Tag: Press Release

Kitten Season is Here! What to do if you Find Stray Kittens

Posted on by Maddie Cushing

As the weather gets warmer, an influx of stray cats give birth, marking the beginning of Kitten Season. Kitten Season is arriving early this year, prompted by a milder winter. This led to an uptick in phone calls from concerned citizens about stray kittens and cats they have found.

“Kitten season brings an influx of kittens into our community, but discovering a litter does not necessarily mean they are in distress,” said Juli Ulvestad, Pet Resource Director at the Humane Society of Utah. Ulvestad emphasized the importance of understanding the needs of these young felines, stating, “In the first few weeks of life, kittens’ best chance of survival is with their mother.”

You’ve Found Stray Kittens. Now What?

HSU advises the public to leave stray kittens where they are found in most cases. We know this advice can be difficult to heed after so many years of hearing that kittens should be brought to the shelter. However, data shows that kittens have a much better chance of survival if left where their mother cat can care for them. Even kittens who appear unattended likely have a mother cat looking out for them. Should her kittens go missing, the mother will be distressed.

There are a few cases in which leaving stray kittens may not be the best course of action. If the kittens are cold, malnourished, overly dirty, or appear sickly and you haven’t seen a mother cat return within a few hours of finding them, HSU suggests either fostering or contacting your local animal services. Should you feel equipped to care for and bottle-feed the kittens until they are old enough to be spayed or neutered, fostering may be a good option. If not, your animal services department will help you determine the next best steps for the kittens.

What About Adult Cats?

In the case that you are finding stray adult cats, HSU suggests a Trap Neuter Return program. TNR programs humanely trap cats and bring them to a shelter to be spayed or neutered. Next, the cats are then returned to the area where they were found. HSU offers humane trap rental and a TNR program for stray cats, learn more and sign up at utahhumane.org/catnip.

The Humane Society of Utah Celebrates June as Adopt a Cat Month

Posted on by Shae
Women looks at shelter cat while giving it chin scratches in Kitty City.

Contact: Guinn Shuster

Email: [email protected]

Cell: 801-638-4685

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 1, 2023

News Release

The Humane Society of Utah Celebrates June as Adopt a Cat Month, Highlighting the Benefits of Feline Adoption

Murray, Utah, June 1, 2023 — The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) is thrilled to announce the arrival of June, officially designated as Adopt a Cat Month, a time to celebrate the joys and rewards of feline companionship. As the leading animal welfare organization in the state, HSU encourages potential pet parents to consider adopting a cat or kitten from their shelters and experience the numerous benefits of feline adoption.

With an array of adorable cats and kittens eagerly awaiting loving homes, the Humane Society of Utah invites the community to explore the possibility of bringing a furry friend into their lives. “Adoption is a life-changing decision that not only enriches the lives of the adopter and the adopted but also saves the lives of countless animals in need.” Said Guinnevere Shuster, Director of Marketing & Communications at the Humane Society of Utah.

During Adopt a Cat Month, HSU emphasizes the following advantages of adopting a cat or kitten from their shelters:

  1. Lifelong Companionship: Cats provide loyal companionship and unconditional love. Whether curling up on your lap or greeting you with a purr after a long day, cats are known for their unique ability to bring joy and comfort to their owners.
  2. Health and Happiness: Numerous studies have shown that interacting with cats can have a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. Cats are excellent stress relievers, helping to reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure.
  3. Save a Life: By adopting a cat from HSU, you become a hero by giving an animal a second chance at life. Each adoption opens up space in the shelter, allowing HSU to rescue and care for more animals in need.
  4. Expert Guidance and Support: The Humane Society of Utah provides valuable resources and assistance to adopters, ensuring a smooth transition for both the cat and their new family. From behavioral tips to medical guidance, HSU is committed to supporting the bond between pets and their owners.
  5. Pre-Adoption Care: All cats and kittens available for adoption at HSU receive thorough medical examinations, necessary vaccinations, microchipping, teeth cleanings if needed, and are spayed or neutered before joining their new families.

To learn more about Adopt a Cat Month events and view the available cats and kittens, visit the Humane Society of Utah’s website at www.utahhumane.org. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #AdoptACatMonth and help spread the word about the importance of feline adoption.

