WINTER 2020
Meet Meet HSSA’s HSSA’s Incredible Incredible Medical Medical Heroes Heroes
Find the purr-fect gift
2021 Make Make aa New New Year Year resolution resolution to to help help homeless homeless pets pets
Together for the Holidays
Letter from the Board Chair THIS YEAR HAS really been something else. Things have felt uncertain and unpredictable. These are unprecedented times, and they call on all of us to be the best versions of ourselves. We are so fortunate at HSSA to have committed volunteers, staff and Board of Directors who have risen above all else to show compassion, empathy, patience, and love. Our amazing and tireless volunteers provide affection and much needed stimulation to our furry friends while they wait for adoption. We are grateful beyond measure for their dedication. For those volunteers who have not been able to be with us during the pandemic, we are eager to welcome you back when you are ready. Our staff has been flexible and fantastically creative while keeping our shelter and clinic operations at peak performance. Not surprisingly, our financial position was impacted significantly when we were unable to host our two largest fund-raising events this year. Our staff stepped up in extraordinary fashion to create other ingenious fundraising opportunities like the Tail-a-thon and the giant Fur-niture Sale sponsored by our good friends at Sam Levitz Furniture. They also worked to provide smaller, socially distanced versions of Summer Camp and $1 Buffalo Exchange sales. The generosity of you, our donors, is critical to our mission and end-of-the-year giving is upon us. Did you know that more than half of the donations we receive come in the last five weeks of the year? Your gifts have never been more important. Other ways to support HSSA include purchasing holiday items from us for both humans and pets, including a Diana Madaras exclusive ornament and holiday cards. Our clinic staff and amazing veterinarians are helping families hit hard by the COVID-19 economy to continue to provide essential care for their animals through our expanded Wellness program, new dental care, and vaccination clinics. Adoptions never slowed even though the process has changed to assure safety for staff and guests. The shelter staff and adoption counselors work closely with potential adopters online, via Zoom and by appointment. That means, despite the pandemic, more forever families are brought together every day. As the newest Board Chair, I would be remiss if I did not thank the twelve Directors who give so much time and thoughtful attention to the future of HSSA. Serving on the Board is a wonderful way to assure that we secure the mission, vision, and financial integrity of HSSA. We are enormously proud to support our campus expansion. Through a generous gift from long-time supporters and the additional help of many more, we will be breaking ground on a new Education and Behavioral Center this spring. When we look back on 2020 I hope we can remember how we rose to the occasion to serve pets and the people who love them. I am honored to be part of the Humane Society of Southern Arizona.
Editor-in-Chief: Hannah Terpening Production & Design: Monique Conway Copy Editor: Kyle Mirzaian Photography: Hannah Carl Published quarterly by: The Humane Society of Southern Arizona, Inc. 635 W. Roger Rd. Tucson, AZ 85705 (520) 327-6088 Tax ID # 86-0112798 www.HSSAZ.org The Humane Society of Southern Arizona values and champions diversity and inclusion. These values are part of who we are. Together, we will continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our HSSA team and the communities we serve. Mission Statement: Acting with compassion and responsible stewardship through innovative programs that serve pets and the people who love them. Vision Statement: A community in which all pets are cared for and loved. HSSA is a private nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. We are not a department of the federal, state, county or city government, nor a branch of, or affiliated with, any other charitable organization. Views expressed herein by non-HSSA contributors are not necessarily those of the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. HSSA does not endorse nor guarantee any products, services, or vendors mentioned in Humanely Speaking. HSSA reserves the right to edit or reject, at its discretion, any item submitted for publication.
Š 2020 Humane Society of Southern Arizona; all rights reserved.
Kim Dickinson, Board Chair Humane Society of Southern Arizona
Visit our Main Campus at 635 W. Roger Rd. Tucson, AZ 85705 or online at HSSAZ.org
Zophia is home for the holidays. Another Adoption Success Story
ZOPHIA’S ADOPTERS ORIGINALLY came to HSSA with their hearts set on a different dog. But the couple, Ismaly and Carlos, became discouraged when the dog they thought would be the newest member of their family had a negative reaction to Carlos’ wheelchair. After discussing the situation with an adoption counselor, Ismaly and Carlos agreed to meet Zophia. “The moment they brought her up to us, she was filled with excitement and happiness towards both of us. After playing with her a while, we knew she was going to be a great fit.” Zophia spent more than 4 months at HSSA. She was difficult to place because of her reactivity towards other dogs. But that didn’t matter to Zophia’s new parents. Zophia is loved and adored just the way she is, and is even getting along better with other other dogs. Ismaly says, “When we first brought her to our home, she made it hers right away. She explored all our rooms and just hung out with us from the start. I have nothing but great things to say about her transition. She brings us so much excitement and is friendly with everyone she meets. We thought we would be doing a good thing by adopting a dog that was given up, but we had no idea what a blessing she would be to us.”
