The Scoop Blog Seattle Animal Shelter

The Scoop

Seattle Animal Shelter news and events

$5000 reward: Seattle Animal Shelter investigating two cases involving three severely malnourished dogs

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The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for starving three dogs in the Seattle area. Seattle Animal Shelter animal control officers are investigating two separate cases in which the dogs were found severely malnourished.

This dog gained 8 pounds in two and a half weeks — simply from being fed.

The cases: On July 26, an approximately 8-to-10-month-old pit bull-type dog was found at 55th Avenue South and South Cloverdale Street, just outside the Pritchard Beach Park. A good Samaritan immediately brought the dog to a veterinarian, where it was found to be emaciated, dehydrated and covered in urine. The dog was hunched, weak and barely able to walk. Seattle Animal Shelter investigators believe the dog was kept in a crate or other small, confined area where it was unable to move.

In a second case on Aug. 14, two dogs were found together in the South Seattle or Kent area. Both are roughly 1 to 2 years old and were found dehydrated and severely underweight. They are pit bull-type dogs and may be littermates.

Animal cruelty: Violence against animals is a crime that affects entire communities. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and many other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault. Securing the serious attention and engagement of law enforcement officials, prosecutors and residents in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the whole community.

“When found the first dog weighed only 18 pounds. After two and a half weeks, the dog gained 8 pounds — simply from being fed,” said Ann Graves, Seattle Animal Shelter director. “We believe it had been confined, meaning someone did this to the dog. This is inhumane and illegal, and we hope someone in the community who knows something will come forward.”

“Allowing an animal to starve is unconscionable and a clear violation of our state’s animal cruelty statutes,” said Dan Paul, Washington senior state director for the Humane Society of the United States. “We are grateful the Seattle Animal Shelter is able to provide care for these animals while they investigate this crime. We are hopeful this reward will bring forward anyone with information about this heinous act of cruelty.”

The investigators: The Seattle Animal Shelter is asking anyone who may have information about any of these dogs to call Brandi Homeier, field services supervisor, at 206-386-1985, or the main shelter information line at 206-386-PETS (7387). Any information about the people who did this is vital to solving these cases, Graves said.

First degree animal cruelty is a Class C felony punishable by five years in prison, a $10,000 fine or both. The Seattle Animal Shelter enforces both SMC 9.25.081 and RCW 16.52.205, which make it illegal to abuse or neglect an animal. If you suspect an animal is being abused or neglected, the Seattle Animal Shelter suggests the following:

  • Note the date, time and address/location of the animal and caretaker and provide as much detail as possible. (Photos and videos are helpful, if you can safely capture that information.)
  • Unless there are exigent circumstances, the shelter does not recommend intervening, so the appropriate jurisdiction can collect evidence and document the violations.
  • Call your local animal control agency or police department to make a report as soon as possible. In Seattle, the animal control agency is the Seattle Animal Shelter (206-386-7387). For the rest of King County, contact the Regional Animal Services of King County (206-296-7387).

Resources: The Humane Society of the United States’ Animal Cruelty Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence while providing a variety of resources and support to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and families. We offer rewards in animal cruelty cases across the country and work to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.

The Humane Society of the United States has doubled its standard cruelty reward from $2,500 to $5,000 thanks to a generous donation from a board member. For information on statistics, trends, laws and animal cruelty categories, visit https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/animal-cruelty-facts-and-stats.

Temperatures are up! Seattle Animal Shelter reminds you to protect your pets

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The Seattle Animal Shelter is once again reminding pet owners to take proper precaution during the hot weather expected this week. With temperatures forecasted to reach the upper 80s, pet owners are encouraged to exercise good judgment and use common sense when it comes to protecting their pets from the heat.

Never leave your animal unattended in a vehicle, said Seattle Animal Shelter Director Ann Graves. Even on a 70-degree day, cars left in the sun can turn into lethal ovens, reaching fatal temperatures of more than 100 degrees within just a few minutes. And with the movement of the sun, cars originally left in the shade can soon be in direct sunlight.

“Even dogs left locked in cars in the shade with the windows cracked on hot days are at risk of brain damage or death,” Graves said. “Our officers receive emergency calls every day about animals locked in cars. If the animal is in distress, officers will use all means possible to rescue the animal.”

