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1. Registration: Pet owners register on the Home To Home platform and create a profile for their pet. This profile includes vital information such as the pet’s age, breed, temperament, and any special needs. Click here to register- Home To Home\GCHS
2. Profile Upload: Once the profile is complete, it is uploaded to the platform, making it visible to potential adopters or foster families.
3. Search and Connect: Interested parties browse through available pets, initiating contact with the current pet owner when they find a suitable match.
4. Meet and Greet: The current owner and potential adopter or foster family arrange a meeting to ensure compatibility.
5. Transition: Upon agreement, the pet is transitioned to its new home, with no fees exchanged directly between parties at any point.

• Direct Control: Pet owners have direct control over the rehoming process, ensuring their beloved pets go to a home they approve of.
• No Shelter Stays: Pets can transition directly from one home to another, reducing stress associated with shelter stays.
• Support: Owners receive guidance from the Gulf Coast Humane Society and the Better Together Animal Alliance throughout the process.

• Pet Variety: Adopters have access to a wide variety of pets, not just dogs and cats. Whether you’re looking for a bird, lizard, or even a horse, Home To Home offers diverse options.
• Transparency: Adopters can learn about a pet’s history, behavior, and needs directly from the current owner.
• Community Connection: Engaging with the program fosters a sense of community, connecting like-minded pet lovers.

• Include Clear Photos: High-quality images that showcase your pet’s personality and appearance are crucial.
• Be Honest: Clearly state your pet’s needs, behaviors, and any quirks. This transparency helps ensure a good match.
• Highlight Unique Traits: What makes your pet special? Share their unique traits or amusing habits.
• Provide Health Information: Include details about vaccinations, spay/neuter status, and any medical conditions.

• Rehoming is Abandonment: Rehoming through Home To Home is a thoughtful decision made for the pet’s best interest, not abandonment.
• Only Unwanted Pets are Rehomed: Many pets are rehomed due to unavoidable circumstances, such as the owner’s health or relocation, not because they are unwanted.
• Shelters are the Only Option: Home To Home provides a viable alternative to traditional shelters, offering benefits such as reduced stress for the pet.

• Reducing Shelter Overcrowding: By facilitating direct rehoming, the program alleviates pressure on shelters.
• Fostering Community Connections: It brings animal lovers together, creating a supportive network.
• Promoting Animal Welfare: By prioritizing the well-being of pets, Home To Home ensures they find loving and suitable homes.

In a heartwarming initiative to help shelter pets find their forever homes, a local artist has taken on a unique project that combines creativity with compassion. By donating hand-painted portraits of adoptable pets, this artist is not only showcasing their impressive talent but also emphasizing the urgent need for animal adoption. This special collaboration with the Gulf Coast Humane Society offers more than just art; it gives each animal a fighting chance to be noticed, loved, and ultimately, adopted.

Meet the Artist: A Passion for Pets and Paint

Bonnie Pearson lives in Lehigh Acres Florida for 10+ years. Originally from Wisconsin,
A retired Registered Nurse, Bonnie explains, “I’ve always been artistic and after retiring I began painting portraits of people and animals. My clients are from Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. My husband Tom and I currently have 2 fur babies; Trip, a yellow Labrador and Tilly, a Rat Terrier. We have had many rescued dogs and cats.
My heart aches for the animals who live in a kennel for an unknown length of time. Especially if they were surrendered and used to know what having a family was like. So I thought about how I can help their situation. Help them get a forever home again. Art is powerful and if you are an animal lover, you would love to have their portrait right. So, I decided to offer to paint for shelters here in Florida and also in Wisconsin, to donate my work, to make a long-time shelter dog or cat more desirable to adopt. Because my work of the animal, showcases just how amazingly beautiful they are! Small thumbnail photos in a website do not accomplish this due to limited space. I feel blessed that Gulf Coast Humane Society is allowing me to help their animals. If interested in a portrait Email me at [email protected].”

The Power of Art in Animal Adoption

Animal shelters are often bustling with activity, housing a myriad of pets waiting for a loving home. Unfortunately, many of these animals go unnoticed, blending into the background of the busy shelter environment. This is where Bonnie’s project makes a significant difference.

Bonnie’s paintings bring each pet to life in a way that photos cannot. Her use of vibrant colors and attention to detail highlight the unique personality of every animal. As a special gift, when you adopt one of these adorable dogs from the Gulf Coast Humane Society, you’ll receive their portrait to cherish forever! This incredible collaboration not only highlights the beauty of each pet but also supports their journey to finding a loving home.

