Gulf Coast Humane Society

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.

Hurricane season has begun, so pet parents must have a plan in place to ensure the safety and well-being of their furry companions. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for a hurricane and keep your pets safe during this challenging time:

1. Create a Pet Emergency Kit: Put together a kit that includes essential items for your pet such as food, water, medications, medical records, leashes, carriers, and comfort items. Make sure to have at least a week’s supply of food and medication in case of evacuation or limited access to stores.

2. Identify Pet-Friendly Shelters: Research pet-friendly shelters in your area ahead of time and know their policies and procedures. Not all shelters accept pets, so it’s important to have a plan in place for where you can take your pet if you need to evacuate.

3. Ensure Proper Identification: Make sure your pet has up-to-date identification tags with your contact information. Consider microchipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification in case they get lost during the chaos of a hurricane.

4. Plan for Evacuation: Have a detailed evacuation plan that includes arrangements for your pets. Know where you will go, how you will get there, and what transportation will be available for your pets.

5. Keep Your Pet Calm: During the storm, keep your pet calm by creating a safe space for them indoors away from windows and loud noises. Comfort them with familiar items like blankets or toys to reduce stress and anxiety.

By following these tips and being prepared, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your beloved pets during hurricane season.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of pets during the summer heat is a critical aspect of animal care. Pets are highly susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and dehydration, conditions that can escalate quickly and become life-threatening if not promptly addressed. Unlike humans, pets cannot sweat efficiently and rely heavily on panting and external cooling methods to regulate their body temperature. Dogs, cats, and other animals can easily become overheated, especially when left in hot environments like cars, even for a short period. It is imperative for pet owners to provide ample fresh water, shaded areas, and avoid excessive exercise during peak heat hours to protect their pets from the dangers of summer heat.

Awareness of pet owners about the signs of heat exhaustion, such as excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, and confusion, can prevent severe health issues. Immediate veterinary care is essential if any of these symptoms are observed, as timely intervention can save a pet’s life. Advocating for the use of protective measures such as cooling vests, avoiding hot pavement, and ensuring pets are never left unattended in vehicles are fundamental practices in promoting pet safety. By raising awareness and providing practical advice plays a crucial role in safeguarding pets from the potentially deadly effects of summer heat.

June is recognized as Adopt a Cat Month, an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness about the benefits of adopting cats from animal shelters. This initiative highlights the importance of providing loving homes for these animals and alleviating overpopulation in shelters. In the spring and summer seasons, animal shelters experience an influx of kittens due to what is known as “kitten season.”

Kitten season refers to the time when animal shelters see a significant increase in the number of kittens being surrendered or born. This period typically lasts from early spring through late fall, with May to July being peak months for new arrivals. The reasons for this surge are numerous: stray cats mating during warmer weather, accidental litters due to unaltered cats, and increased abandonment during moves or other life changes.

Adopting a cat from a shelter not only saves a life but also supports their overall well-being. Shelter staff ensure that cats receive proper veterinary care, vaccinations, and socialization before they are adopted. By choosing to adopt, you provide these animals with a loving home where they can thrive and develop healthy relationships with their new families. Additionally, adopting from a shelter helps reduce overpopulation and euthanasia rates in animal shelters.

The benefits of adopting a cat extend beyond the individual animal’s life. By choosing adoption over purchasing from breeders or pet stores, you contribute to responsible pet ownership and ethical sourcing practices. Furthermore, adopting from shelters supports local organizations dedicated to improving animal welfare and advocating for their rights.

In conclusion, Adopt a Cat Month serves as an essential reminder of the importance of adopting cats from animal shelters during kitten season and throughout the year. By opening your heart and home to these animals, you not only save a life but also contribute to their overall well-being and support ethical practices within the pet industry.

[Fort Myers, FL, May 20, 2024] The Gulf Coast Humane Society is pleased to announce the appointment of Darcy Andrade as its new Executive Director. 

Mrs. Andrade’s 30-year career has been focused on animal protection and welfare.  Most recently, she has served on the Board of Directors for the Florida Animal Control Association and as the Executive Director for the Florida Animal Protection and Advocacy Association and the Florida Animal Protection Foundation.  She is also actively involved in a leadership capacity for the Florida Animal Friend and the Florida Leaders in Lifesaving.  Mrs. Andrade has worked at Lee County Domestic Animal Services and Collier County Domestic Animal Services; receiving the Walter Turken Award by the Naples Humane Society for her animal welfare and lifesaving achievements.

“Darcy will be a wonderful asset for Gulf Coast Humane Society,” said President Lee Hall, Board of Directors. “She has extensive animal welfare and nonprofit experience and strong community partners to propel us in future planning and growth.”

The Gulf Coast Humane Society provides medical, behavioral, social, and nutritional care to every animal staying in their care until their forever family adopts them. The nonprofit established in 1947 also subsidizes healthcare for pets in the Southwest Florida community through its affordable Veterinary Wellness Clinic and SpayNeuter Clinic.  Additionally, since 2020, the nonprofit offers a Pet Food Pantry that has become vital in this economy. 

Mrs. Andrade begins her new position on May 20^th.

Contact for More Information: Lori Burke, Development Director, 239.332.0364 ext. 321, [email protected]