Tag: pet health

When It’s Time to Say Goodbye: A Compassionate Guide to Humane Euthanasia

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Woman's hand holding dog paw.

Saying Goodbye with Love and Compassion

One of the hardest decisions a pet guardian will ever face is knowing when it’s time to say goodbye. Pets are family, and making the choice to let them go peacefully is heartbreaking—but it can also be the greatest act of love and kindness we can offer. If you are struggling with this decision, you’re not alone. This guide will help you recognize the signs that your pet may be suffering and offer guidance on making the most compassionate choice.

Recognizing the Signs of Suffering

Every pet’s journey is different, but there are some key indicators that your beloved companion may be experiencing more pain than joy in life:

  • Chronic Pain That Can’t Be Managed—If your pet is in pain despite medication or veterinary treatment, their quality of life may decline. Signs include whining, limping, excessive panting or licking, or difficulty moving. 
  • Loss of Appetite and Extreme Weight Loss—When a pet no longer eats or drinks, even when offered their favorite treats, it may indicate that their body is shutting down.
  • Difficulty Breathing—Labored breathing, chronic coughing, or frequent respiratory distress can be distressing for pets and their families.
  • Loss of Mobility—If your pet struggles to stand, walk, or control its bladder or bowels, their quality of life may be severely impacted.
  • Excessive Paw Licking—This can be a sign your dog is experiencing chronic pain, gastrointestinal, or spinal pain. 
  • Sleep Startle – Pets who suddenly wake up react fearfully or aggressively.
  • Withdrawal from Family and Favorite Activities – Pets who once loved snuggling, playing, or greeting you at the door may become distant, disengaged, or disinterested.

The Quality of Life Scale

Veterinary professionals often use a Quality of Life Scale to help pet owners evaluate their pet’s well-being. Ask yourself:

Is my pet experiencing more bad days than good days?

Can my pet still find joy in daily activities (eating, playing, cuddling)?

Is my pet comfortable, or are they in frequent distress?

If your pet’s bad days consistently outnumber their good ones, it may be time to have an honest conversation with your veterinarian about end-of-life services.

What to Expect During Humane Euthanasia

Understanding the process of humane euthanasia can help ease fear and uncertainty:

1: A Peaceful Setting – Many pet owners choose to say goodbye in a veterinary office or at home, where their pet feels safest.

2: Sedation for Comfort – Your pet will first receive a gentle sedative to help them relax and feel no stress or pain.

3: Peaceful Passing – Once your pet is calm, the veterinarian will administer a second medication that allows them to pass peacefully and painlessly within minutes.

This process ensures your pet is surrounded by love in their final moments.

Coping with Grief & Honoring Their Memory

Saying goodbye is incredibly painful, but there are ways to honor your pet’s life and find comfort:

Create a Memory Keepsake – A paw print, lock of fur, shadow box with collar, or framed photo can help keep honor their memory.

Hold a Tribute or Memorial – Acknowledging their impact, whether through a private moment of reflection or a small ceremony with loved ones, can bring healing.

Consider Pet Loss Support – Grief is real, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Some veterinary offices and animal shelters offer pet loss support groups.

Adopt When You’re Ready – Welcoming another pet into your life doesn’t replace the love you had, but it can bring healing when the time feels right.

You Are Not Alone

Knowing when to euthanize a pet is a deeply personal and emotional decision, but it’s one guided by love, compassion, and the desire to prevent suffering. If you are facing this choice, contact your veterinarian for support. They can help guide you through the process and ensure your pet’s final moments are peaceful and filled with love.

The Humane Society of Utah is here for you if you need additional support or resources. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance.

Helping Our Puppies: How You Can Support

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Brown and tan puppy looking forward

Homecoming arrived at the Humane Society of Utah along with his siblings from another shelter. They were transferred to our facility in an effort to relieve overcrowding and make space for more animals to find loving homes. Upon arrival, the puppies appeared healthy, active, and thriving. They seemed like a normal, happy litter of pups! We were hopeful they would be ready for adoption in no time. However, our team became concerned when several of the puppies started showing signs of illness. After careful monitoring and testing, our fears were confirmed – the puppies had parvovirus. The road forward would be difficult, but luckily, Homecoming had the support of our community on his side.

