LOREN was tied to a tree and left to starve until a knight in shining armor brought her to HSTB.
HSTB’s Animal Hospital saves dying dog from chronic malnourishment and neglect , 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 KINDESS, HUGE IMPACT Good Samaritan and HSTB’s Animal Hospital team up to save a life
ANNUAL REPORT
Serving the community with transparency
EXTRA CHARM
Exotic pets are a fun alternative for families who love to be “extra” 13
BREWIN’ UP FUN
New Programs enrich the lives of animals and humans
THERE’S NO VACATION FOR HOMELESS ANIMALS They need heroes now. 14
BOLLYWOOD!
Join HSTB for Tuxes & Tails 2025
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Hurricane season is here, we can help you prepare
FORE THE ANIMALS
Join HSTB for the 4 th Annual Tees Fore Tails Golf Tournament
RECOGNITIONS & THANKS 16
REUNITED – LET’S END ON A HIGH NOTE Cali & Dolly, a reunion for the ages
Editors: Regan Blessinger, Nash McCutchen
Layout and Design: Nash McCutchen
Contributors: Gretel Harvey, Valerie Hogan, Cristina Klein Photography, Madison Kostka, Liz McCoy, Lisa Novorska, Sherry Silk, Danyelle Van Horn, Ornella Varchi,
Aalways been rooted in compassion—for both animals and the people who love them. One of the most powerful ways we live out that mission every single day is through our Animal Hospital.
Last year alone, our veterinary team cared for over 42,000 pets—a number that reflects both the deep needs of our community and the trust you’ve placed in us. From wellness visits, spay/neuter surgeries, and other critical surgeries, our hospital stands as a beacon of hope for families who might otherwise have to choose between critical care and financial hardship. In a time when veterinary costs can feel out of reach, we’re proud to provide affordable, accessible care to those who need it most, right here in Tampa Bay.
We’re also incredibly proud that our hospital is AAHA-accredited, meaning we meet the highest standards of veterinary excellence nationwide. And we don’t stop at pets with homes—our team performed over 4,000 feral cat surgeries last year, helping humanely manage and reduce the stray population in our neighborhoods.
This year, we’re thrilled to share some exciting news: our Animal Hospital is expanding. Construction is underway to add a second floor and 10,000 square feet of new space. This will allow us to serve even more animals with the same quality and care that defines everything we do. Additionally, our cat patients will have their very own waiting room to reduce stress.
In a time when veterinary costs can feel out of reach, we’re proud to provide affordable, accessible care to those who need it most.
Every animal we treat, every life we save, and every family we support is made possible by you—our community of donors, clients, and advocates. Thank you for standing with us, and for believing in a more compassionate future for all.
With gratitude,
Chief Executive Officer
SherryS@HumaneSocietyTampa.org
In 2024
42,000 beloved family pets received veterinary care because of the affordable services offered at HSTB’s Animal Hospital.
Feature Story
SMALL KINDNESS, HUGE IMPACT
Good Samaritan and HSTB Animal Hospital
team up to save a life.
When Sydney came across Loren, the poor pup was tied to a tree and so thin he could count each of the dog’s ribs, even from a distance. Concerned, he spoke with the “owner” and realized that the four-year-old pup had been severely neglected and left to suffer malnutrition for some time. Wanting to help, and with the owner’s permission, Sydney brought Loren home to give her a fresh start and critical care.
Immediately after getting her settled, Sydney brought her to HSTB’s Animal Hospital to have her health thoroughly checked and to learn how to support her recovery. The hospital staff handled Loren with the utmost care and were thrilled to find that despite her malnourished state, she would be able to recover. The team created a safe, easy plan for Sydney to use to help his beloved new family member gain weight, rebuild strength, and become a healthy, happy dog.
As the days went by, Loren’s joyful personality began to blossom. With good food, loving care, and a safe place to call home, she her energy returned and she began to show her playful side. Sydney reports that her progress is steady and it won’t be long before Loren is happily exploring, enjoying, and running through wide open spaces on the 10 beautiful acres she now calls home.
Loren’s journey is a reminder that noticing those in need around us, and treating them with one small act of kindness, can have a powerful, lifechanging impact.
HSTB Animal Hospital
Serving 42,000+ owned pets in Tampa Bay every year.
