Category: News

Making Strides in 2021

Posted on by Carol Eicher

The Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) has done so much to support pets at the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) in 2021. Read on to see how we’ve helped pets in need this year, and make a donation to support SASF today.

The past year proved once more that when faced with challenges, the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) pushes forward to help animals in need. At this point, the obstacles that volunteers and Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) staff faced in 2021 were not unprecedented — from a decrease in volunteers due to COVID capacity limits in the shelter to canceling the annual Furevermore Auction and Gala, the team tackled each day just as they did when new challenges arose in 2020. And this year, they innovated more than ever.

mud bay donationDuring the summer, as COVID numbers began to peak in Seattle again, the annual Furry 5K went forward as a virtual race for the second year in a row. The event raised over $71,000 that went directly to helping pets and programs at SAS. Participants walked and ran around their neighborhoods — or on treadmills — to support the work of the shelter. And just when it looked like the event was wrapped up, Mud Bay graciously donated more than 1,600 pounds of food to the pets at SAS.

While the Furevermore Auction and Gala was postponed due to the delta variant, the shelter was still given extra love and TLC in the fall. In fact, the first event of Pawsitive Projects debuted as a huge success. More than 20 SASF board members and donors gathered together to help the shelter staff complete critical work that they weren’t able to do themselves. Before COVID, volunteers picked up duties like cleaning out the critter closet or weeding the outdoor dog corral. However, because social distancing and safety precautions only allow a certain number of people in the building, the shelter staff had to do without their normal number of volunteers for much of the year. With events like Pawsitive Projects, the staff at the shelter receive greatly needed help in their work environment, and donors and board members get a hands-on experience that directly impacts the shelter they care so deeply about.

With adversity at every step of the way, the SASF team stepped up to the challenges of the last year to support the shelter and the animals waiting for their forever homes. The biggest wins of the year, as with every year, are the success stories.

ziggy-the-hedgehogA little over one year ago, SAS helped rescue more than 220 animals from one of the worst hoarding cases that the shelter has ever seen. That case, tragic as it was, helped open the eyes of the public to the intense, difficult work that the shelter does to help animals in need. Through that work, SAS is able to help place pets like Ziggy the hedgehog in loving homes.

Through the Behavior Program at SAS, Mario the dog got a second lease on lifemario-second-chance. In his seven months at the shelter, Mario worked with Kimberlee and members of the Dog Behavior Team to help curb his reactivity and teach him important lessons — like not to eat all of his toys.

All of this work, from the events to the successful home placements, could not be done without the support SASF receives throughout the year from generous donors. The team is hopeful that 2022 will bring new positive moments — and hopefully in-person events! Until then, if you’re able to support the work of the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation to improve the lives of pets in the shelter, please consider donating today.

Mud Bay donates over 1600 pounds of high-quality food to the shelter!

Posted on by Carol Eicher

One of the first and most important things that can be done to support pets at the Seattle Animal Shelter is feeding them high-quality, nutritious food. As part of the Furry 5K, where Mud Bay was the presenting sponsor, they donated one pound of pet food for each mile walked, and five pounds of food for each adoptable dog sponsored. The grand total was 1,653 pounds of high-quality animal food!

Mud Bay’s Delivery team stopped by last week to drop off part of the donation, and in celebration of a successful Furry 5K event, Mud Bay is offering 20% off of your next delivery purchase through Sunday, August 22! Shop at MudBay.com and use promocode SAS5K at checkout to redeem this offer.

We’re so excited to be supporting our partner, Seattle Animal Shelter, with this food donation! We’re grateful for all the life-saving work that they do for the Seattle community, especially during the pandemic. -Mud Bay

Some of this food will be distributed to the community through the shelter’s pet food bank, a vital service for pet parents in need. New adopters will also benefit from the food when they adopt shelter pets, so every new family can start on the right foot (and paw) when it comes to nutrition.

Thank you to all the supporters of this year’s Furry 5K who participated in the event and donated to the cause and to Mud Bay for their generous donation to help Seattle’s pets in our communities.

To learn more about upcoming opportunities to support the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation, sign up for our newsletter.

Furevermore 2021 – A Letter from the Board

Posted on by Carol Eicher

Hello friends and supporters of the Seattle Animal Shelter and SASF, we hope that this finds you in good health, and good spirits.

