Yavapai Humane Society

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 good or 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 alw  ays 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 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…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 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 12 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 ya 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 people 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 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 to visit Yavapai Humane Society and… feel the love. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.