HSTB foster program saves the life of a tiny kitten with a huge will to live, pg. 4
HUMANE SOCIETY OF TAMPA BAY
LEADERSHIP & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Sherry Silk
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sarah Glaser
President
Wyatt Castellvi
Vice President
Steve Rovner
Treasurer
Kevin Bischoff
Secretary
Scott Arnold
Member at Large
Amy Nelson Agliano
Meredith Balasco
Ryan Cook
Michael Neff
Phil Nodhturft, III
Scott Price
Jacalin Russo
Laura Tatem
Jennifer Williams
BOARD EMERITUS
Linda Reitz
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Greg Balasco
Sierra-Shae Brandt
Simon Canasi
Mayor Jane Castor
Lisa DeBartolo
Nikki DeBartolo
Danita Dickman
Commissioner Ken Hagan
Bobby Harris
Jeannine Hascall
Brad Lancaster
Sandy Murman
Kim Rogers
Cherie Schonbrun
Cathy Smith
Cynthia Smoot
Andrea Gonzmart Williams
Elise Zahn
IN THIS ISSUE
FEATURE STORY — SMALL BUT MIGHTY
HSTB foster program saves the life of a tiny kitten with a huge will to live.
WHO LET THE DOGS OUT? UH, YOU DID!
Doggie Day Out: One day can change a life.
HSTB ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Affordable veterinary care for every pet. 12
BRIGHT FUTURES
Educational partnerships that inspire young minds.
NEED SOMEBUNNY TO LOVE?
ARE YOU KITTEN ME?
YOUR GENEROSITY SAVES LIVES
RECOGNITION & THANKS
Corporate Donors, Partners, Grants, and 2025
Hop into responsible rabbit ownership this Easter. 14
Kitten season is already here; how you can help. 13 Why giving matters. 16
MEET GEORGIE
Let’s end on a high note!
Written by Regan Blessinger
Edited by Regan Blessinger & Nash McCutchen
Layout and Design by Nash McCutchen
Contributors: Gretel Harvey, Valerie Hogan, Cristina Klein Photography, Madison Kostka, Lensology, Chris Madalena, Liz McCoy, Lisa Novorska, Sandy Provencher, Sherry Silk, Jessica Tiso, Danyelle Van Horn, Ornella Varchi LETTER FROM THE CEO 3 4 6 8 10 11
Bark In The Park sponsors, vendors & participants.
Letter from the CEO
Dear Friends,
As spring approaches, so does one of the busiest times of the year for animal shelters—kitten season. This is the time when unspayed community stray cats give birth, leading to an overwhelming number of kittens in need of care. At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, we are preparing for the arrival of hundreds of these tiny, vulnerable lives.
While dogs often steal the spotlight with their wagging tails and eager faces, our feline friends need just as much love, compassion, and support. Cats and kittens can sometimes be overlooked, but they, too, deserve warm homes, full bellies, and the safety of loving arms. Every year, we take in thousands of cats and kittens—many requiring round-the-clock bottle feeding, medical care, and socialization before they are ready for adoption.
We cannot do this without you. Whether it’s by fostering a litter of kittens, adopting a cat or kitten, donating supplies, or supporting our spay/neuter efforts, your generosity makes a world of difference. If you’ve ever thought about opening your heart and home to a cat in need, now is the perfect time.
Together, we can ensure that every cat and kitten that comes through our doors gets the care they need to thrive. Thank you for standing with us in our mission to give them a second chance at life.
With gratitude,
Chief Executive Officer
SherryS@HumaneSocietyTampa.org
Feature Story
SMALL BUT MIGHTY HSTB
foster program saves the life of a tiny kitten with a huge will to live.
This past New Year’s Eve, as many celebrated fresh starts, a tiny kitten named Jasmine arrived at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay in desperate need of help. At just a few weeks old, she was weak, malnourished, and suffering from a painful, bulging eye. Despite her condition, her sweet spirit shined through, capturing the hearts of everyone who met her.
Jasmine was too fragile for immediate surgery, so our veterinary team focused on stabilizing her health. She needed time to gain strength, proper nutrition, and the love that would help her thrive. That’s when one of our incredible foster families stepped in, providing round-the-clock care and a nurturing environment.