Photos/b-roll of current adoptable cats/kittens at HSU 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 Utah Humane Society 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 nonprofit animal resource center in the state, 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 

$5,000 Reward Offered for South Jordan Bird Shootings

Posted on by Shae
Woman's hands holding a piece of white paper that says reward on it.

Contact: Guinn Shuster

Email: [email protected]

Cell: 801-638-4685

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 20, 2023

News Release

$5,000 Reward Offered for South Jordan Bird Shootings

Salt Lake City, Utah, May  20, 2023 — The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for the shooting of waterfowl in the Daybreak neighborhood of South Jordan, Utah. HSU hopes the reward assists the South Jordan Police Department in obtaining information required to identify and charge whoever is responsible for this allegedly intentional act of animal cruelty.

“Shooting animals and leaving them to suffer in pain is cruel,” said Guinnevere Shuster, HSU Director of Marketing and Communications. “Most birds are protected by law, and injuring them is a federal crime. If you commit a wildlife violation, you could lose the privilege of hunting and fishing in Utah. In addition, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources can suspend the license of anyone who knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly violates wildlife laws.”


Anyone with information about the Daybreak neighborhood incidents can contact the South Jordan Police at (801) 254-4708.

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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 nonprofit animal resource center in the state, 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

Dog-Friendly Event at Gateway to Benefit Humane Society of Utah

Posted on by Shae
Silver lab jumps in water fountain at Bark at the Moon event.

Contact: Guinn Shuster

Email: [email protected]

Cell: 801-638-4685

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May  17, 2023

News Release

DOG-FRIENDLY EVENT AT GATEWAY TO BENEFIT HUMANE SOCIETY OF UTAH

Salt Lake City, Utah, May  20, 2023 — Bark at the Moon, presented by Subaru, returns to the Gateway to raise funds for the Humane Society of Utah. Tickets are available for the event online at utahhumane.org/bark or at the Gateway Mall on Sat., May 20, 2023. The Humane Society of Utah invites pet lovers to participate in its dog-friendly event — the funds raised at Bark at the Moon are more important than ever! 

Brian Friedman, Subaru’s Retailer Marketing Manager, said, “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. Animals are near and dear to our hearts at Subaru, as well as our customers. Partnering with HSU allows us to help find loving homes for as many of them as possible through this sponsorship, events like BAM, as well as adoption events held at our stores here in Utah throughout the year. Loving pets is part of our DNA at Subaru and that is why when you visit the majority of our stores, you will find Dog Parks onsite, treats on the counters and in some cases adopted animals who have become part of the Team!”

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children and can be purchased online at utahhumane.org/bark. All proceeds will go directly to the Humane Society of Utah to support its mission of providing shelter, care, and adoption services for homeless animals. The event takes place on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Registration includes fun-filled dog activities, live music, food trucks and drinks, an array of vendor booths, and a night glow walk. 

“We are grateful for the support of the community members and Subaru! After record numbers of dogs being surrendered to our shelter this year, we need their support now more than ever,” said Guinnevere Shuster, Director of Marketing and Communications at Humane Society of Utah. “This event will help us continue to provide the best possible care for the animals in our shelter and find them loving homes.”

Suggested Tweet: Join @utahhumane and other pet lovers for Bark at the Moon on May 20 at The Gateway. Bring your furry friends along too! All proceeds raised from this event go towards the animals in their care. 

Photos/b-roll from Bark at the Moon 2022 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 Utah Humane Society 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 nonprofit animal resource center in the state, 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 

Humane Society of Utah Opens Additional Room of Dog Kennels Due to Overcrowding

Posted on by Shae
dog kennels

Contact: Guinn Shuster

Email: [email protected]

Cell: 801-638-4685

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May  11, 2023

News Release

Humane Society of Utah Opens Additional Room of Dog Kennels Due to Overcrowding

Murray, Utah, May 12, 2023 — The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) has announced opening an extra room of dog kennels due to the high number of large and medium-sized dogs available for adoption. This room was previously reserved for dogs not yet ready for adoption and has been closed to the public for five years. The extra space will house dogs available for adoption this weekend.

