ROCKY & BANDIT
Saved by HSTB after back-to-back hurricanes destroyed their home.
AFTER THE STORM
HSTB stands as a beacon of hope for animals and the community in times of crisis, 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
Nancy Newman
Secretary
Morris Massey
Member at Large
Amy Nelson Agliano
Suzie Archibald
Scott Arnold
Meredith Balasco
Kevin Bischoff
Cord Christensen
Ryan Cook
Liana Fuente
Michael Neff
Phil Nodhturft III
Jacalin Russo
Jennifer Williams
BOARD EMERITUS
Linda Reitz
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Greg Balasco
Sierra-Shae Brandt
Simon Canasi
Mayor Jane Castor
Lisa DeBartolo
Nikki DeBartolo
Lindsay Deignan
Danita Dickman
Commissioner Ken Hagan
Bobby Harris
Jeannine Hascall
Brad Lancaster
Sandy Murman
Scott Price
Kim Rogers
Cherie Schonbrun
Cathy Smith
Cynthia Smoot
Andrea Gonzmart Williams
MAKING WINTER
THIS ISSUE
3 4 6
FEATURE STORY — AFTER THE STORM HSTB brings hope after hurricane devastation.
CARING FOR PETS BEYOND A LIFETIME HSTB launches Pet Guardianship Program.
HOLLY’S STORY
The price of popularity.
HELLO, TOKYO A look back at the 2024 Tuxes & Tails gala. 13
HONORING PETS UNTIL THE END HSTB’s End of Life Services.
REFLECTING ON COLLABORATION Pet Health Action Fair is a success for Community Pets.
YOU ARE THE GIFT
14 End-of-Year giving opportunities.
16
MORE REUNIONS – LET’S END ON A HIGH NOTE Post-storm reunions between distraught owners and their lost pets.
Written & Edited by Regan
Layout and Design by Nash McCutchen
Contributors: Kaeli Hammer Photography, Valerie Hogan, Cristina Klein Photography, Madison Kostka, Liz McCoy, Lisa Novorska, Sherry Silk, Danyelle Van Horn, Ornella Varchi, Robyn Walk Photography 8 10 12
Blessinger & Nash McCutchen
Letter from the CEO
Dear Humane Society of Tampa Bay Supporters,
I am incredibly relieved to share that our shelter and animal hospital successfully made it through the recent hurricanes with very minimal damage. Designed to withstand a Category 4 storm, our shelter provided a safe haven, even as floodwaters rose and tree limbs fell across the property. Thanks to the resilience of this facility, all 362 animals in our care were safe throughout the night.
In addition to our animal residents, we were able to shelter 22 dedicated staff members, along with their families and pets, ensuring they too had a secure place to ride out the storm. Our commitment to the safety of our animals and our team guided us through, and I couldn’t be more proud of our staff and volunteers. After the storm, we took in more than 149 stray animals, many of whom have already been reunited with their families. This outcome is a testament to the strength and preparation that our supporters made possible.
... our shelter provided a safe haven, even as floodwaters rose and tree limbs fell ...
It is thanks to the generosity of our donors, who contributed four years ago to help build a storm-ready shelter, that we could weather this recent challenge. As we look toward the holiday season, I hope you’ll consider supporting the Humane Society of Tampa Bay again. Your contributions enable us to continue this vital work, providing a safe place for the animals who depend on us. Thank you for being part of our community and our mission.
With gratitude and For the Animals,
Chief Executive Officer
SherryS@HumaneSocietyTampa.org
HSTB HOLIDAY HOURS
This good boy got lost during hurricane Milton* but was found by a very kind firefighter who brought him straight to HSTB. Thankfully, he was microchipped and reunited with his loving family! *See pages 5 and 16 for more uplifting post-storm photos of lost pets!
Feature Story
AFTER THE STORM
HSTB brings hope after hurricane devastation.
