HUMANE SOCIETY OF TAMPA BAY RECEIVES FOUR STAR 100% ON CHARITY NAVIGATOR

 

TAMPA, Fla. — The Humane Society of Tampa Bay recently received a Four Star 100% rating on Charity Navigator, the world’s largest non-profit evaluator. 

A four-star rating on Charity Navigator is the highest rating that a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charity can receive. It denotes that a specific charity exceeds or meets best practices and industry standards across multiple rating categories. 

The rating places the Humane Society of Tampa Bay among a distinguished group of charities and not only awards the hard work of charities across the United States but also helps donors in their decision-making process. The Humane Society of Tampa Bay has received a 100 across all categories, including accountability and financial practices, impact and results, leadership and adaptability, and culture and community. These ratings can only be awarded with transparent accounting, mission-based action, impact on the community, and a positive relationship with, and within, the community.

“We are honored to receive this prestigious rating from Charity Navigator, as they evaluate hundreds of thousands of charitable organizations each year,” says Sherry Silk, CEO of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. “This rating reinforces our standards and practices as exemplary, and recognizes the work and passion that goes into ending animal homelessness.”

 

ABOUT THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF TAMPA BAY

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ending animal homelessness and providing care for companion animals. 88 cents of every dollar goes toward vital animal services, encompassing shelter operations, TNVR, affordable medical care, and adoptions.

Happy woman holding her pet rabbit

If you are considering pet adoption in Tampa at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, consider a rabbit! Why? Rabbits are affectionate, sweet, full of personality, and may just be the perfect companion for you. 

If you are on the fence as to whether you should adopt or not, we at HSTB are ready to help you make the best decision for you, your family, and the animal. Learn more about the key indicators that rabbits may be right for you and your home.

You Want to Play With Your Pet Often

If you are someone who wants to play with their pet throughout the day, a rabbit just may be your perfect pet! Enrichment is key to keeping your pet rabbit happy and healthy. These intelligent animals love to play, and interacting with them regularly is important for their well-being, and can also help with building a strong bond. 

With toys and tunnels, there are plenty of ways to keep your rabbit entertained throughout the day. Investing time in play sessions will both strengthen your bond and ensure that your rabbit stays mentally stimulated and physically active.

Are You Ready for a Lifetime Of Love?

Rabbits are pets that can live a long life with proper care, often living for up to 12 happy years! If you are ready for the long-term commitment and responsibility of providing care for a loving pet in need, a rabbit can be the perfect companion. It is important to make sure that they receive plenty of attention, a proper nutrient-filled diet, and have a suitable, clean environment so that they can thrive and be as healthy as possible.

You Prefer a Quieter Home Environment

Rabbits are sensitive animals that can easily become stressed in loud or chaotic environments. Like all animals, they require a calm and peaceful home where they feel safe and secure. If you have a quieter home environment, a rabbit might be the perfect fit for you.

Before your pet adoption in Hillsborough County, consider the space you have available in your home. Rabbits need lots of room to hop, stretch, and explore. A spacious enclosure, preferably with multiple levels, is essential for their physical and mental well-being. Rabbits also benefit from supervised time outside of their enclosure for exercise and enrichment. That being said, make sure that your living space is rabbit-proofed to prevent any accidents or injuries.

You Are Willing to Tidy Up Your Rabbit’s Enclosure Every Day

After your pet adoption in Tampa at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, it’s important to understand the responsibilities that come with being a rabbit parent. Keeping your rabbit’s living space clean is essential for their health and happiness. 

While rabbit enclosures should be thoroughly cleaned once a week, taking time to tidy up their enclosure every day is also necessary. 

Did you know that rabbits can also be litter-trained? Taking time to litter-train can help make clean-up a breeze, too!

Adopt a Rabbit Into Your Family Today at HSTB

Bringing a rabbit into your life can be a rewarding, exciting experience, but it’s important to consider whether you’re prepared for the responsibilities that come with your Hillsborough County pet adoption. Rabbits deserve just as much care and attention as any other pet, and can truly make for the perfect companion. 

For more information about adopting a new pet, introducing your animals, pit bull socialization, and more, please contact us at (813) 876-7138, view our adoptable dogs, or come visit our shelter for more information.

lady sitting on the floor with her back against the couch. On the couch, a golden retriever lays looking at the camera and the lady is holding another golden retriever looking at them while the dog is looking off in the distance

Are you an animal lover who has recently adopted a cat into your home? It’s important to keep an eye out for the mental well-being and comfort of your new pet! Cats have distinct attachment styles and often see their humans as a source of comfort and safety

But when you’ve just adopted a new cat into your family, you may be wondering how to tell if they have bonded with you. As the leading source for Hillsborough County pet adoption, we at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay have five telltale signs that your new cat has “adopted you back.”

They Rub Against You

One of the most common ways cats express affection is by rubbing against their trusted humans. This behavior is known as “head bunting” and helps them mark their territory. It can also be an indicator that they want your attention. 

Cats rubbing against you can also be a greeting and show that your cat is happy to see you! If your new cat is constantly rubbing against your legs, arms, or even your face, it’s a clear indication that they feel comfortable and secure in your presence.

They Knead On You

Kneading, lovingly known as “making biscuits,” is a behavior cats exhibit from kittenhood when they are nursed by their mother. When your cat kneads on you, whether it’s your lap, chest, or arms, they are showing that they trust you and likely see you as a mother/father figure. This rhythmic motion brings them comfort and also reinforces their love for you.

They Sleep Near You

Cats are commonly regarded as independent pets, but for some, that couldn’t be farther from the truth! When they choose to sleep near you, it’s a clear indication of their affection and trust. Cats are the most vulnerable when they sleep, so if they sleep with you, it shows that they feel completely comfortable.

Whether they curl up at the foot of your bed, snuggle beside you on the couch, or even choose to nap on your lap, your cat’s desire to be close to you while they sleep is a heartwarming sign of affection.

They Slowly Blink at You

Among cats, a slow blink is the utmost display of trust, acceptance, and affection toward another cat – and the ones that they love. When your cat locks eyes with you and slowly closes them before gently reopening, it’s their way of showing their fondness toward you by saying, “I feel safe and relaxed around you.” 

They Groom You 

Grooming is a social behavior typically associated with bonding and intense affection among cats. While they normally groom themselves, a cat grooming you can show that they want to take care of you. Just as a mother cat grooms her kittens, when your cat grooms you, it is a sure sign that they are showing their affection for you.

Have Patience With Your New Cat

Every cat is different in the way that they show their affection, and some cats may take longer to adjust to their new home. While most adopted cats loosely follow the Rule of Three, if your cat does not seem fully adjusted by the three-month mark, it does not mean they are not a good fit for your family! Have patience and keep on loving them as your relationship grows. 

Looking for Pet Adoption in Tampa? Adopt a Cat at HSTB!

Hillsborough County pet adoption is life-changing for both you and your new cat. At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, we have seen so many of our animals find their forever homes and begin a new chapter in their life that’s filled with love and affection.

For more information about adopting a new pet, introducing your animals, pit bull socialization, and more, please contact us at (813) 876-7138, view our adoptable dogs, or come visit our shelter for more information.