The warm weather also creates hazards for cats. As many homes in the Northwest aren’t equipped with air conditioning due to the normally moderate climate, people leave their windows open during warm weather. The fresh air is essential to you and your pets, but be aware of the enticement and danger an open, screenless window can pose for cats.

“Make sure your window screens are secure, especially on second floors and above,” Graves said. “Open, screenless windows are an invitation for curious cats. They may be known for always landing on their feet, but those little paws are no match for the combination of hard ground and gravity when the fall begins six, or even two, stories up.”

Graves offered the following tips for protecting pets during hot weather:

  • Never leave your animal tethered or kenneled in direct sunlight. Provide a shady area for retreat, such as a dog house, porch or shady tree, and always provide access to plenty of cool water.
  • If you leave animals indoors, open the screened windows, keep a fan running, provide plenty of water and, if possible, leave them in a cool location like a basement.
  • Never leave dogs or cats unattended in a closed, locked vehicle.
  • If you must travel with your pet, carry water. If a trip requires you leave your pet in the car at any point, think about saving that for another day. It’s not worth the risk.
  • Avoid overexerting your animal in hot weather. Pavement can get especially hot, and obesity, old age, underlying disease and previous bouts of heat stroke can predispose an animal to the condition. If you are concerned, contact your veterinarian.
  • For birds, take caution and place the bird’s cage away from direct sunlight during the intense heat of the afternoon. Provide water and fruits and vegetables with high moisture content.
  • For rabbits and other small mammals, be sure to keep them cool. Avoid direct sunlight, and consider adding ice cubes to their water or giving them a frozen water bottle to snuggle up to.

If you see an animal that may be in need of assistance, or if you have questions, contact the Seattle Animal Shelter at 206-386-PETS (7387).

Hop over to Seattle Animal Shelter this weekend to adopt two bunnies or guinea pigs for the price of one

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Have you been thinking about adopting a couple of critters? This weekend is the perfect time to visit the Seattle Animal Shelter and meet the many rabbits and guinea pigs available for adoption. If you find the perfect matches, this weekend only, you can adopt two rabbits or two guinea pigs and pay half the fee!

Our critter room, which is typically full this time of year, is BOUNCING with baby bunnies (about 3 months old). We also have several bonded pairs of adult rabbits and guinea pigs.

“Many people don’t realize we care for many types of animals, beyond dogs and cats,” said Ann Graves, Seattle Animal Shelter director. “Rabbits, guinea pigs and other critters make excellent family pets, and we hope this adoption special will help us place many of them into their forever homes.”

Adoption fees are normally $40 for rabbits and $15 for guinea pigs. Our animal care team will work with you to find the best matches for you and your family. Rabbits and guinea pigs are indoor companions and can require a 10-year or more commitment. If you are ready for this commitment, hop on over this weekend for this special adoption promotion.

This promotion is made possible with funding from the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation. We are so grateful for the foundation’s lifesaving partnership and support. Please visit the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation’s website at https://seattleanimalshelterfoundation.org/ to learn about the organization, how to donate or to get tickets to the foundation’s annual Furevermore gala (happening on Oct. 19).

The Seattle Animal Shelter, located at 2061 15th Ave. W., is open from 1-6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday for adoptions and licensing. For more information, call 206-386-PETS (7387) or visit http://www.seattleanimalshelter.org.

Seattle Animal Shelter offers tips to owners to protect pets on the Fourth of July

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Lost pets typically increase following fireworks celebrations

As Seattle residents begin planning Fourth of July celebrations, Seattle Animal Shelter reminds pet owners to take proper precautions, as there is often an increase in lost pets following the holiday festivities. Fourth of July celebrations often include fireworks and other commotion, which can be stressful to pets or result in them getting lost. To encourage owners to protect pets, the Seattle Animal Shelter is joining the Humane Society of the United States in recommending the following:

