Yavapai Humane Society

In a world where the bond between humans and dogs is pure magic, few things can compare to the joy of adopting a rescue dog. Beyond the heartwarming experience, adopting a furry companion has a way of transforming your life in the best possible way. From the moment you bring your new buddy home, you’ll discover countless reasons why adopting a dog is one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.

Every year, millions of dogs end up in shelters – some through no fault of their own. Whether due to abandonment, neglect or just plain bad luck, these pups are in need of a fresh start. When you adopt, you’re their hero – the knight in shining armor they’ve been waiting for! It’s not just about getting a pet; it’s about giving a dog a second chance at happiness, and in return, they’ll show you what true loyalty looks like. Your decision changes their world, and they, in turn, will change yours.

Dogs are masters of unconditional love. When you adopt, you’re gaining a best friend who will stick by your side no matter what. Whether it’s a playful tail wag when you walk through the door or those soulful eyes that melt your heart, your adopted dog will shower you with affection in ways that words can’t fully describe. Their loyalty is unmatched, and the bond you’ll form together will bring warmth and joy to your everyday life. It’s a lesson in compassion, kindness and the beauty of selfless love.

Adopting a dog isn’t just good for the soul – it’s great for the body, too! Think of your dog as your personal fitness coach with a furry twist. Daily walks, trips to the park, games of fetch, and impromptu sprints are just part of the package. Your pup will motivate you to get moving, making it easier (and way more fun) to stay active. But that’s not all – dogs also have this magical ability to lift your spirits, reduce stress, and make even the hardest days a little brighter. With their playful energy and calming presence, they’re the ultimate mood boosters.

Looking for a playful partner in crime? Or maybe you want a mellow companion to lounge with after a long day? The beauty of adopting is that shelter dogs come in every shape, size and personality you can imagine. Whether you’re craving the fun chaos of a puppy or the steady companionship of a senior dog, there’s a perfect match waiting for you. Plus, adoption allows you to find a dog that fits your lifestyle, making it a smoother and more enjoyable transition for both you and your new furry family member.

That said, keep in mind that rescue dogs may need time to adjust. Life in a shelter is extremely different from a home, and your new friend might take a little while to settle in. They might be a little shy, have some accidents, or act out while they adjust to their new routine. But with a little patience and understanding, you’ll soon discover the incredible love that comes with giving them a forever home.

One of the many perks of adopting from a shelter? It’s not just a feel-good decision – it’s a smart one, too! When you adopt from Yavapai Humane Society, your pet is spayed or neutered, up to date on all vaccines and microchipped, saving you hundreds of dollars. That means your new furry family member comes with a clean bill of health and a head start on their journey into your life.

Shelter dogs have this incredible gift of making you feel like you’re the most important person in the world. They don’t care if you’re having a bad day, or if you’re still in your pajamas at noon – they love you for who you are. Their constant companionship and affectionate nature can provide a steady source of comfort, helping you through tough times and celebrating the good ones. With them by your side, life just feels a little bit sweeter.

Adopting a rescue dog is more than just bringing home a pet – it’s the beginning of an unforgettable adventure filled with wagging tails, cozy snuggles and endless laughs. Your new sidekick will fill your home with joy, and in return, you’ll be giving them the life they’ve always deserved. So, if you’re ready to open your heart and home, head to Yavapai Humane Society and meet your new best friend. You’re not just adopting a dog, you’re starting a beautiful chapter filled with love, companionship and plenty of pawsitive memories! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

If you’re like me and not a huge fan of exercise, I’ve got a simple solution: Get a dog! Before I adopted Cassidy Roo 8 ½ years ago, exercise wasn’t a big part of my life. Now, walking has become a daily ritual, and I genuinely love it – Cassidy Roo does too! According to the Mayo Clinic, we should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, which can include a mix of moderate and vigorous exercises. The best part? Walking counts as moderate physical activity, making it a win/win for both you and your dog!