A Serious Illness

Homecoming’s litter was one of several to be diagnosed with parvovirus (or parvo) over the first three months of 2025. This highly contagious and fast-acting illness is an unfortunate reality that plagues many animal shelters. The Humane Society of Utah is no exception. Homecoming was one of over 45 puppies transferred to the Humane Society of Utah in the month of March alone. As shelters across the country experience overcrowding at alarming rates, our transfer program is more important than ever. Transferring animals is one of the most effective ways to help pets throughout our community and save more lives, both at our facility and at other shelters. However, we acknowledge that with an increased number of animals entering any facility, there is a greater risk of contagious illnesses.  

But we can take action! With the right protective equipment, medical treatment, and safe housing, we can protect more pets, and lessen the impact of this devastating illness. We are asking for community support, to ensure our animals will always receive the best treatment and protection against parvo or other serious diseases. 

Homecoming and his siblings began treatment right away. We placed them in safe housing so the disease would not spread to other animals. The puppies were lethargic and had no appetite. Some were vomiting in their kennels. It was heartbreaking to watch, but we were determined to help these sweet pups. Sadly, some of the puppies succumbed to their illness. Parvo is a serious disease, and even the best treatment cannot save every life. But thanks to our caring supporters, Homecoming and his sibling, Pep Rally, both made it through and are on the mend. We can confidently say that our community of donors helped save their lives.

Black and tan puppy looking up

How Can I Help More Puppies?

Homecoming’s story had a happy ending thanks to the support of our community. But we know there is still work to do. A donation today might be a valuable lifeline the next time a puppy like Homecoming falls ill. Or better yet, consider becoming a monthly donor. Your reliable support will mean young puppies and kittens always have access to medical treatment and recovery care when they need it most. 

You can take action in your own home by ensuring your pets are fully vaccinated. Keeping animals up-to-date on vaccinations is one of the best defenses we have against illnesses like parvovirus. Not only are you keeping your own pet safe, but you are helping to stop the spread of disease in our community. Visit the Humane Society of clinic page to learn more about vaccinating your pets!

Whether you have donated to the Humane Society of Utah, adopted a pet in need, or educated your friends about the importance of pet vaccines, you are giving animals in our community a chance for a healthier future. Thanks to you our sweet friend Homecoming is on the mend and getting ready for the permanent homecoming he deserves!

A Remarkable Journey: Squash’s Story

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
Squash, a tricolored dog undergoing treatment for a fractured femur head, relaxes on a couch following FHO surgery.

Squash’s story begins in October 2024. 5-month-old Squash and his two siblings were found running down a desolate, remote highway in rural Southern Utah nicknamed “The Loneliest Road.” They were scared of their wits, and much too thin.

Though none of the dogs had visible injuries, Squash was not able to bear weight on his left hind leg. The small rural shelter where Squash and his siblings arrived did not have the resources to investigate Squash’s injury, so he was transferred to the Humane Society of Utah. 

Squash, a tricolored dog, looks up at the camera following FHO surgery to repair his fractured femur head.

A Diagnosis is Made

Shortly after arriving at HSU, one of our licensed veterinarians diagnosed Squash with a fractured femur head. Squash would need costly orthopedic surgery and physical therapy, and HSU was determined to get him the care he needed.

Squash received a consult with an orthopedic surgeon. The surgeon determined that he would need to undergo an FHO surgery. This surgery involved removing the top of Squash’s femur, which then created an artificial joint at the hip to alleviate the pain from his injury. Following a successful surgery, the next step was for Squash to go to physical therapy at Utah Pet Rehab to regain proper use of his leg.

While Squash was making his way through his treatment plan, he spent time in a foster home. Squash’s foster was absolutely enamored with him. She described him as a happy guy who loved nothing more than to lay his head in her lap while receiving pets.

However, Squash wasn’t out of the woods just yet.

An X-Ray of a dog shows a fractured femur head.

