SERVING GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA

During my recent vacation in Gulf County, I had the pleasure of meeting several local community members. During one such meeting, I learned about an upcoming fundraising event for the local Humane Society. I walked up the steps to local eatery Triple Tails, to inquire about dogs being permitted on the patio. Cheryl, a volunteer, and advocate for the centre, was just finishing her conversation with staff member Cindy.

I returned to the truck to collect my pack and as my husband and I made our way to the patio, three dogs in tow, Cindy and Cheryl came over to ‘meet the furkins.’ After learning that I was as much a ‘pet person’ as herself, Cheryl invited us to attend their eleventh annual BOW WOW BASH – a masquerade themed party to raise funds for rescue. Sadly, the event took place the weekend after we returned home. I mentioned that I would like to visit the shelter and introduce myself and would most definitely stop by the upcoming ‘Adoption Event’ being held at the local Piggly Wiggly.

During the adoption event, I had the pleasure of witnessing an adoption!!!
Kailey picked Rosie. I asked her why she chose the name Rosie for her new best friend. Kailey told me that the vines on the roses outside of her families home, turn ‘Rosie’ black.

Upon arriving at the shelter, Adoption Coordinator Caisey extended a warm welcome and invited me on a tour of the entire facility. During our rounds, Caisey explained some processes and procedures the team has in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the animals in their care.

The first thing I noticed was how clean, bright, and welcoming the shelter is. I truly believe art is a form of therapy. Even if the cats and dogs don’t see colours the same way humans do, the fact that the people caring for them are uplifted by the scenery is sure to have a beneficial impact on all via positive energy.

The St. Joseph Bay Humane Society has found a way to create a ‘Happy Place’ for the animals while they wait for loving, forever homes

Although the dogs are assigned playmates, based on temperament and other considerations, each dog is individually escorted to the designated runs/play areas for fresh air and sunshine in the yard. There are several yards, all separated by chain-link fencing. This allows for more dogs to be outside and supervised at the same time. An example of measures in place to ensure the protection of all.

On the opposite side of the building, and at the end of my tour, I was guided to the ‘cattio’ and ‘kittio.’

These little outdoor shelters looked like the screened in porch of a holiday vacation home

SJBHS has thought of everything.  Including, the importance of a ‘meet and greet’ area.  Potential adopters and family members (including other dogs) can spend time in this beautiful outdoor area to see if they are a perfect match.

St. Joseph Bay Humane Society takes in more than nine hundred animals each year and works closely with breed-specific rescue organizations. The organization is committed to educating their community about the prevention of suffering related to pet overpopulation; the shelter provides a free spay/neuter program and low cost rabies clinic.

The organization is also proud to announce its DAWGS in Prison Program, a joint effort with Gulf Correctional Institute. Check back for future post about this program.

Their Mission: to relieve animal suffering, prevent animal cruelty, promote human education and enhance the animal and human bond.

Thanks to the generosity of our community we have been able to add Kurunda beds in each run and add fencing and other amenities to make the animals more comfortable while they are in our care

In addition to monetary donations and supplies from their wish list, St. Joseph Bay Humane Society is grateful for support from purchases and donations made at Faith’s Thrift Hut.  Open since 2006; the thrift store has provided a steady income to help support the animals at the shelter.

As a pet parent to formerly neglected and abused companions, I recognize the appreciation expressed daily by these animals for their second chances. Many of you reading this have recently celebrated American Thanksgiving. I hope you will consider the difference this and similar organizations are making, and show them your support.

With gratitude,