We wanted to share the news that the 2021 Furevermore Auction & Gala has been postponed until 2022.

The health and safety of our donors and volunteers is our greatest priority, and we simply would not be able to provide the event we know you look forward to in the current climate. That said, SASF is creating new ways to give back in big ways this year!

Please look for upcoming communications (you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram) for ways you can get involved and continue to support Seattle animals in need in 2021.

As always, we are grateful for all of our amazing donors, volunteers, and foster families. We look forward to seeing you all soon!

Emily Rondestvedt | Vice President
Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation | https://seattleanimalfoundation.org/
(425) 466-8035 (cell)

How to Help Protect Your Pets in Extreme Weather

Posted on by Carol Eicher

Recent summers in the Pacific Northwest have brought with it extreme weather that was not necessarily common even just a decade ago. This year alone reached record temperatures, and there is still the possibility of wildfires this summer that threaten our air quality. Scorching temperatures and poor air quality can affect the wellbeing of our pets, so it’s important to be prepared.

Hot temperatures

During July’s heatwave Seattle Animal Control was in action to assess and support in emergencies involving pets affected by the record high temps. In fact, Officer Wieringa was called in when he heard a report of a puppy left in a vehicle. The car was parked in the sunshine without any shade, and the temperature outside the vehicle was almost 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

“According to the National Weather Service, temperatures inside a test car parked in the sun under similar conditions reached 110F in less than an hour, and 123F in only two hours, even in a car cooled via air conditioning before the test” states Officer Wieringa, who we spoke to regarding the incident. “Adult dogs under heat stress will pant excessively and may act agitated. If things progress to heatstroke they can start to act weak and confused, and may vomit or have diarrhea. Puppies in particular lack that ability to cool themselves off by panting, and so will act depressed and lethargic even in the initial stages of heat exhaustion/heat stroke.”

If you’re concerned about your own pet in hot weather, watch out for signs like lethargy, an unusually rapid pulse, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. These can all be symptoms of a pet who has spent too much time in the sun. If you’re concerned, make sure to keep your pet inside in a cool area with plenty of clean water. If symptoms worsen, immediately contact your veterinarian.

So how do you know if it’s safe to leave your pet in your car while you’re getting groceries or grabbing takeout? Officer Wieringa advises to always stick to a very conservative mindset when you’re questioning if it’s safe to leave your pet in a car by themselves. “Weather in the Pacific Northwest can change quickly, and cars are like greenhouses in that they can heat up fast even in partial sun or on hazy days. Any animal left in a vehicle for any reason needs to always have clean water available for them to drink and within reach of them.”

Smoky weather

According to reporting by the New York Times, 2020 was the most disastrous year on record for wildfires on the West coast. Unfortunately, over five million acres burned and with it came poor air quality in regions that are seeing a rise in smoke each fire season. In September of 2020 air quality reached an unhealthy rating, and there is always the possibility Seattleites will have to face that again.

With pets involved, this can seem even scarier, but we’re here to help. The most important thing to keep in mind if smoke rolls in is to keep your pets indoors, where they’re able to breathe in clean air as much as possible. That means short potty breaks and walks for dogs, and as much as possible keeping cats and critters inside.

While your furry friend may not like a week without the dog park, the best thing for their health is to keep them inside, cool and hydrated. If you do have to step outside with your pet when the air quality is poor, make sure to keep an eye on them after you return home. If they are having any respiratory issues, make sure to contact your veterinarian.

How to help pets in extreme weather

Fortunately, the pets at the Seattle Animal Shelter are given great care by the staff and volunteers, no matter the weather. As for what you can do if you see a pet in need, Officer Wieringa has a few tips.

“If somebody notices a pet in a vehicle and they’re concerned for its safety, whether because it’s hot out or for any other reason, they can contact Seattle Animal Control at 206.386.7387. If the situation seems like an emergency they can also call 911. We don’t recommend people confront the owners of these animals directly out of concern for the caller’s safety. It’s worth noting that here in Seattle it’s not illegal to have an animal in a car, or even to reside in your car with an animal. If there is a concern for the animal’s health or safety, however, we’ll absolutely get involved.”

Thanks to the team’s quick response, Officer Wieringa was able to get to the puppy in the parked car in time to help. She was taken to an emergency veterinarian, and has recovered.