A Long Road Ahead

Squash’s physical therapy sessions revealed that, although his hip was doing well, other joints in his leg were showing signs of instability.

For Squash, this would have meant TPLO surgery. This would be an especially difficult recovery as he had already done an FHO. Squash was also likely to have further issues with his leg down the line. For these reasons, licensed veterinarians at the Humane Society of Utah decided the most humane and best option for Squash would be amputation.

With support from his loving foster family, Squash’s story continued as he underwent an amputation of his injured leg in mid-February. His foster said she and Squash would be doing some “heavy relaxing” following his procedure. This turned out to be just what Squash needed!

Squash’s recovery went beautifully. He would be able to get his staples out near the end of February. Afterwards, Squash could finally go on to find a family!

Squash, a tricolored dog, looks soulfully into the camera after undergoing an amputation of his hind left leg due to an injury.

From “Squash’s Story” to “Squish’s Story”

Squash was officially cleared for adoption on February 26th, but he didn’t have to wait long to find a home! Squash’s foster had to go out of town for a couple of weeks during his recovery, and during that time her parents took over fostering Squash for HSU. They fell in love with him, and decided to make him a permanent member of the family!

These days, Squash goes by “Squish” and spends his time playing with his new brother, Steve, cuddling with his hoomans, and enjoying long walks. Squish doesn’t know it yet, but his family has plans this summer to visit their house on Lake Michigan. He’s going to have such a great time swimming and adventuring with Steve!

We’re so happy to see Squish now living his best life! We are so thankful to everyone who made this happy ending possible. We want to give special thanks to Squish’s foster, the team at Utah Pet Rehab, and to Squish’s orthopedic surgeon. 

But most importantly, we want to thank YOU! Squish’s story would not have been possible without your generous contributions. Thanks to you, Squish is able to get around, pain-free!

Squash, a tricolored dog, sits on the couch next to Steve, a yellow lab. Squash was adopted following the amputation of his injured leg, and was excited to meet his new brother!

Your donations were integral to Squish’s story having a happy ending. Help more pets like Squish today by donating to the Humane Society of Utah.

Pet Poison Prevention: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
A dog sniffs some flowers outdoors. Pets' curious nature can often lead them to come across hazards, which is why pet poison prevention is so important.

In honor of March being National Pet Poison Prevention Month, we wanted to spotlight some of the most common poisoning hazards our pets encounter and how to keep your furry friends safe from harmful substances. Items which are harmless to humans can be hazardous to pets. It’s important to be proactive and make sure these materials are out of paw’s reach.

Keep an Eye Out for Household Hazards

There are several hazards pets may come across within the home environment. According to the ASPCA, the top toxins that caused the most issues for pets in 2023 included over-the-counter medications and human food and drinks. We’ve compiled a list of items you may have in your home that can cause problems for pets.

A graphic from the ASPCA lists off the top pet poison prevention hazards of 2023.

Kitchen

There are many items in the kitchen that, while benign for humans, are pet poison. Common foodstuffs which are toxic to animals include…

  • Chocolate
  • Grapes and Raisins
  • Nuts such as Macadamias, Pecans, and Walnuts
  • Garlic and Onions
  • Alcohol
  • Salt and excessively Salty Foods

Another common culprit in pet poisonings is Xylitol, also known as “birch sugar.” Xylitol is a sugar alternative which is often found in sugar-free foods. Even small amounts of Xylitol can be dangerous for pets, causing symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, seizures, and sometimes death. Gum, candy, toothpaste, and condiments may contain Xylitol.

Garages and Sheds

In addition, many pet poisons can often be found in storage areas such as garages and sheds. Items to be aware of comprise of…

  • Insecticides or Pesticides
  • Rodent Poisons or Baits
  • Antifreeze
  • Ice Melt
  • Fertilizer

If you keep the above items or similar products in these storage areas, you’ll want to make sure they are in a place your pets are unable to get to.

