Humane? - Women`s Humane Society

Winter, 2014 | Volume 45, No. 1
The
GUARDIAN
What Does it Mean
Humane?
TO BE
Why we are an “Open Admissions”
or “Open Access Shelter”
The Women’s Humane Society has
advocated the caring, kind, and compassionate treatment of all animals since
1869. If animals could talk they could tell
us if something hurts or they don’t feel
well. But they can’t. So it is our responsibility to make decisions for animals that are
in their best interest.
There has been a lot of debate recently
about “no-kill” versus “open admissions”
shelters. Many people don’t fully understand that “no kill” does not mean that an
animal brought to a particular facility will
never have to be euthanized. It usually
means that facility will not accept animals
they don’t think are adoptable. They
screen animals at the door on health, age,
and behavior and accept only the animals
they think they can help. Often, rescue
organizations that say they are no-kill are
actually “limited access” shelters. The
animals they don’t accept are often turned
away or referred to a local
humane society, SPCA, or
other rescue shelters. The
shelters that accept these poor
animals are faced with making
the kindest and most humane
decisions on their behalf. In some
of these cases, the decision to painlessly euthanize an animal will spare
them from a life in chronic, untreatable emotional or physical distress.
The Women’s Humane Society
is an “open admissions” or “open
access” shelter for small animals. We
don’t assess the adoptability of an
animal at the time they are surrendered
to our care. Instead, we welcome all the
animals that have been abandoned or surrendered to us. These small creatures will
be fed and cared for while they are waiting to be examined by our veterinarians.
Animals in good health are referred to our
We believe…
• It is our responsibility to make the most humane decision we can for the
welfare of the animal.
• It is never easy to say farewell to an animal even if euthanasia is the most
humane option.
• T
he most significant step to impact the shocking number of unwanted,
stray, and abandoned animals is to expand spay/neuter programs.
• Individuals and corporate citizens must become invested in addressing
the problem of animal overpopulation and the ever-growing number of
homeless animals that is at the root of the problems faced by all animal
shelters.
THE GUARDIAN | Winter, 2014
adoptions counselors who will work very
hard to find the animals a home where
they will thrive.
Unfortunately, some poor animals have
been so abused or neglected and the
damage is so severe that they will never be
able to find a forever home. Those animals
are doomed to live the rest of their lives
confined to a cage if they cannot be mercifully euthanized.
Sick animals that are brought to us
are examined by our veterinarians as well.
Often we will treat the animal and restore
it to good health so it can be adopted by
a caring family. But there are times when
our veterinarians diagnose an animal with
a fatal or chronic disease. The Women’s
Humane Society does not believe animals
should suffer unnecessarily for a prolonged
period of time if they are not treatable or
will not recover. Î
L E T T E R F R O M C AT H Y:
Happy 2014! After the hustle and bustle
of the holiday season and the start of a
busy new year, February seems like a
perfect time to focus on three important
animal holidays.
February is Spay/Neuter Awareness
Month. Sadly, every year, 4 million cats are
put down in the U.S. alone. And according
to the Humane Society of the U.S., millions
more suffer on the streets as strays. The
Women’s Humane Society participates in
local spay/neuter days and we strongly
encourage pet owners to spay and neuter
their pets. Last year alone we altered close
to 1,200 animals through our adoption
program and in our veterinary hospital.
February is also Pet Dental Health
Month. The American Veterinary Medical
Association (AVMA) states that periodontal
infections have been linked to diabetes,
heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease,
and other life-threatening disorders. Good
dental health is vital to the overall health of
your pet. During Pet Dental Health Month,
we encourage all dog and cat owners to
take steps to control plaque on your pet’s
teeth and visit your veterinarian for dental
checkups.
And on a lighter note, February 23 is
National Dog Biscuit Day. We’re celebrating by offering a free biscuit to every
dog that comes in for a dental cleaning
from February 15-28. You can schedule
a dental cleaning at The Caroline Earle
White Veterinary Hospital at the Women’s
Humane Society by calling 215-750-5252.
We’ve heard it
said that “Every
Dog has His Day”
and National
Dog Biscuit Day
sounds just like
that day. (But we
think you should
remember your
kitty too!)
