Truffle is THE BEST. Whether he's playing with other dogs, tennis balls, stuffed toys, or the agility course, Truffle is the best at whatever he sets his mind to! This 1 year old speckled heeler boy is SO much fun and is always ready to party. Truffle has boundless energy and would love to find a home where he can be busy and active!
Meet Truffle at HSSA Main Campus at 635 W. Roger Rd or give us a call at (520) 327-6088 ext 173 for more information.
This past year has left a lot of families in our community struggling to keep and care for their pets. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA) is calling on the community's help to assist pets and their families in need.
Join HSSA on April 17th from 10:00am-12:00pm at Thoroughbred Nissan located 5140 E. 22nd Street, Tucson, AZ 85711 as they collect donated pet food to fill up an entire ambulance. HSSA is encouraging people to stop by to donate wet or dry pet food, and is also accepting monetary donations.
Donated food will be used for HSSA's Monthly Pet Food Distribution, in which families that are struggling to feed their pets can stop by to receive free pet food. The distribution happens the first Sunday of every month from 8am-10am at HSSA's Main Campus, 635 W. Roger Rd.
"We know that times are tough right now, and some people may be forced to make difficult choices in regards to feeding their pet" says Hannah Carl, HSSA Public Relations Lead. "No person or pet should go hungry, and it is our hope that this monthly distribution will offer a little bit of help to those families in need."
If you are unable to attend the event in person and still want to help out, please make a donation online at the link below and help HSSA purchase wholesale pet food for families in need.
Snakes. The very word alone can send some people into an instant panic. A reaction that humans seemingly have exhibited since the dawn of our existence. Why is that? Well, you see, humans and snakes have coevolved for quite a significant length of time, nearly 40 to 60 millions years to be exact, and it is likely that our early ancestors had unpleasant interactions with snakes that created an evolutionary change in our reaction to these animals. As we’ve evolved, the threat of snakes has subsided substantially, however, our threat to them has increased insurmountably. It’s important to understand how our relationship with snakes began, so we can better overcome this fear, and more importantly, combat the misconceptions surrounding snakes that are costing them their lives. Read on to learn more about the training we offer to keep your pet and your family safe from rattlesnakes!
Our own backyard is home to one of the most identifiable snakes in the Western United States, the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. A heavy-statured reptile known for its triangular-shaped head and the beautiful diamond-shaped patterns that cascade down its back, the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake has quite a reputation in these parts, but the last thing we should be of these unique creatures is afraid. So, how can we help stop this? Well, Steve Irwin said it best when he said, “If we can teach people about wildlife, they will be touched. Share my wildlife with me. Because humans want to save things that they love.”
Let’s share and learn about our wildlife! The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake can be found in a variety of different environments from the sandy, dry desert to the more humid and lush hillsides of the coast throughout the Southwestern United States and Northern half of Mexico. One fun fact about these reptiles is that they have an adaptation called a heat sensing pit, allowing them to sense variances in temperature, that is so accurate it can detect variances as minute as a fraction of a degree of difference. How cool is that!? Although, probably the most intriguing fact about rattlesnakes is that they are more like us than we think. A recent study revealed that they actually have friends. Just like you and me! In an article for National Geographic, Founder of Advocates for Snake Preservation and herpetologist, Melissa Amarello expanded on that notion stating that, “they’re shy, gentle creatures with rich family lives. They can have friends. They take care of their kids.” It’s fun to discover that our wild neighbors aren’t so different from us after all, don’t you think?
So, how is the Humane Society of Southern Arizona doing its part? Well, we offer Rattlesnake Avoidance Training throughout the spring to the fall that helps to protect your dog and your family from rattlesnakes. In these classes, piloted by local animal experts from Arizona Animal Experts, Inc. and Adobe Dog Training, your dog will learn how to recognize the presence of a rattlesnake, avoid it, and warn you in time to prevent an expensive and potentially deadly encounter. Minimizing our encounters with rattlesnakes saves their lives and ours. Learn more here!
Snakes are vital to the balance of the ecosystem here. We must respect them and their right to exist. We don’t expect everyone to fall in love with these reptiles, but, we hope that what you take away from this is a newfound respect for these complex creatures and that you think twice about taking their life the next time you encounter one. Remember, this was their land first.
Information Sources
National Geographic | www.nationalgeographic.com
Arizona Sonora Desert Museum | www.desertmuseum.org
“Woof! That’s dog-speak for ‘Adopt me!’ My name is Fluffy and I am a 7 year old boy. I was found as a stray wandering around an outlet mall shopping for a new family, and a kind human brought me to HSSA to find a family here instead. I am goofy and affectionate! I love to lean on people and I expect nothing in return. I get along with other dogs and I am very playful!"