Garden

Gardens and yards are such pleasant places for pets to visit, especially as the weather gets nicer. However, not all plants you may find in your garden are safe for pets. Flora pet guardians should be aware of include…

  • Lilies
  • Tulips
  • Daffodils
  • Oleander
  • Sago Palms
  • Azaleas
  • Hyacinths
  • Poppies

The ASPCA has compiled a comprehensive list of plants that have been reported to pose an issue for pets. The list also includes plants that are relatively safe for pets, so pet guardians know what they can safely plant in their garden!

Restroom

Another critical area of the home for pet poison prevention are restrooms. According to the ASPCA, the number one culprit in pet poisonings in 2023 was over-the-counter medication, with prescription medication not too far behind. Make sure these items are stowed away safely in a cupboard or medicine cabinet where pets are unable to reach them.

Additional hazards for pets in restrooms include…

  • Any and all cleaning products
  • Toothpaste and mouthwash
  • Vitamins and supplements
  • Essential oils, perfumes, and colognes
  • Laundry detergents and bleach
  • Other cosmetic products, such as lotion
A tabby cat sniffs the inside of a full grocery bag. The kitchen is often a hub for hazards which need pet poison prevention measures to be taken.

Steps You Can Take Towards Pet Poison Prevention

The number one thing pet guardians can do to protect their furry friends from poisoning is to pet-proof the home. Though it may seem like a daunting task, putting in a little effort to ensure each area of the home is safe for your pets leads to a huge return on investment!

Additionally, supervising pets or setting up a safe room or area (such as a crate) that they can occupy while you are unable to watch them is key to pet poison prevention.

In case of emergency, we recommend having the phone numbers of both your emergency veterinarian and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on hand. If you believe your pet has accessed something toxic, please contact one of these resources immediately.

Humane Society of Utah to Distribute 100 Cat Spay/Neuter Vouchers on World Spay Day

Posted on by Shae

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Feb. 24, 2025
Media Alert 
Humane Society of Utah to Distribute 100 Cat Spay/Neuter Vouchers on World Spay Day

WHO:

The Humane Society of Utah (HSU)

WHAT:

In celebration of World Spay Day, HSU is distributing 100 spay/neuter vouchers for cat owners. Each voucher provides a $100 discount on a spay/neuter procedure and includes a free FVRCP vaccination and booster, made possible by Petco Love Foundation.

WHEN:

Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, starting at 8 a.m. (while supplies last)

WHERE:

Humane Society of Utah Murray Clinic

4242 South 300 West, Murray, UT

Murray, Utah, Feb. 25, 2025—The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) welcomes the media to attend and report on its World Spay Day event. HSU will distribute one hundred $50 cat spay vouchers. These vouchers will provide community members with a $100 discount off regularly priced producers. Vouchers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 8 a.m. at the Murray clinic. 

Voucher recipients must present their voucher at check-in to receive the $100 discount on a cat spay/neuter procedure. An appointment is required, and all cats must be at least 16 weeks old and up to date on their FVRCP vaccination to qualify for surgery. Cat owners may also use the vouchers for neuter procedures. Thanks to the generosity of Petco Love Foundation, voucher recipients will also receive a free FVRCP vaccination and booster at the time of surgery.


“Spaying and neutering is one of the most effective ways to reduce pet overpopulation and ease the burden on animal shelters,” said Guinnevere Shuster, director of marketing and communications at the Humane Society of Utah. “By preventing unwanted litters, we can ensure that more resources are available for pets already in shelters, giving them a better chance at finding loving homes.”

Vouchers are limited to one per household and expire on Dec. 31, 2025. World Spay Day, an annual campaign by the Humane Society of the United States, highlights the importance of spaying and neutering pets to reduce pet overpopulation.

Suggested Tweet: 🐱💙 In honor of #WorldSpayDay, @UtahHumane is giving away 100 cat spay/neuter vouchers ($100 discount) starting at 8 a.m. on Feb. 25! First come, first served at 4242 South 300 W in Murray.  Plus, get a free FVRCP vaccine and booster, thanks to @PetcoLove.

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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 

Last Litter: An Important (and Adorable!) Community Resource

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
Four kittens sit on a rainbow blanket against a white backdrop promoting the Last Litter program.

