the scoop - Pennsylvania SPCA

THE SCOOP
www.pspca.org
IN THIS ISSUE
◗ Letter from Our CEO
◗ Advocacy Corner
◗ Homeward Bound:
Finding New Homes for Pets
◗ Humane Law Enforcement Expands
◗ Kids Helping Animals
◗ What’s the Scoop?
Sometimes It Takes a Village
to Save At-Risk Animals
What happens when a supposed rescue organization may be
endangering animals in its care?
That’s what officers of the Pennsylvania SPCA’s Humane Law
Enforcement department faced in February when they received
reports of large dogs living in filthy, cramped conditions in two
adjoining properties known as the Sixth Angel Shepherd Rescue
Inc. in Marcus Hook, Delaware County.
Working with borough officials, PSPCA officers obtained a search
h warrant. Inside the site, they
found 28 German Shepherds and Shepherd mixes, including a pregnant female and a puppy. Many
were feeble and ill. All lived in deplorable conditions. And all were surrendered by the facility’s owner.
Handling so many traumatized animals at once required a team of caring experts.
Staff veterinarian Dr. JoEllen Bruinooge triaged the dogs on site so that medical care could be
promptly administered according to need. One elderly, severely ill dog had to be humanely
euthanized. Nine required special care after testing positive for heartworm.
Additional staff and volunteers were called in to transport the dogs to the Pennsylvania SPCA
headquarters, where one dog was adopted, and the rest were transferred to rescue groups for
further rehabilitation and permanent placement.
Following weeks of investigation, the Pennsylvania SPCA has charged Sixth Angel Shepherd Rescue’s
owner with 43 counts of animal cruelty. A caretaker was charged with 28 counts of animal cruelty.
And the Pennsylvania Dog Law Enforcement Office has filed charges for violations of state kennel
laws.
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“This case was especially egregious given that the owner was supposed to be operating a rescue
organization,” said Jerry Buckley, CEO of the Pennsylvania SPCA. “It is only because of our
supporters and dedicated staff that our Humane Law Enforcement department can tackle such
difficult situations of animal cruelty and continue to save lives.”
Shepherding the Shepherds
Thanks to an outpouring of generosity following this rescue, all the dogs are now in new, loving
homes. We especially thank:
• Cutter’s Mill, the Natural Pet Place, for providing equipment to handle the sudden influx
of large dogs
• Gerry Shreiber, President of J&J Snack Foods, for his generous donation
• Main Line Animal Rescue, Second Time Around Rescue, and the National German
Shepherd Rescue, for helping to find new situations for the dogs
www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaSPCA
www.twitter.com/PSPCA
www.youtube.com/user/pspcaonline
A Message from CEO, Jerry Buckley
Dear Friends,
As I celebrate my one-year anniversary as Chief Executive Officer of
the Pennsylvania SPCA, I want to share some exciting news regarding
the next chapter of our organization’s dynamic journey.
Our Board of Directors and executive leadership team recently
developed a strategic plan that will serve as our foundation for the
next several years. This plan not only involved a rigorous and
comprehensive assessment of our service areas and goals, but
also looked closely at our organizational branding, messaging and
overall identity.
The Pennsylvania SPCA is
dedicated to protecting
animals, preventing cruelty
and improving the health and
quality of life for animals in
Pennsylvania.
We quickly realized that we needed to improve the way we told our
story so that more animal lovers like you would feel compelled to join
us in our mission. We knew that our new brand would need to pay
homage to our 146-year legacy and leadership in protecting and
enhancing the lives of animals in Pennsylvania, but also reflect the
energy of an organization that is current, relevant, and future-focused.
Locations
Headquarters:
350 E. Erie Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19134
215-426-6300
You’ll notice in this issue of The Scoop our new logo and tagline:
“Pennsylvania SPCA — The Advocate for Animals Since 1867.”
Advocate. It’s a big word with a strong meaning: “to support and defend.” And it is also a word that
encapsulates everything we do for animals — with your unwavering support. We advocate for animals
by rescuing animals who are at risk, abused, or neglected; by finding animals an adoptive parent or a
temporary, stable home; by maintaining animal health and well-being; by educating the public on animal
care; by providing affordable care; by influencing legislation that protects animals; and by building
relationships in our communities. We’ve also added a cat to complement the dog in our logo.
I invite you to help us spread the word about the work of the Pennsylvania SPCA — and how your
personal contributions are making a significant, positive difference to animals in Pennsylvania. There is
still so much more work to do, and I sincerely thank you for your support and continued investm
investment.
