Loree Walden

February is traditionally known as the month of love! If you need a little inspiration to understand and remember what unconditional love is, just take a look at your pets.

We’ve all heard the saying “a dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than it loves itself.” Just look into their eyes and you can feel that love. We can learn so much about love from our pets, like pure devotion to you and you alone! They’ll cuddle up with you when you don’t feel well or have had a bad day, they’re always ready to listen to you and they will never share your secrets. They will never leave you or disappoint you, and they only want to make you happy. They’re always excited to see you, they love to smother you with kisses and can’t wait to go for a walk together. They’re always ready to snuggle up on the couch with you and watch a good movie together and don’t care what movie it is as long as they get to spend time with you. Really, they’re just the perfect example of love!

They don’t care what we look like, what kind of car we drive, what kind of job we have or if we’re rich or poor. They don’t discriminate or hold grudges. However, they are great judges of character and can sense when danger is near. They can sense when we are sick and can help prevent medical emergencies. They can help us lower blood pressure by just petting them. They give emotional support to those who need it and even help the blind get around. They’ll run into a burning building to save you and will always protect you. Really, they’re just the perfect example of true love!

The best part is they don’t expect anything from us except to love them back, keep them safe and of course, feed them. Yes, they love it when we play with them, take them for a ride, go out for an adventure or a special treat – but they don’t expect it! That’s what’s so great about our furry little family members, they just love us – just because! So many lessons to be learned from these wise souls who have blessed our lives with such incredible love!

Now, we can’t forget about our furry little felines. Dog people think dogs hold all the love and devotion, but cats give just as much! I’m blessed to have both in my life, and I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that my cats are just as devoted and loving as my dog! Again, they don’t care what I’m wearing, if I have makeup on or if the house needs vacuuming! They greet me at the door when I come home, rub up against my legs while I’m making dinner, don’t let me go to the bathroom alone and give me endless head bumps while cuddling together.

Cats are also really tuned into our emotions and can be extremely comforting. I’ve had Pooh Bear for 13 years and I can tell you that every time I cry, he comes over to me, jumps on my lap and reaches up and wipes my tears! He looks at me and lets out a gentle little meow that just warms my heart. It’s like he’s saying, “it’s OK Mom, I’m here and I’ll make it all better.” And you know what? He does! He listens to me tell him about why I’m crying or sad and he doesn’t judge me for it. He is just there for me no matter what! We need more people like that in our lives!

It’s why I don’t understand why some people can just abandon their pets. Why would you give up the dog you’ve had for 10 years because he doesn’t get along with your new puppy? Why would you move to a new apartment/home and leave your beloved dog or cat behind because they don’t accept pets? Why would you leave your dog chained up outside in the cold and not let them inside to cuddle with you and share a warm bed? These animals have feelings, emotions, feel pain and deserve to be loved as much as they love us, unconditionally! The love of a pet is like no other love we will ever know.

So, take a moment and look into your pet’s eyes and see the love and devotion they have for you. I’ll end this with words from a song from one of my favorite movies, Grease. It’s a song we can sing to our pets and if they could sing, would sing along right back to us: “I’m hopelessly devoted to you.”

If you’re looking for unconditional love and devotion, please make an appointment at 928-445-2666 to visit Yavapai Humane Society and… feel the love. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

It’s time to get prepared: Winter is in full swing, and it brings the dangers of severe cold weather, snow, ice and even power outages. It’s a good idea to prepare a disaster/emergency kit and include your pet in those preparations. Be sure to have enough non-perishable food, water and any prescription medications for you and your pets, as well as heartworm and flea/tick preventives, on hand to get through at least five days.

Just like us, our pets like a nice, comfy place to sleep and may change their location if they need more or less warmth. I have a small space heater in my bathroom and my cat curls up in front of it and stays there all day and night. Give them options that allow them to change their sleeping place to adapt to their needs. Just like us, they want (and deserve) a nice warm bed to sleep in!