“She’s been doing fine since then, though, and has already grown bigger and bolder in our care. She’s learned how to chase cats, but hasn’t yet caught one, which will probably change her mind about the wisdom of chasing them in the first place.”

Want to keep up with more pet health news? Subscribe to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation newsletter, or check out these giving opportunities to help pets meet their forever families.

4 ways the Furry 5K helps pets

Posted on by Tom

By Marissa Villegas

2021’s Furry 5K is a virtual event that runs from June 13-20th and whose proceeds benefit the Seattle Animal Shelter’s commitment to providing love, care and support for animals in the Greater Seattle area. By registering for this event you could be helping those pets too!

Here are four ways the Furry 5K helps pets in need:

1. The money fundraised through this and other events directly supports animals who experience distress and dysfunction. Earlier this year the Seattle Animal Shelter had a hand in rescuing hundreds of animals from a dire hoarding case in West Seattle. Without the aid of funds from events like the Furry 5K, they may not have the resources necessary to deal with such difficult cases.

Mimi the dog loves to smile at the camera

2. Happy endings tend to come from rocky starts. That’s definitely the case for many of the beautiful adoptions that happen every day at the Seattle Animal Shelter. From Mimi, who found a loving home with adopters willing to put in the effort to work with her behavioral challenges, to Azul, who overcame a broken tail and a shy demeanor to find happiness with her owners—there are always success stories for cats and dogs just around the corner thanks to the donations made to SAS.

3. Wagging tails and purrs aren’t the only sign of happiness in adopters from the shelter. In fact, the proceeds of the Furry 5K also go towards helping critters in need. Ziggy, a sociable hedgehog who just wants to cuddle with his dog brothers, was adopted by one of SAS’s volunteers after she just fell in love. In addition, Sugar and Loki are two foster-failure rabbits who couldn’t help but win over the hearts of their adopter. These types of stories are fueled by the resources provided by funding through events like the Furry 5K.

Sugar the rabbit enjoying the sunshine in her yard.

4. Beyond the magic of adoptions, proceeds also benefit additional programs within the shelter. Many may not know, but the Seattle Animal Shelter has many tools that help behind the scene operations. For example, the Behavioral Training and Assessment Program helps pets who may initially have trouble being adopted learn how to fit in with new families. SAS also houses a full in-house veterinary clinic and spay and neutering programs that provide critical care for the animals within its community.

Whether or not you walk, run, hop or skip, the Furry 5K is a great way to help pets in need in Seattle. Registration only takes a few minutes and it’s well worth it for the lives you can help change. Sign up for the Furry 5K today.

Working together for animal well-being

Posted on by Carol Eicher

Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) is part of a network of animal welfare organizations that are dedicated to the well-being of animals in Washington state. SAS often partners with other organizations to help meet the needs of animals in its care and on special projects.

When an animal has needs that cannot be met by SAS, the shelter looks to peer organizations to transfer an animal to a group that is more equipped to meet the animal’s needs. For example, when there is a behavioral need for a specific breed, such as a German Shepherd, SAS will reach out to an organization like Washington German Shepherd Rescue — which may be better equipped to rehabilitate and responsibly rehome the animal. Similarly, if SAS is at capacity and cannot take on more animals, the shelter will work with partners such as Seattle Humane and Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) to find a place for the animals.

A group of 220 neglected animals was recently brought into SAS, which limited its ability to take on more animals from owner relinquishments. Fortunately, the shelter  s to Seattle Humane and RASKC. SAS has also worked to transfer animals to other organizations both in and out of Washington state.

SAS has also worked closely with organizations to meet fostering needs. With the intake of the 220 neglected animals, SAS was unable to find foster homes for all the animals who needed it. Thankfully, the shelter was able to “borrow” established foster parents from other organizations. By utilizing the foster parent resources from partner organizations, SAS was able to get animals into foster homes quicker than if it relied solely on trying to expand its own foster parent base by training a new set of foster parents.

Another example of cross-organization collaboration is the mobile pet food banks that were held in 2020 by SAS and other groups. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many pet owners have faced economic difficulties and have been unable to provide for pets in their care. SAS, Seattle Humane, RASKC, Auburn Valley Humane Society, and Pasado’s Safe Haven came together to offer pet food and supplies to community members in need through mobile pet food banks. The food banks were staffed with team members and volunteers across different groups within SAS. Pet owners could drive or walk up and grab food and supplies for their pets.