I know there are plenty of people who love hitting the gym every day, but I’m definitely not one of them. Walking my dog is the perfect way to meet my daily fitness goals, and it doesn’t even feel like exercise – it’s more like therapy! Our pets are some of the best therapists around; they listen without judgment, keep our secrets safe, and are always there for us. There’s something special about walking and talking with Cassidy Roo. Her loving gaze says it all: “I’ve got your back, Mom. We’re in this together!” This time together strengthens our bond, builds her trust, and boosts her confidence and socialization skills. Plus, it’s a great way to get my blood flowing before work and unwind after a long day.

Northern Arizona is absolutely stunning, and we’re fortunate to have so many dog-friendly trails and hikes. Even though the days are longer and the temperatures hotter, it’s still a fantastic time to explore the outdoors (just remember to keep you and your pets safe from the heat). Speaking of being outside, Yavapai Humane Society is gearing up for our annual Walk for the Animals, and this year, we’re adding a 5K Fun Run, all thanks to Team Charity Case! We’re thrilled to be partnering with Prescott Dog Magazine and their annual Dogtoberfest event for the walk. Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 6th at Watson Lake. The Walk for the Animals/5K Fun Run kicks off at 9 a.m., just before Dogtoberfest begins, so after your walk, you can dive into all the fun and festivities. The regular walk route is just over a mile, perfect for walkers of all skill levels. And if you’re up for the 5K route, feel free to run or walk it. It’s going to be a day of fun for both humans and dogs! What better way to enjoy nature with your furry friend while supporting Yavapai Humane Society?

During Dogtoberfest, you’ll be treated to great entertainment, delicious food from food trucks, various vendors, freebies, dogs available for adoption, and so much more. We’re really looking forward to this chance to connect with nature, our dogs, and each other, all while supporting YHS. So, grab your phone, call your friends, and start fundraising! Your registration fee includes an awesome Walk for the Animals t-shirt, and if you opt for the 5K Fun Run, you’ll receive a custom finisher’s cup – thanks again to Team Charity Case! For more information and to register, visit yavapaihumane.org or call 928-445-2666 X117. Join us for the Walk for the Animals and help make a difference! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Exercise might not be everyone’s favorite activity, but adopting a dog can be a game-changer. Walking your dog for at least an hour every day can be enjoyable and beneficial for both the pet and the owner.

According to the Mayo Clinic, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week is recommended. This can include a mix of moderate and vigorous activities, ideally spread out over the week, with at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily. Walking, categorized as “moderate physical activity,” is a win/win for both you and your dog!

Regular walking helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, strengthens muscles and bones, and improves overall mood by releasing endorphins. For dogs, it provides necessary physical exercise, mental stimulation and an opportunity to explore their environment, which is crucial for their well-being. Moreover, consistent exercise can help mitigate behavioral issues in dogs, such as excessive barking or destructive chewing, often caused by pent-up energy and boredom.

While some people prefer going to the gym, walking a dog can fulfill daily fitness requirements effortlessly. It doesn’t feel like exercise; it’s more like therapy. Pets are some of the best therapists – they listen well, don’t judge and keep secrets. This time together strengthens the bond and helps build trust, confidence and socialization skills. Walking your dog allows you to connect with nature, take in fresh air and enjoy the changing seasons, making the experience more pleasant and less monotonous than a treadmill workout. Plus, it gets the blood moving before a long workday and helps you unwind afterward.

Morning walks can energize you, setting a positive tone for the day, while evening strolls provide a peaceful way to decompress and reflect. Additionally, walking your dog can create opportunities for social interaction with other pet owners, fostering a sense of community and belonging. For children, walking the family dog teaches responsibility and empathy, making it a valuable family activity that promotes physical and emotional health for all members.

Northern Arizona is absolutely spectacular, with numerous dog-friendly trails and hikes. Despite the hotter temperatures, it’s a great time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors – just be sure to keep both yourself and your pets safe from the heat!

Always bring more water than you think you’ll need. Both you and your dog will require frequent hydration breaks, especially in hot weather. Pack a collapsible or portable water bowl for your dog. This makes it easy to provide them with fresh water regularly. Take regular breaks in shaded areas to allow your dog to cool down and drink water. Plan your hikes or outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to avoid the extreme midday heat, and watch them closely for signs of overheating.

