For the past several years, I've had the pleasure of working with the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County (HSTPC) and many community members to advance animal welfare issues and help pet owners in our city. From becoming the first city in Washington to ban cat declawing to prohibiting backyard breeding, we have taken important steps to stand up for our animal loving community.

During my work on this topic, I have learned that animal overpopulation is a serious problem in Tacoma. It is vital to the health and safety of our pets and neighborhoods that we help ensure access to low cost spay and neuter services and trap-neuter-return services for community cats. To help raise money for this cause, I'm excited to announce that we have partnered with the HSTPC to host a competition for Tacoma's very first Pet Mayor! 

Get ready to enter the Pet Mayor contest and put your furry (or feathered!) friend in office!

To enter your pet candidate or just cast your vote,

the official competition website is here:

https://www.gogophotocontest.com/tacomahumane. 

First, your pet will campaign their way through the species-specific primary election, going paw-to-paw against fellow dogs, cats, and critters. Then, the top three in each category will advance to the general election, where one extraordinary pet will rise to become Tacoma’s first-ever Pet Mayor!

The winning pet will be honored with an official “paw-clamation” at a Tacoma City Council meeting, enjoy a photo op with the human Mayor and City Council, and even take a tour of the Mayor’s office! All top three finalists from each category will receive a prize pack and an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of our shelter.

And the best part? Every donation supports spay/neuter programs to help create a healthier pet population! Voting opens for the primary on October 20 at 12PM!

Sign Up for Trick or Streets

Just a friendly reminder about a new program we are launching this year in partnership with Safe Streets called "Trick or Streets." By signing up with Safe Streets, you can close your street to vehicle traffic for free to host Halloween, Día de los Muertos, or fall-themed celebrations during the weekend of October 31 – November 2, 2025.

It is easy to sign up and free! Just click here: Join Trick or Streets Today — Safe Streets.

Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians, especially young children. By closing your street to vehicle traffic, you can create a fun, safe space for neighbors to connect and celebrate the season together.