We’ve all seen the heartbreaking pictures of dogs or cats left outdoors during winter storms and snow. Just don’t do it! Let them in; they’re your family, and you wouldn’t want to sleep out in that kind of weather, so why would you make your pet? It’s a common belief that dogs and cats are more resilient than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it’s simply not true. Just like us, they are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, and it can come on quickly. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods in freezing weather. Some dogs love to go out and play in the snow and that’s fine, but don’t leave them out too long where you are putting them in danger! If they get too cold it lowers their immune system, putting them at risk of upper respiratory illnesses and colds, just like us! Never shave your dog down to the skin in the winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. Smaller dogs, short-haired dogs and older dogs should wear a sweater or doggie parka to help keep them warm, and doggie boots are always recommended because they protect their paws from the salt commonly used to de-ice sidewalks.

Speaking of their paws, check them regularly for signs of cold-weather injury or damage, such as cracked paw pads or bleeding. When you get back inside after a walk, wash your pet’s feet, legs and belly to remove deicers, antifreeze or other chemicals that could be toxic to reduce the risk of them being poisoned if they should lick their feet or fur. Antifreeze can be lethal. It tastes sweet to pets but it contains a toxic agent, so be aware if your dog starts sniffing around in a driveway or parking lot, because it’s possible someone may have spilled antifreeze and your dog could consume it. If you think your pet has consumed antifreeze, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Shorter daylight hours and snowy conditions can reduce visibility, increasing the chances of pets getting lost. Ensure your pet wears a collar with identification tags and make sure they are microchipped for added security. To safeguard your pets during the winter season: limit outdoor time, especially during extreme weather, provide warm and dry shelter for outdoor pets, dress pets in protective clothing if they’re comfortable with it, keep them hydrated with fresh water, as hydration is crucial in cold weather, consult your vet about any specific concerns related to your pet’s breed or health condition.

Finally, don’t leave your dog in a car during cold weather, as cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and can cause serious injury or even cause them to freeze to death. Just like in the summer, when your car can literally turn into an oven, in the winter it becomes a freezer.

What it comes down to is this; If it’s too cold for you outside, it’s also too cold for your furry family member. Taking a few extra minutes and some simple precautions can prevent discomfort, illness and injuries to your precious pet during this colder time of year.   

Remember, your furry companions rely on you for their well-being, and a little extra care during cold weather goes a long way in keeping them safe, happy and healthy throughout the winter season. QCBN

By Loree Walden

For more cold weather tips, adoptable animals, information and fun, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, or visit our website at yavapaihumane.org.

For more information on Yavapai Humane Society and our programs, please visit yavapaihumane.org.

It’s hard to believe that 2023 is coming to a close. Where did the year go?

During the holiday season, we think of so many things – things we didn’t do, things we did accomplish, things we want to do in the coming year, and things we are thankful for.

All of us at Yavapai Humane Society are thankful for you, our pet loving community, who have stepped up to support YHS. Your support means more to us than you could ever know. Our animals have the food, housing, medical care, behavior care, training, and love they need and deserve, because of you.

You’ve helped stock our Community Pet Food Pantry to help those in need of assistance to feed their pets and be able to keep them at home where they belong. You’ve provided towels and blankets for all our precious pups and cute kitties to be comfy while they are with us. You’ve stepped up to volunteer to walk our dogs. You’ve donated to support our programs and our pets. You’ve adopted and given a pet a precious home to call their own. YOU are the heartbeat of Yavapai Humane Society, and we thank you.

We have a saying at YHS, “caring for pets isn’t what we do, it’s who we are.” I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that is how you all feel, too. Our precious pets bring so much to our lives: companionship, a reason to get up every day, therapy, exercise, emotional support, and unconditional love. I can’t imagine a day without my precious “kids” and all they bring to my life. Like I said, I’m pretty sure you all feel the same way!

As 2023 comes to a close, we are reaching out to you to keep us in your thoughts. One thing I can tell you, which is a guarantee: we will never run out of pets in need. There will never be a day when our shelter (or any other) is empty. Dogs and cats (and horses, pot belly pigs, donkeys and more) come to us every day. They are confused, scared, sad – and they need YOU! WE need you!

Because of you we have been able to help hundreds of people through our Second Chance Program, where we were able to provide care for animals in need of medical care. Because of you we have been able to provide care and housing for animals through our Safety Net Program to people who needed assistance during tough times. It was all made possible because of you. And we are grateful and so are all the people and animals you helped!