Have you heard of the Humane Society of Utah’s Last Litter program? This program was designed for pet guardians who need help getting their mother pet spayed and rehoming her final litter of puppies or kittens.

A Last Litter kitten peers out from inside a blanket fort. Only their eyes and nose are visible.

The Origins of Last Litter

HSU created the Last Litter program in 2021 after seeing an influx of kittens in the community. The program was later opened to puppies in 2023.

“We started our Last Litter program out of a deep respect for mama cats and dogs and the people who love them, but who were unable to access spay services to prevent unintentional breeding,” said Juli Ulvestad, HSU’s Pet Resource Center Director.

“The benefit we hadn’t planned on is that the program has drawn litters of puppies and kittens to HSU who otherwise may have been given away without vaccination or spay/neuter themselves, so their guardian can take advantage of the free spay for mama.  This means those puppies and kittens won’t ever have an accidental litter themselves and increases the impact of this program exponentially.”

Two kittens pose against a white backdrop promoting Last Litter. One cat is tortoiseshell, and the other is a brown tabby.

How It Works

The first step for pet guardians signing up for Last Litter is to fill out an application on our website. A $30 deposit towards the $100 intake fee is required to hold an appointment. Program requirements to be aware of include…

  • Kittens in a qualifying litter must be between 2 and 5 months old and weigh at least 2 lbs.
  • Puppies in a qualifying litter must be between 2 and 4 months old and weigh at least 2 lbs.
  • The mother pet must be sufficiently healthy for surgery and safely handleable for staff
  • Qualifying pets must be owned pets rather than stray or community pets

On the morning of the Last Litter appointment, pet guardians drop their mother pet off at our clinic for her spay procedure. In the afternoon, pet guardians should bring her last litter to our Admissions Department for intake into HSU’s care. Then, mama can go home with her human family, and her puppies or kittens will be prepped for adoption!

Although Last Litter is for owned pets, The Humane Society of Utah also has options for community cat caregivers. CATNIP is HSU’s TNR (trap, neuter, return) program, created to serve free-roaming cats in the area. You can learn more about CATNIP and schedule an appointment on our website.

“We wanted to figure out a way to address overpopulation concerns while providing services for the mother pet and current litter,” said Amber Henry, HSU’s Senior Manager of Admissions and Pet Resources. “Last Litter has continued to grow year to year, and we are excited with how popular it has been!”

Why You Should Spay or Neuter Your Pet Before Six Months of Age

Posted on by Guinn

Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most responsible and impactful decisions you can make as a pet owner. While these procedures are beneficial at any age, performing them before your pet reaches six months of age provides unique advantages for both your pet and the community.

At the Humane Society of Utah, we’re passionate about educating pet owners on the importance of early spay/neuter. We are excited to offer a special promotion at our St. George clinic to help make it easier than ever.

Why Spay or Neuter Before Six Months of Age?

1. Prevent Unwanted Litters

Did you know cats and dogs can mature sexually at four to six months old? By spaying or neutering your pet before this age, you eliminate the risk of accidental litters and help reduce the number of homeless animals entering shelters each year.

2. Health Benefits

Early spay or neuter can help protect your pet from certain cancers and infections. For female pets, spaying before their first heat cycle significantly lowers the risk of uterine infections and breast cancer. Neutering males can prevent testicular cancer and reduce the risk of prostate issues.

3. Behavioral Improvements

Spaying and neutering can also prevent hormone-driven behaviors such as roaming/escaping, spraying/marking, or aggression. Pets who undergo these procedures early are often calmer, more focused on their people, and better companions.

4. Easier Recovery

Younger pets recover more quickly from spay or neuter surgery than older animals. At six months or younger, pets experience shorter healing times and fewer post-operative complications, making it an ideal time for the procedure.

Special Offer: $25/$15 Off Spay/Neuter for Dogs/Cats Under Six Months!

To encourage early spay and neuter, the Humane Society of Utah’s St. George clinic offers $25 off spay and neuter procedures for dogs under six months of age!

Here’s what you need to know:

• Eligibility: This offer applies to dogs and cats six months of age or younger at the time of the procedure (not the time of scheduling).

