Hunter G.
1/5
My name is Hunter and I'd like to say that I am deeply immersed in the world of animal rescue, dedicating my time to multiple shelters and organizations to foster or transport dogs in desperate need of loving homes. One such place is the Suncoast Humane Society. However, I must confess, my continued partnership with this organization is heavily influenced by my connections with fellow fosters rather than the organization themselves. In fact, I have never encountered a facility where the staff appears so detached from the welfare of the animals in their care as I have at Suncoast.
During one of my recent visits, I had inquired about a Poodle named Prince. Upon first sight, my heart sank. Prince was not only underweight, but his fur was an unkempt mass that obscured his eyes and bore testament to his neglect. The mats clinging to him were far more than just unruly hair; they were painful burdens, visible signs of neglect. I immediately voiced my concerns to the staff, desperately trying to justify my instincts as both a Poodle owner and a foster with Florida Poodle Rescue.
I offered to take Prince to a groomer, even volunteering to pay for it out of my own pocket. To my shock, the manager, Michael, brushed me off with an air of annoyance, insisting that Prince did not require grooming and was "perfectly fine." It seemed he was completely indifferent to the reality that Prince was likely in pain, constrained by a coat that was largely one unyielding dreadlock. The lack of empathy displayed was staggering. This poor dog, unable to relieve himself because of the severe matting around his rear, had fecal matter stuck to his backside, effectively closing off any semblance of normal function.
It wasn't until I reached out to the CEO that I was able to get anything done. Today we were able to finally take him to get groomed. His "unnecessary" groom ended up lasting 5 HOURS as my groomer worked her clippers and shears through the mats that covered his poor body.
I am beyond disappointed, not only in the organization's ignorance but in the manager’s callous disregard for the animals' wellbeing. Once Kingston, my current foster through Suncoast, finds his forever home, I can assure you that my association with Suncoast Humane Society will almost certainly come to an end. This entire experience has left me utterly disgusted and disheartened by their failure to show the basic compassion and love that every animal deserves. It's time for them to do better, for the sake of the voiceless souls in their care.