Yavapai Humane Society is not a publicly owned facility. We are not funded through your tax dollars, through the city, county, or state; we are funded only through your donations, grants, and wills and estates. We are a private 501(c)3 non-profit organization that cannot survive without your generous support.   

As 2023 comes to a close, we are asking you to think about your year-end giving and even your plans for 2024. We, and all these precious animals, need your help. We know there are a lot of charities out there asking for your help and we realize times are tough. We appreciate you thinking about us, supporting us, and sharing our stories/mission/what we do, through social media.

THANK YOU, our Yavapai County pet loving community, we love you. We are planning and hoping to make 2024 a GREAT year for YHS and you and the animals. It’s all made possible because of you.

When you are reading this, perhaps with your cat on your lap or your dog laying next to you, please think about the joy they bring to you – how they fulfill your life, what they mean to you – and think about Yavapai Humane Society and the impact you can make on an animal’s life.

All of us at Yavapai Humane Society wish you and yours a very happy holiday season. We thank you again for your support and we look forward to what the future holds. QCBN

By Loree Walden

For more information on Yavapai Humane Society and our programs, please visit yavapaihumane.org.

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Thanksgiving is a special holiday that brings together family and friends, but it can also carry some hazards for your pets.

Overindulging in the family feast can be unhealthy for humans, but even worse for pets. Fatty foods are hard for animals to digest, poultry bones can damage your pet’s digestive tract, and holiday sweets can contain ingredients that are poisonous to your pets.

Keep your food ON the table, not UNDER it! Turkey and turkey skin, sometimes even in small amounts, can cause a life-threatening condition in pets known as pancreatitis. Many foods that are healthy for people are poisonous to pets, including onions, raisins and grapes. A small piece of turkey (make sure it’s boneless, white and cooked all the way through) or a lick of mashed potatoes will not harm your pet, but anything more than that could potentially be harmful. If you want to give your pet a special Thanksgiving treat, give them a made-for-pets chew bone, OR make them a special dinner, taking their regular food and adding a few tidbits of turkey, vegetables (either sweet potato or green beans) and a few dribbles of gravy (make sure it does not contain onions or seasoning which can irritate their tummies).

Thanksgiving usually means a lot of baking of fresh bread and rolls. Don’t spoil your pet’s holiday by giving him access to raw yeast bread dough. When a dog or cat ingests this, the yeast continues to convert the sugars in the dough to carbon dioxide gas and alcohol. This can result in bloated, drunk pets, which could become a life-threatening emergency.

If you’re having people over, remember your pet may get overwhelmed, even if they are used to having people around. They may try to escape, so be sure to have an ID tag on your pet and make sure they’re microchipped, and the information attached to their microchip is current. Give them a safe place to hang out and relax, especially when you start eating, so they don’t get in the way, and your guests won’t be tempted to sneak them food.

Be careful with decorations. Special holiday displays or candles are attractive to pets as well as people, so never leave a pet alone in an area with a lit candle as it could result in a fire. Pinecones, needles and other decorations can cause intestinal blockage or even perforate an animal’s intestines if eaten.

The holidays are a time of giving thanks, family, food, celebrations and fun! Taking a few extra precautions will ensure your pet stays safe and can enjoy the celebrations with you.

During this Thanksgiving season, Yavapai Humane Society extends its heartfelt gratitude to all of our supporters for your unwavering dedication and generosity. Your support has been instrumental in our mission and to provide shelter, care, love and hope to countless animals in need. As we come together to celebrate the spirit of giving, your contributions have not only made a difference in the lives of the animals we serve but have also touched the lives of many in our community through our Community Pet Food Pantry, our Safety Net Program and more. We are deeply thankful for your commitment, and it is your compassion and support that allow us to continue our vital work, ensuring a brighter future for the animals who depend on us. From all of us at Yavapai Humane Society, we wish you a joyous and meaningful Thanksgiving. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

October is recognized as National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, though in our hearts, every month is a celebration of adopting shelter dogs.

