In this episode of Grit City Tails, Mary and Maggie chat with Dr. Kat Spaulding, one of the shelter’s associate veterinarians, to uncover the life-saving importance of vaccines. Dr. Kat breaks down the key vaccines given to pets at the shelter, explaining why each one is essential for keeping our furry friends healthy. They dive into the details of booster schedules, shedding light on why staying on track is critical for long-term protection. Plus, hear about an inspiring success story of a dog overcoming the deadly Parvovirus thanks to our dedicated Vet Team! This episode is packed with vital info for pet parents, whether you’re new to the world of vaccines or need a refresher.

For more information about pet vaccines and the shelter's upcoming Vaccine and Wellness Clinics, visit the shelter's website at thehumanesociety.org.

Mary and Maggie sit down with Samantha Bell, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience working with shelter cats. As the Cat Expert and Cat Content Strategist for Best Friends Animal Society, Samantha shares her deep knowledge and passion for our feline friends. Together, they dive into the harmful behavioral impacts of cat declawing and why the Tacoma Declawing Ban is so monumental. Samantha also offers practical tips for cat guardians on how to fulfill their cats' natural scratching instincts in safe and satisfying ways. But that’s not all—get ready for some fun as they explore a range of fascinating cat behavior topics, including the world of cat training! Whether you're a seasoned cat lover or just curious about our furry companions, this episode is packed with insights and advice you won't want to miss.

Join hosts Mary and Maggie in this compelling episode of Grit City Tails, as they sit down with Leslie Dalzell, CEO of the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, to discuss a monumental victory for feline welfare in Tacoma—the recent ban on cat declawing. This insightful conversation delves into the shelter’s instrumental role in drafting and advocating for this crucial legislation. Tune in to hear how this ban not only protects the cats of Tacoma but also sets a precedent for animal rights across the region. Whether you're a cat lover, an advocate for animal welfare, or simply curious about local legislative processes, this episode is a must-listen!

In this episode, Mary and Maggie discuss Lost Pet Prevention Month and share essential tips to ensure your furry friends stay safe and sound, especially during the Fourth of July celebrations. The duo covers practical strategies to prevent pets from getting lost, including secure fencing, updated identification, and microchipping. Plus, how to create a calm environment amidst the noise and excitement of Independence Day fireworks. And if the unthinkable happens and your pet does go missing, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with expert advice on the steps to take to bring them back home safely.

For more information about lost pet prevention, visit the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County's website, thehumanesociety.org.

Join hosts Maggie and Mary in this special episode of "Grit City Tails" as they welcome Dr. Jennifer Bennett, chief veterinary officer at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. Dr. Bennett shares exciting details about the new mobile veterinary unit fundraiser and its far-reaching benefits for the community. Discover how this initiative will enhance targeted trap-neuter-return (TNR) services, improve the efficiency and reach of the shelter’s Vaccine and Wellness Clinic, and provide much-needed additional surgery and recovery spaces for the shelter’s veterinary team. Tune in to learn how you can support this impactful project and help make a difference in the lives of animals and their human companions.

For more information and to help the shelter launch the mobile veterinary unit, visit thehumanesociety.org/mvu.

In this episode, Mary and Maggie discuss the positive impacts foster volunteers have when they temporarily welcome large-breed dogs into their homes. They explore how fostering benefits the dogs, the shelter, and the community. Joining the conversation is Lauren Green, marketing coordinator at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, who shares her own experiences as a foster volunteer.

Just days before World Hunger Day on May 28, Maggie and Mary dive into the impact of food insecurity on both humans and animals in Tacoma and Pierce County. They highlight the efforts of the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County’s Pet Food & Supply Pantry in making a positive difference and share ways you can get involved. Plus, the duo unveils a new recurring segment. What is it? You’ll have to tune in to find out, but it’s sure to Make Happy Happen!

Join Mary and Maggie as they detail the significance of microchipping your pet during Chip Your Pet Month. They answer common questions and share compelling narratives of pet reunions. Through heartwarming anecdotes, they highlight the remarkable tale of a cat reunited with its owner after being missing for 12 years, alongside the heartening collaboration between shelters that facilitated the reunion of a dog separated from its family by over a hundred miles.