Humane Society of Sumter County

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Humane Society of Sumter County

Sumter County Florida’s oldest & largest private 501(c)3 no-kill animal shelter since 1982.

Voted #1 in Sumter County for Best Nonprofit, Best Cause and Best Fundraiser The Humane Society of Sumter County supports the health and well-being of animals in Sumter County, FL and educates and assists the people who care for them. Hours of Operation for Services:

Adoptions: Tue-Sat. 9:00am – 3:30pm

Office: Mon-Sat. 8am – 4:00pm

Kibbles (Pet Food Pantry) Sat. 10:00am – 2:00pm

05/08/2025

PRINCE
PRINCE OF PLAYTIME
PART 2

One of my favorite things - besides treats, obviously - is playgroup. I love romping around with the big dogs. We run, we chase, we wrestle like we’re puppies again. I’m the guy who makes friends easily. I read the room, I wag my tail, and I help the new or shy ones ease into the fun. Playgroups are my jam. Small dogs, though? Eh… we don't always see eye to eye. I think they don’t get my sense of humor.

When I’m not being the social director of the yard, I love going on walks. I get this big ol’ goofy grin, and off we go. I don’t pull, at least not a lot. I just cruise along, happy to be with my volunteer. That’s the thing about me - I really love being with people. Whether you’re going for a stroll or just sitting and talking, I’m right there with you, tail wagging and heart open.

The volunteers here say I’m full of wiggles and sweetness. I soak up compliments like a biscuit soaks up gravy. One of the volunteers says I’m the kind of dog that makes every day a little better just by being in it. That’s the nicest thing anyone’s said to me – and I totally believe her.

And I’ve got jokes too. Sometimes I chase my own tail, I’ll keep doing it till I make everyone laugh. I’m not too proud to be silly if it gets a giggle. What can I say? I like spreading joy.

Learn more about how cool I am here:
https://hsspca.org/available-dogs/ &page=shelterluv_wrap_1741707610%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2F211450554

Foster me and get to know me:
https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/foster/SUMT/Dog

04/08/2025

08/04/2025 Pepper - Update from her foster:

Pepper (aka ‘Peppermint Pattie 🙂) is doing wonderfully while being fostered during her heartworm treatment. She is not at all aggressive. You can touch her all over, give her treats, take treats and toys from her. Pepper is a hard chewer as she performs ‘squeaker’ectomies and ‘stuff’ectomies on all toys. We’ve had to resort to Benebone-type toys. She loves to go outside or to lay in front of doors looking outside. Pepper even watches TV. She is a real sweetie. She knows sit, shake, down and wait. Anyone looking for a good all-around loyal pet?

Pepper has been a shelter dog for 300+ days. 😥

04/08/2025

PRINCE
A PRINCE IN WAITING
PART 1

Hi there! I’m Prince. That’s my name, but also kinda my vibe – royal, refined, and ridiculously charming. I’ve been in shelters since December of 2024. That’s over 230 days of waiting. Waiting for a family. Waiting for love. Waiting for my happily ever after. But don’t feel bad for me – I’ve still managed to keep my tail wagging and my goofy grin intact. That’s just who I am. I’m a six - year - old terrier - bulldog mix, and if I do say so myself, I’ve aged like fine cheese – sturdy, a little silly, and very lovable.

Recently I moved to the Humane Society of Sumter County. They could tell I was a little nervous, so they gave me a pretty sweet setup: my own cozy spot in one of the offices with a half door. Not bad for a Prince, huh? I sniffed every corner of that room like I was on a royal inspection tour. So many new smells. So many new possibilities. And then – I smelled them. The treats.

Now let me tell you – I am a treat connoisseur. Not just your average biscuit fan. I know the good stuff when I sniff it. So I did what any smart dog would do: I popped my front paws up on the half - door, gave the saddest, most irresistible eyes I could muster, and BAM! Treats delivered, right to the royal gate. Worked like a charm. You should try it some time. People just melt.

Heartworms? Yeah, I’ve got them. But don’t worry - I’m being treated and the kind folks here said in four months, I’ll be as good as new. In the meantime, I can be fostered. That means I can go home with someone while I finish my treatments. And believe me - I know how to appreciate a comfy bed, a sweet walk, and the quiet joy of companionship.