Rocky and Bandit, two 10-year-old Shih Tzus, found themselves at the heart of a dramatic rescue after Hurricane Helene devastated their owner’s home. Less than two weeks later, as hurricane Milton barreled down on Tampa Bay and waters began to rise around the damaged trailer, the owner and his beloved pups were forced to wait out the storm in their car. During cleanup the following day, the owner suffered a severe injury, sending him to the hospital and leaving Rocky and Bandit alone.
The owner, in critical condition, learned that his hospital stay would be prolonged. Though in great physical pain, all he could think about was his two dogs. He agonized because they’d already been left alone for several days with limited food and water. Desperate and afraid for their life, he reached out to HSTB for help. Without hesitation, the rescue team headed to the property and found Rocky and Bandit hiding in the trailer, hungry and anxious, but alive and happy to see friendly faces!
It was soon clear that the owner would not be able to care for his faithful friends for a many months. Knowing they were in good hands at HSTB, he made the heartbreaking decision to surrender them so they could find new homes. It didn’t take long for a loving family to step forward; they adopted both pups, keeping the lifelong companions together.
Now, their former owner’s mind is at ease and the pups are thriving in their new home –safe, healthy, and loved.
AFTER THE STORM
HSTB steps up for animals and the community in times of crisis.
When disaster strikes, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay (HSTB) stands ready to support not only animals in need but the entire community. Recent hurricanes have tested the resilience of both, and HSTB has responded with unwavering dedication, providing shelter, resources, and care for displaced pets and their owners. Two major storms—Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton—highlight the vital role HSTB plays in disaster recovery.
During Hurricane Helene, which caused widespread devastation to some of our county and our sister counties, HSTB mobilized to rescue and care for animals affected by the
storm. In addition, the HSTB Pet Pantry hours were expanded to seven days a week and HSTB hosted a donation drive to replace the pet supplies families may have lost in the storm.
Less than two weeks later, Hurricane Milton brought another wave of destruction. This time, the HSTB team was even more prepared to act swiftly and efficiently. As the storm loomed, over 20 dedicated staff members hunkered down in the shelter alongside their families and pets to ensure the shelter animals were safe. The animal hospital remained open as long as possible for emergency visits, vaccines, and microchipping, offering critical services to the community ahead of the storm’s landfall.
In the aftermath, HSTB continued to support the community by helping to reunite families with pets lost in the storm and providing free pet food, supplies, and other essentials to pet owners in need. Both storms put HSTB’s capabilities to the test, but the organization rose to the challenge.
HSTB’s Pet Pantry provided free pet food/supplies to storm victims.
Post-storm reunion!
Post-storm reunion!
Post-storm reunion!
CARING FOR PETS BEYOND A LIFETIME HSTB Launches Pet Guardianship Program.
Every day HSTB goes beyond animal care by offering innovative programs to ensure pets are cared for, even in the absence of their owners. The Pet Guardianship Program provides peace of mind and a secure future for beloved pets in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
The Pet Guardianship Program: Protection for Your Pet’s Future
The Pet Guardianship Program is designed for owners looking to make formal arrangements for their pets. Additionally, you can make provisions in your will that allow you to set aside funds for the care of your animals after you are gone.
Through these arrangements, your designated personal representative will know to contact HSTB immediately so that we can facilitate care for your pet(s).
Unlike traditional wills, which may leave pets in a state of legal uncertainty, this program clearly outlines your wishes for your pet(s). By working with an attorney, you can craft a personalized plan with the option to designate the Humane Society of Tampa Bay as the temporary caretaker responsible for your pet’s care, until a permanent family is found. HSTB will adopt out the pet(s) within your pre-arranged wishes.
Why Plan for Your Pet’s Future?
Planning ahead is an act of responsibility and love. Pets depend on their owners not just for daily care, but for a secure future. Life’s uncertainties can leave even the most well-caredfor pets vulnerable if arrangements aren’t made. The Pet Guardianship Program provides a safety
net, ensuring that pets are looked after no matter what.
With this program, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay continues to uphold its mission of protecting animals and serving as a pillar of support for pet owners in the community. If you want to secure your pet’s future, consider applying to enroll in the Pet Guardianship Program. In return for our commitment to your pet(s), we ask for HSTB to be named as a beneficiary in your will/trust, life insurance policy, IRA, or similar account. If you would like the cost of care to be covered in their new home, HSTB requires a minimum provision of $10,000 per pet.