Meet me at HSSA Main Campus at 635 W. Roger Rd. or call (520) 327-6088 ext 173 for more information.
Typically when you hear of training a pet, your immediate thought goes to dogs. Cats hardly ever seem to enter into that conversation, but that is all about to change. Cats are perceived to be highly independent, stubborn, and bursting of free will, and, while that is true, those attributes have led humans to assume training their cat is unnecessary and impossible. This is the first mistake many cat-owners make and nothing could be farther from the truth. In fact, a cat can be taught certain behaviors that benefit both it and its human companion.
The fact of the matter is, by not actively training your cat, you are in fact training your cat. This often ends up with the cat learning the exact behaviors you don’t want them to learn. It’s a confusing and vicious circle. Let me try to explain. Have you ever yelled “stop!” at your cat for doing something like clawing at the furniture and then picked them up to move them away from said furniture? While it may feel like you’re correcting the bad behavior, instead you are inadvertently rewarding it by offering attention. Therefore, the cat will continue the behavior that is getting them the reaction that they like. Not good. So, how do you fix it? It’s simple really. Just reverse what you were doing before. Reward the good behavior and pay no attention to the bad behavior.
It’s all about the power of positivity and patience. Trust us, you’ll need it. Attempting to unlearn a behavior is a very difficult thing to do for an animal. It’s also a difficult time for the pet-parents who have to endure the “extinction burst”. This is the time where you have to stay strong and stick to your plan because your cat will begin trying everything and anything to get your attention doing the behavior you once unknowingly rewarded them for. Meowing ten times louder, scratching the furniture more, urinating more… you get the picture. It’s difficult and you may want to pull your hair out, but the reward is entirely worth it. Once this time is over, then you can really get into training your cat new, positive behaviors!
As you begin training remember these important tips: (1) be sure to use food rewards your cat is excited about, (2) train in very short sessions, (3) don’t force them to progress too quickly, and (4), the most important of all, be loving and be positive. The effort to train your cat is worth it. It makes it easier for you to care for them and it allows you and your cat to bond and build a loving, trusting relationship.
Sources
National Geographic | www.nationalgeographic.com
Ceesa is a gentle and talkative senior kitty with no plans to slow down any time soon. Ceesa may have short hair right now, but she’ll eventually grow a full, long, and fluffy coat. She’s 8 year old and loves nothing more than having her head scratched. She’s playful, social, and loves attention. Ceesa is looking for a laid-back home where she can relax and receive lots of love.
Meet Ceesa at the Humane Society of Southern Arizona at 635 W Roger Rd or call (520) 327-6088 ext 173 for more information.
This Tuesday, April 6th is Arizona Gives Day and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA) is counting on the generosity of the Tucson community to help raise $75,000 for homeless pets in need.
Arizona Gives is a collaboration between the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits and Arizona Grantmakers that raises awareness about Arizona nonprofits and the critical role they play in our communities and state. Arizona Gives Day inspires people to give generously to nonprofits making our state stronger, creating a thriving community for all.
HSSA is a private nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, It is not a department of the federal, state, county or city government, nor is it a branch of, or affiliated with, any other charitable organization. HSSA doesn't receiving any funding from the state or county, and relies completely on donations for support.
HSSA wants to share the heartfelt and inspiring stories of pets whose lives have been directly impacted by generous donors. Maggie, the 12 year old Shih Tzu, was abandoned outside the front gates of HSSA in a cardboard box, with severely dirty and matted fur, and covered in insects. Her life was saved by HSSA's Second Chance Fund. She is now healthy and eagerly awaiting adoption.
Charlotte, a 1 year old tortoiseshell cat was badly burned in a fire. She has been receiving treatment by HSSA's Medical Staff for several months, and will continue to recuperate until she is stable enough for adoption.
These stories and more are available to view online at HSSAZ.org/AZGD
Hannah Carl, HSSA Public Relations Lead says, "It's so important to us that the community feel connected to the work we are doing, which is why we're showcasing these stories. We want our supporters to see all of the amazing things that we're able to do because of their donations."
In addition to helping stray and abandoned pets, HSSA also acts as a valuable partner to other local animal shelters. When Pima Animal Care Center (PACC) took in a large hoarding case of over 40 dogs last week, HSSA was on the scene to help ease the burden.
Steve Farley, HSSA CEO says, "As the leading independent community-supported animal welfare organization in Southern Arizona, HSSA is helping the Pima County shelter deal with this difficult situation by accepting some of the animals into our shelter and preparing them for adoption to loving homes. As has been our mission for the last 76 years, we always stand ready to save the lives of pets in trouble wherever they are found."