A mobile pet food bank held in 2020. Top photo: SAS participates in “Wings of Rescue” to help alleviate overcrowding at Los Angeles County shelters.
A friendly visitor and beneficiary of a 2020 mobile pet food bank held by SAS and other organizations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAS is exploring other ways to help pet owners beyond mobile pet food banks, including potentially partnering on Seattle Humane’s a Pets for Life program — which is focused on providing resources to pet owners so they don’t have to give their pet away or surrender them to a shelter. Resources of this program range from providing low or no-cost medical and behavioral support, fixing fences, grooming assistance, providing proper leashes, and even providing financial assistance for a pet deposit in an apartment rental.

To help support SAS’s community efforts, Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) has provided funding for distribution of more resources and supplies to the community. For World Rabies Day (September 28), SAS partnered with The Doney Coe Pet Clinc to administer vaccines and provide other supplies to pet owners. Funds from SASF allowed SAS to purchase the vaccines and other supplies needed for this special event.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has made a large impact on many lives and organizations, the dedication, passion and fierce advocacy for animal well-being has not wavered among these groups. Thanks to the collaborative efforts and strong partnerships between SAS, Seattle Humane and more, animals in the region and Washington state continue to receive the care they deserve.

If you’re interested in supporting the work and special projects of Seattle Animal Shelter, consider donating to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation.

MEET BRANDI HOMEIER – AWARD-WINNING ANIMAL SERVICES OFFICER

Posted on by Carol Eicher

On November 7, 2019, Brandi Homeier was recognized by the Seattle City Attorney’s Office with the Domestic Violence in Policing Award. These awards are given out by the Attorney’s office to recognize individuals who have gone above and beyond and/or performed outstanding service in their work as it relates to domestic violence. Brandi was recognized both as a representative of the Seattle Animal Shelter and as an individual, in recognition of her passion and dedication to her job.

Brandi began her work in animal welfare as a Licensed Veterinary Technician for 8 years before seeing a job posting for an Animal Control Officer at the Seattle Animal Shelter. She quickly jumped on the opportunity, realizing she could get paid to work at a shelter. Brandi worked in the Animal Control Officer position for 8 years before taking on her role as supervisor.

As a Field Services Supervisor, Brandi handles the logistical and administrative tasks such as scheduling, assisting customers and handling complaints for her team. Brandi also audits completed calls to the team, secures and serves search/seizure warrants, works with the Services office prosecution team, and last but not least — lets dogs hang out in her office. In addition, Brandi assists in and oversees in investigations for criminal-level offenses by:

  • Speaking to officers about angles to take and things to ask and look for in their cases
  • Speaking to suspects, explaining processes, and attending appeal meetings (if their animal has been seized)
  • Assisting veterinarians during exams and taking photos/collecting evidence
  • Working with filing prosecutor to ensure that there is enough evidence found to proceed with the case
  • Working with trial prosecutors with regards to evidence and prepping involved agency members before testifying
  • Keeping the animal care team abreast of the status of ‘case hold’ animals

Although there is a lot of work and a lot of steps involved in handling cases, Brandi finds the work extremely rewarding. “The feeling of being able to directly intervene and improve quality of life is amazing,” notes Brandi.

Left to right: Kelly Harris (Chief of Criminal Division of City Attorney’s Office), Catherine Riedo, Brandi Homeier, Alyssa Shaw

Brandi and her team aim to not only protect the well-being of pets, but of humans as well. 52% of defendants in Seattle that have been charged with animal cruelty in the last 5-10 years have been found to have a domestic violence history. Because of this link (and their love of animals), three women within the Domestic Violence unit of the City Attorney’s Office have become the dedicated Animal Cruelty prosecution team for Brandi and her team. Alyssa Shaw, a Victim Advocate in this team, says the link between domestic violence and animal cruelty has been getting more and more attention through research done with survivors of domestic violence. In one study, 71% of women surveyed in a domestic violence shelter reported their partners had actually hurt or threatened their companion animal. It has also been shown that the welfare of animals is a contributing factor for survivors trying to flee their abusive homes. In addition to working with Alyssa, Brandi also works with Victoria VanNocken, who is responsible for filing cases as they come through to this unit through Seattle Animal Shelter and the Seattle Police Department. Catherine Riedo is the third member of the Animal Cruelty team, and is responsible for handling the case once it is filed through negotiations and trial.