You can learn more about me here:
https://hsspca.org/available-dogs/ &page=shelterluv_wrap_1741707610%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2F211450554

Foster me, take me home and watch my loyalty grow:
https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/foster/SUMT/Dog

02/08/2025

Humane Society of Sumter County August 2025 Volunteer of the Month: Ron Sawicki

This August, we are thrilled to recognize Ron Sawicki as our Volunteer of the Month! Ron's journey with animals began in Bloomfield, NJ, where, as a child without pets of his own, he found joy in walking and dog-sitting for neighbors. One unforgettable experience—being led by a Saint Bernard to meet her new litter of puppies—sparked a lifelong love of animals. Ron adds that the dog came running to his house as if to tell him to follow her so “I followed her to her house where she showed me her five new puppies. That’s when I learned that I love puppy kisses. I was so proud that this loving animal wanted me to meet her new family.” Since that instilled a lifelong love of dogs, Ron adopted a Fox Terrier mix from a local shelter he aptly named Bogie, being he was a golf fanatic to be followed by a cute Maltipoo, Jake, who was originally his grand-dog but soon became his when Jake’s family situation changed.

Ron shared how he fondly became known as “the treat guy” in his neighborhood. “Every walk that I took I would have dog treats in my pocket. I knew all the names of the area dogs but only a few of the owners’ names. I started looking into volunteering and thought that my love for dogs and volunteering was a perfect fit.” We agree that Ron has been a great fit!

Now retired from a successful career in electrical engineering and formerly active as a baseball umpire, Ron sought a new purpose and found it at our Humane Society of Sumter County. He began by walking dogs and soon took on more responsibilities, including volunteering at adoption events, leading dog playgroups, advising on facility projects, and most recently joining our Board of Directors. His commitment, experience, and heart have made him an invaluable asset to our shelter.

Ron currently shares his home with Eva, a 50-pound Standard Parti-Poodle puppy he originally fostered and then adopted. He tells us “she’s full of energy, love, and just a little mischief—like any good puppy should be!”

One of Ron’s most memorable moments at our shelter was helping a terrified little white dog come out of her shell after her world was turned upside down. With gentle encouragement and patience, he helped her regain trust and joy—culminating in a splashy pool session and a happy adoption just days later because she had successfully come out of her shelter shock and showed trust in people once again.

Ron reminds potential volunteers, “If you have a place in your heart for cats or dogs that need loving, this is the job for you… You can be the difference in their life.”

Thank you, Ron, for the love, dedication, and countless hours you give to our animals and community. You truly make a difference! If you are interested in volunteering alongside dedicated individuals such as Ron, please complete the volunteer application at https://hsspca.org/apply-to-volunteer/. We will contact you shortly after your submission. There are many ways to make a positive impact and achieve fulfillment in your heart too!

01/08/2025

WVLG & MORGAN AUTO GROUP supports us with "Groovin' in the Grove" at Sawgrass Grove for Super 70's Weekend, great bands and great fun! Mark your calendars for Aug. 15 & 16!!

30/07/2025

🎭 Smash Productions is lighting up The Villages with *Gypsy*, and it sounds like it’s going to be an absolute showstopper! Not only is it a legendary musical packed with drama, charm, and showbiz pizzazz—but this production doubles as a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Sumter County and Shriners Hospital. That’s Broadway-level entertainment with HEART.

Here’s a quick guide to catch the excitement:

🗓️ **Show Dates & Times**
- Tuesday, October 14 at 7 PM
- Wednesday, October 15 at 2 PM & 7 PM
- Thursday, October 16 at 2 PM & 7 PM

🎟️ **Presale Details**
- Runs from **July 31 to August 6**
- Available at **The Villages Box Offices**, [thevillagesentertainment.com](https://www.thevillagesentertainment.com), or by calling **352-753-3229**
- Use presale code: **DAINTY JUNE** to unlock early access
- Entertainment with impact: thank you Smash Productions!
https://www.thevillagesentertainment.com/ticketed-performances/gypsy-pre-sale

30/07/2025

SHIVA
COULD YOU BE MY PERSON?
PART 3

Coming back to the shelter after those eight days with Ms. Lisa wasn’t so bad – especially because I get to see her and my other volunteers. She comes by to walk me, and when I see her, my tail just can’t stop wagging. I’ve had a taste of what a home feels like now, and instead of feeling sad, I feel excited. I know what I want, and I know it’s out there – my very own home, with my very own person. Every time someone walks by, I perk up just a little more. Maybe today’s the day.

I don’t need a wild life or constant excitement. I’d be happiest in a calm home with adults of any age. Just someone who’ll let me come to them at my own pace. Someone who has a good treat stash, a comfy couch, and a kind and understanding heart. I might need a little time, but once I know you’re my person…oh, I’ll be yours completely.

I’ll follow you around the house, lay at your feet while you read, nuzzle your hand when you're sad, and greet you like sunshine, when you come home. And walks – we can take our time, just you and me, nice and easy.