With consistent feedings, medical support, and lots of affection, Jasmine began to flourish. Her playful and affectionate personality emerged, showing just how resilient she was. While her eye remained a concern, careful treatment helped it improve. As she grew stronger, she finally reached the healthy weight needed for surgery. However, after further evaluation, we discovered she wouldn’t need her eye removed—only a routine spay surgery. It was a happy outcome for this little fighter.
Now, Jasmine is thriving and searching for her forever home—one that will cherish
her boundless energy and snuggly nature. Her journey is a testament to the power of community support, foster families, and donors who make our lifesaving work possible.
Each year, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay takes in and cares for thousands of cats and kittens in need, providing medical treatment, foster care, and adoption opportunities. Beyond our shelter walls, we assist thousands of community cats through our trap-neuter-vaccinate-return
(TNVR) program, helping to reduce the stray population and improve their quality of life.
For pet owners struggling to provide for their cats, our Pet Pantry supplies free food to ensure their beloved pets stay nourished. We also deliver pet food to homebound residents, allowing them to keep their cherished companions despite financial or physical challenges.
Jasmine’s story is just one of many, made possible by the generosity of animal lovers like you. By adopting, fostering, donating, or volunteering, you can help us continue saving lives and keeping pets with the families who love them.
Support HSTB’s Foster Program !
Help save the lives of more underage animals like Jasmine. Donate now! HumaneSocietyTampa.org/2025-Spring-MT
Become a foster: HumaneSocietyTampa.org/fostering
Here are just 9 of thousands of cats YOU SAVED IN 2024 enjoying their time at HSTB before being adopted.
WHO LET THE DOGS OUT? UH, YOU DID!
Doggie Day Out: One day can change a life.
Doggie Day Out, HSTB’s new, exciting initiative, invites Tampa Bay citizens to take a shelter dog on an adventure for the day. Whether it’s a hike, a trip to the beach, a stroll around town, or a snuggle session at home, your borrowed canine companion will cherish every moment.
A Win-Win Program!
The dogs, especially those who have been at the shelter for more than 30 days, get a much-needed break from the kennels, valuable socialization, and exposure to potential adopters, while you enjoy a day of heartwarming companionship.
Calm, Cool, Adopted!
Doggie Day Out excursions reduce stress and anxiety for our shelter dogs, boost their adoptability, and provide insight into their personalities in a real-world setting.
Guaranteed ROI!
Doggie Day Out is rewarding for the human participants who can make an instant and meaningful impact with just a few hours of their time. It is also an incredible opportunity to share the pets’ personalities with potential adopters they may meet out on the town!
“...
the program lets the dogs relax and just be the loving dog we know they are ... I'm enjoying it as well.” ~ Volunteer
"AWESOME
EXPERIENCE! We will do it again! " ~ Volunteer
5 years old Female, Beagle Mix
40+ Days Available Spunky, Curious, Jumping Bean
3 years old Male, Terrier Mix
70+ Days Available Loyal,Sweet,Calm
SHELTER PET ENRICHMENT
4 years old
Male, Terrier Mix
70+ Days Available Energetic, Big-hearted, Adventurous
8 years old Male,Terrier Mix 60+ Days Available Friendly,Easy-going,Loving
7 years old
Female,Terrier Mix
40+ Days Available Affectionate, Calm, Quick Learner
“... the dogs love it and are grateful to get out and explore ...” ~ Volunteer
HELPING PETS & THEIR PEOPLE
HSTB ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Affordable veterinary care for every pet.
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s Animal Hospital is dedicated to keeping pets healthy, happy, and in their loving homes. As a full-service, affordable veterinary hospital, we offer everything from wellness exams and vaccinations to surgeries and dental care—all at accessible prices for Tampa Bay pet owners. By providing accessible care, we’re helping
BENJAMIN
Willow found a stray cat in her neighborhood and decided to give him a loving home. Benjamin, as she named him, had a wound on his head and was battling ear mites and an infection. With Willow facing financial constraints, HSTB provided medications for his ear issues and wound. Willow covered his vaccines and FeLV/FIV testing, ensuring Benjamin get the care he needed. She plans to keep him indoors, safe, and healthy in his new forever home.
families stay together and ensuring pets stay in homes rather than entering shelters. It’s just one of the many ways we’re making a positive impact on the Tampa Bay community. Trust us to be your partner in pet health—because every pet deserves a lifetime of love and care!