Why This Initiative is Important:

1. Enhanced Visibility: Artistic portraits draw attention. They stand out in a sea of digital images, providing a unique and memorable representation of each pet.
2. Emotional Connection: A painted portrait creates an emotional bond between the viewer and the subject. Potential adopters get to see the personality and spirit of the animal, fostering a connection that could lead to adoption.
3. Community Engagement: This initiative encourages local community members to get involved, whether through adopting, volunteering, or spreading the word about the Gulf Coast Humane Society.
4. Support for Local Artists: By collaborating with a local artist, the project supports the local arts community, showcasing the talent and creativity present in the Gulf Coast region.

Gulf Coast Humane Society: A Beacon of Hope

The Gulf Coast Humane Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of homeless pets. Located in the heart of Florida, the society has been a pillar of hope for countless animals over the years. Their mission revolves around providing shelter, medical care, and love to each pet that comes through their doors, with the ultimate goal of finding them a forever home.

How You Can Help

Adopt: Consider adopting a pet from the Gulf Coast Humane Society. Not only will you gain a loyal companion, but you’ll also receive a beautiful portrait to remind you of the special bond you’ve formed.

Volunteer: Give your time to the shelter. Whether it’s walking dogs, cleaning kennels, or helping with events, every bit of assistance makes a difference.

Spread the Word: Share information about this initiative with friends and family. Social media can be a powerful tool in reaching potential adopters.

Support Local Artists: Purchase artwork from local artists, attend gallery shows, or commission custom pieces. Your support can help sustain their creative endeavors.

Art and Compassion Unite

This collaboration between Bonnie Pearson and the Gulf Coast Humane Society is a testament to how art and compassion can unite for a greater good. By highlighting the unique beauty of shelter pets through her paintings, Bonnie is not only helping these animals find homes but also inspiring others to get involved in their community.

As you consider the impact of this initiative, ask yourself: How can you use your skills to make a difference in your community? What role can you play in helping animals in need? And most importantly, how can we all work together to ensure that every pet finds a loving home?

Art has the power to change lives, and in this case, it is changing the lives of both the painter and the pets. Let’s continue to support local artists and the Gulf Coast Humane Society, working together to create a brighter future for our beloved four-legged friends.

Community support is vital for the success of initiatives like Bonnie’s. The collaboration between local artists and organizations like the Gulf Coast Humane Society demonstrates the power of community involvement. When local businesses and individuals come together to support a common cause, the impact can be profound.

Fort Myers, FL — The Gulf Coast Humane Society is thrilled to announce a generous donation from esteemed philanthropist Tom Golisano. This significant contribution will be instrumental in advancing our Shelter Capital Projects and Improvements.

Tom Golisano, a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, has a long-standing commitment to supporting community initiatives and improving animal welfare. His benevolence will enable the Gulf Coast Humane Society to enhance its facilities, improve the quality of care for our animals, and expand our veterinary services to better serve the community.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Golisano for his generous donation,” said Darcy Andrade, Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Humane Society. “This funding will allow us to make critical improvements to our shelter infrastructure. With these advancements, we can provide even better care and support to the animals and families we serve.”

Key Projects Supported by Mr. Golisano’s Donation:
• Shelter Capital Projects and Improvements: Enhancements to our existing facilities, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for the animals in our care.

These projects align with our mission to promote animal welfare and provide high-quality care for every animal that enters our facilities.

The Gulf Coast Humane Society invites the community to join us in celebrating this milestone. We remain committed to our mission and look forward to the positive impact that these projects will have on the lives of countless animals and their families.
For more information about the Gulf Coast Humane Society and how you can support our mission, please visit https://gulfcoasthumanesociety.org or contact Lori Burke at [email protected].

About Gulf Coast Humane Society:
Gulf Coast Humane Society is dedicated to being a safe haven for pets in need by providing medical care, promoting adoptions, and nurturing the bond between pets and people in Southwest Florida.

Our shelter does not receive any federal, state, or county funding and no funding from the Humane Society of the United States or ASPCA. We rely solely on donations, grants, bequests, and fundraising events to further our mission as stated above.
We are the most tenured 501(c)3 nonprofit, no-kill, animal welfare organization established in 1947 in Southwest Florida.

