The past few months here at the Kitsap Humane Society have presented us with significant changes. And with change there always comes trepidation. We’ve heard a resounding call for the animals from our community and concern first and foremost for their care.

I’d like to take this opportunity to let you know that our vision and the shelter’s mission is still being fulfilled. The staff and volunteers I work alongside every day have neither hesitated nor faltered. The same smiling faces show up each and every morning to ensure that our animals receive the care they need.

In fact, when comparing this year to 2011 we’ve continued to outdo ourselves. Adoption numbers are up by 45 percent; we’ve sheltered over 380 more animals under our roof and reunited 40 percent more pets with their owners. We’ve found new homes for over 230 more animals, and our vet services department has spayed and neutered over 600 more dogs and cats. Our behavior department is working around the clock day and night to ensure that crucial rehabilitative efforts are provided to the pets that need extra care. Our education department continues to reach out into the community and set foot into our classrooms, providing humane education to our youth.

When I look around at what we’ve been able to accomplish, I am overcome with pride for our organization. Amidst these trying times we have banded together to ensure that we’ve not only met the needs of the animals under our care, but have continued to work toward the fulfillment our Vision: that every adoptable animal has a home.

So when I’m asked by concerned members of our community, “What direction is the shelter headed?” I don’t have to hesitate. All I have to do is look around at the staff and volunteers who I am proud and honored to call my family. I glance at the door to watch the sloppy smile and wagging tail of yet another newly adopted dog; I look up at his new owners – two of many beaming hearts in a close-knit community that continues to hear our call and open their homes. And I respond in the only way I know how: “We’re in the business of saving lives. The only direction we’re headed is onward and upward.”

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering support. We cannot continue to do what we do without YOU as part of our family – as donors, as volunteers, as advocates for the animals.

With much love,

Dr. Jen Stonequist, Director of Shelter Medicine

Dr. Jen Stonequist with a furry friend before surgery.
Photo by Kelly Coultas

The KHS mission would not be made possible without our dedicated volunteers.
Photo by Kurt DeVoe

We are truly thankful for the unwavering support from our community.