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A Fluffy Orange Sidekick: Gunther’s Story

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Stacie had been telling Ben that he needed a cat for pretty much the entire time they’d been dating, but it wasn’t until the pair moved in together that this dream became a reality.

“‘It’s not fun to live alone!’ I would tell him. So after living in our new place for a couple of months, we agreed to get a cat and went to [the Humane Society of Utah].” Stacie said.

Visiting Kitty City

After carefully browsing many of the rooms in Kitty City, Stacie had a gut feeling that she and Ben shouldn’t skip the last room in the corner. Despite meeting many wonderful felines along the way, Stacie expressed that she felt a deep pull towards that area that she couldn’t explain.

“We found our guy in the very last room! He immediately started cuddling and kissing me. My husband wanted to hold him and he did the exact same thing.” Stacie said.

At the time, Gunther’s name was Milo. However, Stacie said it didn’t match his strength and personality, so Milo quickly became Gunther. 

Gunther loves to chase straws, cuddle up with his humans on the couch (or, as Stacie fondly calls it, “cat traps” them, as we all know that once a cat is comfy, it’s a crime to move them), and will even play fetch! He also has supervised backyard time in which he loves to rub on his favorite tree, now affectionately named “Gunther’s Tree”.

A Kitty You Can Count On

Even when dark days came over the horizon, Gunther remained a rock for his family.

“I’ve unfortunately been through cancer three times,” Stacie said. “Gunther was adopted after the first, but he was by my side for the next two. I got really nervous that he wouldn’t like me because I smelled different during Chemo, and I had heard of cats doing that, but that wasn’t the case for my buddy! He was at my side unless it was time for him to eat. He would sleep in between my husband and I and make sure I was okay through the night. I don’t know what I would have done without him.”

Gunther is considered a senior kitty these days, but his new sister, Greta, has not allowed him to slow down one bit!

“I had a cat named Marley, and she and Gunther used to love to watch the world out the window together. When we lost her to kidney failure, it was awful for all of us. Gunther looked for her for months,” Stacie said. “Four years later, I didn’t realize we were ready for another cat until Greta caught my eye one Christmas. It only took 5 days for her and Gunther to begin to make friends, and it’s been the best thing for him. She brought life back into him!”

When asked what she would say to someone looking to adopt a pet, Stacie wanted to point out that it’s a responsibility, but a highly rewarding one. “You have to remember that they need more than just love. But if you can do that, it will be one of the best things you’ve ever done.”

Puppy Survival Guide Part 2: Mastering Management

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Puppy management: a puppy stands in an exercise pen on a tile floor with dog toys.

Training is essential, but management is key and often overlooked. Trust us when we say it will make raising a puppy easier! Follow these puppy management tips for effective training.

What is management?

Management is setting up and controlling the environment to prevent undesirable behaviors, for example, picking up shoes so your new puppy doesn’t chew them. We don’t expect infants or toddlers to stay out of trouble or danger, so why should we with puppies? When it comes to children, we are all well-versed in environmental management, such as baby gates and cabinet locks. We can easily apply these same practices with our puppies.

Why management is so crucial for puppies?

The more chances a dog or puppy has to practice or rehearse a behavior, the more likely they will repeat that behavior in the future. By preventing our puppies from chewing on shoes by keeping shoes put away out of reach, they are less likely to make a habit out of it. 

Second, it helps keep our puppies safe. Just like a tiny human slowly crawling around, grabbing things with their hands, and trying to explore the world, puppies will do the same… only at top speeds and with lots of sharp teeth! A puppy only takes a few seconds to grab an electric cord and chew through it. 

Lastly, it gives you peace of mind and a moment to relax. Raising puppies is a lot of work and can be stressful. Putting them in a safe, managed environment for a little while will allow some normalcy back into your life.

Our favorite management tools for raising puppies!