Alyssa, Victoria and Catherine were the ones who nominated Brandi for the Domestic Violence in Policing Award. When asked why they submitted the nomination, Alyssa said, “It was because of her absolute dedication to her work as well as her commitment to make sure Seattle is a safe place for humans and animals.”

Alyssa cited one specific case when Brandi helped with a search warrant to allow for a dog to be temporarily taken by Seattle Animal Shelter because of cruelty allegations. Although Brandi was off-duty, she observed something that aided the case and contacted the police to execute the search warrant.

“This is just a small example of the endless list of things that Brandi does for us and her team, and that also shows how invested she is in her cases and to keeping the community safe,” Alyssa says.

The work of Brandi, her team, and the partners in the City Attorney’s Office is important and integral to the animal welfare of the community. We are grateful for the work that they do day in and day out to protect the well-being of animals in Seattle.

If you are able, consider donating to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation to support this collaborative program between Seattle Animal Shelter and the City Attorney’s office.

Don’t forget to join us for our biggest fundraising event of the year, Furevermore Auction & Gala, for a free, virtual event starting November 9th and continuing with a real time auction on November 14th.

What’s the Difference? How Seattle Animal Shelter and Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation Unite to Help Pets in Need

Posted on by Carol Eicher

In 2010, the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) and a committed group of volunteers recognized that there were certain needs above and beyond what the City of Seattle could fund. To better address these needs, the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) was formed.

What’s the difference between the Seattle Animal Shelter and the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation?

The Seattle Animal Shelter is responsible for operation of all animal services in the city, and is run by the City of Seattle. Funding for day-to-day operations of SAS is provided by the City of Seattle. The City provides funds to support basic functions such as adoption services, the spay/neuter clinic, pet licensing, and animal control officers.

The Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises private funds in order to provide for programs and services at SAS above and beyond those funded by the City. SASF was formed in 2010 by a group of volunteers at SAS who recognized that there were certain needs above and beyond what the City of Seattle could fund. SASF is run by an all-volunteer Board; a full-time development director who was hired in 2020. SAS management and the SASF Board work closely together to identify key initiatives and priorities to help SAS fund its existing programs, behavioral modification program, advanced veterinary care, and help pet communities in need.

How does SASF help raise funds and where does the money go? Who decides how these funds are spent?

SASF conducts traditional fundraising activities including individual solicitations, corporate donations, and online and email campaigns. SASF also hosts two main events throughout the year: the Furry 5K in the spring and the Furevermore Fundraising Gala in the fall. These efforts raise awareness of SASF’s mission and the needs of animals in the community, and also provide a tax-deductible way for the community to improve the lives of Seattle’s animals. Thousands of dogs, cats and critters are helped every year, and this support is made possible through generous donors and committed volunteers.

SASF’s Board of Directors awards funds to the SAS through a grant proposal and review process. Because SASF funds are not restricted to specific initiatives, SAS and SASF can work together to identify the highest priorities and allocate funds accordingly. Please read SASF’s 2019 Annual Report (available on the SASF website) for details on how funds were allocated in prior years.

In December 2018, SASF hit a milestone of officially awarding SAS more than $1,000,000 in funds since its formation.

How is SASF different from the other funds SAS currently supports, like Help the Animals Fund?

Funds from the Help the Animals Fund (HTAF) and the Pet Population Fund (PPF) can be used for a wide variety of SAS initiatives and address a broader range of needs, both immediate and longer-term. The HTAF and PPF funds are more flexible and immediate and are used without SASF involvement.

What is the long-term vision of SAS and SASF?

SASF will be a recognized leader in the animal welfare community. SASF’s vision is driven by the following guiding principles:

  1. We are deeply passionate about animals and making a difference in the Seattle community.
  2. We pride ourselves on being a learning organization.
  3. Our resource engine is driven by building a stronger community – connecting people and animals.

Everything SASF does is in support of SAS, whose mission is to provide a safe, healthy and caring environment where people and animals can co-exist.

Should I donate to SAS or SASF?

If you want to make a tangible donation to pets currently waiting for their forever homes at the animal shelter, a donation to the Seattle Animal Shelter Amazon Wish List will make a big difference. Blankets, food, treats, and toys all go a long way to providing a comfortable and nurturing environment for pets in need. Unfortunately, do to COVID-19 precautions we are unable to accept drop off donations at this time.