Contact:
Diane Bonner

Community Engagement and Marketing Coordinator 

Gulf Coast Humane Society

239-332-0364, Ext. 319

[email protected]


Home – Use This One

Local Volunteers Honored for Outstanding Volunteer Service at Gulf Coast Humane Society

Pictured above (Left to Right): Darcy Andrade, Executive Director; Matthew McWatters, Development Coordinator; Mrs. Zuberi; Sidrah Zuberi, Distinguished Youth; Lori Burke, Development Director; Lorraine Masud, Distinguished Volunteer

Naples, Florida – November 13, 2024 – The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has recognized two exceptional volunteers from the Gulf Coast Humane Society (GCHS) during National Philanthropy Day celebrations. Sidrah Zuberi, Fort Myers High School Senior, and Lorraine Masud were honored for their outstanding contributions to animal welfare and philanthropy.

## Youth Honoree

Zuberi was honored as a Distinguished Youth. This award recognizes individuals ages 10-18 who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the community through development of charitable programs, volunteering, and leadership in philanthropy.  Zuberi established a popular club at Fort Myers High School benefitting the local Humane Society.  She is currently an intern at the shelter focusing on events and social media.

## Adult Honoree

Masud was presented with the Distinguished Volunteer award. This honor is bestowed upon individuals who have dedicated their time, talent, and treasure to a nonprofit.  Masud is known as steadfast at the local shelter and can be seen on the Humane Society campus walking dogs, taking shelter pets on ‘Doggie Day Out’ excursions and various other socialization programs.  She is very involved with ensuring that fundraising events are successful.

“We’re thrilled that Sidrah and Lorraine were honored for their exceptional commitment to the Gulf Coast Humane Society,” said Lori Burke, GCHS Development Director. “Their efforts exemplify the spirit of philanthropy and inspire others to make a difference in their communities.”

## National Philanthropy Day

National Philanthropy Day, celebrated in November, is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of philanthropy and those active in the philanthropic community. It involves over 50,000 people participating in more than 100 events across North America.

The Gulf Coast Humane Society relies heavily on volunteers like Sidrah and Lorraine to fulfill its mission to being a safe haven for pets in need by providing medical care, promoting adoptions, and nurturing the bond between pets and people in Southwest Florida.

For more information about volunteering at the Gulf Coast Humane Society, please visit their website or contact Lori Burke at 239.332.0364 ext 321 or [email protected].

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About the Gulf Coast Humane Society:

Gulf Coast Humane Society (GCHS) is a regional organization dedicated to helping companion pets find their forever homes, no matter how long it takes. GCHS provides an adoption center, spay-neuter clinic, veterinary clinic, and pet food pantry, as well as education and awareness to the public about the welfare of homeless pets. To learn more about GCHS, visit gulfcoasthumanesociety.org.

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Fostering puppies is more than just a temporary home for these young dogs; it’s a chance to influence their futures profoundly. When fosters take in litters of puppies, they hold the key to shaping these animals into confident, well-adjusted adults who are less likely to face behavioral challenges later in life. The importance of this role cannot be overstated. Fosters can stack the deck in these puppies’ favor with just a little effort during those crucial early weeks, ensuring a lifetime of stability and happiness.

The impact of fostering puppies well extends far beyond the immediate joy and satisfaction of caring for them. It’s about setting these animals on a path to success, giving them the best possible chance to thrive in their future homes. The science is clear: the right experiences during those early weeks can shape a puppy’s future, leading to a lifetime of stability, happiness, and a lower risk of ending up in a shelter due to behavioral issues. By fostering with intention and care, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of these puppies, ensuring they grow into the confident, stable companions we all hope for.

Owning a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life. Not only do dogs provide companionship, but they also offer numerous physical, emotional, and social benefits that enhance our well-being..

Research has shown that dog owners tend to lead more active lifestyles. Regular walks and playtime with dogs encourage physical activity, which can lead to improved cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of obesity.

Dogs are also known for their unconditional love and loyalty, which can significantly improve mental health. They provide comfort during difficult times and can help alleviate loneliness or depression. Moreover, petting a dog has been shown to reduce anxiety levels and promote relaxation.

Owning a dog can also lead to increased social interactions. Dog parks, training classes, and community events centered around pets create opportunities for owners to meet like-minded individuals.

Gulf Coast Humane Society offers dog adoptions throughout the week and is here to assist you in finding the perfect companion for your lifestyle. During the Clear the Shelters event, you can adopt a new furry friend for half off the normal adoption fee. For a full list of dogs available for adoption, please visit gulfcoasthumanesociety.org.