Affordable veterinary care*
Low-Cost spay/neuter surgery
Vaccinations and microchips
Dental Care and specialty surgeries
TNVR for feral and community cats
You can support HSTB’s efforts to MAKE VETERINARY CARE ACCESSIBLE to every pet! Give Now:
*Hospital proceeds benefit the homeless pets at the shelter
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay Animal Hospital plays a vital role in keeping pets healthy, happy, and in their loving homes. As a full-service, affordable veterinary hospital, it exists not just to treat illness but to prevent the heartbreak of pet surrender due to financial hardship. The hospital provides quality care at reduced costs, making it possible for families across our community to access the treatment their animals need. Working hand in hand with our shelter, the hospital ensures that every animal, whether owned or homeless, receives compassionate medical attention. Together, they form a powerful safety net, dedicated to protecting and uplifting the lives of all animals in our community.
LUNA
PUMA
Annette inherited Puma from her grandson, and was heartbroken to see the sweet cat was constantly scratching. Uncomfortable hot spots covered his skin, and he was suffering. Annette wanted to help him feel better, but was on a limited income and worried she couldn’t afford the veterinary care. Thankfully, through the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s Pet Assistance Program, Annette and Puma received the support they needed. All it took was soothing hot spot treatment and effective flea prevention, all at very little cost to Annette. Puma is now healing and starting to enjoy his new home with Annette by his side.
Luna, a gentle senior pup, was brought to HSTB by her family who were desperate to get help for her untreated glaucoma and eye infections. She’d suffered for years and was completely blind. Her family loved her dearly but simply couldn’t afford the necessary veterinary care. Without intervention, Luna faced a future of ongoing suffering or the heartbreaking possibility of euthanasia. Thanks to the support of HSTB’s Animal Hospital and generous donors, Luna received full diagnostic care and assistance with the cost of surgery to remove her eyes. She is now pain-free and living a happy, comfortable life surrounded by her adoring family.
STABLER
When Stabler fell off his cat tree at home, it was quickly apparent that something was wrong. His owner brought him straight to HSTB for an exam, and X-rays confirmed her fear; a severely broken leg. The complex injury could not be treated with traditional methods; Stabler’s only chance for future mobility and long-term comfort was amputation. The surgery went well and Stabler is now on the road to recovery. He’ll soon be back to exploring, climbing (safely!), and mastering the tripod life.
91.2% save rate (includes Hillsborough County)
86¢ per dollar goes towards the animals
42,629 owned pets seen at the hospital
4,024 feral and outdoor cats received TNVR services
19,439 surgeries performed at the hospital & shelter
221,159 pounds of free pet food given away to keep families together
220,286 volunteer hours given to the animals equivalent to 106 full-time staff positions
6,268 children active in Humane Education programs
Exotic pets are a fun alternative for families who love to be “extra.”
Most people picture wagging tails and playful purrs when they think of shelter animals, but at HSTB, we offer refuge to more than just cats and dogs. We are proud to be one of the only shelters in the Tampa Bay area that accepts exotic and alternative pets, providing them with the same compassionate care we give to more traditional furry friends.
From colorful birds and curious hedgehogs to slithering snakes and a wide variety of lizards, HSTB has seen it all. These animals come to us for many reasons. Sometimes, their owners can no longer care for them, or they are rescued from neglectful situations. No matter the case, our team is specially trained to meet their unique needs, ensuring their health and happiness while they await loving new homes.
Each exotic animal brings its personality and charm. Our birds often serenade staff and visitors, our reptiles enjoy basking in warm, cozy habitats, and our hedgehogs delight with their adorable, inquisitive behaviors. These creatures are not only fascinating companions but also serve as important ambassadors for responsible pet ownership and exotic animal education.
By welcoming these non-traditional pets, HSTB broadens the definition of “adoptable” and provides community members with opportunities to meet animals they might never encounter otherwise. We’re proud to give these special pets a second chance and to help educate the public on what it takes to care for them properly.
Hedgehog
Ferrett
Bearded Dragon (Leo)
Bearded Dragon (Rocky)
Chinchilla Leopard Gecko
Chameleon
Canaries
Quaker Parrot
BREWIN’ UP FUN!
New HSTB programs enrich the lives of animals and humans!
HSTB Café
We’re excited to announce our brand new café* proudly serving Buddy Brew Coffee! Whether you’re in the mood for a hot cup of coffee or tea, refreshing iced tea, or a smooth cold brew, we’ve got the perfect pick-me-up for you.
Stop by while you wait to adopt your new best friend, grab a drink while your child attends one of our Humane Education events, or simply swing in to support the animals—we’d love to see you!
Want to make it a full experience? Bring your beverage into the cat rooms and enjoy a cozy “cat café” moment surrounded by furry friends looking for homes.
Every cup you sip helps support the animals in our care. So come grab a brew, say hello to a few whiskers, and be a part of saving lives, one drink at a time.
*Located inside the Retail Store at the Adoption Center.
