For more than 35 years, Nuzzles & Co has been an anchor in Utah’s animal rescue landscape. What began as a small volunteer initiative has grown into a trusted, mission-driven organization that is approaching its 30,000th adoption of cats and dogs. Through the years, Nuzzles has also extended its compassion to human crises via the Purple Paw Program, supporting pets in domestic violence situations.
Yet today, Nuzzles faces perhaps one of its greatest existential threats. Rapid heart breaking development and rising rents as well as the wave of condo construction around Kimball Junction are squeezing it out. The organization has been compelled to relocate next week to a temporary facility, and now must brace for another move — one that carries substantial financial, logistical, and emotional burdens.
This instability does more than strain budgets — it puts at risk the continuity of care for animals and families relying on Nuzzles, undermines staff and volunteer morale, and creates uncertainty at every level. For an organization that has long anchored the values of compassion, community, and care in our region, this moment calls for collective action.
I’ve known Park City people to pride ourselves on preserving heart, exclusivity, and dignity — especially for those without voices, like the animals Nuzzles rescues. But if nonprofits cannot maintain stable spaces to operate amid real estate pressures, we risk losing not just a building but our moral muscle as a community.
So, I make this urgent appeal to fellow residents, local businesses, city officials and developers:
- Offer or identify potential space — If you hold or know of available property that could suit rescue operations (with affordability, accessibility, and zoning in mind), please connect with Nuzzles.
- Support financially or in-kind — Donations, rental subsidies, supplies, or moving assistance can relieve immediate strain.
- Advocate alongside them — Ask planners, developers and local government to include nonprofit/rescue space protections in redevelopment plans, set aside affordable units for community organizations, or provide incentives to preserve mission-driven operations.
- Spread the word — Share Nuzzles’ story broadly; help others see what’s at stake.
If Nuzzles is to continue its lifesaving, community-building work, it needs us now — not later. Let us ensure that it remains grounded, resilient, and present for future generations of Park City residents and animals alike. I’m unfortunately in D.C. while so much of this is happening, but my love and support and soul remain there between the mountains and land I call home.
Thank you for standing with Nuzzles & Co.
Ingrid Middleton
Washington, D.C.