The leptospirosis vaccine is crucial for dogs because it protects them from a potentially severe and life-threatening bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria. This disease can lead to organ damage, particularly affecting the kidneys and liver, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. Dogs can contract leptospirosis through contact with contaminated water, soil, or infected animals, making it a significant risk, especially for dogs that spend time outdoors or in areas with high wildlife or rodent populations. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent this disease and reduce the risk of serious health complications.

Additionally, leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. By vaccinating dogs against leptospirosis, pet owners not only protect their pets but also reduce the risk of the disease spreading to their families and communities. This dual protection makes the leptospirosis vaccine an essential component of responsible pet care, ensuring the well-being of both dogs and their human companions.

 ‘Clear The Shelters’ Has Helped More Than 1 Million Pets Find New Homes & Raised Millions of Dollars for Shelters Since 2015

NBC & Telemundo Stations Across the Nation Partnering with Animal Shelters & Rescues for Milestone Initiative

FORT MYERS, FL – (August 5, 2024) – Clear The Shelters, NBCUniversal Local’s nationwide pet adoption and donation initiative – which has helped more than one million pets find new homes and raised millions of dollars for participating animal shelters and rescues since its 2015 inception – is returning for its milestone 10^th annual campaign this Aug. 10 to Sept. 10.

Gulf Coast Humane Society, located at 2010 Arcadia Street in Fort Myers, is once again participating in the annual Clear The Shelters adoption and donation campaign.

GCHS will be running a month-long half-off on all adoption fees – including adult cats/dogs, puppies and kittens from Aug. 10 – Sept. 10. Also during this time span, there will be a matching donations fundraising campaign for GCHS run through Clear The Shelters. Keep updated on the different ways to donate on the GCHS social media, which includes Facebook and Instagram.

GCHS adoptable shelter pets can be found at www.gulfcoasthumanesociety.org.

“Clear The Shelters historically has been a successful campaign for GCHS in not only leading to more adoptions, but it acts as an important fundraiser for the shelter through the entire month,” said GCHS Executive Director Darcy Andrade. “Clear The Shelters is a wonderful promotion to adopt shelter cats and dogs, but even if you can’t adopt, you can still make an impact by donating.”

As part of the month-long 10^th anniversary Clear The Shelters, NBC and Telemundo stations across the nation are partnering with animal shelters and rescues in their communities to promote pet adoption and raise critical funds for participating shelters and rescues.

The 2023 Clear The Shelters campaign led to more than 158,000 adoptions – lifting the all-time adoption total past one million – and raised over $575,000. More than 1,400 shelters and rescues representing 49 states and territories, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam – along with 152 NBC and Telemundo stations – participated in last year’s campaign Aug. 1 to 30.

“Surpassing the one millionth all-time adoption last year and now celebrating our 10th campaign are not just milestones, these numbers help quantify the incredible support Clear The Shelters has received from communities around the nation and the impact it’s had on vulnerable animals and the shelters that care for them,” said Meredith McGinn, NBCUniversal Local’s Executive Vice President of Diginets & Original Production. “It’s a privilege to partner with participating shelters, affiliate stations, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and our employees, to continue to grow and expand this great initiative.”

Visit ClearTheShelters.com  to Find Participating Shelters or Donate Online from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30

Hill’s Pet Nutrition, a global leader in science-based pet nutrition, is returning as the national sponsor and partner of Clear The Shelters for the seventh consecutive campaign.

Campaign fundraising will again be led by Greater Good Charities, a global nonprofit and longtime campaign partner. Donations can be made Aug. 1 to Sept. 30 at ClearTheSheltersFund.org. Through the online donation platform, built by Fundraise Up, donors have the option to cover transaction fees so that 100 percent of the funds go directly to the shelter or rescue of their choice. Hill’s Pet Nutrition and The Animal Rescue Site provide additional funds to The Clear The Shelters Fund.

Virtual pet adoptions are also returning for the sixth consecutive campaign through WeRescue. The WeRescue website and app enable users to browse adoptable pets in their area by breed, gender, size and other factors, submit their adoption applications, and ask questions directly to shelters.

The Dodo, a leading animal and pet brand, will serve as a media partner for the eighth campaign.

Details on 2024 Clear The Shelters highlights, activations and initiatives, including specials on participating NBC and Telemundo stations, will be announced at a later time. Fundraising totals and the number of pet adoptions will be announced after the conclusion of the campaign.