• Offer Period: The promotion will run until May 1, 2025.

• How to Schedule: Contact our St. George clinic to book your pet’s spay or neuter appointment online; enter code EARLY to receive $25 off a puppy spay/neuter or $15 off a kitten spay/neuter.

Why Take Action Now?

Spaying or neutering your pet early is a simple yet profound way to improve their quality of life, protect their health, and contribute to the fight against pet overpopulation. By scheduling your pet’s surgery before six months of age, you’ll give them the best possible start while ensuring your community benefits as well.

Protect Your Dog: The Importance of the Leptospirosis Vaccine

Posted on by Guinn
A dog poses outside near a stream, which is one of the places pets can commonly contract Leptospirosis.

The Humane Society of Utah’s Murray Clinic now offers the Leptospirosis vaccine in accordance with the updated guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association. This vaccine helps protect dogs from Leptospirosis, a serious, potentially life-threatening, and preventable disease.

What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can affect both animals and humans. It is transmitted through contact with the urine of infected wildlife, typically from contaminated water sources such as puddles, lakes, or rivers. Dogs that spend time outdoors or near wildlife are at risk. 

The infection can cause severe health problems, including kidney and liver failure, and may be life-threatening. Dogs that recover from Leptospirosis can continue to shed the bacteria in their urine, putting other pets and people at risk. If you suspect your dog is ill, please take them to a full-service veterinarian.

Why is Vaccination Important?

Vaccinating your dog against Leptospirosis is the most effective way to prevent the disease. It also helps reduce the risk of transmission in the community. Vaccination protects your dog and those around them from exposure to this potentially harmful disease.

Vaccination Options at the Murray Clinic

The Murray Clinic offers two convenient vaccination options:

  1. DAPP/Leptospirosis Combination Vaccine: This vaccine covers multiple core illnesses, including Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Leptospirosis. The cost is $50, and no appointment is needed. The leptospirosis vaccine requires a booster 3-4 weeks after the first time it is given and then once yearly after that.
  2. Individual Leptospirosis Vaccine: For dogs not due for the DAPP vaccine, the standalone Leptospirosis vaccine is available at a reduced price of $30 per dose (previously $45). No appointment is needed.

Protect Your Pet Today

Leptospirosis is a serious disease, but it’s preventable with proper care. The Murray Clinic offers affordable and accessible vaccination options to help protect your dog.

Visit the clinic today to take advantage of these services. We’re open Monday–Friday:9:00 am–11:45 am / 1:00 pm-5:45 pm Saturday: 9:00 am–11:45 am / 1:00 pm-3:45, and no appointment is necessary. To learn more, visit www.utahhumane.org/clinic-locations/murray-clinic

An Important Service: Bristol’s Story

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Veterinarians in surgery

There is nothing more heartbreaking than watching your pet suffer, especially when you are not sure how to get the help they need. Bristol was a sweet senior dog who needed urgent dental care. She had a bad infection in her teeth which would become fatal if left untreated. Affordable dental care for pets is extremely hard to find, and pet guardians often have limited options. Luckily, the Humane Society of Utah St. George Clinic can provide a low-cost option in some emergency cases, thanks to the generous support of our community. We believe in keeping pets and families together whenever we can. Sometimes, an affordable veterinary service can make all the difference.

Finding Veterinary Service

The first thing our staff noticed about Bristol when she arrived at the St. George clinic was her sweet nature. She was friendly and excited to meet everyone at the clinic. However, under her sweet and goofy personality, Bristol was suffering. Many senior dogs experience dental issues. But Bristol’s case was so severe, she was no longer eating. Her guardian, N. Joy Witte, was extremely concerned and determined to help her beloved pet. 

Joy tried desperately to find the help she needed for her dog, but dental procedures are very expensive. That is when she turned to the St. George clinic. When we saw the severity of Bristol’s condition, we knew we had to do something. We offered to complete the procedure at a price Joy could afford. Then we got to work! Staff remember that Bristol was very sweet and good natured, even as she went through her exam and treatment.