Speaking of being outdoors and walking, Yavapai Humane Society is gearing up for this year’s Walk for the Animals and we’re changing it up a bit by making it a 5K Fun Run/Walk, which is brought to you by Team Charity Case. We’re also excited to partner again with Prescott Dog Magazine for their annual Dogtoberfest event.

Save the date: Sunday, Oct. 6, at Watson Lake. The 5K Fun Run/Walk starts at 9 a.m., just before Dogtoberfest begins. There will be two routes available, an approximately 1.5-mile route, suitable for walkers of all skill levels, and the 5K. After the Fun Run, you can join in on all the festivities at Dogtoberfest. It will be a fun day for both humans and dogs! What better way to enjoy nature and a fun day while supporting the animals and Yavapai Humane Society?

During Dogtoberfest, there will be great entertainment, food trucks, vendors, freebies, dogs available for adoption and much more.

The 5k Fun Run/Walk for the Animals offers a chance to connect with nature, dogs and each other while supporting YHS. Call your friends, grab your furry family members and make a plan to walk together! More information will be coming soon, so keep an eye on our website, yavapaihumane.org and our social media pages so you can join the Walk for the Animals and make a difference! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

As we can all tell from the temperatures outside, summer has arrived! Summer in Arizona brings extreme heat, posing a serious threat to our furry family members. As temperatures soar, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of our four-legged best friends.

Fact: when the outside temperature is 77 degrees, the pavement heats up to 125 degrees. At 87 degrees, the pavement can reach a scorching 143 degrees. An egg can fry at 131 degrees in just five minutes, so imagine the discomfort your dog’s paws endure on hot cement, rocks or even dirt. Before taking your dog for a walk, press the back of your hand firmly on the pavement and hold it for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. If a walk is unavoidable, bring a bottle of water to wet their feet or body to cool them off. Ideally, it’s best to walk your dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler. If you notice signs of burned paws, carry your dog home if possible, apply cool compresses on their paws and body and contact your veterinarian immediately. Dogs are more vulnerable to ground heat because they are much closer to it than we are.

Heatstroke is a common and deadly summer threat for dogs. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to treat it is vital. Symptoms include elevated body temperature, vigorous panting, unsteady gait, depression or agitation, thick saliva or froth at the mouth, rigid posture, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, collapsing and shock. Resources like the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation offer detailed guidance on heatstroke symptoms and treatment. Heatstroke can lead to seizures, coma, organ failure and even death. If your dog shows any of these signs, bring them indoors, cover them with a cool, wet towel, let them drink room temperature water (not cold), and call your veterinarian or animal hospital immediately.

Heatstroke can occur in any hot environment, often because of a pet owner’s actions, such as leaving a dog in a car or failing to provide water and shade. Never leave your dog in a car, even with windows cracked. It takes just 10 minutes for the temperature inside a car to rise by 20 degrees. At 85 degrees outside, it can reach 105 degrees inside a car within 10 minutes and 120 degrees within 30 minutes, even in the shade.   

Certain dogs are more prone to heat exhaustion, especially older dogs, darker colored dogs, dogs with longer or a lot of fur, overweight dogs, and breeds with flat faces like pugs and bulldogs.

Our feline friends are also susceptible to heat-related issues. Cats have an average body temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit, but this doesn’t mean they are safe in a warm house. Cats don’t sweat like humans, so they must release heat by lying on cool surfaces, panting and drinking cold water.

To keep your cat comfortable, take a few preventative steps:

• Place bowls of cold water throughout your home, as water evaporates faster in summer.
• Close curtains to limit sun and heat, provide shade and prevent a hot home.
• Use fans to circulate cooler air. Setting them on a timer can help manage energy use.

We need to watch for signs of heat exhaustion in cats too, such as excessive panting, rapid heart rate, sunken eyes or little to no urine in the litter box. Cats with flat faces, obesity, heart or lung issues or those that are elderly are particularly at risk, according to the ASPCA.

There are many resources available online to educate ourselves on the dangers of heat for our pets. It’s always a good idea to brush up on signs to look for and what to do should your pets get overheated.