  • Leave pets at home and inside. Fireworks can be terrifying to pets, even pets who are accustomed to being around crowds and commotion.
  • Create a home sanctuary. Leave your pet in an area of your home where it is safe, comfortable and sheltered from any outside noise and lights. An interior room without immediate access to the outside is preferred. Playing a radio with relaxing music may help mask the sound of fireworks.
  • Pet-proof your home. When scared, animals may become destructive, so be sure to remove anything from reach that can become damaged or may harm the pet if eaten or chewed.
  • Identification is essential. Pets may panic, escape and become lost. Updated identification is critical to ensuring lost pets are reunited with their families. Ideal identification includes a tag, pet license and microchip. Make sure your chip is registered on a site such as http://www.petmicrochiplookup.org.
  • Consult a veterinarian for pets with anxiety. Consult your veterinarian before the Fourth of July to seek out remedies to lower your pet’s stress level, if this is a known issue.

“By planning ahead and being prepared, we can keep our pets safe and more comfortable through the fireworks while we celebrate the Fourth of July,” said Ann Graves, Seattle Animal Shelter director.

If your pet does become lost, both the Seattle Animal Shelter and the Humane Society of the United States offer online resources for steps to take to find your pet:

The Seattle Animal Shelter, located at 2061 15th Ave. W., is open from 1-6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday for adoptions and licensing. For owner pickup/redemptions and stray drop-offs, the shelter is also open from 2-4 p.m. Monday-Tuesday. For more information, call 206-386-PETS (7387) or visit http://www.seattleanimalshelter.org.

Put on your running (or walking) shoes!

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It’s almost time for the Furry 5K!

Online registration for the 20th annual Furry 5K is open until midnight tonight! Visit www.furry5K.com! But if you miss the online registration, don’t worry — you can still register in-person on race day.

The Furry 5K is happening at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 9 at Seward Park in Seattle. Each year, the fun run attracts thousands of two-legged runners accompanied by hundreds of their four-legged furry companions. All proceeds directly support the shelter’s Help the Animals Fund.

The Help the Animals Fund was created in 1977 to pay for lifesaving veterinary care for sick, injured and abused animals at the shelter. As the shelter’s veterinary needs grew, volunteers started the Furry 5K in 1999 to raise money for the fund and to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership. In the 20 years since the first ever Furry 5K, the Seattle Animal Shelter has become a lifesaving organization with a save rate over 90%.

“For two decades now the Furry 5K has served as our primary fundraiser for the HTAF and has become our signature community event, giving us the opportunity to connect with our supporters and celebrate the human-animal bond in such a special way. SAS is an open-admissions shelter and accepts any animal that is surrendered or found within Seattle city limits,” said Ann Graves, Seattle Animal Shelter’s director. “Thanks to the generous Furry 5K donors, we are able to provide them with the care and veterinary services they need to ensure all adoptable animals are placed into loving homes. We are grateful as well to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation for their work in running this year’s event.”

Shelter staff anticipates this year’s Furry 5K will draw more than 2,000 people and 1,000 canines. In-person registration begins at 10 a.m. on race day. The race will be followed by Pet-a-Palooza, featuring entertainment, music, contests, awards and an interactive vendor area. Admission to Pet-a-Palooza is free. The Furry 5K is one of the few races in the Puget Sound area that encourages participants to run or walk with their dogs.

Powered by pet licenses, volunteers and charitable donations, in 2018 Seattle Animal Shelter saved over 2,000 animals who were lost, injured, abused and neglected or in need of a new home. Additionally, the shelter’s low-cost Spay and Neuter Clinic performed more than 2,200 surgeries, preventing thousands of pets from becoming homeless in the future. The Seattle Animal Shelter, located at 2061 15th Ave. W., is open from 1 to 6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday for adoptions and licensing. For more information, call 206-386-PETS (7387) or visit http://www.seattleanimalshelter.org.

March is “Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month”

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March is Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month, and the Seattle Animal Shelter would like to help you get to know these cool little critters!

Guinea pigs are adorable; what can we say? They are also full of personality and require proper care to keep them healthy and happy. Is a guinea pig the right fit for your family?