  • A puppy zone: Just like a playpen for babies, an exercise pen or contained puppy-proof zone offers a place for a puppy to stretch their legs and play. It will keep furniture safe from puppy mouths, especially during teething. It also gives them a space to hang out while you’re home that doesn’t require your undivided attention—allowing puppies to learn that they don’t need your attention 24/7 and to entertain themselves while you are nearby. A puppy zone should include a comfy area to sleep, puppy-safe toys or chews, and access to water. Ideal places to set up the puppy zone are higher-traffic areas in your home. Exposing the puppy to the sights, sounds, and regular going ons in the household. A kitchen or living room are great options for setting up a puppy zone. ​As shown above, you can protect your floors and simplify cleanup by purchasing affordable remnant sheet vinyl flooring from your local hardware store for your puppy zone.
  • Crate: A crate is a suitable sleeping place for puppies but not a suitable place for them to spend eight hours while you’re at work. You can even set up a crate in a puppy zone and leave the door open. Puppies will often put themselves to sleep in the crate if given the option! 
  • Baby gates: Baby gates are a great option to help contain your puppy and keep them from venturing into rooms they should not.
  • Metal-mounted water bowl: A metal-mounted water bowl is on the side of the kennel or puppy zone so puppies cannot flip the bowl and spill water everywhere. 
  • Pee pads: Puppies potty a lot, especially in the first 4-5 months. Pee pad training makes cleaning up after puppies much easier.

By taking these steps, you can help your puppy learn good behaviors! Using management to prevent unwanted puppy behavior will make life easier with your new furry friend. 

Stay tuned for the next installment of our Puppy Survival Guide series, where we’ll explore meeting the needs of puppies. Remember, puppies’ natural curiosity and love of play can lead to destructive behaviors if unsupervised.

Uniting Hearts and Paws: HSU Joins Clear the Shelter

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With summer in full swing, an event on the horizon brings together the forces of love, care, and companionship—Clear the Shelters. This annual nationwide pet adoption and donation campaign, presented by NBCUniversal Local, is returning for its ninth consecutive year from August 1 to 31.

A Month of Joy and Compassion: Clear the Shelters

Clear the Shelters isn’t just an event—it’s a movement, a heartfelt initiative that resonates with pet lovers, animal advocates, and communities across the United States and Puerto Rico. NBC and Telemundo-owned and affiliated stations partner with local animal shelters and rescue services to ignite a change for animals in need. Together, they amplify the message of pet adoption, creating awareness and raising funds for animal welfare.

August 26: Clear the Shelter in Utah

Mark your calendars for August 26, from 10 am to 7 pm. The Pet Resource Center in Murray will be buzzing with excitement as HSU invites you to join the movement.

You’ll have the chance to meet animals of all shapes and sizes, each with a unique story waiting to be shared.​ Adoption fees will be waived for all cats, kittens, and bunnies. Various dogs will have “name your own price” adoption fees. When you Adopt from the Humane Society​ of Utah, you’ll help create space in the shelter for other animals in need.​ You know you’re getting an animal who has been properly assessed and cared for. Your pet has been microchipped, spayed/neutered, and vaccinated. ​Plus, ​H​SU offers training advice and educational information to support pet families for the life of their newly adopted pets.

Whether you’re an experienced pet owner or taking your first step into pet ownership, you’ll find guidance, support, and a wealth of resources to help you make the right choice at the Humane Society of Utah! 

Puppy Survival Guide – Part 1: The Importance of Sleep

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Tan puppy sleeps on white blanket.

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

The Sleep Needs of a Puppy

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

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

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

Benefits of a well-rested puppy

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

Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment For Your Puppy

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

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

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

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

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Mr Patches laying on a blanket gets pets from owner Tom.

It was early 2020, and the world was about to change forever, but little did Tom know, his life was about to change, too, and in a much more paw-sitive way. 

Mr Patches the 16-year-old cat had been waiting to find a new home for over a month, moving from room to room in Kitty City, charming everyone he met, but they were seemingly scared off by his senior pet status. Tom was visiting the Humane Society of Utah somewhat frequently to donate pet food, and each time he stopped by, he made a point to visit Mr Patches.

Senior cat Mr Patches sits in a room in Kitty City at the Humane Society of Utah.

“He was just a quiet guy, but such a happy one. I saw how old he was and was amazed at how well he was doing for being nearly 17!” Tom said.

After making a few more visits to Kitty City, self-declared dog-person Tom decided he really wanted to have Mr Patches join his home. Though he had always loved them, Tom had never adopted a senior pet.

“My intention was to give him a happy home for what I thought might be his final few months, given his age. I was very, very wrong about that. I’ve had him for nearly 3 ½ years now!”

So, after being lovingly boxed up for the trek home by HSU’s team, Mr Patches was off to join Tom and three dog siblings. This turned out to be perfect for Mr Patches, who Tom says is very dog-like himself. In fact, just the other day he pushed his dog-brother Mike out of the way to get to the kibble dish!

Senior Cat Mr Patches sits on a dog bed next his his dog brother Mike.

However, Mr Patches isn’t always pushing the pups around. Tom reports that he also likes to snuggle up with them!