Many of our furry friends end up with us, and at other humane societies, through no fault of their own. The top reasons people give for surrendering their pets are often “landlord troubles,” “financial difficulties” and “moving.” So, what does that mean for you? Well, it means we’ve got a bunch of amazing, fun-loving dogs here just waiting to find their forever homes and get a fresh start in life. There are also some pups with special needs, like needing to be the only fur baby or not being a fan of little ones running around. But they all deserve a second shot at a happy life!

When an animal arrives at YHS, they are scared and unsure of what happened and why they are here in this unfamiliar place. While it’s a heart-wrenching situation, the positive side is that once they’re here, we provide them with the best care. This includes comprehensive medical attention, food, shelter and an abundance of love. Most importantly, they find safety and security, far removed from the uncertainties of life on the streets.

As we begin the process of getting these adorable pets ready for adoption, our fantastic medical team performs thorough exams. If any treatments are needed, they’re taken care of right away. We also make sure they get their vaccinations and, if necessary, are spayed or neutered. Our Behavior Team steps in to see how these pups react to all sorts of things, like other dogs, people and even sharing toys. Some dogs might stay on with the Behavior Team for some extra TLC if we think it’s needed to find them their perfect forever home. And if we have any information from their previous owners, we mix that in with what we see here, so we can paint a clear picture of their personality. It’s all about helping these pups find the right match!

Let’s not forget, in a shelter environment, dogs might not be their usual selves. They’re dealing with all sorts of new things like strange noises, sights, smells and routines, and it can really affect how they act in their kennels. Some get shy or scared and hide in a corner, while others get super excited, jumping up and barking at the kennel door. That’s why it’s important not to judge a dog solely by their first impression in a shelter. And when you bring your new furry friend home, remember, it’s not always like a feel-good Hallmark movie where everything falls into place instantly with cheerful music playing in the background. Real life with pets can have its quirks and surprises!

We like to share the 3-3-3 rule with potential pet adopter – it’s a simple guideline that applies no matter where you get your new family member. Here’s the general rule: In the first 3 days, they’re often feeling overwhelmed, scared and a bit bewildered by their new surroundings. After 3 weeks, they start to settle in, get comfy, and find a groove. And after 3 months, they’re really starting to feel at home and forming that special bond with you.

Remember, it takes time for them to adjust to you, your kids, other pets and their new surroundings. All they need from you is a little patience. It’s hard to see a dog or cat who was so happy to go home with you, returned the next day because of some understandable first-day jitters, destructive behavior or the occasional potty mishap.

There’s a misconception that animals in shelters are “damaged goods,” but that’s not true at all. I’ve been lucky enough to work here for 4½ years, and I’ve met thousands of dogs that I’d have taken home in a heartbeat if I could. We’ve got some sweet and loving furballs right here at Yavapai Humane Society, just waiting to share their love with someone like you.

As we celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, if you’re thinking about adding a furry friend to your life, why not set up a date to meet these adorable pups? Who knows, it could be the start of a fantastic “happily ever after” for everyone involved! Give us a call at 928-445-2666 and let us help you start their new story. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

We stand in solidarity with the people of Maui during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to those affected by the fires, including the furry members of families who have lost their homes.

In the wake of the devastating fire tragedy that swept through Lahaina and parts of Maui last month, a clear and strong reminder comes to light of the importance of being prepared to safeguard not only ourselves but also our beloved pets. As the flames raged and the communities tried to protect life and property, countless animals found themselves caught in the chaos. The events on Maui highlight pet vulnerability in crises and should prompt a reevaluation of our preparedness to ensure their safety and well-being during disasters.

As we learned from Maui, emergencies can strike unexpectedly, leaving us with little to no time to react and ensure the safety of our loved ones. This draws attention to the importance of a comprehensive emergency plan that includes our pets.

Ensuring your pet has accurate identification and microchipping is of the utmost importance, particularly during moments of emergencies. These measures provide a safety net that can significantly increase the likelihood of a happy reunion if your furry friend goes missing or is involved in an unforeseen situation. An ID tag with your contact information on your pet’s collar ensures that anyone who finds your pet can easily reach out to you, speeding up the process of getting them home. Additionally, microchipping offers an even more reliable method of identification, as it’s a permanent form of tagging that links your pet to a unique identification number stored in a national database. Collars can be lost or removed, but a microchip remains a reliable backup, greatly enhancing the chances of a swift reunion. Take a moment to ensure the information attached to your pet’s microchip is up to date with current contact information. If you don’t know who your microchip is registered with, take your pet to any Humane Society or your vet to have it scanned, so you know who to contact. Having proper ID and microchipping for your pet can provide invaluable peace of mind and a higher chance of a positive outcome.