Looking forward to seeing you soon,
Cathy Malkemes
Events and Celebrations
On October 10, 2013, the Women’s Humane Society hosted
“Put Your Best Paw Forward” to showcase our newly renovated
facilities and rededicate our animal hospital as The Caroline Earle White
Veterinary Hospital. It was only fitting that we honored our founder,
Caroline Earle White, because she opened the
very first free dispensary for sick animals in
the United States in 1910. 

T
his past holiday season, the
Women’s Humane Society received
a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
For a $5.00 donation to our shelter,
pets like Ralston had their picture
taken with the Clauses. Pet owners
received the photos electronically
so they could be shared with family
and friends.
Ralston and you-know-who.
Published by
Women’s Humane Society
America’s First Animal Shelter
Founded in 1869 by Caroline Earle White
Catherine Malkemes
Chief Executive Officer
Suzanne Bush
President
3839 Richlieu Road
P.O. Box 1470
Bensalem, PA 19020-5470
215-750-3100
www.womenshumanesociety.org
T HE GUARDIAN | Winter, 2014
(l-r) Suzanne Bush and Cathy Malkemes.
 Also, on October 10, 2013, we honored both past
and future Board members at our “Put Your Best Paw
Forward” event. More than 100 people attended the
celebration. Pictured in the photo on the left are
former Board member Anne Bartlett, with Lily
Kleiman and Christine Pierce. For her 8th birthday,
Lily asked her friends to bring gifts for the
animals instead of bringing a gift for her.
She collected more than $650 in food,
treats, and toys for our shelter animals.
Christine did odd jobs around her house
and sold pretzels in her neighborhood
to raise $450 for the Women’s Humane
Society. These young philanthropists made
their parents very proud and set an example
of how important giving is at any age.
(l-r) Lily Kleiman, Anne Bartlett, and Christine Pierce.
Pet Sitter
vs.
BOARDING KENNEL
More than 68% of all households in the
United States have a pet. In fact, the US
pet population includes about 83 million
dogs, 95 million cats, 20 million birds,
and 18 million small animals. At some
point, pet owners have to temporarily
leave their pets.
It’s best to do your research before
there is an emergency or sudden travel
arrangement. Ask people you know for
references and recommendations. Some
pet sitters visit your home several times a
day to make sure your animal is fed and
safe; some are willing to spend the night
in your home as well. You may want to
consider a pet sitter who spends the night
if you have a dog or cat that suffers from
severe separation anxiety.
Whether you choose a
kennel or pet sitter, ask lots
of questions.
• What is their training and experience
with your animal?
• What is their procedure when there is
an emergency? Will they call your vet
or use the vet they work with?
• Does the staff know how to administer
certain medications?
• Is the staff trained to spot health
problems?
• Are they licensed, bonded, and insured?
• Do they have references? (Ask for
documented proof and check the
references.)
• Do they have a contract that states
specifically what their services include
and how they are performed?
• For energetic dogs, do they have group
playtime? Do the dogs have indooroutdoor runs?
• Do they have a plan for inclement
weather and other emergencies?
• Is the kennel clean and odor free? How
do they maintain parasite control? Are
there solid dividers between kennels?
You are responsible for providing your
pet sitter or kennel with all they need to
T HE GUARDIAN | Winter, 2014
“
A pet that is easily stressed
may do better with a pet sitter.
properly care for your pet in you absence.
This will include how you can be reached
and an alternative contact (relative, neighbor), your veterinarian’s phone number
and address (inform your veterinarian who
will be caring for your pet). Also, provide
your pet’s food, treats, toys, and any medication with detailed dosage and schedule.
You will need to provide proof that all the
vaccinations are up-to-date or you will
need a letter from the veterinarian indicating why your pet can’t have a specific
vaccination. You should also indicate
your pet’s personality (likes and dislikes).
If you’re traveling during a peak holiday
season, book early!
Some veterinarians board animals and
some breeders offer boarding services
as well. If you have an elderly animal or
one that needs special medical care, ask
if your vet boards animals. Their staff will
have the expertise to handle your pet’s
needs and monitor your pet’s health.
Most cats don’t like change. The kennel facility should have separate areas for
cats – away from barking dogs, or find
a cats-only facility. Are the cat condos
spacious? Is there a separate area for the
cat’s litter box – away from food? How
”
often do they groom or play with the cat?
