The Official Blog of Dakin Humane Society

Kitten Street Team - Trapping the Elusive Tori
Dakin's Kitten Street Team is working to keep feral cats safe and protected from unwanted litters and diseases like Rabies and Distemper. One volunteer recalls a special cat who needed help, but not in the way the TNR team expected.

Pet Grief is Different for Everyone
Few things hit harder than the loss of a pet. Many people have said their pet passing away was more painful than losing a parent, sibling, or friend. Why is that? And if we feel that way, does that mean something’s wrong with us? Absolutely not.

Are All Breeders Bad?
For years, animal lovers have received mixed messages about animal shelters and breeders, leading to confusion about what to do. The answer isn’t black and white.

10 Years - Looking Back on the 2011 Tornado
10 years ago, a powerful tornado carved a 39-mile path through Downtown Springfield and surrounding communities. We're looking back on Dakin's role as a safe space for pets and people during an unexpected crisis.

The Post-Pandemic World of Shelter Animals
The pandemic forced Dakin to make swift and significant changes to the way we operate. Over the last year, we noticed a big change in the animals we care for.

Summer Pet Care - Flea & Tick Prevention
Keep your pets safe from flea and tick-borne illnesses this summer with regular check-ups and preventative care.

Did You Accidentally Steal a Cat?
It’s natural for pet lovers to want to help an animal in need. Many people believe that if they see a cat outside who maybe even visits for meals every day, they need help. Usually, they don’t!

Is Your Dog a Polite Dinner Guest?
Check out our cheatsheet when it comes to your bud's best behavior at gatherings involving food.

How Do Pets Help Us Find Inspiration?
What better way to answer this question than with a blog written by a dog? (His human helped, a little.)

Join Dakin's 31-Day Activity Challenge!
The #ByMySide 31-Day Activity Challenge kicks off May 1, but registration is open now. How far will you go to help animals?

A Medical Milestone - 300th Patient Seen at Clinic PLUS
Peanut and his people got the big news during his recent visit to Clinic PLUS at Dakin's Springfield Animal Resource Center.
Read more … A Medical Milestone - 300th Patient Seen at Clinic PLUS

Community Spay/Neuter Clinic Welcomes 100,000th Patient
Sadie and her people were caught by surprise when it was time to pick her up from Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic.
Read more … Community Spay/Neuter Clinic Welcomes 100,000th Patient

My Four-Legged Fitness Trainers
Staying active and healthy in the face of a pandemic isn't easy. One volunteer turned to her cats for inspiration.

Springfield Poised to Ban Retail Pet Sales
The Springfield City Council unanimously passed a proposed ban on the retail sale of domestic pets. The item will now move to the desk of Domenic Sarno, Springfield’s Mayor.

A Pet Parent's Guide to House Plants
As the warm weather approaches, get to know common house plants and what types are safe around your pets.

Pet Care: Strengthening Your Bond Through Wellness
Keeping up with your pet's preventative healthcare as well as extra play and snuggle time has health benefits for pet parents, too.
Read more … Pet Care: Strengthening Your Bond Through Wellness

The Benefits of Appointment-Only Services
Animals are less stressed, and people have better experiences.

Ollie Baxter: Shining Legacy
In the face of a tragic loss, Ollie's family wants to help others in his name.