Animal lovers in Colorado Springs probably know the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region works tirelessly to find homes for every one of the pets in its care. Adoption remains their top priority: Last year alone, HSPPR assisted in nearly 13,000 adoptions, with animals staying an average of just seven days before heading home. “Our most important mission is adoptions,” says Cody Costra, public relations manager for the organization. “But we’ve grown to meet the needs of our community.”
This growth is evident in the many ways HSPPR shows up beyond the joyous “gotcha day” moment. Today, it serves Colorado Springs as well as Pueblo, Douglas County and the city of Centennial. HSPPR provides low-cost veterinary services, vaccines, spay and neuter care, and support for lost pets through their return-to-owner program. The facility also offers youth education programs and a community reading program. Additionally, it operates as an open-admission shelter, meaning no domesticated animal is turned away.
HSPPR manages animal law enforcement for neglect and cruelty cases, a trap-neuter-return program for feral cats and a mobile Wellness Wagon that brings vaccines and microchipping into the community. The Wellness Wagon recently expanded its veterinary services with wellness clinics, including one inside Petsmart locations, to make affordable care even more accessible.
“Our biggest challenge now is keeping those services affordable as our local pet population continues to grow,” Costra says. “We’re trying to meet pets and owners where they are.”
HSPPR staff and volunteers love to share the story of a dog named Cheeto. He arrived with animal law enforcement after he was found abandoned in the middle of winter, severely emaciated. The team was afraid he wouldn’t make it. After emergency treatment, a careful feeding plan and time spent in a foster home, Cheeto slowly began to recover. As he gained strength, his sweet personality started to emerge. Eventually, he was adopted into a loving home.
Volunteers are the backbone of HSPPR, which has about 700 people who donate their time for dog walking, kennel cleaning, fostering animals and making enrichment toys by hand. Community donations are critical—monetary gifts, unopened treats, toys, towels and bedding all make a difference, while annual fundraising events like the Fur Ball, Whisker Ball and PawtoberFest help ensure the facility can continue serving the community.
Every day, HSPPR gives animals like Cheeto a fresh start, helps families through tough situations and makes sure they have the resources needed to care for the pets they love. This kind of work often happens behind the scenes, but it makes a lasting difference in Colorado Springs. As the community experiences growth, HSPPR grows as well—one animal and one family at a time.
Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region
610 Abbot Lane
719.473.1741
hsppr.org