The dogs that were rescued from the hoarding situation and are now in HSSA's care are undergoing medical and will be available for adoption soon.
Your donation honors HSSA's 75+ year commitment to serving pets and the people who love them of all of Southern Arizona.
How far would you go to keep your pet safe? If you are reading this blog, the answer is undoubtedly, “Whatever it takes.” That’s why HSSA offers Rattlesnake Avoidance Training. Although we might not always see them, in our part of the country rattlesnakes are all around us. Dogs can tell when a rattlesnake is near through smell, but that often makes them curious, drawing them closer to danger. They have to be taught that snakes are bad news.
By setting aside an hour to attend the Humane Society of Southern Arizona’s Rattlesnake Avoidance Training, you will help your dog learn how to use all of their senses to stay safe from rattlesnakes. Most importantly, you will learn how your best friend will react when a rattlesnake is near in a safe, controlled environment. Knowing how to spot cues from your canine when danger is near will keep you safe as well, and potentially save both of your lives! If your dog is at least 6 months of age with proof of vaccinations the time to register is NOW.
Training is conducted by the professionals from Animal Experts, Inc. and A-dobe Dog Training.
12 year old Gracie shouldn’t be in a shelter kennel. She came to HSSA when her owner passed away. She’s as sweet as can be and loves affection. She’ll give you a quiet little meow when she wants your attention, and would love nothing more than a nice home with some warm laps to rest in.
You can meet Gracie at HSSA Main Campus at 635 W. Roger Rd. or call (520) 327-6088 ext 173 for more information.
Ten years ago I began volunteering with the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. I was part of the Puttin’ on the Dog Committee that worked alongside staff to plan the annual fundraiser, I would have never dreamt this would lead to meeting a special pup named Rico who would change our lives forever. This tiny but mighty Chihuahua was spending all of his time in staff offices proving to be the perfect gentlemen while awaiting his forever home. I had taken his photo to hang in my office in hopes of finding Rico a new family, and one afternoon a staff member who had been caring for this little guy invited me in to spend some time with him. That was all it took — he jumped on my lap and I knew he was coming home to join our family. We already had Gracie, our 9 year old Chi, at home who had the opportunity to come and meet Rico at the shelter to assure they would get along. Rico especially enjoyed attending Humane Society events. We started out with Sweat for Pets, which quickly became his favorite, along with the dog wash at Barrio Brewing and even a chance to sit on Santa’s lap at La Encantada. Adopting Rico was a big decision for our family. However given the chance to build a relationship with an animal and watch them thrive is really irreplaceable. I am forever grateful to the Humane Society for taking him in during a time of need and working carefully to find him the perfect home where there would never be a shortage of warm fuzzy blankets, puppy treats, and unconditional love. We love your Mr. Reeks!
- Kris Slaney, Former HSSA Board Chair and HSSA Adopter
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA) is excited to share that March Muttness™ 2021 has raised over $206,000! March Muttness™ is a virtual fundraising tournament in which 32 shelters across the country compete with each other to raise the most funds to support homeless pets.
This year, HSSA came in 2nd place, losing the championship round to Ten Lives Club, a cat rescue and adoption group in New York.
Steve Farley, HSSA CEO says, "Congratulations to all 32 shelters who competed in March Muttness, and the generous donors who rooted them on with donations. Thanks to you, we raised more than $206,000 to help homeless pets across the country, and along the way we had tons of fun with classic rivalries, Cinderella stories, and dramatic buzzer-beaters. I can’t wait till next year!"
Thanks to March Muttness™ sponsor Pacifico, all 32 animal shelters across the county got to take home at least $500 in prize money.
HSSA would also like to thank Tito's Vodka for sponsoring the Sensational 16 round.
HSSA says they are thrilled to see how many wonderful donors across the country have come out to play for their local shelters. This movement will help countless animals in the year to come.
March Muttness™ was created to help shelters through this uncertain time in history. With your help pets will continue to be cared for no matter what. Thank you for participating and cheering us on!
SPRING HAS COME, and we are celebrating a wonderful season of renewal for the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. We are compassionately serving pets and the people who love them in ways both time-tested and brand new. You can read about many of these important and innovative programs in these pages — programs that only succeed with your support. Thank you.
You have enabled the pets and people we serve to not just survive, but thrive, during a year in which all of us faced many challenges. In June 2020, you provided loving forever homes for more animals than in any month in the previous five years, and our adoption numbers continue to be strong. Because of your generosity, our shelter medical team saved the lives of hundreds of pets who came to our door with life-threatening health issues. Our amazing staff of clinic veterinarians provided high-quality care for pets from low-income families in record numbers—an achievement that, along with increasing our free pet food distribution, helped to meet the needs of our community in a time of crisis. We are moving forward to meet Southern Arizona’s needs in new ways and new places. We have heard your requests, and we are acting.
