FurrBall 2025 Inspires Compassion for Pets in Need

A night of hope and community supporting the mission of Spokane Humane Society

By Taylor Shillam 

Photo Courtesy of Spokane Humane Society

For over 128 years, Spokane Humane Society (SHS) has been a place of hope for pets and people in need. As SHS prepares for its 26th annual FurrBall Gala, known as their largest and most beloved fundraising event, this year carries more meaning than ever. 

“Following a year of unexpected financial challenges, including an eightfold increase in insurance and liability costs, SHS continues its mission without government funding – relying solely on the compassion and generosity of the Spokane community,” shares Kristi Soto, Director of Marketing & Development at Spokane Humane Society. 

“We never know who will come through our doors: a pet abandoned or surrendered by a heartbroken owner, animals transferred in from rural veterinary desert areas, or those arriving sick, injured, or scared and in need of urgent care,” SHS shares.

Spokane Humane Society receives no government funding, so events like FurrBall are critical to keeping its doors open and services accessible. However, FurrBall isn’t just a fundraising event – it’s a beautiful evening that has been voted one of Spokane’s favorite charity galas year after year. 

Combining glamour, generosity, and good company, the event will include a cocktail hour with appetizers, a seasonal three-course dinner, live music with The Cronkites, and both silent and live auctions.

“It’s fun and lively!” Kristi emphasizes. “In one unforgettable evening, local businesses, sponsors, and supporters come together to make a real difference for pets and the people who love them.”  

The event will also feature a powerful paddle raise to fund essential programs, and a stunning themed live auction of Christmas trees, beautifully designed and overflowing with gifts, experiences, and holiday magic. They are the “centerpiece of our live auction and the true stars of the show, drawing excitement and friendly bidding wars each year,” Kristi says. 

The FurrBall event balances elegance and heart in the name of a good cause and in celebration of the generosity and compassion of the Spokane community. 

Additional opportunities to support SHS include donations, especially to programs like the STAR Fund, which helps cover urgent medical care for sick or injured animals, and VMAP, the Veterinary Medical Assistance Program that helps families in financial crisis access care for their pets. 

And, of course, adopting. “Adopting and/or fostering directly saves lives and opens/expands our capacity for the next animal in need,” Kristi says. “Volunteering, hosting a donation or pet food drive, sharing our mission, our stories, our pleas with all. Every act of kindness, big or small, helps keep pets and families together and healthy within our community.” 

Whether it’s through FurrBall, a donation, or just spreading the word, everyone can play a part in giving hope to pets who need it most.

“We are so grateful to live in a community that continues to show up for animals year after year. Spokane Humane Society has been here for 128 years because of that support– from donors, volunteers, adopters, and sponsors who believe every pet deserves a chance,” Kristi says. “We never know who will come through our doors or what challenges the next day will bring, but because of Spokane’s generosity, we can meet those needs head-on.” 

Tickets for this year’s FurrBall are available at SpokaneHumaneSociety.org/furrball2025.

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