The average lifespan for guinea pig is six to eight years, but many have been known to live well past that range. They need a spacious, flat-bottomed enclosure, with appropriate bedding to keep them active, clean and happy. Guinea pigs are not as flexible or acrobatic as a hamster and cannot roll in a ball or exercise on a wheel, so they need plenty of playtime outside of their enclosure to keep them fit. Guinea pigs are often wiggly, so they make great pets for older children who have mastered proper handling techniques.

Guinea pigs love their fruits and vegetables, and if you enjoy making salads, guinea pigs will be glad to share with you! (Just make sure to do your research on piggy-appropriate foods.) As with dogs and cats, guinea pigs need to see a vet yearly for a check-up. Catching any health issues early is important! Do your research first, however, as not all veterinarians see “pocket pets.”

Friends make life better, and in the guinea pig world this is no exception. Guinea pigs are gregarious creatures and do best having a friend or two living with them. A guinea pig buddy keeps them active, busy and healthy. Plus, what is cuter than one guinea pig?  Two guinea pigs!

Owning a guinea pig requires a longtime commitment, but they will pay you back with their love, antics, “wheeks” and snuggles. Make sure to do your research before bringing home any new pet.

Last year the Seattle Animal Shelter adopted 83 guinea pigs to new, loving, forever homes. We applaud these families for adopting a rescued guinea pig! Thank you!

Some guinea pig tidbits!

  • Guinea pigs are also known as “cavies.”
  • They are vocal animals. They will “wheek,” chatter and whistle, especially at meal time!
  • Hay and water always need to be available to guinea pigs. Munching on hay keeps their digestive system moving and helps keep their teeth trimmed.
  • A very happy guinea pig might spring into the air. This is called “popcorning.”

Pet license fee changes in January 2019

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Fee changes enacted by the City of Seattle went into effect on Jan. 1, 2019.

License fees:

Type One-Year Two-Year
Cat–Altered* $26 $52
Cat–Unaltered $79 $158
Dog–Altered* $37 $74
Dog–Unaltered $105 $210
Goat* $21 $42
Pig, initial one-year $126 N/A
Pig, renewal $32 N/A
Late fee penalty $30 N/A

*Gold/FLASH cardholders receive 50 percent off the license fee for altered animals only.

A pet license is the best way to ensure that, should your pet become lost, you are reunited as quickly as possible. A license is also required for dogs, cats, miniature goats and potbellied pigs in the Seattle city limits. Not having a pet license could lead to a fine of $125 per unlicensed pet.

To purchase or renew your pet’s license, go to http://www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/license or call 206-386-4262.

Seattle Animal Shelter offers 10 tips for Thanksgiving pet safety

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How to keep the feast on the table and off the floor and more

Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for feasts and gatherings with family and friends, but it can also be a stressful time for family pets. The Seattle Animal Shelter is sharing its top 10 tips to remind pet owners to take proper precautions and make sure they are considering their animals’ safety when getting ready for and enjoying the holiday.