“He loves his dog family to pieces. Sometimes they irritate him, but he doesn’t swipe or bite. He sleeps next to them often. It’s just Mike now since Lucky and Lovey have passed away, but he loved them both dearly, too.”

Mr Patches just celebrated his 20th birthday, and Tom says he hopes Mr Patches will be around for 20 more years!

Black and white senior cat celebrates 20th birthday by wearing a blue party hat.

“[Mr Patches] has shown us just how amazing cats are, and he’s shown so many people love. It has meant the absolute world to me, I could not imagine not having him around. Yet another reason I hope he lives to be at least 40!”

At the end of the day, Tom had some advice he would like to share with anyone considering adoption: “Get a senior pet. They’re just the best!”

An Unexpected Friendship: Phoebe’s Story

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When Ashley visited Kitty City back in October of 2020, she had never had a cat before and described her expectations for what she might find as being low. She had some doubts about how affectionate and full of personality felines could be. But never did she imagine that she would find Phoebe— a 5-year-old kitty with the most enchanting blue eyes and sweetest demeanor. 

Ashley decided to take a chance on Phoebe and brought her home. When they arrived, Ashley’s partner told her to “take a good look at [Phoebe] because she was going to be her best friend for the next 10-15 years.” Ashley said she wasn’t so sure he was right at the time, but she never should have doubted him.

Now Ashley can’t imagine her life without Phoebe. After about a month of living together, Phoebe began to open up and show off her personality and quirks, and the pair became absolutely inseparable. Phoebe now spends her days greeting Ashley the minute she gets home and cuddling on her lap while she reads. She also loves playing fetch, watching cat TV, and pondering on art pieces (and the wall), Ashley says.

At the end of the day, this is what Ashley has to say about Phoebe: “I couldn’t have made a better match if I tried. I love her more than words can describe, and couldn’t be happier that the humane society made it possible for us to find each other.”

Safe Houseplants for Cats

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A long-haired tabby cat stand up on a safe houseplant for cats near a window.

With spring right around the corner, many people are gearing up for green leaves and bright blossoms. Adding plants to your home can be exciting and fun, but did you know some plants pose a danger to your furry friends? It’s important to get familiar with safe houseplants for cats!

What are some safe houseplants for cats?

Finding plants you and your cat can safely enjoy isn’t hard! There’s a variety of safe houseplants for cats. If gorgeous green leaves catching sunlight sounds like a dream to you, here are some plants to look for:

  • Spider plant
  • Calathea Orbifolia
  • Peperomia
  • Baby Tears
  • Prayer plant
A orange tabby kitten plays with safe houseplant for cats on the sunlight floor.

Some people prefer stunning colorful flowers hanging out in their homes. Don’t worry. There are plenty of beautiful blossoms that are also safe for cats! If you’re bringing flowers inside, either to plant or in a bouquet, here are some cat-safe ones to keep in mind:

  • Orchid
  • Rose
  • Bromeliad
  • African violet
  • Gerber daisy

Other safe houseplants for cats include:

  • Venus fly trap
  • Polka dot plant
  • Basil
  • Thyme
  • Catnip (of course!)

What plants are dangerous for cats?

While we like to focus on the positives, it is important to note that there are many plants that are toxic to cats. Lilies, tulips, and aloe have all earned the title of being dangerous for cats. If you’re unsure if your plant is cat friendly, click here for a list of plants that could pose a danger to your cat.

It is possible to create a home that’s safe for humans, cats, and plants alike! Knowing what plants to look for when finding safe houseplants for cats is extremely important. Doing a little research now can ensure your cat stays happy and healthy!

Extending the Rule of 3’s: Lolly’s 3-Year Gotcha Day

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Lolly, a dark brindle dog with a white stripe up her nose, poses on a white backdrop while wearing a white banana.

Here at the Humane Society of Utah, we love to tell adopters about the rule of 3’s. The rule of 3’s gives adopters an idea of what to expect when bringing home a new furry friend. 

The first 3 days allow the pet to decompress in a new environment. The first 3 weeks are for bonding and creating a routine, and the first 3 months help you solidify this routine and understand your pet more. Keeping the rule of 3’s in mind can help set you and your pet up for a happy life together. However, we often don’t discuss what happens after a pet has settled in and truly becomes part of the family. That’s why we decided to check in on Lolly and her owner Kev to discuss how Lolly is doing 3 years post-adoption.