A pet that is easily stressed may do
better with a pet sitter. These pets are
happiest when they’re at home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and
smells. A listing of pet sitters is on the
internet through the National Association
of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters
International. It is always better to use a
pet sitter who comes recommended by
a friend or veterinarian. Î
The Guardian Goes Online
A number of our supporters
have expressed an interest in
receiving The Guardian newsletter
electronically.
If you would like to receive your
future newsletters electronically,
please email Nicole Seay at nseay@
womenshumanesociety.org to make
that arrangement. Please provide
the email address where the newsletter should be sent.
Thank you for supporting the
Women’s Humane Society. Your
generosity helps us provide shelter
to thousands of abandoned animals
every year.
Tributes for this issue of The Guardian were collected from 8/1/2013 – 11/30/2013
T R I B U T E S
In Memory of Pets…
CALIFORNIA
Lucy, Troy, Sophia, Triad, Leroy, Sally Su, Fergi,
and Pooh Dog – Sheila Wolff
Noodle – Dear little Noodle, you were a sweet
kitty who brought much happiness to your family.
We will miss you!
– Tricia Vannucci
GEORGIA
William – Barbara Grens
NEW YORK
Drew – Joan Graham
Sapphire – Such a beauty from day one! You
charmed us all with your sweet disposition and antics.
You’ll be missed – especially by Mom Kate.
– Joan Graham
PENNSYLVANIA
Annie – Beloved cat of Karen.
– Ronna Cantor
together once again. Someday we will all be reunited
at Rainbow Bridge.
– Sheila and Matthew Winas
Muffy – Mr. and Mrs. Mel Drukin
Murphy – A sweet loving son of William Gilson &
Susan McIntyre.
– Carol Socki
Noel – Lorie Becker
Schultz – Beloved Dachshund of Donna.
– Heidi Zacchera
Donald V. Hellmuth – Virginia Mingle
Jane Horton’s beloved father – Lorie Becker
Marie D. Latare – Mike and Lori Gallagher, Naomi C.
Rogerson, Dolores Witkowski, Yesteryear Doll Club,
James Gallagher and Paula Gallagher
Kiki Luberoff – Michelle Sirota
Peggy M. Martin – Joan C. McIlvaine
Frank J. Martin, Jr. – Mr. and Mrs. Walter Kuczynski,
Miriam and Thomas McKenna, and Katherine Terry
Shelby, Nikita, and Wally
– Gail Furman and Collette Scott
Paul McCormack – Mr. and Mrs. John R.
McCormack, Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Montgomery,
Patti Schwarz
Tigger – Linda Mohollen
William Michaels – Joanne Flaucher
Tom Sawyer – Carol J. Brewer
Joan Miller – John and Sharon Santi
WISCONSIN
Evelyn Price – Dontech Incorporated, Mark and
Karen Janiszewski, Rose Marie Kautz, Patricia Kaynes,
The Spadafora Family and Shirley Wunsch
Twirple – In Loving Memory.
– Dennis, Mary, and Oliver Grosenick
In Memory of People
Annie and Maggie – Gary Friedman
FLORIDA
Boo – A four-legged member of the Donohue Family.
– Carole Brewer
MICHIGAN
Vera Ferraro – Alice Chaykin
Dr. Anil Kumar Rastogi – Beloved father of Swati
Rastogi. – Nicole Adimari, FashionAide, Rachel Koch,
Jennifer Buczui, Michelle Olave, Johanna Rotta and
Jessica Steinberg
Ruth F. Schell – Elizabeth Dougherty and
Stacy Tubman Lovett
Celeste Simon – Donna M. Ortyl
Bernice Sobel – Eleanor M. Gitto and Judith Irvin
Packheiser
NEW JERSEY
Joann Walsh – Karen Brown
Brody – Beloved pet of Beverly and Kevin Ingram.
– Doris M. Gillespie
Emma M. Benway – Anita Sood
Jean Wilson – Cheryl and Charles Darrah,
The Annan Family
Brody – Beloved pet Brody, the best boy.
– Mr. and Mrs. John Gresko
Raymond A. King – Mr. and Mrs. Robert O’Dwyer
Boomer – We will miss Boomer very much. He was
such a wonderful creature who so enjoyed life.
– Mr. and Mrs. Mike Roman
Brody – A happy, sweet, loving son of Kevin and
Beverly Ingram.
