For more than 65 years, Patty Baker Humane Society Naples has served as a trusted resource for pets and the people who love them. As Collier County’s largest nonprofit animal shelter, they work each day to provide compassionate care for animals in need while creating opportunities for connection, companionship and community engagement.
PBHSN has grown alongside the community it serves. While helping animals find loving homes remains at the heart of our mission, their work now extends beyond adoption. From expanding access to veterinary care and resources that help keep pets with their families to fostering community partnerships and engagement opportunities, they are committed to improving the lives of animals while strengthening the communities they call home.
One of the most important ways PBHSN supports animals and their families is by offering affordable veterinary care, helping to ensure pets receive the services they need to live healthy, happy lives. In May 2026, PBHSN began welcoming new patients to its Yawney Family Veterinary Clinic, giving community members access to high-quality, affordable care.
Broadening this commitment outside of the clinic, PBHSN brings essential veterinary services directly into underserved neighborhoods throughout Collier County through the Patty & Jay Baker Mobile Veterinary Clinic. By helping to remove barriers such as transportation, cost and access to care, this program provides preventive services, vaccinations and wellness care to pets whose owners may otherwise struggle to keep animals healthy and in the homes where they belong.
Keeping pets with their families is central to PBHSN's mission, which is why they offer programs designed to support pet owners during challenging times. Through the Denny Plesea Pet Food Pantry, families facing financial hardship can access dog and cat food for their pets. Their Operation Rescue program provides temporary emergency shelter for pets when owners are navigating personal crises, ensuring animals remain safe and cared for while helping prevent unnecessary surrenders.
Ultimately, animal welfare is a community effort. That’s why PBHSN continues to invest in partnerships and programs that bring people together, creating meaningful opportunities for residents to volunteer, foster, support and experience the positive impact animals can have on everyday life.
This year, PBHSN launched Couch Crashers, a low-commitment fostering program that gives shelter dogs the opportunity to enjoy a short stay in a home environment. Whether recovering from illness, awaiting adoption or simply needing a break from the shelter, even a few days in foster care provides animals with individualized attention in a less stressful setting.
Foster homes play a vital role in PBHSN’s lifesaving work throughout the year, especially during periods of high intake. Through Couch Crashers or longer-term fostering, volunteers provide a safe, supportive setting where animals can feel secure and thrive. PBHSN works closely with foster families to match animals with their home, lifestyle and comfort level, while providing the resources needed for a successful experience.
They understand that not everyone can adopt or foster, but community members can still play an active role in helping animals in need. PBHSN offers a variety of ways for community members to get involved, from volunteering and attending events to supporting programs that benefit pets and their families.
Through their A Tale for a Tail program, children can read to cats at the PBHSN main shelter. This innovative experience helps young readers build confidence while providing enrichment and socialization for cats awaiting adoption.
They also offer a variety of events, such as their annual race, where community members are welcome to come, enjoy and learn more about our mission. In 2026, more than 550 runners, walkers and their four-legged companions participated in the exciting event. PBHSN will host its 21st Run for the Paws 5K in January at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex.
Community members can also support PBHSN by attending its annual Pet Lovers Gala. Scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 21, 2027, the gala directly supports our lifesaving work, from medical care and behavioral support to finding every animal a loving home.
At PBHSN, they believe that together we can ensure more pets find lasting homes and more families have access to the resources they need. Whether you adopt, foster, volunteer or attend an event, your support helps to save lives and strengthen the bond between pets and people.
To learn more about Patty Baker Humane Society Naples, visit pbhsnaples.org.
*Becca Morris is the president and CEO of Patty Baker Humane Society Naples