According to Guinnevere Shuster, spokesperson for the Humane Society of Utah, adoptions have slowed recently, but the number of dogs being surrendered daily has not decreased. As a result, the Humane Society has been forced to find new ways to accommodate the growing number of dogs in their care.

All adoptable dogs from HSU come spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and dewormed. Adopters also receive follow-up support. Adoption fees range from name your own price for senior dogs to $350 for puppies. HSU’s Adoption Center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 4242 South 300 West in Murray. Available animals are viewable online at utahhumane.org/adopt.

Those unable to commit to adoption can still make an impact by temporarily opening their home to a foster dog. Food, supplies, and medical treatment are provided free of cost to fosters through our foster program. For more information on fostering, visit utahhumane.org/foster.

Suggested Tweet: Overflowing with adoptable dogs. @utahhumane opens an extra room of dog kennels to showcase more adoptable dogs this weekend. 

Photos/b-roll 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 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 nonprofit animal resource center in the state, 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

Humane Society of Utah Alerts Public of a Possible Parasite Outbreak

Posted on by Guinn
Two women examine a black and tan dog.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March  29, 2023

News Release

Humane Society of Utah Alerts Public of a Possible Parasite Outbreak

Murray, Utah, March  29, 2023 — Humane Society of Utah officials are alerting the public of a possible parasite outbreak after several dogs were surrendered from different homes with confirmed cases of Giardia. Giardiasis is a common parasitic infection that can cause diarrhea in dogs. It is caused by an intestinal parasite called Giardia, found in feces-contaminated soil, food, and water. HSU officials believe the cases are tied to people who visit busy off-leash dog parks and hiking areas. 

“As the snow melts, much of the pet waste which was hidden by the snow can now expose dogs to Giardia,” says Dr. Timna Fischbein, DVM, medical director at Humane Society of Utah. “The cysts are trophozoites protected by an outer shell and shed in the dog’s stool. Cysts can survive in the surrounding environment for months. They are instantly infectious, and just a few ingested cysts can cause infection. A dog can easily get infected by grooming themselves and licking the cysts off their paws.”

While this parasite can be spread in several ways, water is the most common way to spread the parasite. Therefore, HSU officials advise avoiding high-traffic areas such as dog parks and foothill trails while muddy and wet.

SYMPTOMS AND INDIVIDUAL PRECAUTIONS:

  • Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, excess foul-smelling gas, decreased appetite, and weight loss.
  • Seek veterinary care if your pet has diarrhea that is not going away. Diarrhea has different causes and could result in dehydration or other serious problems.
  • A licensed veterinarian must make a diagnosis and treatment for Giardia infection.
  • No approved over-the-counter treatment is available for Giardia infection.
  • Clean and disinfect potentially contaminated items (for example, toys, water bowls and food bowls, pet bedding, floors, dog crates, linens, and towels) regularly for as long as your pet is sick.
  • If your pet is taking medication, clean and disinfect potentially contaminated items frequently (daily if possible) until a few days after the last dose of medication is given.
  • Bathe all household pets with pet shampoo following medical treatment to ensure no feces are in the pet’s coat.

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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 Utah Humane Society has been sheltering homeless animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and creating an atmosphere of respect, responsibility, and compassion for all animals. As the largest open-admission private animal resource center in the state, the Utah Humane 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 

Humane Society of Utah Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips For Pets

Posted on by Guinn

Contact: Guinn Shuster                        
Email: [email protected]   

News Release
Humane Society of Utah Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips For Pets

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 27, 2022

News Release
Humane Society of Utah Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips For Pets

Murray – UT, May 20, 2022 – As the temperatures rise, it is important that pets and pet owners alike take precautions to stay safe and healthy in the summer heat. While many animals spend quite a bit of their time outdoors, some extra precautions are necessary this time of year to prevent heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and other hot-weather ailments.