– Carol Socki
Comet – Dr. and Mrs. Elliott Maser
Nancy Cirillo – Mr. and Mrs. Fred F. Winkler
NEW YORK
Johanna Winsko – In memory of my beloved
Aunt Hanna.
– Jennifer L. Feingold and Kenneth R. Stevens
Annette Cuttita – In memory of my wonderful cousin,
Annette, who left us too soon. Rest easy.
– Love, Elayne and Carl In Honor of Pets
Duke – Beloved dog of Marie and Ken Hildebrand
– Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Leonard
Mary Spanipinato – Beloved aunt of Cathy and
Dom DeVivo. Rest in peace, Aunt Mary.
– Carl DeVivo and Elayne McKenna PENNSYLVANIA
Elsie – Happy Birthday, Elsie. Miss you!
– Marion Y. Doerr
PENNSYLVANIA
Rocky – Anne Buchanan
Holly – My sweet Quarter Horse mare who joined the
spirit herd on August 21, 2013. Thanks for all the fun
rides, for all the wonderful horse times. I miss your
sweet self. Have fun in Heaven.
– Faith
Jake – Judith DiBona
Kia – Dottie and Jim Otto
Ladybrooke – Barry Fisch
Lilli – In memory of my cat Lilli, who brought so much
comfort, joy, and love to my life.
– Jacqueline Scott
Maggie – Carol’s “Maggie” – a loving pet.
– Rosemary Moore
Minnie – Our beloved, beautiful, black-and-white
Cocker Spaniel. We never thought when we rescued
her at the age of 7 that we would have the pleasure
of having her as a member of our family for 10 years.
Our hearts are broken, we miss her so much. She is
no longer suffering, she is resting peacefully. She has
been reunited with Spunky and they are snuggling
T HE GUARDIAN | Winter, 2014
Robert Alexeev – Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth W. Smith
Mrs. Marcia Blumenthal – Rhoda M. Stein
Gregory D. Buderacki
– Elizabeth and Nicole Budereacki
Dererk Del Quadro
– Joanne Callahan, Sam Georgiou, Catonsville P.A.
Pharmacy, Kathryn McLay, Rick McLay, The Baltimore
Tennis Group, Michael Repka and Mary Anne Facciolo,
Elena Artemova, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Armenti, Robert
Brasso, Susan Noyes, Martha Hennessy, Carolyn
Gibati, Scott Sibley
Mary Dillio – Mr. and Mrs. Albert Brodsky
Antoinette R. Gruber – Cynthia Calabrese, Mr. and
Mrs. Frank Flanagan, Renee Gohn, Megan Nelson,
Mary Sticco, Gertrude Baxter, Justin Gregory Coleman
and Eileen DelVisco
Amber Hruska – Kimberley Hruska
Robert Getzoff – Beloved son of Dr. Barry Getzoff.
– Rob and the Residents
Benjamin Goldhammer – Janice Solomon
Dylan – Happy 7th Birthday, Dylan Zlotnick.
– Anne K. Brown
In Honor of People
PENNSYLVANIA
Dorothea Brown – Yaffa Meiners
Florence Mallon – Happy Birthday!
– Lena Romanoff
Helene and Stanley Daniel – Bonnie Rubin
Jada Martin – Happy Birthday!
– Grace Phipps
Ron Stern – Happy Birthday!
– Lena and David Romanoff
Tina Lohyn – Lesia Mock
Caring for Your Pets in Winter
Your animals need special care outside and indoors in cold and inclement weather.
Many people make the mistake of
thinking a dog’s hair or fur can provide
them with all the warmth they need in winter. Dogs that are small, short-haired, and
thin-coated don’t do well in the cold. Also,
puppies and older dogs should have limited observed time outdoors. You should
consider purchasing a sweater for a dog
that likes to spend time outdoors in winter.
Nordic breeds, which have longer hair, a
coating of down, and thicker skin such as
the Malamute, Husky, and Samoyed can
tolerate colder temperatures for a longer
Meet Daisha Pierce
Daisha Pierce
joined the
staff of the
Women’s
Humane
Society as
our Director
of Operations
in October
2013. Her
responsibilities include: managing
our shelter operations, overseeing
the veterinary care of our shelter
animals; adoption services; front
desk reception; and our volunteer
program. Daisha brings more than
16 years of experience working
in animal welfare organizations.