Make an emergency kit for each of your pets. This kit should include everything on the list below: 

• 5- to 7-day supply of bottled water and your pet’s food, stored in a waterproof container
• Food and water bowls
• Medications, veterinary/medical records and your veterinarian’s contact information
• First Aid Kit for Pets
• Extra leash and harness/collar
• Flashlight and batteries
• Potty bags
• Current photos and description of pets
• Blanket, favorite toys, bed, and other items to give them comfort
• Litter, litterbox and scoop if you have cats

Most of us already have numerous pictures of our pets on our phone, but phones die if they can’t be charged, which is a possibility in an emergency situation. So, be sure to put actual printed pictures in your emergency kit along with printed versions of their medical/vaccination records, and keep these items stored in a Ziploc bag so they don’t get ruined should your emergency kit get wet. Keep your emergency kit someplace where you can get to it fast in the event you have to evacuate quickly.

Check your emergency kit regularly to make sure food and treats are still fresh and haven’t expired. The same thing applies to the items in your first aid kit for your pets, as some items and medications may also have an expiration date and need to be replaced.

Research and make a list of known evacuation shelters that accept pets so you know where to go should the need arise. If you have friends or family who are willing to care for your pets for you (and they are in a safe zone), have their contact information ready and a plan in place. These are all things to look into and set up now, as there won’t be time when an emergency strikes. Animal Disaster Services – Yavapai County is an excellent resource for emergency information.

Please do not leave your pets at home if you have to evacuate. If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them. The results could be catastrophic.

Our pets are cherished members of our families, and their safety and well-being should be a top priority, especially during emergencies. Taking the time to plan and prepare can ultimately mean the difference between life and death for our beloved companions. By being proactive and considering their needs in your emergency plans, you can ensure your pets are well taken care of and that your bond remains unbreakable even in the face of adversity.

Yavapai Humane Society welcomes animal lovers, and anyone touched by the plight of these animals to join hands in contributing to Maui Humane Society’s fundraising campaign. Donations can be made online by visiting mauihumanesociety.org.

We can always count on our pets to keep us happy. Let’s make sure our pets can count on us when an emergency happens. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager of Yavapai Humane Society.

Don’t feel like going for a walk? Easy fix: get a dog! I’ve said it many times…I am not a fan of exercise, and it wasn’t really a big part of my life until I adopted Cassidy Roo seven-and-a-half years ago. Now, there’s a minimum of an hour walking per day. I love it and, more importantly, Cassidy Roo loves it too! The Mayo Clinic states we should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. The guidelines suggest you spread this exercise out over the course of a week and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. And, by the way, walking does count as “moderate physical activity,” so it’s a win/win for you and your dog!

I know there are people out there who love going to the gym and can’t wait to go every day. I am NOT one of those people, so taking my dog for a walk gets me my daily fitness requirements, bring it on! It doesn’t feel like exercise, it’s more like therapy! Our pets are some of the best therapists out there and it’s amazing how well they listen. They don’t judge us for anything we tell them, nor do they tell anyone because, with them, a secret stays put. I don’t know what it is but just being out and talking to her while we’re walking makes everything better. The look she gives me is so precious and it’s like she’s saying, “I got ya, Mom, we’re in this together!” It’s also a great bonding time for us and it helps to build her trust, confidence and socialization skills. It’s a chance to get my blood moving before a long day of work and a chance to unwind and decompress after work.

