Game of Homes, HSSV Style

Even if you're not a Game of Thrones fan, you know the hype is real. Even we're not immune - which is why our animals are vying for the ultimate throne: your home!

So who will be the ruler of your kingdom? We have a few suggestions...

Princess Catnerys Purrborn of the House Pawgaryen, Fur on Her Mane, the Unburnt, Queen of the Cat Condos and the First Meow, Katleesi of the Great Catnip Sea, Breaker of Wand Toys, and Mother of Dragons.

...or as she's commonly known around here, Princess. Like Queen Daenerys Targaryen, Princess puts up a pretty steely first impression. She has a strong, discerning personality at first glance, but underneath that cautiousness is a warm, caring heart. Princess is famous here for her skills - at making biscuits, that is. She doubles as a lap warmer and is extremely loyal to those she loves.

Juno (left)

Like the direwolves adopted by the Stark children, Juno is fiercely loyal to those she loves. Like Arya's direwolf Nymeria, Juno prefers the company of other dogs to that of people at first. But once she accepts you, you're in her pack for life. Juno is still young and has a fun, playful personality when around other dogs. She would do great in a home with other dogs to play with and people who understand her initial shyness.

Leah

Leah is not one to be underestimated (we wouldn't put it past her to be the one to train a dragon). However, she's not the strong silent type - in fact, Leah loves to chat about everything with those closest to her. Leah bonds closely to her people, earning the title "shadow" due to her love of following people around. She'd prefer to be queen of the castle so that all attention can be on her.

Milo

Milo may cameo as a direwolf in his spare time, but the comparisons pretty much stop there. He's not a strong, determined leader of a pack - he's more like a happy, bouncy adult-dog-moonlight-as-puppy. It's hard to catch him not smiling, and he'll do almost anything to make his people feel as happy inside as he does. Milo is still figuring out what the deal is with other dogs, so he'd prefer to be the only one in his house for now. This flooffy, smiley boy has been waiting way too long to go home - come meet him so he doesn't feel the need to get a part-time job in future episodes!

These four (and all our adult animals) are more than ready to take their place on the iron throne (your couch, ideally). Adoption fees for all adult dogs and cats are only $25 through 5/5. Come meet your future ruler!

An Incomplete List of Our Favorite HSSV Animals

What's better than billboard charts? A list of the goodest dogs and cats around! This week we're previewing some of our staff's favorite animals and showing you what makes them so special to us. View the full list of our favorite animals here! Plus, from now until March 17 (this Sunday!) all of our favorites are only $10 to adopt. 

Milo

Oh, Milo. We can't understand how you haven't been scooped up yet. Milo is a lot of dog, in the very best way. He has a lot of energy, but is learning when to unleash it (in other words, is figuring out that inside time calls for inside manners). He is super obsessed with his people - once you're in his circle, he turns into a giant, fluffy cuddlebug. Want to know more about our puffy boy? We made a list of Milo's 5 favorite things just for you:

 (Reading this blog in your email? Try reading it online in your browser to view the video!)

We're pretty obsessed with Milo, and we know there's someone out there who has a big, bursting heart that can relate to this dude. Is that you? Come meet him!

Kayla

Though her face may be sassy, her insides are classy. This girl is a STUNNER. She's got that jealousy-inducing long, luscious fur that comes in almost every color imaginable. And have we mentioned those gorgeous green eyes? 

Don't think we're just superficial! We're also pretty obsessed with Kayla's personality. She's a little shy at first, but she'll do flips and purrs once you're in her good graces. She's one of those great cats that makes you feel like you've really earned her affection. And once you have, wear it as a badge of honor. Come meet her!

Otter

Otter may be a big boy, but he's got a sweet soul. He's the type of dog who could use someone that really understands sensitive, somewhat introverted personalities. Otter has been through a lot but we couldn't be more proud of him. He's come a long way, and continues to improve and open up to new people. 

Need a tender boy in your life? Then you definitely need to ask for Otter. He's the tenderest, goodest boy around. And come on, look at that smile!

So there you go. These are some of our absolute most favorite animals at HSSV right now - they're all special, all unique, and all ready to go home (for only $10!). If you haven't come in yet but have been thinking about it, now is the time. $10 on our staff favorites ends Sunday!

Our Favorite Mischief Makers

They are awesome dogs. Sweet. Playful. Completely amazing in their own unique ways. 