PEBBLES
This sweet pup came to the HSTB Animal Hospital for help with an ear infection and hair loss on her paws. Her owner, Yanet, rescued her as a puppy, nursing her back to health from parvovirus. She provides the same loving care to several other rescued pups as well and needed assistance with Pebbles’ treatment.
HSTB’s medical team was able to diagnose the issues and provide treatment to address her painful symptoms. Yanet was deeply grateful for this program that makes crucial medical care accessible to all pets in the community.
MARGARITA
This spunky 11-month-old kitten got loose during Hurricane Milton and was missing for two days. When she finally did return, her relieved mom, Vanessa, noticed her limping. A private veterinary clinic confirmed that her leg was fractured and recommended amputation, with costs exceeding $3,000. Devastated, Vanessa called HSTB for help. Much to her relief, our specialty surgeon was able to repair the fracture at a fraction of the cost and also saved Margarita’s leg. Vanessa was so grateful for this specialized surgery available to pets like Margarita, who is recovering happily at home!
BO & JASMINE
This precious pair came to HSTB after coughing for several months, with Bo also battling an ear infection. Their owner, Heather, was facing financial challenges, but thanks to HSTB’s affordable services and the support of generous donors, we were able to help. X-rays identified the cause of their coughs and the pups were sent home with antibiotics, cough suppressants, and ear medication. Heather was so relieved and grateful that she was able to keep her beloved pets healthy and at home.
BRIGHT FUTURES
Educational partnerships that inspire young minds.
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay (HSTB) is proud to partner with various local education programs to foster compassion, responsibility, and career exploration among young people. These partnerships provide unique opportunities for children and teens to connect with animals, develop life skills, and learn about potential career paths.
Caminiti Exceptional Center & Focus Forward
Our collaboration with Caminiti Exceptional Center brings a group of teens with unique abilities to the shelter for an hour of meaningful activities each visit. These teens enjoy making dog treats, distributing them to the animals, socializing with cats and rabbits, and performing light cleaning duties. Similarly, Focus Forward brings special needs young adults to the shelter, where they participate in the same enriching activities and build a sense of purpose and connection.
Think Big for Kids
HSTB’s partnership with Think Big for Kids focuses on at-risk teens, providing a broader perspective on opportunities within the shelter. In addition to making treats and interacting with animals, the teens receive shelter tours and explore jobs at HSTB that
don’t require a college degree. HSTB staff also visit after-school clubs to speak with these teens, emphasizing the value of animal welfare work and offering guidance on careers.
The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida
Girl Scout troops partner with HSTB in a variety of ways, including badge workshops, sleepovers, and community events like cookie booths. Plans are underway to develop a Teen program focused on learning at the HSTB hospital, further expanding opportunities for education and engagement.
The Florida Aquarium
Additionally, HSTB collaborates with The Florida Aquarium during summer camps. Two of their camps include field trips to HSTB and, in exchange, FL Aquarium educators visit HSTB’s Career Camp, to share insight into animal and marine sciences.
HSTB’s commitment to Humane Education is strong and these partnerships offer life-changing experiences while fostering a love for animals and a deeper understanding of the shelter’s mission.
Learn about Educational Partnerships and all of HSTB’s programs for children and youth! HumaneSocietyTampa.org/kids
NEED SOMEBUNNY TO LOVE?
Hop Into Responsible Rabbit Ownership
This Easter!
As Easter approaches, many families become enchanted by the idea of welcoming a fluffy bunny into their lives. After all, who could resist those twitchy noses and soft, floppy ears? Before you head to a feed or pet store to buy a baby bunny, do your research and homework to ensure a happy, forever home for both you and your new pet.
First, Consider Adopting.
Rabbits are more than just a seasonal novelty . In fact, HSTB is one of the few shelters in the Tampa Bay area that takes in and rehomes these adorable animals (many of whom are dumped when they grow up). By adopting from HSTB, you not only give a rabbit a second chance, but you also receive expert guidance on bunny parenthood.