So, maybe I’m not the flashiest girl in the kennel. But I’m the one who will love you quietly, completely, and forever. Will you be the one who finally takes me home? – Please.

Check out my information here:
https://hsspca.org/available-dogs/ &page=shelterluv_wrap_1741707610%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2F210762230

Foster me and grow the love:
https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/foster/SUMT/Dog

29/07/2025

SHIVA
EIGHT DAYS OF HEAVEN
PART 2

Let me tell you about Ms. Lisa. She’s one of the volunteers here, and one day, she looked at me and said, “Shiva, you’re coming home with me.” Eight days. Eight days in a real house. I still dream about it. It was so great!

At first, I was nervous about getting into the car, but Ms. Lisa talked to me the whole way, and by the time we got to her house, I was ready to check it out. She gave me my own soft bed, but mostly I just liked being near her. I didn’t beg for food. I didn’t chew things I shouldn’t. When quests came over, I just laid under the table and listened politely, like the refined lady I am. Honestly, Ms. Lisa didn’t even use the crate. She trusted me, and I showed her that I could be trusted.

Walks? Oh yes, please. I don’t pull – no ma’am. I stroll. I might even prance. I enjoy the scenery and the smells and keep the leash nice and loose. Other dogs and people didn’t even bother me. I was just happy to be with someone. To belong. I do like all the action in front of me though – I’m still building up my confidence, so loud noises behind me make me turn around and look.

And affection? Gosh, yes. Ms. Lisa says I love affection. She says five pets is the limit, but I strongly disagree. Ten? Twenty? Keep going, please. I’ve got a belly that’s never had enough rubs.

You can learn all about me here:
https://hsspca.org/available-dogs/ &page=shelterluv_wrap_1741707610%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2F210762230

why not foster me and let the love grow:
https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/foster/SUMT/Dog

28/07/2025

SHIVA
A GENTLE HELLO
PART 1

Hi, I’m Shiva. That’s S-H-I-V-A. I’m five years old and have been at the Humane Society of Sumter County for…well, over a hundred days. I’m not the loudest one here, and I don’t rush to the front of the kennel barking like some of the other pups. I’m more the quiet observer type. You might walk past me and not even notice at first, but I’m watching you, seeing if you’re kind, if you’re safe. I get nervous with strangers, but don’t take it personally – it just takes me a little time.

I guess you could say I’m the polite guest of the shelter. I don't make a fuss, I don’t tear up my toys, and I always wait patiently for treats. Oh, and treats? Those are my love languages. The volunteers say I’ve got the softest eyes and the sweetest nature. I think that’s just their nice way of saying I’m a gentle soul with a dash of caution.

But I’m not all shy and serious. I’ve got lots of love to give. I just need someone patient enough to see it bloom. I like routine, soft voices, and the quiet presence of someone I can trust. The kind who brings good snacks and doesn’t mind if I hang back a little before joining in on the fun.

If you give me time, I’ll lean into you. Literally. And I’ll be right at your side. That’s kind of my thing – being loyal once I know I’m safe.

You can read all about me here:
https://hsspca.org/available-dogs/ &page=shelterluv_wrap_1741707610%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2F210762230

Foster me and watch us bond:
https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/foster/SUMT/Dog

27/07/2025

This weekend (7/26-7/27/25) was a happy one for Humane Society of Sumter County. Three longtime shelter dogs (shown below) with a combined length of stay of 1,224 days were adopted. 🎉

We still have a number of wonderful long-stay dogs ready for their forever homes.

Myra - 659 days (currently in foster)
Shelly - 463 days (currently in foster)
Ed - 339 days
Pepper - 300 days
Prince - 230 days
Duke - 183 days (currently in foster)
Flora - 178 days
Clover - 148 days
Nora - 135 days (currently in foster)
Pixie - 118 days
Shiva - 110 days

You can see their bios and photos here: https://hsspca.org/available%20dogs/

Shelter life is stressful and while all our animals are loved by staff and volunteers, it's no substitute for a loving forever home with someone like you. Please consider opening your heart and home to one of our long-term dogs.

27/07/2025

Another long-term resident, Simba, was adopted by one our volunteers yesterday. He had been a shelter dog for 267 days. He knows he's going home in this photo. ❤️

Address

994 CR 529A/PO Box 67

33538

Opening Hours

Monday	10:00 - 15:30
Tuesday	10:00 - 15:30
Wednesday	10:00 - 15:30
Thursday	10:00 - 15:30
Saturday	10:00 - 15:30
Sunday	10:00 - 14:00

Telephone

(352)7939117

Website

https://www.hsspca.org/

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