They're also a little bit...naughty. Some are socially awkward. And just like us, they're imperfect. But somewhere out there is the human equivalent of each of these dogs, just waiting to find the counterpart that will complete them. And honestly? That could be you.

Alix: Crème de la Crème

In a sea of naughty huskies, Alix rises toward the top. She's the crème de la crème of mischievous kids. She jumps, she weaves, she pulls on the leash. She needs to smell all the things, and she needs to herd them now. Alix doesn't have time for you to stop and smell the roses - she's already on to the next bush, and you need to keep up. 

Alix is also the winner of our Most Improved Award. When Alix first came to us, she was conflicted about other dogs, and wasn't sure what she was supposed to do with them. But these days, she's the star of playgroups. She loves to play and uses her athletic skills to her advantage. She can also be just a teensy bit rude when she first greets another dog in her excitement to show them how awesome she is. In short: Alix is fabulous, and she knows it. If you get to meet her, consider yourself lucky.

Tonka: Bull in a China Shop

Have we ever met a naughtier pup than Tonka? Probably, but he definitely rises toward the top of the list. A big, bouncy boy with an unfiltered love for meeting people, Tonka is A Lot of Dog. He's not a dog for the faint of heart - he's the type of dog that people who really, really love squishing dogs' cheeks would fall for. 

Tonka lives to play with other dogs. He's also incredibly bouncy, a little too in your face, and a little socially unaware. The long and short of it? Tonka is a bull in a china shop no matter where he goes. But he wants you to know that he's trying really hard.

Monte: Socially Awkward, Sweet as Pie

Speaking of A Lot of Dog, Monte has that base totally covered. He wants what he wants and he wants it NOW. Monte is that kid in class who never really learned his manners. He's forward, a little rude, and greets people waaaaay too enthusiastically. But really - who wants a dog that ignores them when they come home after a long day? 

Monte's a bit rowdy. He's energetic. He likes to be on the move and he needs a bit of pushing and prodding to find the right outlet for his energy. He's super naughty, but also super sweet once he's gotten his ya-yas out. Monte's a wind-up toy that can go from 100 to 0 in ten seconds flat. Which is fun, right?

So there you have it. These dogs are perfectly imperfect, and we love every inch of their unruly exuberance. We strongly believe there are other people out there who will see their quirks as fun instead of faulty. So if you're thinking "I'm a little too much for most people too" or "I'm also a little socially awkward", you might just need to come visit us. We have your other halves here, and they're  bursting to meet you.

(Plus - did we mention? All the dogs mentioned here, plus the rest of our adult crew, have $20 adoption fees until 2/17. We're not kidding.)

Magic Number Five

Five spice girls. The Jackson Five. Five is a magic number almost universally - and HSSV is no exception.  

Why? Because until 2/3, all animals 5 years and older have adoption fees of only $20. 

Pretty great, right? And just like the KonMari method, we're here to help you find magic animal that will spark joy for you.

First up is Mia, first of her name, ruler of man, and queen of our hearts. She may look grumpy on the outside, but her insides are made of rainbows and hearts. She is sweet, sweet, sweet. So sweet, in fact, that when she first arrived here she would even accompany some of our staff members to meetings because she loved to be around people so much. Mia has some medical needs, and is looking for that special person who can give her the special care she deserves. Come meet her! 

Next up is our girl Dorothy, who has one of the best Shepherd-y smiles we've ever seen. She may be 8 years old, but there's still a definite pep in her step. She's social with other dogs, well-mannered, and only follows yellow brick roads that are guaranteed to have treats at the end. Come meet this born model!

What's better than one amazing tabby cat? Two, obviously. Carlos and Rebecca are a dashing duo who have lived together for years. They don't have to go home together, but they sure do make a pretty amazing pair. Need a couple of sun-loungers in your life? (Hint: Yes, you do. You really, really do.) Ask for Carlos and Rebecca! 

Great at fetch. Can run lightning quick. Speeds toward tennis balls like nobody's business. Are we talking about a Lab? Nope - it's Poochini, the 10 year-old Chihuahua! Poochini is a guy that defies all stereotypes. Never one to follow the herd, this toothless guy forges his own path. He's a born leader with a personality that'll keep you entertained for - let's face it - years to come. 

So there you have it, folks. A quick guide to some of our favorite magic animals. All these guys are 5+, all have $20 adoption fees, and all are super duper ready to show you just what makes them so darn special. Don't waste any more of your time. Come meet them!

