the Humane Society at 4242 South 300 West in Murray, Utah. You can purchase adult tickets in advance for $5 or at the event for $10, including entry for one adult and one dog. Admission for kids is free. The funds generated from this event benefit Utah’s homeless animals. 

This event celebrates the spooky season with fun activities for kids, adults, and pets. At the event, you and your pet can partake in a Halloween costume contest and parade, run your pup on an agility course, show off your pup’s skills in a Trick-n-Treat contest, sample a variety of food trucks and craft beer, and play Halloween Carnival games.

Subaru generously supports Barktoberfest. Brian Friedman, retail marketing manager of Subaru of America, remarked, “Subaru and our retailers believe in being a positive force in the communities in which we live and work, not just with donations, but with actions that set an example for others to follow. Our partnership with the Humane Society of Utah over the past nine years has allowed us to support programs like Barktoberfest that bring pets and people together and raise money for HSU’s important work. Loving pets is part of our DNA at Subaru, so when you visit most of our stores, you will find Dog Parks on-site, treats on the counters, and, in some cases, adopted animals who have become part of the Team!” 

Please note that the HSU’s adoption center will be closed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 8, due to the event. The adoption center will reopen at 2 p.m. For information about Barktoberfest and other upcoming events, please visit www.utahhumane.org/events. If you cannot attend the event but are still interested in supporting HSU, please visit www.utahhumane.org/donate.

Suggested Tweet: Join @utahhumane and other pet lovers for Barktoberfest on Oct. 8. Bring your canine friends along, too! All proceeds raised from this event go toward the animals in their care. 

Download media-use photos here. 

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About the Humane Society of Utah

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

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