Northern Arizona is absolutely spectacular. We’re lucky to have so many dog-friendly trails and hikes, the days are longer and while the temperatures are hotter, it’s still a great time to enjoy the great outdoors (just be sure to keep you and your pets safe from the heat)! Speaking of being outdoors and walking, Yavapai Humane Society is gearing up for our Walk for the Animals. We’re honored to again be partnering with Prescott Dog Magazine and their annual Dogtoberfest event for the walk. Save the date… Sunday, Oct. 1, at Watson Lake. The Walk for the Animals will start at 9:30 a.m., prior to Dogtoberfest starting so when you finish your walk you can join in on all the festivities happening at the event. The route will be approximately a mile and a half, so walkers of all skill levels can enjoy it. It will be a day of fun for humans and dogs alike! What better way to get out there with your dog and enjoy nature and a fun day, all while helping support the animals and Yavapai Humane Society. Walk as an individual or form a team. There will be prizes for the highest fundraisers both individually and as a team! Plus, during Dogtoberfest you’ll enjoy great entertainment, food trucks, vendors to visit, freebies, dogs available for adoption and so much more.

We’re really looking forward to this chance to get out and commune with nature, our dogs and each other while supporting YHS! Grab your phone and call your friends and start getting your teams together or just plan to all walk together! Your registration fee includes an awesome Walk for the Animals t-shirt and more goodies! For more information and to register, please visit yavapaihumane.org or call 928-445-2666 X117. Join the Walk for the Animals and make a difference! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the Marketing Director of Yavapai Humane Society.

June is National Microchipping Month! Microchipping is a safe and effective way to ensure your pets can be identified quickly and come home safe to you if they ever become lost or stolen. A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, which is inserted under your pet’s skin. It contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact information in a database, which can be read using a special scanner. When a lost or stray animal is brought to Yavapai Humane Society, picked up by Animal Control or taken to a veterinary clinic, they can scan for a microchip and use the information in the database to contact the pet’s owner.

Microchipping your pets is important because collars and tags can easily become lost or removed. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or altered. Having your pet microchipped can give you peace of mind, knowing you have taken an important step to protect them and increase the chances of being reunited if they ever become lost. With the 4th of July coming up next month, it’s a good time to make sure your pet is microchipped and most importantly, the contact information on file with your microchip company is current. If you have moved or changed your phone number, be sure to update the information.

June is also National Pet Preparedness Month! Being prepared for your pet in an emergency is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Just like us, our pets are also affected by natural disasters, accidents and other emergencies, and it is important to have a plan in place to ensure their safety.

Prepare an emergency kit for your pet. This kit should include items such as food, water, medication, potty bags, blankets and/or towels, a favorite toy to help keep them calm, first aid supplies, as well as all important documents such as vaccination records and contact information for your veterinarian. Make sure your kit is easily accessible and kept in a waterproof container. Also, be sure to check the items in it regularly to make sure the food and medications have not expired.

Create a plan for evacuation or sheltering in place if that is a safe option. Know which shelters or hotels in your area allow pets and have a plan in place for how you will transport your pet if necessary. By taking these steps to prepare for your pet in an emergency, you can help ensure their safety and well-being in a time of crisis.

National Adopt A Shelter Cat Month is also celebrated in June! Although, at Yavapai Humane Society, we believe every month should be National Adopt A Shelter Cat Month.

Adopting a cat can be a life-changing experience for both you and the cat and has many benefits. Adoptable cats at Yavapai Humane Society are already spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped, which can save you money and time.

It can also be very fulfilling, as many cats who end up in shelters have been abandoned, abused or neglected. By providing them with a safe and loving home, you’re helping them to heal and regain trust in humans. It can also bring joy and companionship to your life as cats make great friends, and adopting a cat from a shelter can provide a sense of joy knowing you have made a positive impact in the life of a furry friend. In addition, studies have shown that having a cat has numerous health benefits, including lower blood pressure and reduced stress levels.

Adopting a cat is also a way to support YHS and its mission. We rely on donations and support from the community to continue our operations and care for the animals. By adopting, you are not only helping the cat but also supporting our efforts to rescue, care for and rehome more animals in need.

We have cats of all ages and breeds, from playful kittens to senior cats. By adopting, you can find a cat that fits your lifestyle, whether you’re looking for a companion to curl up with on the couch or a playful friend to keep you on your toes.

Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or an experienced cat parent, there is a shelter cat out there waiting for you. So why not consider adopting and making a difference in the life of a furry friend today? Visit yavapaihumane.org to see all the pets available for adoption and give us a call at 928-445-2666 to come meet them! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Mae Walden, marketing director for Yavapai Humane Society.