Our pets give us so much love, joy and companionship. They rely on us for their safety and well-being, especially during the scorching summer months. It is our responsibility to protect and care for them because they cannot do it by themselves. Let’s remember our pets are not just animals; they are beloved members of our families. They trust us to keep them safe and it’s a trust we must honor. With the love and care they shower upon us daily, it’s only right that we do everything we can to keep them safe and comfortable. So, as we enjoy the sunny days of summer, let’s make sure our pets can enjoy them too, safely and happily by our side. QCBN

By Loree Walden

928-445-2666 or yavapaihumane.org.

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

It was March, 2016. I came home from work and was greeted by my boyfriend (now ex-husband) with a big smile on his face. I knew, something was up, but what? He showed me a picture of the cutest dog; he found her on Yavapai Humane Society’s website. (I didn’t work there at the time.) I told him we already have two cats, and we live in an apartment, and we really aren’t able to take on a dog, but go ahead and go see this little girl tomorrow. (Now, remember, I said “go see” this little girl.)

He did, and well, in the middle of the day, I got a text message from him while I was at work, with a picture of her in our apartment, which said, “Hi mommy, I’m home!”

Now, I must tell you, I was just a bit upset. A puppy? With two cats? In an apartment? How in the world are we going to make this work? My two cats (both YHS alumni) had made it work after years of working to become buddies and coexist together. And now, we’ve brought a puppy into the family?
Well, I got off work and went to PetSmart. got a bed, food, toys and all that this little girl needed! But I was not happy… not happy at all…

But the minute I walked in the door and met this precious girl, my heart melted. It was love at first sight! I held this precious soul in my arms, I looked into her eyes…and I knew she was mine forever! She stole my heart that day… and we have NEVER been apart for longer than a day of me at work.

Fast forward three years from then, and I’m working at the place that blessed me with my Cassidy Roo (and both the boys). She comes to work with me and lays on my desk, and looks out the window at all the dogs going out for a walk, I know she’s hoping for their happily ever after – the one she has, and dreams of for them.

And now here we are: eight years later! This precious soul that I got from Yavapai Humane Society is my constant companion, my cuddlebug, my happy tail greeter when I come home, the one who makes my life complete, the one who goes for a walk with me every morning and every night, where I tell her about my day, and no matter what, she always makes everything better! She knows how to spend seven hours in the car on my lap to go see her tutu (gramma) and she knows we’re going to go see the seals at the beach! She is my constant companion, and I can’t imagine a day without her.

I never knew the love of a dog – a rescue dog – I didn’t know the love they could bring you. I didn’t know the health benefits they could bring you. I didn’t know any of what they have to offer.

Here’s my message to y’all: you never know what’s in front of you, what your day will bring. You never know when you find that precious soul saying, “take me home.” You may not be expecting it; you may not even want it, but it’s there…and it’s beautiful!

Your best friend, even though you may not know it, is right here at Yavapai Humane Society. QCBN

By Loree Walden

928-445-2666 or yavapaihumanesociety.org.

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Have you thought about what will happen to your beloved pets should something happen to you? Oas we make provisions to ensure our children will be taken care of, we should do the same for our pets. YHS offers two programs that do just that.

Pet Guardianship Program Provides Peace of Mind
Yavapai Humane Society established the Pet Guardianship Program to help put your mind at ease knowing that your four-legged family member(s) will be taken care of until we find them a new forever home.

By enrolling your pet(s) in this program, you can feel confident they will be looked after under the care of our no-kill ethic facility in the event of your passing.    Whether your pet is a dog, cat or even a horse, Yavapai Humane Society will take full responsibility for the care of your pet and will place them in a loving home with guardians who meet the select criteria set by you.    We take great care in finding the right home for your beloved pet. You’ll fill out an enrollment form for each pet with their complete details, including their personality, their likes and dislikes, what they’re afraid of, if they get along with other animals or kids, dietary preferences, what lifestyle they’re used to, their medical history and more, all to make the transition as stress free as possible for them.

When you register for our Pet Guardianship Program, you will have access to a dedicated line with a YHS staff member in the event that you have questions or are no longer able to care for your pet(s). You will receive a magnet for your refrigerator, a window cling, and a wallet card that will alert people of your enrollment in the program. In addition, we include a tag for your pet showing that they are in the Pet Guardianship program with our dedicated phone number.