Jerry Buckley, CEO
Pennsylvania SPCA
Advocacy Corner:
Fostering During Kitten
Season Saves Lives
Just as quickly as summer arrived, so have the litters of
kittens pouring into the shelter. Space is becoming very
tight and soon there will be no where for them to go.
These kittens need a temporary home until they are old
enough to be put up for adoption.
Foster homes save the lives of countless cats and kittens
every year.
Maybe you’ve thought about fostering in the past, but weren’t ready to take the plunge.
Kitten season typically continues through early Fall so the need for foster families is high. All
you need to save a life is a little extra space in your home, a bit of free time and love to share.
Experienced foster homes and caring staff members are here to answer your questions.
To get started, fill out a foster application online at www.pspca.org/volunteer/foster/or contact
pspcafosters@pspca.org.
The Pennsylvania SPCA is grateful to our foster families for helping out in this important way.
Thank you for being an advocate for animals!
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Danville Branch
2801 Bloom Road
Danville, PA 17821
570-275-0340
To Donate
Visit www.pspca.org/donate
or email
development@pspca.org
To Volunteer
Visit www.pspca.org/volunteer
or email
volunteers@pspca.org
24-Hour Humane
Law Enforcement Hotline:
Call 866-601-SPCA
Chief Executive Officer
Jerry Buckley
Chief Financial Officer
John Salvucci
Director of Operations
Angela Messer
Director of Humane
Law Enforcement
George Bengal
Director of Development
Patricia Mecca
Visit us online at:
www.pspca.org
“
Homeward Bound:
Finding New Homes
for Pets
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“
he best day ever!” That’s how Meg Malloy refers to her 2006 adoption of
her beloved cat, Kali, from the Pennsylvania SPCA.
Kali
We work hard to ensure heartwarming adoption stories such as Kali’s happen
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every day. In 2012, nearly 8,000 homeless pets found loving families through the
Pennsylvania SPCA. Our Lifesaving team works hard to place our shelter pets,
because we understand the importance of adoption to our mission of ending animal suffering
and saving lives – and also to the long-term happiness of these animals.
According to the Humane Society of the United States, right now, 8 million shelter animals in
the U.S. are waiting for homes, and 17 million Americans are looking to obtain a pet – but
unfortunately, only around 3.5 million of those people decide to adopt. The rest obtain pets
from friends, relatives, or breeders.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. We can change the status quo through advocacy and a
strong adoption program.
At the Pennsylvania SPCA, we’re always striving to help people think of adoption first. Our
innovative programs reach far beyond our shelter walls. Every week, we bring adoptable pets
into the public eye. Our regularly scheduled television and radio appearances and vibrant use
of social media help us spread the joy of adoption.
But we can’t do it without you. Your donation not only supports a successful program with
documented results – it also helps open loving homes to individual pets.
r
Iago
Pets such as Iago, a four-year-old pit bull mix, who was rescued from a life of neglect. Iago is
waiting for his forever home, and he’s relying on us to help him find it. Can he count on you to
advocate on his behalf?
In April, the Pennsylvania SPCA partnered with the North Shore
Animal League to bring the 13th annual Tour for Life® adoption
event to Philadelphia. Spanning 26 states and more than 17,000
miles in just two months, the Tour works with shelters
and rescue groups to raise awareness of animal adoption.
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Humane Law Enforcement Expands
Y
ou know the Pennsylvania SPCA is at the forefront of protecting
our state’s animals from cruelty. But did you know that we are also
Pennsylvania’s largest animal welfare organization?
With shelters and adoption centers in Philadelphia and Danville, and
officers providing humane law enforcement in more than a dozen
counties, the Pennsylvania SPCA is active in more than a quarter of the counties
statewide.
Our generous supporters enable us to rescue animals from all kinds of situations of
cruelty and neglect, and to find them new, loving homes.
Humane Law Enforcement Expands to Lancaster County
Consistent with our strategic plan, in April we announced the expansion of our
Humane Law Enforcement services to Lancaster County. Keith Mohler, a humane
society police officer with more than 20 years of experience in Lancaster County, will
serve as the county’s dedicated officer.
“With numerous commercial breeding operations, it is vital that Lancaster County
have an active humane law enforcement presence,” said Jerry Buckley, CEO of the
Pennsylvania SPCA. “We have been active in Lancaster County for many years. Our
experience and familiarity with the area will benefit not only the animals, but also the
citizens concerned with the well-being of companion animals.”