Lolly Finds a Home

In 2019 a lovely dog named Chess came into our care. Kev knew he wanted a dog and often checked the Humane Society of Utah website. When he saw her picture, he immediately fell in love! Kev says that he got in his car, drove to our Pet Resource Center, and told the adoption counselor, “That’s my dog!” Our adoption counselor recommended they meet and go for a walk, but Kev knew that Chess was the dog for him. Sure enough, when they met, it was love at first sight! “We went out into the yard, and I introduced myself to her… she responded with a kiss. Her smile just really captures your heart because it quite literally lights up the room,” Kev remembers of their first meeting. As you can guess, Kev adopted Chess and changed her name to Lolly.

Lolly, a dark brindle dog with a white stripe up her nose, wears a bunny ears headband while looking up at the camera.

Lolly Becomes Family

Throughout the years Lolly has truly become a member of Kev’s family. Lolly has really found love in many things, specifically going on walks. “You could take her on a 20 mile walk and be home for five minutes, but if you pick up her leash again, she will undoubtedly get just as excited to go back out.” Kev reports that Lolly is also a big fan of toys and food, so if you combine those with going on a walk, Lolly is in heaven! Over the three years (and counting!) Lolly has been home with Kev. He says that she has added adventure to his life. “I love Lolly’s sense of adventure and adaptability. She is not scared of a hike, she is not afraid to go for a walk in the snow, and she is okay with a night in.” Kev also said that Lolly has made him a “happier and patient person” and that she has taught him so much about life. It’s clear that Kev and Lolly were meant to find each other!

Lolly, a dark brindle dog with a white stripe up her nose, sits in her owner Kev's lap on the ground both have smiling faces.

Thinking Long Term

We love hearing stories like Kev and Lolly’s! If you’ve adopted from the Humane Society and want to share an update on your pet, you can join this Facebook page. Although life can sometimes be stressful when you are a new adopter, the rule of 3’s and thinking long-term can help immensely with the transition. We truly believe that pets add many aspects to life, and that’s why our adoption counselors work so hard to help match you with the right pet. In addition, our Behavior team is always happy to help give advice post-adoption. 

When asked what advice he would give to potential adopters, Kev said, “Go play with some animals! Animals have their own personalities and have such unique forms of love. There is truly an animal for everyone.” If you’re considering adoption, you can view our adoptable pets on our website or call (801) 261-2919 ext. 227 with any questions. 

Gary’s Journey: Looks Aren’t Everything

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Gary, a three-year-old American Bulldog weighing nearly 100 pounds, arrived at our Pet Resource Center in Murray in early July with gnarly scratches on his face and his tail between his legs. This droopy-faced pup had been attacked repeatedly by two dogs in his previous home and was injured as a result. But, according to his previous owners, Gary didn’t have an aggressive bone in his body and never once fought back. They called him their “gentle giant” and described him as a dog who loved cuddling with the family cat and greeting other pups on walks with an exuberant tail wag. Gary proved looks aren’t everything.

Gary a large white dog with a black nose and scars on his face wearing a purple and white bowtie collar, stands against a grey backdrop with colorful paper flowers.

Gary’s Journey

But, despite Gary’s friendly demeanor, he would have a hard time at our center getting anyone to give him a second look, let alone a second chance. He was too big and too energetic, and of course, the jagged marks on his face didn’t help. 

HSU’s Corporate Giving and Communications Manager, Shannon Egan, closely watched Gary’s journey at our center. “Potential adopters would see how big he was and then notice the wounds on his face and assume the worst,” she shared. “They’d carefully move past his kennel as if they were afraid of him.”

As the weeks went by, Gary rarely had a visitor. At HSU, we know it’s essential to consider one’s lifestyle before adopting so you can choose a pet that will fit in nicely. However, it’s also important to take notice of any indiscretions we may show in the unfair judging of pets based solely on the way they appear. “If potential adopters had taken the time to get to know Gary, they’d have found he is house-trained, knows all kinds of tricks, and is a very good boy!” Shannon explained. 

Gary a large white dog with a black nose and scars on his face sits in the grass looking up at the camera smiling.

Gary Becomes a Staff and Volunteer Favorite

After nearly a month at our shelter, Gary’s wounds turned to scars, and he passed the time by interacting with other dogs in playgroups and going on walks with our staff and volunteers. Our team fell in love with him and promoted him on social media to better his chances of finding a home. Finally, on July 28th, a potential adopter named Cade stopped by to visit him. Before the visit, Cade had taken the time to research Gary’s breed so he knew what it would entail to give him the best possible life. That day, Cade and Gary spent quality time in our outdoor play yard, and then they went home together. 