The Humane Society suggests the following hot weather tips this summer season:

  • Keep pets indoors more often during extreme heat, do not leave them outside all day
  • Make sure pets have a cool place to retreat to in the yard, such as a shady spot. Keep in mind that some outdoor dog houses can be hotter than the outdoor temps
  • Cool and fresh water should be available to pets at all times, both indoors and outdoors
  • If the asphalt is too hot for your hands and feet, it is too hot for your pets. Place your hand on the sidewalk for 10 seconds to test the temperature
  • Check pets for ticks, foxtails, and grass seeds following outdoor activity
  • Ensure that your yard is free of plants that are toxic to dogs and cats such as lilies, sago palms, and rhododendrons, and be careful with the use of insecticides and weed killers, which may be poisonous for your pets
  • If your pet wants to share your plate at a summer BBQ, know what foods are not pet-safe, such as onions, avocados, olives, garlic, grapes, cooked bones, and alcohol
  • Do not leave pets unattended near water– not all pets can swim! Limit the amount of pool water your pets drink, chlorine and other chemicals can be dangerous, and rinse your pets off after taking a swim in chlorinated or salty water.
  • If you have a brachycephalic (short-nosed, flat-faced) breed such as a pug, persian cat, or any type of bulldog, know that their short noses cause them to overheat quicker than other animals. Overweight and older pets are also at higher risk for heatstroke, so keep these furry friends in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible
  • Do not leave pets unattended in vehicles! Doing so is a major risk for heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and heat-related death.

5th Annual Bark at the Moon Dog-Friendly Event Returns to The Gateway

Posted on by Guinn

Contact: Guinn Shuster

Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: May 20, 2022

Media Alert 

5th annual Bark at the Moon dog-friendly event returns to The Gateway on May 21, 2022 

Salt Lake City — Utah, May 21, 2022 Join us this Saturday from 4-8 p.m. for a family fun event that will raise funds to support the lifesaving programs at the Humane Society of Utah (HSU). The fundraiser is Presented by Mountain West Veterinary Specialist and supported by Fuzzy, Subaru USA, and The Arrow. Ticket prices begin at $20 and include admission to the festival. Dogs must be six months of age or older, up to date on vaccinations, and socialized with other dogs and people. 

“This is a fun community event to raise money for our homeless companion animals,” said Kaya Nielsen, HSU event manager. “We’re excited to return to The Gateway this year and grateful to the participating businesses for their support that allows us to bring people and pets together.”

The fundraising event will feature over 35 local vendors, food trucks, craft beer, live music, a splash zone for the dogs, a food truck for the dogs, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, and more. 

“We are excited to be a part of Bark at the Moon and support the Humane Society of Utah with all the wonderful work they do for homeless pets in Utah,” said Kirsten Gull, Mountain West Veterinary Specialists spokesperson. “We are so glad to be part of this great community and love to be able to give back and support our local shelters, rescues, nonprofit organizations, and educational programs.

At 8 p.m., pets and people can participate in a group stroll around The Gateway.

$5,000 reward offered for Utah puppy thrown from a car window

Posted on by Guinn

Contact: Guinn Shuster                         
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 17, 2022

News Release
$5,000 reward offered for Utah puppy thrown from a car window

Murray – Utah, May 17, 2022 — Humane Society of Utah offers a $5,000 reward for information leading to arrest and conviction in Malin’s case. According to Kevin Hansen of the South Salt Lake Animal Services, a bystander saw a 2-month-old puppy thrown from a moving car at 3300 S 300 W on Friday, May 13, 2022. South Salt Lake Animal Services named the critically injured puppy “Malin,” who is now receiving medical attention for two broken legs, two fractured ribs, and a punctured lung.

The Humane Society of Utah’s advocacy director, Rachel Heatley, praised South Salt Lake Animal Services’ response. “South Salt Lake Animal Services handled Malin’s injuries with urgency and deep compassion, ensuring Malin received the treatment she needed,” she said. “We only hope this reward will help bring the perpetrators of this cruelty to justice.”   

Malin is currently in the care of South Salt Lake Animal Services and will be brought into a foster home to help her heal this evening. The Humane Society of Utah is grateful for the tireless efforts of animal control officers in helping animals like Malin and caring for animals in our community. 

The Humane Society of Utah urges anyone with information regarding who injured Malin to contact the South Salt Lake Animal Service’s Office dispatch at 801-840-4000. Any tipster can choose to remain anonymous.