Giving back will never be cancelled. Donate on Tuesday, December 1st Tax-deductible donations will be used to provide shelter, food, medical care and tender-loving-care to more than 5,000 pets in the year to come.
NEW: Federal tax changes now allow you to deduct up to $ 300 in donations, even if you itemize!
Give on or before 12/1 at HSSAZ.org/DONATE
Give · Shop · Save 5311 E. Speedway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85712 (520) 327-0010 Just West of Craycroft Rd. on Speedway Blvd.
Where thrifting saves lives Proceeds benefit homeless pets at The Humane Society of Southern Arizona
Great selection of clothing and shoes rotated weekly! Also shop housewares, media, books, toys and more!
Sam Levitz partnership furniture at low, discounted prices!
New furniture is stocked weekly thanks to our generous partners at Sam Levitz Furniture.
Sign up for our email list in store or by visiting www.HSSAZ.org/THRIFT for event invites and coupons!
Donate your used items to HSSA Thrift! Donations are accepted during business hours.
STORE HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY 10AM-6PM | Follow us! HSSAThriftStore
HumaneSocietySoAzThrift
hssaz.org/thrift
Holiday Gift Guide Give the purr-fect gift while making a difference for homeless pets. THE SEASON OF giving is upon us! This year, the Humane Society of Southern Arizona is proud to offer holiday ornaments and cards by the renowned local artist, Diana Madaras. These beautiful ornaments and cards are an amazing opportunity to support the Humane Society while giving the gift of art! These are truly one-of-a-kind gifts and a chance to own original artwork by Diana Madaras! Get your holiday ornaments and cards now at HSSAZ.org/Shop Wondering what to get the animal lovers in your life who have everything? PAWSH Park Place and PAWSH Roger Road have unique and special petthemed gift items you won’t find anywhere else. Candles, cards, mugs, and more make memorable and touching stocking stuffers that show just how much you care. Don’t forget a delicious treat, a comfy new dog bed, or a one-of-kind hand-crafted jingle bell for your feline family member. You can learn more about how shopping at PAWSH helps support the work of HSSA by visiting HSSAZ.org/Shop Gift-shopping at PAWSH isn’t the only way to shop and save lives with HSSA! Visit HSSA’s award-winning Thrift Store at 5311 E. Speedway Blvd, in Tucson. Go thrifting for that perfect gift or just find a great jacket or even a new Sam Levitz Furniture. There’s something new to discover every day and every sale directly benefits the animals at the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. Learn more at HSSAZ.org/Thrift There’s even more incredible ways to shop this holiday season with HSSA. The Holiday PAWction has become a tradition in Tucson! Each year, bidders support the life-saving work of the Humane Society while winning truly remarkable and sought-after gift packages, items, collectibles, art, vacation stays and more. The Holiday PAWction has a huge impact on the lives of so many homeless pets, especially at this time of year. Visit HSSAZ.org/PAWction to view all the amazing auction items and to start bidding! The Holiday PAWction runs from November 27th through December 6th. Perhaps the most stylish gifts you can give this season are our brand-new holiday-inspired t-shirts! This year’s adorable design will be sure to delight the pet devotees on your shopping list. Be sure to grab yourself one, too! Visit our store online where you can find our shirts, facemasks, and even more cool HSSA swag. While you are there, pick-up some Millions for Tucson Raffle tickets for a chance to win a new truck from Jim Click Automotive- they make great gifts, too! Shop online now at HSSAZ.org/Store and have a great time doing your holiday shopping while helping to save the lives of the thousands of pets HSSA cares for throughout the year. Happy Holidays!
WINTER BREAK WORKSHOP December 21st - 23rd
Winter Break is a great time to celebrate the holidays, and an excellent time to give back to our community! At the Hand in Paw Kids Club Winter Workshop kids will learn about pet enrichment and the positive impacts it has on shelter pets. Participants will get first-hand experience in making enrichment treats and toys that will go straight to our shelter and foster pets!
Register today at HSSAZ.org/Kids
Holiday
PAWction
Find a unique gift for everyone on your shopping list!
Shop and save lives
from the comfort of your home November 27th through December 6th Gift Certificates • Holiday Items • Unique Merchandise • And more!