Just prior to joining us Daisha was
the Director of Shelter Services at
Animal Care and Control Team of
Philadelphia. In that capacity she
supervised 34 staff people including
kennel attendants, veterinarians,
veterinary nurses and animal behavior evaluators. Daisha received her
training in shelter management and
animal healthcare at the Animal
Welfare Association in Voorhees,
New Jersey, Philadelphia Animal
Care and Control and the University
of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary
Medicine. We are excited to have
her as a member of our team. Daisha can be reached at:
215-942-6822 or dpierce@
womenshumanesociety.org.
T HE GUARDIAN | Winter, 2014
period of time, however, all dogs should
be brought indoors when the temperature
drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Dogs
can get frostbite especially on their ears,
toes, and tail.
Dog houses or shelters are required for
animals that spend time outside alone in
most states no matter what the weather.
A dog shelter should . . .
• be solid and waterproof, have no
cracks or drafts, and be at least
2 inches off the ground to keep out
ground-freeze and moisture
• have walls made of 3/4-inch wood or
molded plastic (insulation is important),
and have a flexible flap for the entrance
• allow the animal to stand, turn around
and lie down, yet be small enough to
maintain the dog’s body heat
• have straw or wood chips on the floor;
these retain body heat and are easily
replaced when dirty
When you walk your dog…
• avoid walking on icy sidewalks
• rock salt can upset stomachs and burn
paws — rinse paws gently with warm
water and pat dry
• antifreeze is extremely poisonous, even
a small amount can be fatal
Cats should remain indoors no matter
what the weather. Some people let their
cats roam freely, which is extremely dangerous. Outdoor cats have been known
to seek warmth under the hood of a car.
A cat could die or be seriously injured if
the engine is started while it is under the
hood.
Indoor dangers exist as well. Animals
will often seek the warmth of portable
heaters and fireplaces. They should be
securely screened to prevent your pet
from getting accidentally burned.
Responsible pet owners should be
aware of seasonal dangers or any change
in routine that can put their animal at risk.
“Feelings, wo-o-o feelings…”
Your dog “talks” to
you every day with
his body. Do you know
what he/she is saying?
Insert the letter of the illustration
that corresponds with the
feeling on each line below.
(Answers on page 6.)
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
____ “What was that?
Best be prepared
and stay alert.”
____ “I’m anxious.”
____ “Let’s play!”
____ “I’m warning you —
stay back!”
____ “I’m feeling calm.”
____ “I surrender.”
February is Pet Dental Care Month!
Clean Teeth Could Lengthen the Life of Your Pet
Did you know your pet requires
regular dental care just like you do?
Believe it or not, a surprising number of older animals have some form
of gum disease. Left untreated, your
animal can develop cavities or suffer
tooth loss. Bacteria grows in your
pet’s mouth that can cause gum
disease, kidney disease, and even
endocarditis, a disease that can lead
to congestive heart failure.
Don’t confuse proper dental care
with “teeth brushing” that is offered
by a pet groomer. A thorough dental
cleaning should only be done at a
National Dog Biscuit Day
Sunday, February 23, is National
Dog Biscuit Day. We’re celebrating
by offering a free biscuit to every
dog who is scheduled for a dental
cleaning during February 15-28.
To make an appointment at
The Caroline Earle White Veterinary
Hospital at the Women’s Humane Society, please call
215-750-5252.
T HE GUARDIAN | Winter, 2014
There are 4 things every pet owner can do that affect the
health and quality of life your pet enjoys.


Take your pet for
annual visits to your
veterinarian
Make sure all of
your pet’s shots are
up to date
veterinarian’s office. The procedure
will take about 20 minutes. Your pet
will be anesthetized so that his or
her teeth can be scaled and the vet
can clean out the bacteria under the
gum line that can lead to serious
illness.


Keep your pet at a
healthy weight
Take care of your
pet’s teeth
During February, The Caroline
Earle White Veterinary Hospital at
the Women’s Humane Society is
giving pet owners a coupon for
$10.00 off their next regular visit with
our veterinarians when they have
their pet’s teeth cleaned. Î
Answers to “Feelings” from page 5:
A. “Let’s play!”
B. “I’m warning you — stay back!”
D. “I surrender.”
E. “I’m feeling calm.”
C. “I’m anxious.”
F. “What was that? Best be
prepared and stay alert.”
Illustrations ASPCA ©