For more information or to enroll your pets in the Pet Guardianship Program, please contact YHS Donor Development and Grant Manager Gina Angueira at 928-713-4845. All we ask in return is that you maintain a yearly gift to Yavapai Humane Society and to specify a bequest, of any amount, to YHS in your will.

Safety Net Keeps Pets with Families
Yavapai Humane Society’s Safety Net program helps pets and their families stay together during difficult financial times or dislocations, hospitalizations, domestic violence displacements and other similar unfortunate situations. Often, families face a crisis that prompts abandonment of a beloved pet, even though the crisis is likely to be temporary. Safety Net provides temporary foster placement, veterinary help, and other remedies that may prevent a pet losing its home by helping a low-income family weather the storm for up to 30 days.

This program means so much to the pet owners who received assistance through Safety Net. At Yavapai Humane Society, our mission is to not only find forever homes for our animals, but to also help animals stay with their owners. On Jan. 4, a dog was brought to us through Prescott Animal Control after his owner, Ricky, a proud veteran, was hospitalized at the VA Hospital. During the next few days, Ricky reached out to YHS and explained his situation. Unaware of how long he would be hospitalized, he asked if there was a way for YHS to care for his dog, Ramsey. With the help of our Safety Net program, which is supported by monetary contributions from our community, YHS was able to care for Ramsey until Ricky was released. On Jan. 12, a VA representative contacted YHS and informed us that Ricky was being discharged but didn’t have a way to get Ramsey home. Andrea Golding, who works in our Lost and Found department and is a member of CVMA (Combat Veteran Motorcycle Association), offered to take Ramsey home to Ricky. We are happy to have been part of such a heartwarming reunion, made possible through Yavapai Humane Society’s Safety Net Program.   

If you need help in such a circumstance, please fill out a Safety Net application for consideration on our website at yavapaihumane.org. Yavapai Humane Society is dependent on the resources of our community including monetary donations and foster homes to be able to provide these services. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Grab a leash and your four-legged best friend and hit some of the many dog friendly trails in Northern Arizona! The weather is getting warmer and it’s the perfect time to be outside and start a new exercise routine together because April is National Canine Fitness Month!   

Before heading out, make sure your dog has a clean bill of health from your veterinarian to prevent any injuries and avoid any issues that might arise from exercising. Getting proper physical stimulation helps dogs keep their muscles and joints healthy, maintain a healthy weight, and work off energy that might be pent up from being inside.

Start your dog out with a nice walk around the neighborhood and work up to a longer hike. Just like with us humans, you don’t want to jump right into a 3-mile hike without building up your endurance and muscles, so make your walks a little bit longer each day and add in a hill or two. When you’re ready to hit the trails, I suggest the Watson Woods Trail that starts at Rosser and goes to Watson Lake. It’s a nice 3.5-mile round trip hike that is pretty flat and a good starting point for beginners.    From there, you can venture out to other trails and eventually to some that challenge you both a bit more. Lynx Lake Loop is a beautiful 2.5-mile hike that is relatively easy too. The Constellation Loop comes in at about the same length and is also easy but often quite busy. Goldwater Lakes Trail 396 is an 8-mile hike out and back which has nice benches along the way to take a break when needed. You can find many more dog friendly hikes at alltrails.com, bringfido.com and our local Chamber of Commerce offices. Remember to bring potty bags, water for both of you, and be sure to keep an eye on your dog(s) to make sure they are not becoming overheated or exhausted. And remember that while it’s tempting to let your dog off its leash, it is AZ law that your dog remains on a leash that is a maximum of 6 feet long. This is for the safety of not only your dog, but others you may come across.

Taking a walk or hike with your dog is not only good for them, but also for you. Benefits include getting exercise and it’s a great time to bond with your furry friend. You can even add in some training time with them by socializing with other people and other dogs. As it gets warmer, be sure to keep an eye out for snakes that may be in bushes or even hiding buried in the dirt of the trail. We have a lot of different species of snakes in Northern Arizona and while some are not poisonous, many are. It’s a good idea to take a moment to learn the different types so you are able to spot ones that may be potentially poisonous or dangerous to you and your pet. Should you happen to come across a snake and your dog gets bitten, it’s important to know what kind of snake it is and make sure you take your dog to your vet as soon as possible.