Bristol the small tan dog

Bristol’s Beginning

Bristol’s story began long before she ever came to the St. George clinic. She was found as a stray pup ten years ago in Kentucky, emaciated and covered in fleas. A couple of kind strangers took her in, cared for her, and gave her a good home. However, after moving to Utah, they found they could not keep her any longer. That is when she found a new home with Joy. In her new home Bristol quickly became a part of the family. She fit right in with her human family members, as well as her two rescue dog siblings. Joy remembers when her husband was in hospice and Bristol formed a special connection with him. She would sit on his bed, giving love and cuddles until the day he passed. In the days since his passing, Bristol has been a source of love and companionship for the rest of the family. As Joy describes, “Bristol and I are best friends.”

Stories like this are a reminder of why affordable veterinary care is important for our community. Pets are so much more than animals who share a space with us. They are our family members and a source of comfort in our toughest times. There is no better feeling than sending an animal home to their family, happy and healthy! Joy explains, “they not only took care of Bristol, but also me. We will be forever grateful!”

Bristol the dog and her two dog siblings at home

Support for Affordable Veterinary Services

Bristol’s story might have had a very different ending without the support of our community. Thanks to our caring donors we can offer low-cost emergency care for pets like Bristol. Our affordable community services are made possible thanks to individual donor support, as well as generous funding partners. HSU is incredibly grateful to the Grey Muzzle Organization for providing grant funds to make dentals for senior dogs affordable to clients who need them most. If you want to help more pets in our community get the help they need, you can make a donation to the Humane Society of Utah. Today, we are thrilled to report that Bristol is back to her happy and healthy self, enjoying life with her beloved family. We think this is a perfect ending for a sweet and deserving pup like Bristol!

Adopt a Senior Pet: They May Be Your Perfect Fit!

Posted on by Maddie Cushing
Ferdinand, an adoptable senior pet at the Humane Society of Utah, tilts his head and looks up into the camera.

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and we wholeheartedly believe that our furry friends age like fine wine! So, we’ve come up with just a few reasons why adopting a senior pet may be your perfect fit.

Kito, an adoptable senior pet at the Humane Society of Utah, lies on a bed and looks into the camera.

1. You Can Bet on Senior Pets!

    When you adopt a senior pet, what you see is often what you get! When it comes to older pets, you already have basic information like their adult size, whether they’ll need to be groomed, and even elements of their purr-sonality!

    2. Oodles of Training? Not When You Adopt a Senior Pet!

    Want to avoid the dreaded potty training stage? Adopting a senior pet can, more often than not, help you do that! It’s not just that, either: many senior pets come with a myriad of manners ready to go! Whether you’re looking for a pup who walks nicely on a leash or a kitty who doesn’t scratch up the furniture, a senior pet could very well fit the bill.

    That said, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be an adjustment period while your furry friend gets used to their new home. We go by the rule of threes at the Humane Society of Utah, which you can learn more about here!

    3. Old Dogs CAN Learn New Tricks!

    We’ve all heard the old adage, but it couldn’t be further from the truth! If there’s a new cue that you’d like your pet to learn, don’t count a senior pet out. Seniors tend to have a greater attention span than a puppy or kitten, which means they often pick up cues even faster than their younger counterparts.

    4. Plenty of Loving Years Ahead of You

    Just because an animal has reached senior status doesn’t mean their golden years will be short-lived! Cats, in particular, routinely live into their late teens or early twenties, signifying that you could easily have a decade or more left together when you adopt a senior pet. Just make sure to keep up on vet visits and be sure your furry friend has the proper care for a good, long life.

    5. Save a Life… And Your Wallet!

    Many animal welfare organizations offer discounts, or even entirely waive, adoption fees for senior pets. This means you can rescue a new best friend without breaking the bank! At the Humane Society of Utah, our senior pets are “Name Your Own Price,” meaning adopters can choose what they’d like to contribute towards their furry family member’s adoption fee.

      Bentley, an adoptable senior pet at the Humane Society of Utah, lounges in some grass and looks at the camera.

      They say that the best friends are old friends! Adopt a senior pet today from the Humane Society of Utah and find out firsthand just how true that is!