View all auction items at HSSAZ.org/PAWction
PUTTIN’ ON THE DOG has been the Humane Society of Southern Arizona’s most important fundraising event for each of the past 22 years. It is an award-winning gala that had become a tradition in Tucson. Planning and production by HSSA’s Events team, Marketing team, and committee members had already begun at the start of the COVID-19 crisis. The decision was made to first postpone and then ultimately replace the grand, in-person event with a televised, virtual version and the HSSA Puttin’ on the Dog “Tail-a-thon” was born. Production began in August on the television special and HSSA’s Marketing and Events teams hustled to replicate as much as possible the orginal Puttin’ on the Dog’s fun and excitement, including the heartwarming stories and the important message of HSSA’s mission. The Tail-a-thon was hosted by HSSA’s own Marketing and Public Relations Lead, Monique Conway and philanthropy auctioneer Bobby D. Elhert of Call to Auction, and included special appearances by local community leaders and business owners, including Tucson’s Mayor Regina Romero. Musical performances were provided by local musicians
John Coinman and Blair Forward, Sabra Faulk, and Ted Ramirez and the Santa Cruz River Band. The powerful and inspiring stories featured throughout the show were produced by Hannah Carl, HSSA’s Social Media Coordinator. The response to Tail-a-thon by the community was tremendous. The special aired on October 10th and 11th and was able to exceed our goal of raising more than $100,000 to continue shelter operations for the thousands of homeless pets that HSSA will care for in the coming year. HSSA staff and volunteers worked the telephones and received a flood of calls with donations and support for the Second Chance Medical Fund during the televised event. The staff, volunteers, and pets at the Humane Society of Southern Arizona thank everyone who watched, donated, and supported HSSA’s vital work. If you missed the show it is always viewable from the HSSA YouTube channel at HSSAZ.org/YouTube. The program has ended but the need has not. To make a donation visit HSSAZ.org/Donate
HSSA’s Shelter Medical Heroes Before
ONE OF THE amazing aspects of the Humane Society of Southern Arizona are the quality of people who work and volunteer within the organization. From our Adoptions staff who celebrate every time a homeless pet finds a forever home, to the volunteers who walk every dog and play with every cat, there are a lot of things happening all the time at HSSA. Even among the extraordinary things that go on every day, the work that is performed by HSSA’s shelter medical team is truly remarkable. Medical cases entering the shelter fall under the care of Shelter Veterinarian Dr. Santana Overton and her team. Together, they treat and save the lives of hundreds of homeless pets every year. From the simplest exam to critical medical crises, HSSA’s medical team treats every patient with genuine care and devotion.
After
Elmer and Fudd
Hammerhead
On any given day, HSSA’s shelter medical staff have a busy schedule. From checking on each patient in recovery, to prepping for every procedure on the medical board, shelter veterinarian Dr. Overton and her team dedicate themselves to every pet that enters the shelter and requires medical care. It can be grueling, thankless, and sometimes emotionally heartfelt work. Dr. Overton and her team of JarieAnna, Stefanie F., Stephannie M. and Stephanie C. (ed note: Yes, HSSA’s shelter medical team has three ‘Stephanies’!) are the heroes behind the amazing stories that result from the Second Chance Medical Fund. These patients who need medical treatment above that which would normally be available are why the Second Chance Fund is so important. It provides the financial support that these cases require while the Humane Society of Southern Arizona’s medical team supplies the expertise, love, and care that turn these difficult medical cases into victories.
Bugsy
Suede
HSSA Clinic’s Pet Dental Cleanings Do you know how to brush your dog’s teeth?
