As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on how profoundly grateful I am to be part of Pasadena Humane. I have the honor and privilege of working alongside a magnificent team of staff and volunteers in one of the most philanthropic communities in the country.

I want to thank the many people who work, volunteer, adopt, foster and/or donate to help animals in need in our area. It is your unwavering dedication that makes our community a better place for both wildlife and companion animals.

Animals like Chloe, a tiny kitten whose story captures the heart of what we do. At just 1 month old, she found herself badly injured and alone. Thankfully, help was on the way.

A good Samaritan called Pasadena Humane to report that a kitten had been attacked by a dog. Upon arriving at the address, our animal control officer found the baby kitten with her left front leg nearly gone. He rushed her back to the shelter, where our highly skilled veterinary team jumped into action.

For the first few days, Chloe received intensive care. It was touch and go at the start. She was in immense pain, battling a high fever and the trauma of her severe injury.

Our team refused to give up on this kitty. With dedicated medical treatment and lots of TLC, Chloe soon stabilized. She recovered from her injury and subsequent surgery in a foster home. Within a couple of weeks, the brave tripod was ready for a permanent loving home. She was quickly adopted and ready to start her journey as a cherished pet.

Chloe’s story is one of resilience, hope and new beginnings — the very same themes we celebrate as we head into the new year.

As we ring in 2025, we are highlighting these transformational stories and happy adoption moments with a float in the 136th Rose Parade. Our “Welcome Home” float, in partnership with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, celebrates the life-changing power of adoption for shelter pets around the country.

We’ll even have three adoptable dogs from Pasadena Humane aboard the float on New Year’s Day. Moto, Rex and Alfie will represent over 6 million pets who entered shelters in the United States this year.

We’re also offering a special opportunity to find your own furry family member in the new year. For the first time ever, Pasadena Humane will open for adoption Jan. 1 from 2-5 p.m.

This very special opening is part of the “Welcome Home” adoption campaign, sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition. From Jan. 1-12, we’re offering $100 off the adoption fee for the first 100 dogs and cats adopted in the new year.

Or, you can adopt now! Our Roses and Wet Noses promotion, sponsored by Pet Care Foundation, runs through Jan. 31. We are waiving the adoption fee for all large breed dogs (40 pounds and up).

Here’s to many happy homes, wagging tails and purring friends in the year ahead. Learn more about our work, the Rose Parade and how you can bring home a pet of your own at pasadenahumane.org.

Dia DuVernet is president and CEO of Pasadena Humane.