Second, Become a Bunny Expert.
Rabbits are not low-maintenance pets
They’re intelligent, social creatures that thrive on interaction, exercise, and proper care. From specialized diets (yes, hay and veggies are a must) to regular grooming and vet visits, rabbits require as much love and attention as cats or dogs. Plus, they can live up to 10 years or more! Adopting a rabbit means making a long-term commitment— and they’re worth every minute of it.
This Easter
Celebrate the joy and love animals bring into our lives responsibly . If a rabbit sounds like a good fit for your family, hop on over to HSTB to meet our adoptable bunnies. Take the time to research, plan, and prepare—because a happy bunny makes for a hoppy home!
See the adoptable rabbits available now at the shelter ! HumaneSocietyTampa.org/Adopt
ARE YOU KITTEN ME? Kitten season is already here; how you can help.
Kitten season has arrived earlier than usual this year, and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay is already seeing an influx of tiny, vulnerable kittens needing care. Each spring and summer, hundreds of kittens arrive at HSTB, many of them orphaned or in need of medical attention. This earlier start could mean a longer and busier season than ever before, and we need your help to prepare for what’s ahead.
Caring for kittens is no small task. From bottles, formula, and blankets to litter and kitten-specific food, the supplies required to care for so many babies are immense. Additionally, the roundthe-clock care some of these kittens need can only be provided by dedicated foster families. Fosters provide temporary homes where kittens can grow, thrive, and receive love, attention and
socialization until they’re ready for adoption. If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the time to join our foster team. Whether it’s caring for a single kitten or an entire litter, your home can be a lifeline for these tiny lives. No prior experience is necessary—HSTB provides the training, support, and supplies you’ll need to give these kittens a great start in life.
For those unable to foster, there are still many ways to help. Donations of supplies like kitten formula, canned kitten food, and litter are always needed. Monetary donations also go a long way in helping us cover medical costs and provide essential care to the hundreds of kittens we anticipate this season.
Kitten season is one of the busiest times of the year at the shelter. With your support we can give these fragile lives the care they need and ensure that every kitten has a chance to grow up healthy, happy, and loved. Scan code to donate or visit:
YOUR
GENEROSITY SAVES LIVES!
Why giving matters.
At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, we’re proud to share stories of the lives saved and transformed thanks to the support of donors like you. None of this would be possible without your kindness and commitment to our mission.
Your donations allow us to:
Provide lifesaving medical care for injured, ill, and neglected animals who need urgent help.
Rescue and shelter thousands of animals each year, giving them the second chance they deserve.
Find loving homes for pets of all shapes and sizes, matching them with families who will cherish them forever.
Run community outreach programs like affordable spay/neuter services and pet food assistance, that keep pets with their families—and TNVR (trap, neuter, vaccinate, return) services for outdoor cats.
Educate the next generation of animal advocates through youth programs and humane education.
9,948 animals saved
91.2% save rate includes all of Hillsborough Cty.
42,629 pets seen at the Animal Hospital.
221,159 lbs of pet food given away free to keep pets in their homes.
6,268 children active in Humane Education programs.
Every dollar you give has a direct impact on the lives of animals in need.
Your generosity enables us to save lives and give animals the happy, healthy futures they deserve. Thank you for making this life-changing work possible! Together, we can continue to save even more lives—one paw at a time.
Use
RECOGNITION & THANKS
TOP FUNDRAISING PACKS (left to right):
#1 PARty Animals
#2 HSTB Board Bark Squad
#3 HSTB Volunteers
TOP INDIVIDUAL FUNDRAISERS:
#1 Joanne Hubert
#2 Lou Lipari
#3 Pam Duval
Thank You, Sponsors!