Watch our in-depth training video at HSSAZ.org/YouTube PET OWNERSHIP IS a wonderful thing. The benefits, joy and love a pet brings into our families’ lives is immeasurable. Of course, these rewards come with certain responsibilities and expenses. Pet food, grooming supplies, toys, collars, and bedding (all available in our PAWSH stores) are associated costs that most pet owners consider before adopting a pet into their households. Even when pet owners are well-aware of the requirements for great veterinary care for their furry family member, the actual costs can come as a terrible shock – especially when dental care is needed. Infected gums and rotted teeth cause great suffering, so dental care is a necessity. But anyone who has had more than regular check-ups and cleaning can attest to the expenses associated with going to going to a human dentist. Dental procedures for pets can be even more expensive. That is why the Humane Society of Southern Arizona’s Spay and Neuter Clinic has expanded our Wellness Program services to include many essential and life-saving dental care options for pets. The Wellness Program works to serve households that may be struggling to afford veterinary care in these difficult times. Dental procedures offered by the HSSA Spay & Neuter Clinic include dental exams and x-rays, cleanings, bloodwork, and much more, and are available for everyone, regardless of income. Spaces are limited. To check availability and to learn more about our Wellness Program or to apply, visit HSSAZ.org/Wellness
Before
After
635 W. Roger Rd., Tucson, AZ 85705 • HSSAZ.org/Clinic • 520-881-0321
Together for the Holidays Milo and Phoebe will spend the holidays in warm beds receiving the medical care they need thanks to our generous donors. Milo
A FIVE YEAR OLD spaniel mix was found laying motionless under a tree in late September. A Good Samaritan approached the small dog sure that his time had come but was shocked to see two little eyes open and look up at them. He was alive and now on his way to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. Our Good Samaritan carried Milo through HSSA’s doors and our medical team immediately got to work with a lump in their throats. The urgency to diagnose and treat this sweet boy was strong with our shelter medical team. He looked up at them with crusty and matted eyes and seemed to ask for help. We quickly found that Milo was suffering from one of the most severe cases of Valley Fever that our staff had ever seen. This fungal disease had run rampant in his body without treatment, likely for his entire life. Because of this he is suffering from cachexia or “wasting syndrome”. Symptoms of wasting syndrome include extreme weight loss, muscle loss, a lack of appetite, fatigue, and decreased strength. Our team started him on Flucanazole, pain medications and other medications and treatments to treat his anemia, Valley Fever and overall disintegration.
Phoebe
There were many moments that we weren’t sure if Milo was up to this course of care. How could his tiny, frail body handle these medications? Eating was even hard for him at first. But day by day Milo improved. Milo looked a little brighter. Milo moved his paws out toward staff as if reaching for his future. And we’re happy to announce that his life was saved. Milo is still in our Second Chance Medical Unit and still receiving life-saving care thanks to donors like you. Milo has slowly begun to walk again and his tail wags when he sees his favorite vet techs. He has been given a chance to live a long and healthy life thanks to the support of our family of donors. Five month old Phoebe was surrendered to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona by her owners after sustaining a life-threatening dog attack. Her kitten arm was pulled under a closed door by a dog in the home. She was in serious pain with large wounds across her arm and shoulder. HSSA was able to take Phoebe in and provide care thanks to the monies raised over the past year in our Second Chance Medical Fund. Phoebe was a star patient for our team and she didn’t seem to skip a beat after the accident. Phoebe purrs and rubs up against visitors when they stop by the Second Chance Medical Unit. She will finish up her healing in the warm and calm home of one of HSSA’s amazing Foster Care families. We know Phoebe will make a full recovery and bring great happiness to her forever family when that great day comes. These are just two stories of healing and hope. There are so many others that never find their names in our magazine. HSSA cares for more than 5,000 pets each year. With your help we provide medical care and treatment as well as the basic necessities like food, water, safety and shelter. Some of these pets come to us after living hard lives in need of a second chance, while others are born at HSSA or come to us very young in need of a healthy beginning. With your tax-deductible gifts we are able to help them ALL. This holiday season please join our family of donors and make a gift in honor of Milo, Phoebe or the pet that grew your heart. Give now at HSSAZ.org/Donate
Make your tax-deductible gift now at HSSAZ.org/Donate
March 20 , 2021 at Noon th
Lunch • Live Auction • Raffle • Guest Speaker Hilton El Conquistador, Presidio Ballroom, 10000 North Oracle Road
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona is proud to host Michael Hingson, the best- selling author of Thunder Dog, as he tells the heartwrenching story of how his service dog saved his life on September 11th, 2001
Purchase your tickets at HSSAZ.org/RescueMe
winter 2020-2021
calendar of events
*Due to the COVID-19 outbreak all event information is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information visit www.HSSAZ.org or www.Facebook.com/HSSAZ
SATURDAY, NOV 14
Drags for Paws
7pm