  1. No table scraps. Don’t give your pets table scraps, either intentionally or by accident. This means making sure your friends and family know they should not “share” their meal with your dog or cat.
  2. Keep the brine away from your pet. Dogs and cats will smell and be interested in the salty solution left behind when you remove the turkey from the brine. If they lap it up, they risk salt toxicosis, which can result in serious issues like brain swelling.
  3. Some foods are absolutely off-limits for your dog or cat. While it’s okay for your dog or cat to have a small bite of cooked turkey or mashed potato, or even a lick of pumpkin, it’s best to stick to their normal food. Never give these common Thanksgiving ingredients to your pet:
    • Turkey bones, turkey skin or raw turkey.
    • Bread dough.
    • Raw batter (cake or cookie).
    • Onions (raw or cooked).
    • Garlic.
    • Chocolate.
    • Walnuts and macadamia nuts.
    • Mushrooms.
    • Nutmeg.
    • Sage or other herbs that contain essential oils. Cats are especially sensitive.
  4. Throw bones, corn cobs and other hazardous food items in outdoor compost/trash bins. You might think throwing that turkey carcass in the cabinet trash bin is enough to keep it away from your pet, but dogs and cats can find their way in with enough motivation. Take away the temptation by disposing of those harmful items in outdoor bins.
  5. Supervise your pets around holiday decorations. Never leave your pet alone in an area with a lit candle. Also, ingestion of certain types of flowers can cause stomach upset in dogs and cats, and decorations like pine cones and needles could cause intestinal blockage.
  6. Give pets a safe space to retreat to. Some pets get nervous or overexcited around strangers or crowds, and Thanksgiving might mean higher-than-normal noises and activity for your pet. Consider putting your pet in another room or in his or her crate with a favorite toy to help alleviate potential stress.
  7. Keep an eye on exits and make sure gates are latched. With guests coming and going, and people pausing at the door for greetings and goodbyes, opportunity is created for your pet to dart out. Make sure to watch your pets when doors are opened, and remind guests not to let your pets out.
  8. Make sure your pet’s license and microchip information are up to date. Despite best intentions, sometimes pets do get lost. Before Thanksgiving, ensure your pet’s license and microchip information are up to date so you can be reunited if someone finds your lost pet. (Seattle residents can manage their pet license information at http://www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/license.)
  9. Don’t leave your pet alone in a vehicle. Just like during hot summer weather, you should not leave an animal in a car during cold fall and winter weather. If you are going to a Thanksgiving gathering where you pet is not welcome, leave your pet at home.
  10. Have emergency phone numbers available. Just in case your pet eats something it shouldn’t or an accident occurs, have emergency phone numbers handy. Know where the closest emergency veterinarian is located. If you pet experiences signs of distress, such as change in behavior, pain, vomiting or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately.

“Our pets are a big part of our lives, and we want to celebrate the holidays with them,” said Seattle Animal Shelter Director Ann Graves. “We hope these tips help pet owners keep their animals close but safe during the Thanksgiving holiday. Ultimately, we want everyone – and their pets – to enjoy the day.”

The Seattle Animal Shelter, located at 2061 15th Ave. W., is open from 1-6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday for adoptions and licensing. The shelter will be closed on Thursday and Friday (Thanksgiving and the day after) for city-observed holidays. For more information, call 206-386-PETS (7387) or visit http://www.seattleanimalshelter.org.

Creeptacular returns to Seattle Animal Shelter Oct. 6

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Meet and greet furry, scaly and feathered critters, photo booth and more

Creeptacular returns to Seattle Animal Shelter on Saturday, Oct. 6, as the shelter dons spooky decorations and invites the public to meet and greet furry, scaly and feathered critters. From 1-4 p.m., visitors to this free, kid- and adult-friendly experience can pet and feed guinea pigs, come to face to face with lizards and delight in the antics of turtles and mice.

“We’re thrilled to host Creeptacular for a second year to bring attention to adoptable animals beyond cats and dogs,” said Ann Graves, Seattle Animal Shelter executive director. “Critters come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, with different personalities and characteristics and requiring specific care. We would love to introduce you to our critters – they may be the perfect animal for your family.”

Shelter staff and volunteers, as well as representatives from the Pacific Northwest Herpetological Society, All Parrot Rescue and Washington Ferret Rescue, will be on hand to share information about critter care. Attendees can also capture the day’s festivities in the Creeptacular photo booth.

Critters – as well as cats and dogs – will be available for adoption all day.

The Seattle Animal Shelter, located at 2061 15th Ave. W., is open from 1-6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday for adoptions and licensing. For more information, call 206-386-PETS (7387) or visit http://www.seattleanimalshelter.org.

Full cat services resume at Seattle Animal Shelter

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A big thank you goes out to our customers and the community for their patience while we got our cat wards back to normal. We’re back to full services for all cats but could use your help!

  • Come and adopt! We have cats of all shapes, sizes and ages available for adoption. Visit our website or come down to meet them.
  • Have you found a cat? If you’re a Seattle resident and you found a roaming cat, we recommend leaving that cat alone if they are healthy. Since there is no leash law for cats, most friendly roaming altered cats are simply owned indoor/outdoor cats. If you find a cat that is injured or sick, we encourage you to call us at 206-386-7387 to file a found report and determine if the cat should go directly to a veterinarian.

The Seattle Animal Shelter is located at 2061 15th Ave. W., Seattle, We’re open 1-6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. More information is available online at http://www.seattleanimalshelter.org or by calling 206-386-PETS (7387).