SASF donations are earmarked for all of the existing programs and the behavior modification program. These essential programs would not exist without SASF granting 100% of the operating costs. SASF relies on recurring donations, individual donations and corporate donations to fulfill these annual grants, as well as needs that are not in the SAS budget — such as the construction of the onsite vet clinic, an X-ray suite, construction of dog kennels, cat roaming areas, the critter room and so much more.

To make a one-time or reoccurring donation, check out the SASF donation page.

A Letter to Our Forevermore Gala Supporters

Posted on by Carol Eicher

Friends and supporters of the Seattle Animal Shelter and Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation,

We hope that you are in good health, and good spirits. 2020 has certainly not held back its challenges, but we remain grateful for the resiliency and support this city continues to show.

To start, we want to update you on our animals, all of which are safe and in foster homes with our incredible foster network. SAS adoptions remain open through a temporary appointment-based system.

We would also like to update you on our annual Gala, Furevermore. As many of you know, our annual auction is the paramount event for SASF. It provides an opportunity to show our gratitude for our local donor base and businesses, a chance to bid on exclusive items, and most importantly it represents the single largest opportunity to raise funds for Seattle animals in need.

In 2019, we raised just over $213,000, which supported many of the programs and resources needed to keep the Seattle Animal Shelter operating. Due to the current pandemic, we have made the difficult decision to move our auction to 100% virtual.

We know how much many of you look forward to this live event, but we have decided that the safety and health of our loyal donors and team members should remain our top priority. This year, the auction will be a week-long event, with bidding opening Monday November 9th, ending, Saturday November 14th.

How can you help support SASF Furevermore in 2020?

Donate Auction Items:

  • Do you have a business or know of one that could benefit from the spotlight this year? Let us brag about it! We are looking for vouchers for unique/curated experiences. These items are highly sought after and give SASF an opportunity to showcase businesses in a meaningful way!
  • Items that are pet or self-care focused are always spark interest!
  • Gift cards are always appreciated!

Other Ways to Give:

  • Donate directly to SASF, any amount makes a huge difference!
  • Make sure you’re following SASF on Facebook and Instagram. We’d love your support in sharing a post and spreading the word about our organization!

We want to thank you for your understanding and patience with this change in events, and look forward to sharing more details on registration in the coming months.

Please feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions,

Emily Rondestvedt
SASF Board Member, Auction Chair
[email protected]

COVID-19 – Seattle Animal Shelter Updates

Posted on by Carol Eicher

To protect the health and safety of our community by mitigating the impact of COVID-19, the public-facing customer service counters of the Seattle Animal Shelter closed on Monday, March 16. Shelter staff will evaluate a timeline for reopening as the outbreak evolves. You can expect more information to come your way related to potential impacts to SAS and its programs, including lost and found services and adoptions.

Throughout the closure, Seattle Animal Shelter is available to help you over the phone or online during the hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and can be reached in the following ways:

Seattle Animal Shelter staff and volunteers are prioritizing the health and well-being of the animals under their care. As of right now, the CDC reports there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19. We recommend you follow the CDC or the World Organisation for Animal Health for up-to-date insights on animals and COVID-19.

 

Due to the risks posed by COVID-19, the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation has postponed our Urban Family Brewing fundraising event. We hope to share rescheduled event details in the coming weeks. Follow our Urban Family brewing Facebook event for updates.

We don’t know what the next few weeks or months look like for the Seattle Animal Shelter. But Seattle Animal Shelter has been caring for Seattle’s pets for nearly 50 years, and doesn’t plan on stopping any time soon.

If you’re able, please consider making a donation to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation. Your gift will support the Seattle Animal Shelter by ensuring the mental and physical needs of all pets are met.

Currently, we still plan to hold the Furry 5K on Sunday, June 14th. All the money raised from this event goes to support the Seattle Animal Shelter.

To provide support in other ways, please follow the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation on Facebook and Instagram, or subscribe to our email newsletter to be alerted about the latest shelter needs. In the coming days, we’ll share requests for donations, volunteers, or foster parents as we learn more about how the shelter will be operating and their most pressing needs.

Caring for Seattle’s animals and mitigating any impacts of this closure are our top priorities right now, and we appreciate your support.