Officer
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Law Enforcement team, is making
a positive difference in
Lancaster County.
The Pennsylvania SPCA will work with the Humane League of Lancaster County,
which previously provided humane law enforcement services, to care for animals
removed from large-scale situations of cruelty and neglect.
“The law enforcement community welcomes the services of the Pennsylvania SPCA,”
said Craig Stedman, Lancaster County District Attorney, whose office is providing
physical space to serve as Keith Mohler’s county home base. “Officer Mohler is a
well-respected humane officer who has built strong relationships in the county.
Together, we can make a difference for the animals in our county.”
Our Humane Law Enforcement department, like all of our services, is entirely funded
by generous supporters such as you. We receive no local or state funding to perform
this important work. Thank you for helping us save even more lives from animal
cruelty throughout
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Our Humane Law Enforcement
team is active in 17 counties: Centre,
Huntingdon, Juniata, Lancaster, Lehigh,
Lycoming, Mifflin, Monroe, Montour,
Northampton, Northumberland,
Philadelphia, Potter, Snyder,
Susquehanna, Tioga, and Union.
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Calling all kids!
You can help sick animals feel better, help hungry animals get food, and help homeless animals
find a home. Best of all — it’s easy and fun! Here are some ideas to get you started.
Lemonade
Stand
e
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r
d
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Fu
Bake Sale
Bowling
Party
Change
Collection
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Towels and
blankets
Treats and
toys
Madison Gulian, a fifth-grader
at the Shipley School in Bryn
Mawr, Pa., chose to support the
Pennsylvania SPCA after visiting the
shelter and realizing how much effort
goes into caring for animals rescued
from abuse. Her love of her dog also
iinspired her to help make shelter
pets happy until they found a
new home.
Small cardboard
boxes and tubes
Need more ideas or have questions?
Our Development Department team is
happy to help! Call 215-426-6304, ext.
272, or check us out online at
www.pspca.org.
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Third-grade students at Philadelphia’s
Fitler Elementary School collected
toys, blankets, and treats for
shelter pets.
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Green Guides Help
“Green” Volunteers
New volunteers at the Pennsylvania SPCA arrive
with a passion for animals and a desire to help,
but often without much experience. To help
new volunteers feel comfortable in the shelter
and make the most meaningful contribution,
Volunteer Coordinator Lara Estomin has
developed the Green Guide program.
On their first day of volunteering, newcomers
are paired with experienced volunteers, called
Green Guides, who teach them how to clean a
kennel, how to pass out blankets, what to do if
they encounter a sick animal, and more.
“I remember how overwhelming it was when I first
started,” said Carol, a Green
Guide who has volunteered
with the Pennsylvania SPCA
since 2011. “The Green
Guide program is a
wonderful way to bring new
volunteers on board. As a
guide, not only am I helping
others, but the animals also
benefit from having more
volunteers helping the staff.”
“We want to make new volunteers feel as
comfortable as possible while reinforcing safety,”
said Lara. “We rely on our volunteers every single
day. It is important that they feel welcomed and
equipped with the skills needed to make their
experience successful. Everyone benefits –
especially the animals.”
Volunteers are always
e
welcome. To learn mor
about the Pennsylvania
SPCA volunteer
program, visit
www.pspca.org.
Focus on Education: Why Vaccines
are Vital for Community Health
V
iruses and germs are everywhere, and, just like people, our animal
friends need protection to stay healthy.
Vaccinating your pet guards against infectious and potentially fatal
diseases such as parvovirus and panleukopenia. But did you know
that animal vaccinations also protect you and your neighbors?
Animal vaccines prevent the spread of rabies, Lyme’s disease, and other illnesses
that are zoonotic – that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
For example, as a result of decades of mandatory rabies vaccinations for dogs
and cats, rabies infections are rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, over the past century in the United States, the annual number of
human deaths attributed to rabies has declined from 100 or more to just two or
three. Every vaccinated animal means one less animal spreading the disease to
other pets and humans.
The Pennsylvania SPCA recognizes the role companion animal vaccines play
in keeping everyone safe. That’s why we offer biweekly vaccine clinics that are
affordable and accessible. Like all of our services, these programs are
underwritten by generous donors.
When to Vaccinate
The following schedules are designed to provide safe and effective protection against
the most common diseases for most pets. Depending on where you live and/or your
pet’s health status, a different schedule may be recommended. A veterinarian can
suggest an appropriate schedule for your pet.