The Screening Room 127 E. Congress St., Tucson, AZ 85701 Enjoy this all ages show featuring 15 outstanding performers. Learn more at HSSAZ.org/Drags FRIDAY, NOV 27- SUNDAY, DEC 6
Holiday PAWction
all-day
Find a unique gift for everyone on your shopping list from the comfort of your home. Shop at HSSAZ.org/PAWction SATURDAY, DEC 5
Munchies, Music and Mutts
6pm-10pm
4280 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85718 Enjoy great food, drinks, live music and adoptable pets! Learn more at HSSAZ.org/Munchies SATURDAY, DEC 12
Pet Safety and First Aid Training 1pm-5pm
635 W. Roger Rd., Tucson, AZ 85705 Keep your pets safe and be prepared for an emergency. Learn more at HSSAZ.org/PetFirstAid MONDAY, DEC 21 - WEDNESDAY, DEC 23
Hand in Paw Winter Workshop
9am-4pm
635 W. Roger Rd., Tucson, AZ 85705 Kids will discover the positive impact enrichment has on the lives of shelter pets. Learn more at HSSAZ.org/Kids SATURDAY, MAR 20
Rescue Me Gala
12pm
El Conquistador 10000 N. Oracle Rd. Hear how Michael Hingson’s service dog saved him on 9/11. Learn more at HSSAZ.org/RescueMe
2021 Make a New Year’s resolution to help homeless pets THIS HAS BEEN a trying year for so many. Through it all, the Humane Society of Southern Arizona never stopped providing the care and love needed by so many pets in our community. Regardless of what was happening in the world or how many programs, services and events had to innovate, change, or be rescheduled, pets at HSSA never noticed. They continued to receive the incredible amount of care and devotion that has always been the foundation of everything that HSSA does. Celebrating the arrival of a new year is always fun, especially when you won’t mind seeing the old one in the rear-view mirror. But keep in mind the safety of our pets as we celebrate. Despite the likelihood of there being fewer and smaller celebrations this year, many of the safety concerns for pets persist. Aside from the 4th of July, and New Year’s Eve may follow the same pattern. This year, record numbers of fireworks have been reported throughout the country for extended periods of time even before and after the 4th of July and it will potentially be a similar case for New Year’s Eve.
Lost and Found Pets Be sure to make appropriate arrangement for your pets to be secure and safe for New Year’s Eve. Every year, fireworks are responsible for hundreds of pets going missing. Many cats and dogs try to escape the scary noises and run away from home. The HSSA Lost & Found Office re-unites owners with their missing pets. Dedicated staff members closely monitor social media and message boards for missing pets daily and contact owners whenever we have a match. To learn more about HSSA’s Lost & Found Office, visit us at HSSAZ.org/Lost This is why it is important to have your pet micro-chipped. Every dog and cat adopted from HSSA has been micro-chipped, but we also offer micro-chipping services through our Spay & Neuter Clinic. If your pet needs to be chipped, you can schedule an appointment at HSSAZ.org/Clinic
Volunteer In the shelter, dogs and cats are comforted by volunteers and staff during New Year’s Eve. Thunder shirts are given to those pets that are more easily frightened and volunteers cuddle and soothe anxious animals to help them through the sounds of fireworks. This would be a great time to become a volunteer yourself. Make a New Year’s Eve resolution to serve homeless pets and the people who love them this year at HSSA. Sign up now to become a volunteer at HSSAZ.org/Volunteer
Donate You can help support homeless pets in Southern Arizona when you shop with us on Amazon.com! Simply select the Humane Society of Southern Arizona as your preferred charity on Smile.Amazon.com, then start your online future shopping sprees at that same address. HSSA will get a percentage of all your purchases. You can also sign up for Fry’s Community Rewards by visiting HSSAZ.org/Frys and you’ll also be helping homeless pets every time you do your grocery shopping with Fry’s. During the holidays we also offer our Holiday PAWction (see page 6). Another popular option at this time of year is to donate an unwanted vehicle by visiting HSSAZ.org/Vehicle. And you can now deduct up to $300 from your federal taxable income even if you itemize by donating at HSSAZ.org/Donate. The holidays are a wonderful time to donate to HSSA. No matter how you do it, and on behalf of every pet that enters our doors: Thank You for supporting the Humane Society of Southern Arizona.
As the year comes to a close, the needs of homeless pets remain. Through giving, every person has the opportunity to help save the lives of these pets. It is a simple answer to the question of how HSSA is able to provide so much for those animals who are the most vulnerable. The good news is, there are some terrific ways to give at the end of the year!
Learn more about how to support homeless pets in your community at HSSAZ.org
Humane Society of Southern Arizona Main Campus 635 W. Roger Rd. Tucson, AZ 85705 520-327-6088 Adoptions By appointment only. Meet available pets at HSSAZ.org/Adopt Admissions Monday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
PAWSH at Park Place 5870 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85711 520-881-7406 Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. HSSA Thrift Store 5311 E. Speedway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85712 520-327-0010 Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Spay & Neuter Clinic 635 W. Roger Rd. Tucson, AZ 85705 520-881-0321 Surgery by appointment only. Vaccination Clinic Hours Wednesday and Saturday at 9 a.m. Suggested sign-in at 8:15am No more waiting in line - you will receive a text when it is your pet’s turn to see the veterinarian.
Best Thrift Store
Visit us online at HSSAZ.org or find us on Facebook.