Tacoma Humane Society to host biggest fundraiser of the year virtually for the first time

TACOMA, Wash. — Animal shelters are feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Because of social gathering restrictions, the Humane Society of Tacoma - Pierce County had to revamp its biggest fundraiser of the year.

“We have 450 animals at the shelter at the moment. That is getting toward our peak numbers,” said Stuart Earley, CEO of Humane Society Tacoma-Pierce County. “It’s increasing almost every day.”

The Humane Society hasn't slowed down because of COVID-19.

They're considered an essential service. The open admission shelter won't turn a pet away regardless of its age or its breed.

During the stay-at-home order, a lot of people welcomed dogs, cats and bunnies into their families.

“We know our team has saved over 2,000 animal lives throughout this crisis,” said Earley.

Summertime is the busiest time of the year for animal shelters. It's also when the Humane Society holds its biggest event of the year.

“I refer to it as a dog parade. There’s just thousands of people that come down with their dogs and it’s amazing to watch the community get together in support of the homeless pets here in Pierce County,” said Ashley Taulbee, Development Director of Humane Society Tacoma-Pierce County.

Money raised helps the Humane Society care for the 10,000 pets it sees each year.

However, COVID-19 restrictions mean the traditional Dog-A-Thon can’t happen, so organizers took the event virtual and the response has been incredible.

“We’re super pumped and appreciate our community sticking with us knowing this is such a critical event for the pets here,” said Taulbee.

On June 27, the shelter will kick off its 30th annual event with a Facebook Live stream featuring adoptable pets and fun giveaways. There will also be a 5K that people can walk or run with their furry friends.

“Animals bring such joy into our hearts. They do funny things, they’re affectionate, they’re loyal, they give you love and that’s something we all need at the moment,” said Earley.

This year, the Humane Society’s fundraising goal for the event is $115,000. Currently, they’ve raised about $70,000.

To help animals in need, people register for the Dog-A-Thon, become monthly donors or contribute items the shelter needs.

Click here to register.

Click here for donor info.

Click here of the items list.

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