Doggie Day Out & Doggie Night Out
HSTB staff has witnessed first-hand how even a few hours outside the shelter can change a dog’s life. That’s the heart behind the Doggie Day Out and Doggie Night Out programs, unique opportunities for community members to spend time with an adoptable dog, whether it’s for an afternoon adventure or a cozy overnight stay.
These breaks offer more than just a fun outing. They give our dogs a chance to decompress, experience love and comfort, and show their true personalities outside of the shelter environment. Whether it's a walk on Bayshore, a Starbucks Puppuccino run, or a night snuggled on the couch, these experiences are deeply enriching for our dogs and eye-opening for potential adopters.
For those who want to go a step further, Doggie Night Out lets you bring a pup home for an overnight stay. It’s a perfect way to give them a peaceful break and maybe fall in love in the process. Whether you have an hour or a whole night, you can make a difference. Your time can help save lives. Because sometimes, a little break leads to a big beginning.
Since the programs’ launch in February, 45 dogs have already found forever homes. The exposure, social media photos, and word-of-mouth from these outings play a huge role in getting our dogs noticed. Learn more:
Corporate Team Building
Corporate team-building days have become a powerful way for local businesses to support homeless animals while spending meaningful time together. Through our Corporate Volunteer Program, teams step into the shelter to help with daily tasks like walking dogs, socializing cats, folding laundry, and assembling enrichment items.
These visits bring much-needed support to our staff and allow participants to directly impact the lives of animals. It also offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a busy shelter and an eye-opening experience that builds compassion and teamwork.
Groups of up to 15 can participate in structured half-day sessions, with activities tailored to the needs of the day. The animals benefit from the extra attention and care, and the teams leave feeling inspired, connected, and more aware of the challenges and joys of animal sheltering. Learn more:
FOR HOMELESS ANIMALS
Summer is here, and as the temperatures rise, so do shelter intakes. Summer is one of the busiest times of year at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay , and the time of our greatest need. With school out and vacations underway, hundreds of kittens, cats, and dogs will come through our doors in need of food, shelter, medical care, and hope. At the same time, charitable donations tend to dip .
While summer giving slows down, our lifesaving work doesn’t stop, it ramps up . Here are just a few of the cases we see increase:
Tiny kittens with fragile immune systems
Injured strays needing emergency surgery
Abandoned litters that require critical, often extraordinary medical attention
These animals can't wait for cooler months or better timing. They need heroes now.
This summer, YOU can be the difference between despair and a second chance.
Every dollar you give has a direct impact on the lives of animals in need. Your generosity provides veterinary care, nourishment, and shelter to animals in crisis. Whether it’s $10 or $100, your support ensures that every tail wag, gentle purr, and new beginning is made possible. Make your special summer gift today. Together, we can continue to say “yes” when they need us most.
Make your special summer gift today.
Together, we can continue to say “yes” when they need us most. Use the enclosed envelope to mail in your donation or scan the code to make your donation online.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Hurricane season is underway and the time to prepare is well before there is a storm on the horizon. Planning ahead helps to eliminate some of the stress when a storm actually forms, as you’ll have everything ready to protect yourself and your pets! Scan the code at right for a downloadable Disaster Preparedness Checklist with tips and information to help you get ahead of any disaster that strikes this season.
Trinity School for Children - First Grade Union on Fletcher/Greystar
USF Clubs and Organizations
UT Clubs and Organizations
VCA Charities
Vein 911
Veronica Beard Hyde Park Village
Vinik Sports Group
Vistage Group
Volkswagen of Wesley Chapel
WEDU
White & Case LLP
Ybor Restore Yoga
ZooTampa
All the sponsors and volunteers who made the 2025 SpaKitty Dinner the most successful yet.
The Donaldson Family for hosting the 2 nd Annual Garden Tea Party fundraiser at the Vinoy. Meat Market and Greg and Meredith Balasco , with special appreciation to Mary Crino and Vera Reilly , for hosting the 5 th Annual Meat Market Fundraising Luncheon.
CALI A REUNION FOR THE AGES
ast November, Dolly faced an incredibly tough decision. With her mother’s sudden illness requiring full-time care, Dolly heartbreakingly surrendered her beloved dog, Cali, hoping she’d find a home where she could receive the love and attention she deserved. At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, Cali quickly became a staff favorite, charming everyone she met. Though she was adopted twice, both adoptions sadly ended in returns, through no fault of her own. All the while, Dolly never stopped thinking about Cali. Months later, with her mom now in assisted living receiving full-time support, Dolly’s heart and home finally had room again. Her top priority? Reuniting with Cali. Their reunion was nothing short of magical. Cali’s tail couldn’t wag fast enough as she leapt into Dolly’s arms; it was clear she remembered exactly who her person was. Some things are just meant to be.
