Love is in the air—along with February's chill and a few winter

storms headed our way!

Really, what better time to snuggle up with your loved ones and enjoy some cozy, quality time together? And if you’re looking for the perfect cuddle buddy, we’ve got plenty of shelter pets who would love nothing more than to keep you company this Valentine’s Day and

every day after.

The best way to meet them is to visit the shelter, but this weekend, you can also find us at Wilco in Sonora, where we’ll have some adorable adoptable pets ready to meet their future families. Stop by and see if your perfect match is waiting for you!

Keep an eye out for news on upcoming events, as we have lots of ways for you to get involved this coming spring. In addition to our Not-So-Purrfect Pet Portrait Fundraiser starting this weekend, we're also looking forward to a "Kitten Shower" in late March to welcome the 2025 kitten season. Plus, our much-loved champagne brunch is back this year, and we can't wait to host you! Keep an eye on your email and our social media channels for more updates on shelter happenings in the new year. As always, we're glad to have you along for the journey!

Our Pet Portrait Fundraiser

begins on Saturday!

Forget everything you thought you knew about art, because this fundraiser is about to redefine "masterpiece." We're not promising beauty, elegance, or even basic anatomical accuracy. For a mere $20 donation, our volunteer "artists" will attempt to capture the essence of your beloved pet in a drawing. Think less "gallery-worthy portrait" and more "abstract interpretation by someone who hasn't held a paintbrush since elementary school." The good news? All proceeds go directly to helping shelter pets, and our artistic volunteers get a much-needed chance to, well, practice.

While a small percentage of our team might possess some untapped talent, the majority are more accustomed to stick figures and doodles. So, are you prepared to receive a portrait that could rival a museum piece, or are you braced for a hilarious interpretation that only a pet parent could love? The possibilities are endless, and honestly, that's the fun of it. Entries are only open for this week, so don't miss your chance to own a one-of-a-kind work of art, while helping animals in need!

Submit your pet photo between February 1st and 14th to participate. You can provide us your photo using our social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) or by email (dso@hsotc.org). Portraits will be posted on the website/social media on February 21st, and you can come by to pick up your original artwork at the shelter anytime after that day. We hope you enjoy—we know we will!

Charles:

•is 1 year old

•weighs 53 lbs

•dog friendly!

Okay, yes, this picture may be a little photoshopped—but we promise, Charles is actually this handsome in real life!

This super sweet guy is a bit timid at first and takes a minute to warm up. New situations can be a little scary for him, so he’s looking for someone who will take their time and help him build confidence. Though he may look mature, he’s only a year old—still very much a puppy—and needs guidance with house training, obedience, and socialization. The right home for Charles will be ready to help him grow.

He loves his dog friends here at the shelter and would likely thrive with a well-matched canine companion. He’s an active young dog who would do best in a home with plenty of playtime, a dog friend, or both!

Come say hello at Wilco!

Did you know that Wilco in Sonora hosts us for an adoption meet-and-greet on the first Sunday of every month?

It’s a great chance to say hello to some of our most charming adoptable pets, and also to chat with staff and volunteers about ways

to get involved with our work!

Our next Wilco event is coming up soon—this Sunday, February 2nd, we’ll be there with some absolutely adorable adoptable dogs. This could be your chance to meet your new best friend—stop by and see us this weekend!

📍 Wilco in Sonora | 750 Mono Way

🕙 10 AM – 2 PM | Sunday, February 2nd

Fetch the latest shelter news!

Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date,

and enjoy your daily dose of cute dog and cat photos, while you're there.