For more information on Clear The Shelters, including participating animal shelters and rescues, along with details on local events, visit ClearTheShelters.com and the Spanish-language site DesocuparlosAlbergues.com.

Follow Clear The Shelters on social media:

• X: @ClearTheShelter
• Instagram: cleartheshelters
• TikTok: @cleartheshelters
• Hashtags: #ClearTheShelters & #DesocuparLosAlbergues

About Clear The Shelters
Clear The Shelters™ / Desocupar Los Albergues® is an annual, nationwide pet adoption campaign that is led by NBCUniversal Local. Every year, NBCUniversal Local’s NBC and Telemundo owned stations, plus affiliated stations, partner with animal shelters and rescues in their communities promote pet adoption and raise needed funds. Clear The Shelters was inspired by a 2014 North Texas pet adoption event hosted by NBC 5 / KXAS and Telemundo 39 / KXTX that resulted in the most adopted pets in one day for North Texas. Since 2015, Clear The Shelters pet adoption campaign has led to more than one million pet adoptions and raised millions of dollars for participating shelters and rescues.Visit ClearTheShelters.com and DesocuparLosAlbergues.com for more information.  

About NBCUniversal Local 

NBCUniversal Local, part of NBCUniversal News Group, is comprised of more than 50 media properties, including local TV stations and regional sports networks that deliver English and Spanish-speaking audiences in 30 U.S. markets and Puerto Rico comprehensive news, weather, consumer and investigative reporting, lifestyle and entertainment content and live sports coverage across television, streaming and digital platforms. NBCUniversal Local consists of three individual media groups – NBC Owned Television Stations, NBC Sports Regional Networks and Telemundo Station Group – plus multicast networks COZI TV and TeleXitos, regional cable news network NECN, and 16 free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels – including 11 NBC local news, four Telemundo regional news channels and NBC LX Home. NBCUniversal Local also features NBC Spot On, an advanced CTV and OTT advertising platform; LXTV Productions; marketing and promotions company Skycastle; out-of-home business NBC Everywhere; and The Arthouse, a graphic design group. 

About Gulf Coast Humane Society:

Gulf Coast Humane Society is a regional organization dedicated to helping companion pets find their forever homes, no matter how long it takes. GCHS provides an adoption center, spay-neuter and veterinary clinic, as well as education and awareness to the public about the welfare of homeless pets.

GCHS’ mission is to care for companion pets in need by offering safe refuge, providing medical care and facilitating adoptions. GCHS promotes the concept the “Adopt, Don’t Shop” and help educate the community about proper and responsible animal care, while providing quality, affordable veterinary care.

To learn more about GCHS, visit its website at www.gulfcoasthumanesociety.org.

GCHS Veterinary Clinic: 2685 Swamp Cabbage Court, Fort Myers, 33901; Phone: 239-332-2719

GCHS Spay/Neuter Clinic: 2010 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, 33916; Phone: 239-332-1573

GCHS Adoption Center: 2010 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, 33916; Phone: 239-332-0364

Heartworm disease poses a significant threat to pets in Florida due to the state’s warm and humid climate, which fosters a high mosquito population. These mosquitoes are the primary carriers of the heartworm parasite (Dirofilaria immitis). When an infected mosquito bites a pet, it transmits larvae into the animal’s bloodstream. Over time, these larvae mature into adult worms that reside in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, causing severe health issues such as lung disease, heart failure, and other organ damage. Given the serious nature of this condition, preventive measures are crucial for pet owners in Florida.

Preventing heartworm disease involves a combination of year-round preventive medication and effective mosquito control. Pet owners should administer heartworm preventive medications regularly, as prescribed by a veterinarian. These medications come in various forms, including oral tablets, topical solutions, and injections. In addition to medication, reducing mosquito exposure is vital. This can be achieved by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed, using mosquito repellents, and keeping pets indoors during peak mosquito activity times like dawn and dusk. Installing screens on windows and doors also helps minimize the risk.

Regular testing is another critical component of heartworm prevention. Even with preventive medication, pets should be tested annually for heartworm to ensure early detection and treatment if necessary. Prompt and appropriate treatment is essential for pets that test positive for heartworms. This involves a series of medications and close veterinary supervision to eliminate the worms and manage any complications. By adhering to these preventive measures and maintaining regular veterinary care, pet owners can significantly reduce the risk of heartworm disease and ensure the health and well-being of their pets in Florida.