Month: December 2023

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay and New Statewide Coalition Take Stand Against Cruel Puppy Mills:

Coalition Urges Families to Adopt Rescue or Shelter Pets this Holiday Season

and Calls for Legislation to End the Puppy-Mill-to-Pet-Store Pipeline

 

December 6, 2023—In response to massive public backlash against a Pinellas County nonprofit shelter providing veterinary services and positive publicity for actors in the multi-million-dollar, cruel commercial dog breeding industry, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay today announces it is joining with a new statewide coalition of animal sheltering organizations working to promote pet adoption and shut down the puppy mill pipeline into Florida. Florida Shelters Together Opposing Puppy Mills (“Florida S.T.O.P.”) asks those looking to bring a new pet into the family this holiday season to make shelter pet adoption their first option and urges state lawmakers to prohibit the retail sale of dogs and cats in 2024.

While puppies in pet stores may look cute, they harbor an ugly, tragic reality: most are trucked hundreds of miles from puppy mills before arriving at the store for resale, their parents remaining behind to suffer indefinitely in puppy mills. Puppy mills put profit before the welfare of the animals in their care, keeping breeding dogs confined in filthy conditions with poor veterinary care, little socialization or grooming, and ceaseless breeding for years.

The retail sale of puppies creates a demand that can only be met by cruel puppy mills. As a result, puppy-selling retail stores obtain their dogs from commercial dog breeders, also known as puppy mills, through a pipeline of breeders and brokers. Consumers who purchase puppies in stores often report that their puppies were ill at the time of purchase or later suffer from congenital disease due to poor breeding practices.

“The Humane Society of Tampa Bay unequivocally opposes the sale of dogs and cats in retail stores and condemns the inherently cruel commercial dog breeding industry that thrives on the retail sale of puppies,” said Sherry Silk, HSTB CEO. “If you are hoping to add a pet to your family this holiday season, please avoid unintentionally supporting cruel puppy mills and instead visit the Humane Society of Tampa to meet one of the many adorable animals ready for loving homes.”

This holiday season, we urge people who wish to bring a new pet into the family to adopt from a shelter or rescue group. For those looking for a particular breed, many shelters, and rescue groups have specific dog breeds available for adoption or can help advise you on finding a particular type of dog.

When adoption is not an option, please ensure that the breeder is a responsible breeder and not a commercial puppy mill or puppy-selling store. Responsible dog breeders do not sell their dogs to brokers or stores for resale. Make sure that you meet the parents of the puppy and visit the premises where the dogs are bred and raised to ensure that the breeder provides high quality living conditions, socialization, and veterinary care for their dogs.

A small white dog with brown spots is walking on a pier looking off to the left

Are you searching for a new family member with a wagging tail and a heart full of love? Look no further than the Humane Society of Tampa Bay! With a wide variety of adoptable dogs, including the pit bull dog breed, you are sure to find your perfect match.

HSTB houses many homeless pit bulls in need, each with a unique story and a longing for a loving home. 

Read more in this guide about finding the perfect pit bull for your home. 

1. Get to Know the Pit Bull Dog Breed

Before embarking on your journey to adopt a pit bull, you should familiarize yourself with this special breed’s characteristics and personality. This way, you’ll know what to expect when adopting your first pit bull.

Pit bulls are known for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and strong desire to form deep connections with their owners. They are often great with children, loyal beyond measure, and perfect additions for families.

While there are many misconceptions about pit bulls, they are actually one of the best scoring breeds with the American Temperament Test Society. Scoring 83.4%, this is a higher score than both Golden Retrievers and Border Collies!

2. Assess Your Lifestyle

One of the most important factors when adopting a pit bull is ensuring that their energy levels and needs align with your lifestyle. Some may have seemingly endless energy, while others are more laid-back. Regardless of their background, they are adaptable, and often the perfect fit for families and individuals who love to play.

Whether you’re an active individual or family who enjoys outdoor activities, if you’re searching for “pit bull puppies for adoption in Tampa” HSTB is the best place for you.

3. Visit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay is your destination for pit bull adoption. Why? Our dedicated staff knows these dogs inside and out and can help you find the perfect match based on your preferences and lifestyle. 

Whether you’re searching for a playful puppy, a mature dog, or any in between, HSTB has got you covered. Visit the shelter daily between 10am – 5pm to see the many adorable adoptable pit bulls. 

When you adopt from HSTB, you’re giving a deserving dog a chance at a brighter future. The Humane Society of Tampa Bay is also partnered with Dolly’s Dream Dogs to help more of the pit bull dog breed find their forever homes.

4. Meet Your Potential Companion

Once you’ve found a shelter pit bull that captures your heart, spend time getting to know them. A “meet and greet” is an opportunity to understand their personality, see how they interact with you and your family, and ensure they’re the right fit for your home.