You told us you wanted more support for training and behavior, so with the help of our dedicated donors, we have begun building a new Education and Behavioral Center, in collaboration with the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine and working with local animal behaviorists, so that we can get you the tools you need to keep your family healthy and happy for your pet’s entire lifetime. And you told us you wanted a new animal services center on Tucson’s eastside. We listened. Later this year we will be opening a new eastside location — with your help we will ramp up adoptions, admissions, clinic services, and much more in the near future. Stay tuned!
With your support, there’s nothing we can’t do to serve pets and the people who love them.
Steve Farley, Chief Executive Officer
Humane Society of Southern Arizona
Sophie is a gentle, adoring, sweetheart who can’t wait to meet you. She’s 4 years old and looking for a forever home where she can blossom into the confident, energetic dog we know she can be! Sophie would do best with a family where she can be the center of your attention. She is eager to make new friends and shake everyone’s hands. Sophie enjoys going for walks, belly rubs, and treats!
Meet her at HSSA Main Campus at 635 W. Roger Rd. or call (520) 327-6088 ext 173 for more information.
Omid is more than just his good looks. This sweet boy is full of love and just wants to snuggle! Omid is 12 years old and looking to retire and spend his golden years with a nice family who can give him lots of pets and love! This well behaved boy is super easy to please. Just give him a little attention and he'll be snuggled up in your lap purring in no time!
Meet Omid at HSSA Main Campus at 635 W. Roger Rd. or call (520) 327-6088 ext 173 for more information.
TRAP NEUTER RETURN (TNR) is the humane trapping of feral cats to be spayed or neutered, vaccinated and medically treated by veterinarians. Once treatment is complete, adult feral cats are typically returned to their colony. If kittens are young enough, they can be placed into a foster or adoption program, decreasing the number of cats living on the streets.
Research has shown that TNR helps to gradually reduce feral cat colony size over time and helps feral cats to live healthier lives. As a result, TNR helps feral cats be better neighbors to the humans and wildlife around them. Ensuring these cats are vaccinated helps community cats avoid diseases that are a public health concern, such as rabies.
Bringing cats into HSSA’s TNR program takes a lot of patience and dedication. Clara Lee Arnold, HSSA’s first TNR Specialist and Community Cat Coordinator, works odd hours often over the weekend and late in the evening. Some days she finds herself hanging out by smelly garbage cans. Other days she crawls into places that leave her covered in dirt and grease.
Clara Lee has been instrumental in helping HSSA perform outreach to underserved areas, helping folks in need of feral colony support. Her skill, knowledge and experience have been vital to the increase in numbers of feral cats the HSSA Clinic has been able to help.
This success has led to the inauguration of a Community Cat Coalition and the creation of a Community Cat Center — with two full-time staff — later in 2021. This program is aiming to make sure no kittens are unwanted in Southern Arizona by 2025. To learn more about HSSA’s TNR program and to make a donation to help us continue this vital community work click here.
Indigo is a handsome boy who knows how to please! He’s 5 years old and like so many huskies, he is very smart and loves to work. But this intelligent and high energy boy loves to snuggle too! Indigo is confident, friendly, and enjoys going on hikes!
Meet Indigo at HSSA Main Campus at 635 W. Roger Rd. or call (520) 327-6088 ext. 173 for more information.
Cover Dog is BACK! And this year it's gone virtual. Does your dog have a great personality and even cuter face? Enter Cover Dog 2021 to win a photoshoot by Tucson Lifestyle magazine and your precious pup could grace the cover of Tucson Lifestyle’s May issue!
Starting February 1st you can submit a photo of your adorable dog along with a short story about them. Then have your friends and family vote for them!
Enter for only $25 and that will get you 25 votes -- each additional vote is only $1, and every dollar supports HSSA, so encourage people to vote often. Check out our social media pages for tips on taking a good photo. The ten dogs with the most votes at 10pm on February 15th will go on to be judged by judges from Tucson Lifestyle Magazine and one lucky winner will make the cover!
Don’t delay - the first 200 entries will also receive a digital mock cover (delivered via email by April 1st, 2021). All proceeds from this event support the pets and programs of the Humane Society of Southern Arizona.
Submit your photo and story NOW at http://bit.ly/HSSACoverDog
Need some tips on how to get a great photo of your dog for the contest? Watch this video to learn how our photographer does it!
Have you had a chance to visit our new storefront in Park Place Mall? We hope you'll visit soon and give us your feedback!
Want to preview the store? Click below to watch our new commercial featuring our unique boutique with collectibles, clothing and of course our Sam Levitz furniture showroom!
