2024: A Year In Review

February 1st, 2025
2024: A Year In Review
 
 
 
2024 began with a whirlwind kitten season that quickly turned into a battle against the dreaded panleukopenia virus. This disease, often fatal to our most fragile kittens, seemed insurmountable. But our team refused to back down. Under the leadership of Ashlee Yepez, our Director of Operations, new protocols were implemented, and an all-hands-on-deck attitude took hold. By March, after countless hours in quarantine zones, we achieved what once felt impossible: a 100% survival rate. This was just the beginning of a new chapter in our fight for every life.

The year also saw triumphs for some of our longest residents. Three Doors Down, who spent 371 days in our care, finally reunited with his brother and found his forever family. Jessie, the world's sweetest cat living with both FeLV and FLV, found a home after nearly 300 days.

And Chiquitita, our senior girl who spent over 600 days with us, was given the chance to live her golden months surrounded by love before crossing the rainbow bridge. Knowing she was cherished and mourned by her family brought us peace—and reminded us why we do what we do.

We helped 836 cats, 351 dogs, 6 guinea pigs, 5 bunnies, and even one fabulous pig find their forever homes. We reunited 158 dogs, 134 cats, a bunny, and one adventurous ferret with their grateful families.

Because of you—our supporters, benefactors, and champions—we accomplished so much this year. We spayed and neutered over 1,200 pets and performed life-changing surgeries, from fixing broken bones to treating infections and giving seniors like Chiquitita a second chance.

When Hurricane Helene swept through, we weren’t just survivors—we thrived, thanks to the outpouring of kindness from our community. Within hours of the storm’s passing, donations poured in, and our phones were ringing with offers to help from near and far. The way you rallied for us reminded us why Watauga Humane Society is more than just a shelter—it’s a family.
 

We couldn’t have done this without programs like Subaru Loves Pets and the Bissell Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters event, which helped over 370 pets find homes. And we certainly couldn’t have done this without you: our advocates, cheerleaders, and heroes.

As we step into 2025, we carry your kindness and compassion with us. Together, we’ve made miracles happen, and with your continued support, we’re ready to create even more. Here’s to a new year of hope, love, and second chances. Thank you for being the heart of everything we do.