Shelter pit bulls have a heart full of love and are eagerly awaiting someone to provide them with a safe and loving home. 

Looking for “Pit Bull Puppies For Adoption in Tampa”? Come To the Humane Society of Tampa Bay

Pit bulls are extraordinary pets. At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, you can easily adopt a shelter pit bull and bring one of these exceptional dogs into your life. Visit us today and experience the heartwarming journey of welcoming a pit bull into your life through adoption.

For more information about our pit bull adoptions, please contact us at (813) 876-7138, view our adoptable dogs, or come visit our shelter today!

Learn More
A medium-sized brown dog laying on a bed looking into the camera

At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, it’s no secret that our team loves pit bulls. Of all the many wonderful characteristics that this breed possesses, their ability to bond, play with, and protect their families is one of the most notable.

While many may ask the question, “Are pit bulls safe?”, we have seen time and time again the profound impact that this loving breed has on the lives of families. Pit bulls can be the perfect dog to add to your life, especially if you have playful children looking for a lovable companion.

Pit Bulls Are The Perfect Companions for Kids

Pit bulls have gained a reputation for being devoted family pets, and it’s well-deserved. Their gentle nature, combined with their natural protectiveness, makes them excellent companions for children of all ages. This breed is known for their affectionate demeanor and their remarkable patience, making them ideal friends for your little ones.

Pit bulls have a natural tendency to be loyal, protective, and loving, making them great playmates and pets for kids.

So while you may be wondering, “Are pit bulls safe?,” a dog’s behavior is significantly influenced by their upbringing, training, and environment. When raised with love and care, pit bulls can be just as safe and gentle as any other breed. In fact, pit bulls even score higher than many other common family breeds according to the American Temperament Test Society. 

Creating Lifelong Bonds 

The connections that pit bulls make with your family go beyond pet ownership and responsibility. They create friendships and shared memories that can positively impact a child’s upbringing. Having a pit bull by their side can teach kids valuable life lessons, such as empathy and compassion.

Children often find a kindred spirit in pit bulls. These dogs are known for their playful nature and boundless energy, making them perfect companions for kids who love to run, jump, and play. Whether it’s a game of fetch in the yard or a leisurely stroll through the park, pit bulls are always up for an adventure.

Benefits of Adopting a Pit Bull 

If you are thinking about adding a pet into your family or searching for “pit bull puppies for adoption in Tampa,” look no further than the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. When adopting a pit bull from HSTB, you’re not only giving a loving home to a deserving pup but also enjoying a wide range of benefits:

Unconditional Love 

Pit bulls are renowned for their unwavering loyalty and affection. Your child will have a constant companion who will always be there to share joy, provide comfort, and offer a listening ear.

An Active Playmate

Pit bulls are energetic and love to play, making them perfect playmates for active children. Their high energy levels ensure your kids get plenty of exercise, and the bond formed during playtime lasts a lifetime.

Teaches Responsibility 

Caring for a pit bull puppy teaches children valuable life skills, including responsibility, empathy, and patience. They’ll also learn the importance of daily routines, grooming, and nutrition.

Community Impact

By adopting from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, you’re supporting our mission to give loving homes to dogs in need. Your adoption not only adds an amazing dog into your family’s life but also helps to create a brighter future for all animals in our care.

Adopt a Pit Bull Today at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay

If you’re searching “pit bull puppies for adoption in Tampa,” consider the adoptable pit bulls at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay as your first choice. There are also many adorable Dolly’s Dream Dogs just waiting to find their forever homes. 

Come visit us today and help us lead the way one adoption at a time. If you are interested in getting your children more involved with HSTB, consider learning more about our Humane Education Programs. 

If you are interested in adopting a pit bull puppy into your family, please contact us at (813) 876-7138, view our adoptable dogs, or come visit our shelter today!

Learn More
A Tampa Bay Lightning player Victor Hedman, is smiling at the camera holding his son, and Sherry Silk, HSTB CEO is holding a dark brown puppy and smiling into the camera. In between the people sits a large framed collage of Victor Hedman.

At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, our team loves being involved in all things Tampa. This week, that meant celebrating Tampa’s very own, Victor Hedman, and attending his 1,000th game in the National Hockey League!

The HSTB team was thankful to be invited by the Lightning Foundation and Hedman to join in on this incredible moment. Hedman and the Lightning Foundation also donated 1,000 pounds of dog food to our shelter, helping to contribute to our mission of ending animal homelessness. Everyday, we are grateful for the Hedman Family’s support, and we loved seeing him and his two sons receive a silver stick before Monday’s game against Dallas. 

Hedman is the first defenseman in Lightning history to achieve this milestone and a true animal lover.