PLEASANTON NAMES NEW AMBASSADOG
Valley Humane Society Auction Winner Takes 2023 Title
PLEASANTON, California—March 21, 2023—Pleasanton once again has a sitting Ambassadog! On March 21, the Pleasanton City Council proclaimed Stella James the City’s 2023 Ambassadog. The title was auctioned at Valley Humane Society’s annual Tails at Twilight gala last October. Former title holders include Gryphon Benn, Amber Hall, and Jeffrey Williams.
“Valley Humane Society has been saving animal lives and supporting our community for more than 35 years, so we are pleased to have the City participate with them in recognizing the Pleasanton Ambassadog,” said Assistant City Manager Pamela Ott. “Having an official canine representative highlights our dog-friendly community, while recognizing a valuable local non-profit organization and its efforts to save and improve the lives of Tri-Valley companion animals.”
The City of Pleasanton recognizes that creating a livable community means supporting the entire household. For those canine family members, City parks have dog-friendly policies, trails, and parks, including a 1.5 acre dog playground called Cubby’s Dog Park.
Stella’s guardian, Michelle James, is a dedicated foster volunteer at Valley Humane Society, caring for dogs and cats while they are prepared for adoption. Stella was meant to be a temporary ward, but James quickly fell in love with the little black and white terrier mix. “Stella is a very happy dog,” says James. “She loves to sleep under the covers, wake up late, go on walks, and take care of her stuffed animal squirrel like it’s her baby.” Two years ago, Stella decided to pay forward her good fortune, and alerted the family to a guinea pig hiding in their backyard. He was rescued too, and now Stella and Hank are best friends, along with James’ adopted foster cat, Eleanor.
In addition to receiving a copy of the City proclamation, Stella and her family will also enjoy special attention on a Tri-Valley Community Television program and a featured article in the Pleasanton Weekly.
The City of Pleasanton has also designated a place of honor for Stella and her family in the City’s annual Hometown Holiday Parade.
Envisioning a world in which every animal is loved and every person knows the love of an animal, Valley Humane Society (VHS) creates a brighter future for cats and dogs by encouraging and strengthening the bond between people and pets. VHS rescues and rehabilitates companion animals, champions responsible caretaking, shares pets’ soothing affections with people in need of comfort, and supports and preserves existing pet-guardian relationships. Whether you’d like to adopt an animal, share your passion for pets, or meet like-minded people, VHS is Your Means to a Friend.