TOP DOG
Beasley Media Group Kevin and Valerie Bischoff
Volunteer Sponsor Cool Today
Barking
Buddy Tail
Wagger
Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk
BlueGrace Logistics
Florida Blue
Grow Financial Federal Credit Union
UrgentVet
BluePearl
Greenacre Properties Inc
GTE Financial
Honor Thy Pet Cremation & Funeral Service
Morgan Import Motorcars
Pangel™
Veterinary Emergency Group
Pet Pal
Banfield Pet Hospital
Bay Paws Pet Resort
Demesmin & Dover
Doyle Dental
Dr. Elise Zahn & Dr. Dene Williamson
Elite Rewards
Farkas Chiropractic Clinic
Fetch Specialty & Emergency Veterinary Centers
Florida Financial Advisors
Julius - K9
Pearly Bites Veterinary
Pet Supplies Plus
Pin Chasers
Pithers Group
Pupgrade
Renewal by Andersen
Suncoast Credit Union
Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union
Trane
The Wagging Club
Wellspring Mobile Pet Care
Vetoquinol 3 C's Catering
Daughters Brewing
Bay Stage Live
Image Depot Express
CORPORATE DONORS, PARTNERS & GRANTS
Academy of the Holy Names
Advent Health
Aerotek
Ally Bank
Animal Based Charities
Apex Systems
Ardurra
Armature Works
Athletes for Animals
Bark Box
Bernice Barbour Foundation
Bissell Pet Foundation
BlueGrace Logistics
BluePearl
Bonez & Paws
Brandon All-Stars
BRANDT
Brighthouse Financial
Buff City Soap
Carrollwood Day School
Chadwell Supply
Cheetahs for Charity
Cigar City Brewing
Club Pilates Carrollwood
Community Foundation
Tampa Bay
Community Tampa Bay
Corrigan Sports Enterprises
DCE Productions
Delanie’s Lemonade Stand
Delta Airlines
Dolly’s Dream
Dowdell Middle School
Downtown Crawlers
Downtown Dogs
DTCC
Equinix
Essentials Spa of Carrollwood
Excite Health Partners
FairyTail Pet Care
Feeding Tampa Bay
Florida Blood Services
Florida Blue
GFWC Tampa Woman’s Club
Greenacre Properties
GTE Financial
Health Mutt
Hillsborough County
Bar Association
Holland & Knight
Honeywell
Hyde Park Village
International Diamond Center
J.E. Dunn Construction
Junior League of Tampa
Keiser University/Biomedical Sciences Club
Kendra Scott
Latham Foundation
LBA Realty
Leadership Tampa Bay
Lowe’s
Marand Builders
Mediagistic
Melting Pot
Metro Lagoons
Mirada Lagoon
New York Life
Otis
Oxbow Animal Health
Patel, Greene, and Associates, LLC
Pedigree
Perfect Pets
Petco Love
Petco Westshore
Petsmart
Phi Kappa Delta, USF Chapter
Phosphorus
Pioneer Health
Progressive Insurance
Project Canis
Pups Pub
PWC
Rogers Behavioral Health
Rotary Club of Tampa
Rover
Ryan Homes
Ryan Nece Foundation
Sam’s Club
Scenthound Lutz
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Smiths Interconnect
Southshore Bay Lagoon
SPCA International
SPCA Lakeland
St. Lawrence Catholic SchoolKindergarten
Subaru Loves Pets
Subaru of Wesley Chapel
Sunbelt Staffing
Tampa Bay Lightning
Tampa Bay Moms Group
Tampa Catholic High School
Tampa General Hospital
Tampa Museum of Art
Tampa Theatre
Target
Team Select Home Care
TECO
The Salty Donut
Think Big for Kids
Trader Joe’s
Trane
USF Clubs and Organizations
UT Clubs and Organizations
Vinik Sports Group
Wise
Woolfie’s Grooming
Zoom Room South Tampa
Let’s end on a high note.
The HSTB Administrative staff has fallen head over heals for this charming bird! Georgie lives on the 3 rd floor where he rules the roost and is a star! This very handsome Quaker Parrot came to HSTB from a heartbreaking hoarding case and spent time being nursed back to health by the staff. Once the cruelty case was over, and he was finally ready for adoption, our administrative team just couldn’t let him go—his big personality had already won all hearts! Georgie is full of quirks, has a lot to say, and always keeps us laughing with his antics. We take turns hosting him in our offices, making sure he gets all the love and attention he deserves. This old guy has truly found his forever home with us, and we couldn’t be happier to have him as part of the HSTB family! Next time you visit the shelter, head on up to the 3 rd floor and meet our feathered team member!
