The holidays remind us of the joy of connection and love. Yet not everyone is able to experience that comfort.
Many pets still wait for the security of a homes, while others need a little extra support to stay with the families who love them. This season, your compassion can bring care and hope to pets across our community.
When Blue arrived at APS-FH, he had already survived the devastation of the California wildfires. Thanks to our partnership with Greater Good Charities, he was safely transported here to San Juan Island.
At 9 years old, this German Shepherd mix desperately needed a second chance. Thanks to our Grey Muzzle fund for senior dogs, Blue received specialized medical care, enrichment, and attention. Through field trips, K9 Nose Work, and lots of love, slowly, his gentle spirit began to shine.
Then his future adopter saw his photo online. She had just lost her beloved German Shepherd of 16 years and thought she’d wait before adopting again. But something about Blue kept pulling her back.
On their very first hike, she saw how curious and attentive he was. She had only planned on taking him on a field trip, but Blue had other ideas. When she tried to return him to the shelter, he refused to get out of her car. Even after she lifted him out, he pulled only toward her vehicle – he had already chosen her.
That’s when our staff suggested a foster-to-adopt arrangement. Blue leapt back into her car, and this time, it was forever.
Today…
Today Blue is thriving—running along the beach, hiking forest trails, and filling his adopter’s life with joy. His story shows the power of second chances—and the profound impact of your support.
“I would really like to commend our shelter for the care and training that is put into the animals in their care. It is very obvious that he received much more than just food and boarding. Blue is a perfect fit, living in his (now) “forever home”.
Because of donors like you, animals like Blue receive more than shelter. They receive care, enrichment, and the preparation they need to find their perfect home.
This year-end, please make a gift to APS-FH. Your generosity will give more animals like Blue the chance to find safety, love, and a happily-ever-after.
P.S. Every dollar you give by December 31 will be matched up to $20,000, doubling your impact for animals like Blue. Don’t miss this chance to give twice the love.
When Blue arrived at APS-FH, he had already survived the devastation of the California wildfires. Thanks to our partnership with Greater Good Charities, he was safely transported here to San Juan Island.
Complete story below…
Today, we are asking for help to make this holiday season brighter for pets in need at APS-FH and in our community.
The Holiday Appeal Campaign is complete and was a huge success – thank you! Please join us next holiday season as we further our mission to provide shelter and care to cats and dogs, helping them find loving homes.
Wish Lists
Another way to help is by donating wish list items. Donations can be dropped off at APS-FH located at 938 Cattle Point Rd in Friday Harbor.
Wish List for Shelter
Unexpired, open foods and gently used toys are gratefully accepted
Revolution parasite treatment Treats of any kind for dogs & cats
Kirkland brand dog & cat food
Friskies canned cat food
Iams kitten food
Kitten Replacement Milk Formula
Bully sticks & other chews
Cardboard scratching posts
Dog toys – soft, hard, all sizes
Fleece blankets/baby blankets for cats & kittens
Metal dog puzzle bowls
“Ball Pit” ball set for dog enrichment
Baby gates & X-pens for fostering
Gift cards from:
Friday Harbor Pet Supplies
Browne’s Home Center
The Marketplace or King’s Market
Ace Hardware
Amazon
Chewy
Wish List for Pet Food Pantry
Unexpired, open foods and gently used toys are gratefully accepted
Dog & cat food canned and kibble (any donated brands are greatly appreciated but these brands are highly desirable):
I just wanted you to know that my dog’s appointment for the dental and growth removal is scheduled. “Thank you” doesn’t begin to say how very grateful I am for the APS-FH Grey Muzzle Medical Fund helping to provide her comfort and health in her senior years!
We are forever deeply grateful to you for keeping Della and Bessie together before we came along. After we get down to zero dogs a few years from now, we will look for another bonded pair of senior pit bulls. We know we can never replace Della and Bessie but would really like to help another pair.
Thank you so much for helping us welcome Millie home and surrounding her with love. You showed her the world can be safe, just as you do for all the animals in your care. A special thank you to Emily, Abby, Brittney, and Flora for supporting us through the adoption—I was so anxious at first, and you made me feel comfortable every step of the way. Bringing Millie home is one of the best decisions of our lives—we’re so grateful to the entire APS-FH team!
Once waiting in the shelter, now ruling the couch! Shuggie has found his forever home — and the two of us couldn’t be happier. Thank you so much for my new best friend!
Greetings shelterers, just want to tell you how happy and grateful Rolo and I are in our new life together. My personal first wish of having Rolo’s tail up and wagging has been granted. What a personality he has! Thank you so much for my new friend.