TUXES & TAILS 2024
Hello Tokyo
On September 21 st at the beautiful Tampa Convention Center, more than 1,100 community leaders and supporters gathered to celebrate a mutual love for animals. Guests were transported to Tokyo with neon lights, cherry blossoms, traditional Taiko drumming, and sumo wrestling!
Attendees showed incredible generosity, making it a truly magical night. Thank you to all, and a special thanks to the event’s Honorary Chairs Michael and Jessica Mallah.
BEST IN SHOW SPONSORS
Dickman Family Foundation
PetIQ
Cherie & Harvey Schonbrun
Rev1 Energy
Triad Foundation
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Kevin & Valerie Bischoff
BlueGrace Logistics
Boksen Family Foundation
ADOPTABLES SPONSOR
Scott & Kirsten Price
TIES & TIARAS SPONSORS
BRANDT
The Dental Boutique
Westchase + Riverview
Fetch
PADDLE RAISE SPONSOR
Subaru of North Tampa
VIP CHAMPAGNE SPONSOR
Bayshore Concierge Medicine
Laurie & Al Greco
Kay Jones
Florida Cargo Carrier, Inc.
Lakeland AutomallGreg & Meredith Balasco
Brandon & Tim Manka-Clemons
13 Ugly Men Foundation, Inc
Acrisure
Scott & Lynn Arnold
ArtsiPhartsi / Amalie
Bay Stage Live
Black Orchid & Co.
Cynthia Entel Vicino
Revocable Trust Covetrus
AFR Furniture Rental
AFTER PARTY SPONSOR
Periodontal Health Center
VIP LOUNGE SPONSOR
Adele S. Bernett Memorial Fund
Simon Canasi, Executor
My Corporate Ally Shumaker
Tampa General Hospital
PROGRAM SPONSOR
Amy & Frank Agliano & Duke
VOLUNTEERS SPONSORS
Greg Margliano / Margliano Team
MODEL PURRFECT
Meat Market
Morris C. Massey
New Age Reprographics
Cheryl Ciccarello, Nancy Newman & Mindy Ogden
Dan Pease & Lisa Zarek
PRETTY PAWS
Dorene Collier’s Event Show Productions
Downtown Dogs & The Working K9
IDX Image Depot
JM Fertilizer, LLC
Johnson Brothers
Johnson - Lancaster & Associates, Inc.
MUFG
Aramark Cigar City Brewing
Connie Duglin Linen
Phoenix House Florida TECO
Bill Weller & Cynthia Smoot Weller
Drs. Dene Williamson & Elise Zahn
New York Yankees
PAR, Inc.
Jason & Dyan Pithers, Coldwell Banker Realty
PNC Bank
Power Design
Mary Scott & Mark Eger Foundation
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
IN-KIND
Devils River Whiskey Encore Pepsico
Seven Seas Water Group
Skin Radiance Med Spa
Laura Tatem
Kristi & Paul Taylor
The Goodrich
Family Foundation
Trane
White Claw
Windsor Vineyards
Handmade Vodka
FOCUS: ANIMAL WELFARE
HOLLY’S STORY: The Price of Popularity.
Holly, a 3-year-old purebred French bulldog, came to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay (HSTB) in dire need of help. She was found wandering the streets, terrified and struggling to breathe due to a severe upper respiratory infection. Her condition was so bad that she couldn't even open her eyes. Along with her respiratory issues, Holly had painfully inflamed skin, and it was clear she had been bred multiple times, likely by a backyard breeder who saw her as a commodity rather than a companion.
Holly’s story is, unfortunately, becoming all too familiar. French bulldogs have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. But with this surge in demand has come a rise in irresponsible breeding practices. Frenchies are particularly prone to genetic health problems. These include respiratory issues like the one Holly faced, skin conditions, and joint problems due to their unique physical characteristics.