Dogs
Distemper
◗ Adult dogs: yearly
◗ Puppies: every two weeks,
starting at 8 weeks and continuing to 16 weeks
Rabies
◗ Adult dogs: yearly, starting at 12 weeks
Cats
FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia)
◗ Adult cats: yearly
◗ Kittens: every two weeks, starting at 8 weeks and continuing
to 16 weeks
Rabies
◗ Adult cats: yearly, starting at 12 weeks
Low Cost Vaccine Clinics at the PSPCA
Our walk-in vaccine clinics offer all core vaccines, as well prevention services
including micro-chipping and nail trims.
When: Every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
No appointment is necessary.
Where: Pennsylvania SPCA, 350 E. Erie Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa. 19134
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Cost: $30 for distemper (DHPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats) and/or rabies.
What’s the Scoop?
Enjoy this snapshot of the amazing work Pennsylvania SPCA
staff and volunteers have been doing the last few months!
Me
Shelter
“Shelter Me” Screening
On April 10, supporters of WHYY and the Pennsylvania SPCA celebrated shelter pets
at a screening of the documentary series “Shelter Me.” Adoptable pets from the
Pennsylvania SPCA mingled with attendees, who enjoyed delicious food from Smokin’
Betty’s. Dave Heller, host of WHYY-FM’s “NewsWorks Tonight,” led a panel discussion
about sheltering in the U.S. Panel experts included Angela Messer, Pennsylvania SPCA
Director of Operations; Anne Trinkle, founder and Executive Director of Animal Alliance of
New Jersey; and Cory Smith, Senior Director of the Humane Society of the U.S. Pets
for Life program.
Pup Rally
On Sunday, March 24, the Pennsylvania SPCA, along with hundreds of additional
Phillies fans and dog lovers, helped the Phils kick off their 2013 season with a “Pup
Rally” at Schuylkill River Park. Lots of folks stopped by our booth, and several dogs
were adopted.
Pup Rally
Developing Our Team
D
The Pennsylvania SPCA is excited to introduce our two new Development leaders:
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Patricia Mecca, Director of Development, has more than 20 years of
ffund-raising and development management experience. She will manage our
fund-raising efforts, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate giving,
foundations, grants, and special events. She will also oversee the volunteer program.
Sarah Eremus, Esq., Leadership Giving Manager, has held many legal
positions.
She will work with those interested in supporting the Pennsylvania SPCA
p
through
trusts, estate planning, stock options, and insurance beneficiary programs.
t
She
S will also maintain a portfolio of current donors and planned giving prospects.
Sarah Eremus
New Manager in Danville
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If you’re in the Danville area, stop by our shelter to say hello to Jan Hoffman, our new
Shelter Manager. Jan has many years of managerial experience, and she has been a
member of the Danville community since 2003. She has a strong passion for animal
welfare, and she has worked with animal groups to bring spay and neuter awareness
to Danville and the surrounding counties.
Lil Bub Visits
The Pennsylvania SPCA was pleased to welcome internet cat phenomenon Lil Bub
to our Philadelphia headquarters on April 22. Lil Bub stopped by to meet fans, who
generously provided nearly $1,500 in cash and merchandise sales, as well as food,
treats, and toys to help hundreds of other cats waiting for their new homes.
Since bursting onto the online scene in July 2012, Lil Bub has quickly become a
favorite of cat fanciers around the world. A rescue herself, she uses her fame to
help other kitties in need. Thanks for stopping by, Lil Bub!
Lil Bub
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A BENEFIT FOR THE PENNSYLVANIA SPCA
save the date
NOVEMBER 7, 2013
6 PM
PM
THE HORTICULTURE CENTER AT FAIRMOUNT PARK
come, sit, play!
You don’t want to miss this opportunity to support
the incredible work of the Pennsylvania SPCA. Enjoy “yappetizers” from
Stephen STARR Events while mingling with four-legged friends. The evening
will also include live and silent auctions!
The Pennsylvania SPCA is 100 percent donor funded – so your support will
provide a lifeline for thousands of animals in need.
For information about the Pennsylvania SPCA, please visit www.pspca.org.
For more information about bark & whine,
visit www.pspca.org. Hope to see you there!
How you can help!
Your gift today will help us continue our mission of protecting and improving the lives of animals.
To make a gift:
Online: www.pspca.org/donate
Phone: 215-426-6304 Ext. 272
Mail:
The Pennsylvania SPCA
Attention: Development
350 E. Erie Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19134
Stay connected with the
Pennsylvania SPCA online:
www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaSPCA
www.twitter.com/PSPCA
www.youtube.com/user/pspcaonline
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