A Blog of Lofty New Year's Resolutions

Kara

Kara's intentions for the new year are clear. More kisses, and more snuggs. "Wildly affectionate" is a deeply misleading term - it doesn't truly encompass Kara's profound desire to cover her favorite people's faces with her kisses and burrow into them on the couch.

Thanks for the face, friend. It's delicious.

She's a fan fave amongst volunteers - and for good reason. She's sweet as pie, great on the leash, and has affectionately been labeled Chief Kissing Officer of HSSV.

Wanna join me?

Want to help Kara keep up with her resolutions this year? Come meet her! Bring your face!

Thanks, wuv you.

Ashton

Ashton craves attention. His New Year's resolution is to get as much attention as possible - in all forms. Want to play with him? Cool, he loves toys. Want to pet his surprisingly soft fur all over? Great, do that. What about attention from other dogs? He's game.

Hi. Pet me.

This sweet senior boy may be blind, but he's fully taught himself to rely on his other senses to do what he does best - seek attention all for himself. If Ashton was a person, he'd be made for the stage. But since he's not, we think he's just made for an awesome home. Preferably one with lots of people to dole out - what? Attention. Yep, you got it folks.

I thought you were gonna pet me, so I got excited.

Tyrion

Tyrion's resolution for the new year is honestly a bit of a humblebrag. This unruly boy spent a few months in a foster home, and now he has really, really good house manners. His New Year's resolution is to use those house manners by landing his very own house. 

Run around and knock things over? Nah. I like to be snug as a bug in a rug.

Tyrion is king of making himself at home under blankets and cozying up to people. He saves his fun energy for the outdoors, where it belongs. 

Have a blanket that's missing a dog? We have just the one for you. Come meet Tyrion!

This blanket. I likes it.

A Big Blog Update on Fire Efforts

Our hearts are with the people and animals who have been affected by the fires in Butte County. This disaster was devastating, and though the fires are officially out, hundreds of animals remain in the fire-affected area, homeless and needing care. Temporary shelters have been set up to house these animals, and organizations from all over the country are pitching in to help provide care.

In this week's blog, we want to share with you how we've brought our expertise in shelter medicine to help the animals in the fire areas needing care. Read on for the whole story:

On Monday, December 3rd, we sent over a dozen staff and volunteers to help care for more than 350 animals being housed in these temporary shelters. 

Many of the animals were sick with upper respiratory infections due to the cramped housing and high numbers of animals needing care. 

We provided routine care, vaccinations, and treatments, while also ensuring each animal had toys and other items to help with the boredom of staying in one place for so long.

Our team, trained in standards of care for animals housed in shelters, was tasked with coordinating and managing the care of hundreds of animals. We quickly established strict guidelines and handling instructions to limit the spread of disease, and set the sick animals on a course of treatment to help them get better. 

Our team has been up north for nearly two weeks now to provide support to the organizations on the ground. We'll continue to offer our support as long as we're needed. We've set up a Disaster Relief Fund that will give us the resources to respond quickly to disasters as they occur. Donations to this fund will be used solely to assist animals affected by disasters.

We have so much sympathy for the animals who haven't yet been reunited with their families, those who will need to be cared for until their family can take them home again, and those who may need new homes. And we're so grateful for the many people and organizations who have rallied together in a difficult situation to help these animals, no matter their situation.

Before we wrap up, we need to thank the people who have made our disaster relief efforts possible. Thank you to our staff and volunteers, who spent days caring for animals in Butte County. And a big thank you to the staff and volunteers who stayed behind and made sure our animals were cared for while part of our team was gone. We also want to give a HUGE thanks to those of you who supported our efforts - by donating to the Disaster Relief Fund, donating towels and other necessary items, and constantly being our support system. We couldn't do what we do without you. 

As the situation in Butte County continues to change, we'll keep everyone updated on the support we provide. Stay tuned for updates in the coming weeks. 

A Home for the Holidays Album

Oh there's no fun like pets for the holidays
'Cause no matter how far or close you roam
If you want to make them happy in a million ways
For the holidays they can't beat home sweet home

Today's album of cheery holiday songs was put together by some of our favorite animals. In the hopes of finding awesome homes for the holidays, they polished up their song-writing skills and now present this album. (Please note, if the rhymes aren't entirely rhyme-y or the songs don't quite make sense....they're novices. Also, they're animals, and animals are notoriously bad at rhyming - ask anyone.)