HSTB is seeing more and more French bulldogs come through the doors, many with severe health issues. These are often the result of unethical breeders who cut corners by breeding dogs in unhealthy environments and ignoring the welfare of the animals.
Holly's story serves as a critical reminder: the popularity of a breed should never come at the expense of the animal's well-being.
MIXED BREEDS – FABULOUSLY UNIQUE!
All breeds have wonderful characteristics that make them unique. That’s why mixed breeds are so amazing; they boast a wide variety of these beloved traits! DNA test kits are a fun way to identify the most dominant breeds in your pup(s) and are available for purchase at HSTB! Scan for adoptables!
TOP BREEDS THROUGH THE DECADES
Favored breeds in the U.S. have shifted over the decades, often reflecting societal trends, lifestyle changes, and media influence. Each breeds’ reign brought with it a rise of their presence in animal shelters.
While Dalmatians never reached #1, their popularity surged in 1961 after Disney released “101 Dalmatians” and again in 1996 with the live-action remake.
11:00AM – 3:00PM
CURTIS HIXON PARK
New This Year: for qualifying packs & fundraisers!
Pre-Event Kickoff Party
Pre-Event 1-Mile Walk
Upgraded Incentives
HONORING
PETS UNTIL THE END
End of Life Services
We understand the deep emotional connection between pets and their families. When a beloved pet reaches the end of their life, it can be an incredibly difficult time. HSTB offers compassionate end-of-life services to provide peace and dignity for sick or senior pets, ensuring they pass in comfort.
Humane Euthanasia services at HSTB are designed to minimize pain and suffering for pets who are experiencing a diminished quality
of life due to illness, injury, or advanced age. The process is handled by caring, certified professionals who prioritize the comfort of both the pet and their family. Because each family’s situation is unique, HSTB offers walk-in services without the need for an appointment, allowing pet owners to make the decision when they feel the time is right.
For families who would like cremation services, HSTB offers private cremations, where pets’ ashes are returned to their families in a keepsake urn, or communal cremation where their ashes are laid to rest in HSTB’s butterfly garden. Each option handles the pet with respect and care.
Families receive emotional support from empathetic staff who help guide them through the process. With the utmost compassion, pets are given the gentle, respectful farewell they deserve, and owners can say goodbye in a way that honors their years of companionship.
... incredibly kind and compassionate, they made a painful moment bearable.
... our technician was amazing ... we never expected her to cry with us ... what a comfort.
... empathetic and understanding with the proper level of professionalism ...
Outstanding facility ... the private rooms were peaceful and allowed for adequate grieving time with my pet.
... the staff was compassionate and professional, and the private cremation was handled with such dignity and grace ...
... they went above and beyond to help us through the grieving process, giving me the time and space to say goodbye ...
REFLECTING ON COLLABORATION
Pet Health Action Fair is a Success for Community Pets.
On September 24, 2024, Feeding Tampa Bay hosted a remarkable Pet Health Action Fair in honor of National Pet Hunger Awareness Day. This event brought together the community to address the critical issue of pet hunger while providing essential services to local pet owners.
A Day of Compassion and Support
The Pet Health Action Fair successfully raised awareness about the alarming reality of pet food insecurity, with an estimated 30 million pets in the United States affected. Attendees learned about the struggles many face when trying to ensure their pets receive adequate nutrition. Statistics show that 83% of pet owners would willingly sacrifice their own meals to feed their pets, highlighting the deep bond between pets and their humans.
HSTB proudly participated in the event by offering free vaccinations (including rabies), microchips, and pet food/supplies from our Pet Pantry to pets in attendance. This initiative not only supported pet health but also encouraged responsible pet ownership, ensuring that families could prioritize their pets’ health without financial burden.
Community Collaboration
The fair was made possible through the efforts of Feeding America, PetSmart Charities, and numerous local organizations dedicated to combating pet hunger. PetSmart Charities' partnership with Feeding America allows for the delivery of pet food to local food banks, which are then able to distribute these resources to families in need. The Pet Health Action Fair served as an essential extension of these efforts, creating a space for community outreach and support.