In addition, April is also Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs Month. Lyme Disease is caused by ticks found in tall grass, thick brush, and woody areas. Ticks attach themselves to your pooch when they walk by and rub up against something the tick is on. A tick can transmit Lyme Disease to your dog in as little as 24 to 48 hours after being attached. When you get home from a walk or hike, be sure to inspect your dog for ticks. Be very thorough, especially in long-haired dogs, as they tend to dig their way down to their skin quite quickly. If you happen to find one, carefully remove it making sure you get the entire tick. You can prevent ticks from jumping on your dog altogether, by giving them a veterinary-approved flea and tick preventative available over the counter.

So, grab that leash and your dog and head out for a nice walk together! It’ll do you both good! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

In a world filled with responsibilities and fast-paced living, the idea of adopting a pet can be both exciting and scary. While the thought of welcoming a furry companion into your life brings endless joy, it also requires careful consideration and commitment. This is where the 3-3-3 Rule comes into play – a guiding principle that sets the stage for a harmonious transition for both you and your new furry friend.

The 3-3-3 Rule is like a roadmap for navigating the critical initial stages of pet adoption. It outlines three days, three weeks, and three months as milestones marking the integration process. Each phase represents a distinct stage of adjustment, laying the groundwork for trust, familiarity and companionship. Each phase requires patience and is probably the most important “ingredient” for success.

The first three days are a time for patience and understanding. These initial days post-adoption are the start of discovery and adjustment. As your pet steps into its new environment, it’s essential to provide a calm and nurturing atmosphere. Amid the excitement, exercise patience, allowing your companion to explore its surroundings at its own pace. Establishing a routine early on fosters a sense of security, helping your pet acclimate to its new home. They may be destructive, have accidents in the house or withdraw and want to be alone. This is a time for you to remember that life in a shelter is not like life in a home. They need time to adjust to this new world.

During this period, bonding may or may not begin to take root. They are confused and trying to figure out who you are and where they are. Spend quality time with your pet, engaging in gentle play and offering reassurance through soothing words and gestures. Patience is key as you begin to decipher your pet’s unique personality traits and preferences.    The history of many shelter animals is often unknown, so again, patience is the key to them understanding you, your routines, your voice, their surroundings, and their new life.

Weeks two to four are a time for building trust and actually settling into, and understanding, your routines. As the days turn into weeks, the bond between you and your pet will grow. The second phase of the 3-3-3 Rule marks a time where trust begins to flourish. Consistency is vital during this period, as you establish predictable routines for feeding, exercise, playtime, and rest. By maintaining a stable environment, you provide your pet with a sense of security, paving the way for greater confidence and exploration.

Introduce basic training exercises gradually, focusing on positive reinforcement techniques. Whether it’s mastering simple commands or practicing leash skills, approach training with patience and encouragement. Celebrate small victories and remain tuned in to your pet’s cues, adjusting your approach to suit its individual needs.

Months two and three involve growth for both you and your new furry family member. As the initial excitement subsides, the third phase of the 3-3-3 Rule brings a deeper sense of integration. By this point, your pet has settled into its new home, forging a strong bond with you and other family members. Look for opportunities for adventure and enrichment, exploring new activities that cater to your pet’s interests and instincts.

Continue to nurture your pet’s physical and emotional well-being through regular exercise, mental stimulation and affectionate gestures. Maintain open lines of communication, observing your pet’s behavior for any signs of discomfort or distress. By developing a well-balanced living environment, you lay the groundwork for a lifetime of companionship and mutual enrichment.

Beyond the 3-3-3 Rule: While the 3-3-3 Rule offers a framework for the initial stages of pet adoption, the journey of companionship is an ongoing undertaking. As you steer through the highs and lows of pet ownership, remember to approach each day with love, patience, and understanding. Cherish the moments of laughter and camaraderie and draw strength from the unwavering bond you share with your furry companion.

By embracing the 3-3-3 Rule, you embark on a life-changing journey of mutual growth and discovery for both of you. Through patience, consistency and unwavering devotion, you lay the foundation for a lifelong bond that goes beyond words – it’s a testament to the enduring power of unconditional love and companionship. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.