All I Want For Christmas

I don't want a lot this season
There is just one thing I need
I don't care about those cat trees
Or other things to distract me

I just want a home of my own
More than you could ever know
Go get me a home
All I want is one of my own

When we think of Mariah Carey's iconic bop, Roxie comes to mind. Like Mariah, she's got a range. She's feisty when needed, sweet when it suits her, and works harder than any pop star-er uh, cat - we know. 

She's also really, really, ridiculously talented. Obviously. Come meet her.


Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree

Rockin' around the Christmas tree

Is my favorite thing of all

Tennis balls everywhere I can see
Please, please throw me that ball
Rockin' around the Christmas tree
Just look at my smile bling
Later we'll snuggle up on the couch

But only after some fetching

Austin basically IS this happy, rock 'n roll beat. He's upbeat, has a great attitude, and is ready to just get this party started. Let's GO people! The holidays are for celebratin'! Come meet him!


It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

It's the most wonderful time of the year
There'll be much warmth and cuddling
All day we'll be snugglingOur home must be near!
It's the most wonderful time of the year

Much like this song, Paco and Lucky are classics. Their real love of the holidays comes simply from a deep-seated dream of finding their family for the holidays. These peas in a pod are happy-go-lucky little guys who are ready to find their place by the fire - or in your laps. Meet them! 

The Grinch Song, Revised

You're a sneaky one, Mr.  Butters

You really love to eat

You steal the food you want, and you love your life indoors, Mr. Buuuutters

You're a good cat with a reputation to beat

Unlike the Grinch, Butters isn't a mean one, or a grumpy one, and he doesn't have a particular hatred for the holidays. But he is a sneaky dude - once caught breaking and entering into people's houses to steal their butter, Butters is now pleased as punch to be living his life indoors with food that is always available to him.  His hilarious antics, resting mean face, and outgoing attitude will keep you entertained all through the holidays - come meet him! www.hssv.org/butters

We hope you enjoyed this special holiday album put together by these furry folks. Don't forget - all these melodious mammals have adoption fees of only $20 until December 31 for Home for the Holidays. Be sure you don't miss out on these songbirds!

A Week of Fires, and a Big Ask

At a shelter about 170 miles north from us, dozens and dozens of animals were waiting for their forever homes. Some had been waiting for weeks, while some were waiting to finish up treatments for kennel cough or upper respiratory infections before being placed up for adoption. But all were looking forward to a bright future. 

Then, the fires hit.

That shelter up north became a refuge for animals impacted by the fire, including pets of owners who had to evacuate and couldn't take them. But space was filling up fast, so the shelter reached out and asked if we could take those animals that had been waiting for homes before the fires started. 

On Saturday morning, our crew loaded up with coffee (thanks, Lauren!) and started the long drive north. 

There, they worked quickly to assess animals and load as many as we could into the van. 

Altogether, we brought 67 animals back from the shelter. They arrived back at HSSV late in the afternoon. 

Our team quickly got to work making sure every animal was vaccinated and started on any necessary medications. 

Our foster team took over and sent out pleas to our foster families, who stepped up BIG TIME. Nearly every animal we brought in went home with a foster family that night. We couldn't be more grateful for their support.

So, what's next?

We're on standby, ready to help by taking more animals as needed. 

The animals we already rescued are making their way through our system - some are already starting to go up for adoption, while some are finishing up treatments. As they become available, they'll show up on our website at www.hssv.org/adopt.

This is Angora. She was rescued from the fires and became available for adoption today. Unsurprisingly, she was already adopted.

Now you might be asking yourself - this is great, but how do I help?

We need adopters! To make room for incoming animals from the fire areas, we need more space. By adopting an animal from us, you'll help us free up adoption space for the fire-affected animals. You'll also help us free up space in our foster homes so that we have room to take in more animals from fire areas if needed.

This is Bridget, and we love her. You can find her in our Sunshine Room at our Milpitas ACC.

This weekend only, adopt any cat or kitten for only $20 at any of our locations. Adopt a new family member and help fire-affected animals in the process - it's a win-win.

Piper is FeLV positive, snuggly, and overall perfect.

(Plus, cats make excellent cuddlers if you're looking for a pal to hang indoors with while you're avoiding smoke. Hint hint.)

Roxie might skip the cuddles, but she is ALWAYS down to play. She's also learning how to high five. No, we're not kidding.

So come in. Stop by any of our locations. We're full to the brim with tons of different animals - everything from tiny kittens and puppies to small dogs to cats of every size and color to large dogs to rabbits and more. 

See you there, right?