Gary’s journey reminds us of the common misconception that shelter animals are surrendered due to behavioral issues, illnesses, or for being high maintenance. But like Gary, so many homeless pets end up in shelters for no fault of their own. People surrender their pets for various reasons: they’re experiencing financial issues, the passing of a loved one, or they’re blending into a new family, and pets don’t get along with each other. 

Shannon explained, “Most pets who come to us have a proven track record of being great companions, just like Gary. We advise potential adopters to keep an open mind and heart when meeting all animals in shelters. These pets have lost their families and homes and are now in a stressful new environment. Go easy on them. Give them the patience and understanding they deserve.” 

A One-Eyed Hedgehog Takes Home the Gold

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Stanley the one-eyed hedgehog peers out of his red and black fleece tunnel.

Stanley is a bashful, young, and energetic hedgehog with only one eye. Yet despite his newfound disability, he is determined to win the Hedgehog Olympics one day. Stanley prepares for his victory by running vigorously on his exercise wheel all night long and bolting around his new home at lightning speed. He is, by all means, a hedgehog with one eye on the prize. But this doesn’t mean his disability hasn’t come with some challenges and setbacks.

Stanley’s Eye Needed Help

When Stanley came to our Pet Resource Center in Murray, his eye was horribly infected. A cat had attacked him, and his guardians couldn’t afford to take him to the vet. After an urgent assessment, our medical team discovered that Stanley’s eye needed to be removed immediately. So, we rushed him to our partner, Mountain West Veterinary Specialists, an organization specializing in exotic pets, for emergency surgery.  

Fortunately, Stanley’s surgery went well, but he had a tough road ahead. He required antibiotics, a quiet and safe place to heal, and careful oversight of his sutures. Because of this, our staff was overly cautious about his adoption process. Our team wanted to ensure Stanley fully recovered and didn’t go to another home with pets where he could potentially be injured again. So, he went into our Foster Program under the care of our Humane Education Director, Caitlin Lisle, who is skilled with hedgehogs and could appropriately screen adopters to ensure he went to the best home possible. 

Stanley the one-eyed hedgehog rests next to his human.

Fostering a Hedgehog

Caitlin fostered Stanley for eight weeks, and during that time, he retreated from human contact and acted like he was in pain. Caitlin shared, “He seemed to not only be in pain from his injury but traumatized, too. I wanted to help him feel safe around humans, so I spent a lot of time holding him and hanging out with him. I went slow with this process, so he wasn’t overwhelmed.”

With Caitlin’s support, Stanley recovered quickly. She continued to screen potential adopters for him but still hadn’t found the right person who could meet all of his needs. “A lot of people want to adopt a hedgehog because they think they’re cool or unique. But we have to make sure potential adopters have done their research and know what type of care they require. Hedgehogs have a lot of special needs and require a lot of patience because it takes time for them to warm up to you,” Caitlin informed. 

Finding the Perfect Match

Then, Samantha, a woman from Idaho, reached out to adopt Stanley. Samantha had lost her hedgehog one year previously due to old age and was ready to rescue another. She’d seen Stanley’s too-cute photo and bio on our social media and was head over heels for this one-eyed, shy guy who needed a safe home and loved running, snacking, and burrowing. Since Samantha had extensive experience with hedgehogs and no other pets in her home, she knew they were meant to be. After successfully going through our adoption process, Samantha made the six-hour trek from Idaho to bring Stanley home. 

Stanley the one-eyed hedgehog sleeps on bed tucked under a blanket next to his new owner.

Those first few days with Samantha were difficult for Stanley. He spent most of his time hiding fearfully in the corner of his cage and refusing treats. Finally, Samantha explained, “He wouldn’t even eat a worm from my hand. But over time, he started to become curious and open up.” Fast forward several months, and Stanley is now thriving. He no longer hesitates to munch on a worm from Samantha’s hand or falls asleep in her arms. And his fearful behaviors are practically non-existent. 

“He’s the best boy, just perfect!” Samantha shared. “I am so proud of him; he’s come so far and is getting more curious and adventurous with each passing day. He seems very happy and comfortable with us and is full of sweet little chirps when exploring the house or climbing all over us. He’s quite the runner and determined climber, hah! My little Olympian who is forever determined to take home the gold.”

Samantha continues to update Caitlin on Stanley’s progress, and these updates bring tears to Caitlin’s eyes. “I love hearing that Stanley is finally coming out of his shell. And it makes me so happy to know that I helped bring the two of them together.”