Community Impact
The success of the Pet Health Action Fair is a testament to the power of community collaboration in addressing pet hunger and supporting pet owners. By coming together, we demonstrated that every pet deserves access to food and care.
END-OF-YEAR GIVING
YOU are the gift!
As we reflect over the past 12 months, we are struck by the incredible generosity, compassion, and support you have shown the animals this year.
YOU SAVED
the lives of 11,000+ homeless animals.
YOU PROVIDED
200,000+ pounds of free pet food to families in need so they can keep their pets.
YOU NURTURED
compassion in 5,600+ future animal welfare advocates and leaders.
The Animals Need You!
YOU ENSURED
access to affordable veterinary care for all Tampa Bay citizens.
YOU CULTIVATED
partnerships and legacies that create a more humane community for everyone.
This year, more than 75,000 animals in need were helped at HSTB because of your generosity. Please consider an end-of-year gift to keep HSTB’s life-saving programs strong.
$50 will vaccinate & deworm 1 homeless pet.
$75 will spay/neuter & vaccinate 2 feral cats
$100 will spay/neuter & vaccinate 1 homeless dog.
$500 will provide heartworm treatment for 1 homeless dog.
$1,000 will save the lives of 1 litter of underage puppies or kittens.
covers the total cost of care for 1 homeless pet at the shelter. • ONLINE: scan code above or visit humanesocietytampa.org/2024-Winter-MT
• CHECK / CARD: use the enclosed remittance envelope. • Contact
RECOGNITION & THANKS
CORPORATE DONORS, PARTNERS & GRANTS
1905 Family of Restaurants
2024 Community Harvest
AGoldPhoto Pet Photography
Allegro Tampa
Amalie Arena
Amwins
Ardurra
Armature Works
Athletes for Animals
Autonation
Awfully Good Guild
Baldwin Group
Bernice Barbour Foundation
Bissell Pet Foundation
BJ’s Wesley Chapel
Bluegrace Logistics
Board Prep Recovery
BSP Pet World
BST Global
Central Pet Distribution
Columbia Restaurant Group
Community Foundation
Tampa Bay
Creative Loafing
Cycle Bar Brandon
Delta Airlines TPA
CEC DE&I Council
Dolly’s Dream
Downtown Dogs
DTTC
Embassy Suites Tampa
Airport Westshore
Enterprise Mobility
FairyTail Pet Care
Federal Express
Feeding Tampa Bay
Florida College
Florida Planning Association
Florida’s Largest Home Show
Frazier and Deeter, CPA’s
Gilbane Building Company
HAYS USA
HCC Dale Mabry Campus
Victor Hedman
Heritage Insurance
Holland and Knight, LLP
Hotel Alba
Irish 31 Hyde Park Village
JPMorganChase
Junior League of Tampa
Kendra Scott Hyde Park Village
Kerby’s Nursery
Latham Foundation
Metrohm USA
Mosaic
Mosquito Squad
Nothing Bundt Cakes
OneBlood
OUTFRONT Media
Oxbow Animal Health
Painters on Demand
Pepsico
Petco Love
Petco Westshore
PGIM
Power Design
PupGrade
PWC
RMC Property Group
Rotary Club of Tampa
Janet & David Saunders
In Honor of Lindsey Sheppy
Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits
St. Pete Pride
Subaru of Wesley Chapel
Suffolk
T-Mobile
Tampa Bay Lightning / Vinik Sports
Tampa Bay Moms Group
Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine
Tampa Bay Swim Week
Tampa Club
Tampa International Airport
Tampa Theatre
TECO
Thai Vo & Erika Mahoney
The Baldwin Group
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Topgolf
Trane
Transflo
TypTap Insurance Company
University of South Florida Clubs and Organizations
University of Tampa Clubs and Organizations
Walmart
Wholesome Goods
Winn Dixie
Wise
Woofie’s Pet Grooming
Let’s end on a high note.
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay took in more than 150 stray animals in the days following Hurricane Milton. Below are a few more photos of post-storm reunions between distraught owners and their lost pets.
