the scoop - Pennsylvania SPCA

PENNSYLVANIA
THE SCOOP
www.pspca.org
IN THIS ISSUE
w Letter from Our CEO
w Law Enforcement Expansion
w Lexi’s Transformation
w Compassionate Cat Control
w Phillies Keep Animal
Advocacy in the Lineup
w Inside Perspectives
w What’s the Scoop?
Law Enforcement Expansion:
Spreading Out to Save
More Lives
Direct physical abuse, animal fighting, hoarding,
neglect – these are heartbreaking issues our Humane
Law Enforcement officers see regularly, in Philadelphia
and beyond.
In August PSPCA officers rescued
over 100 animals from a large
farm in Bernville, Berks County
while investigating suspected
cockfighting. 44 of the animals
signed over to the PSPCA have
found new homes. The remaining
animals will be in the PSPCA’s
care pending litigation against the
owners. Jesus Manuel Rodriguez,
of Reading, was charged with 10
felony counts of animal cruelty for
owning dozens of fighting roosters.
Four other individuals have also
been charged in this case.
In 2013 alone, we investigated more than 11,000 cases of
cruelty and neglect, but more work remains. In September,
we announced our expansion into Berks, Chester, Delaware,
Lebanon, Lehigh, and Schuylkill counties, increasing our
humane law enforcement coverage from 17 to 23 of
Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. The history of cruelty in these
counties, coupled with the trend of humane organizations
withdrawing from humane law enforcement efforts, made
it especially important for the PSPCA to get involved.
Animals throughout Pennsylvania are suffering, and the
PSPCA is committed to ending the anguish, not only by
rescuing these horribly mistreated animals, but also by
enforcing Pennsylvania’s animal cruelty code, prosecuting
animal cruelty cases, and pushing for legislation that would
better protect animals in the Commonwealth.
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www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaSPCA
www.twitter.com/PSPCA
www.youtube.com/user/pspcaonline
PSPCA programs,
including Humane Law
Enforcement, are entirely
donor-funded. We do not
receive any local, regional,
or state funding. Instead,
we rely on the generosity
of our community to
support these important
lifesaving efforts.
For more information
on how to support law
enforcement efforts
through the PSPCA
visit www.pspca.org.
PENNSYLVANIA SPCA HLE MAP
Pennsylvania
SPCA HLE Map
Counties Highlighted Are Currently Covered By PSPCA HLE Officers
Counties Highlighted Are Currently Covered By PSPCA HLE Officers
ERIE
WARREN
McKEAN
POTTER
CRAWFORD
FOREST
ELK
VENANGO
TIOGA
SULLIVAN
CAMERON
LYCOMING
MERCER
CLINTON
CLARION
CLEARFIELD
BUTLER
UNION
CENTRE
ARMSTRONG
BEAVER
MIFFLIN
INDIANA
SNYDER
JUNIATA
ALLEGHENY
CAMBRIA
BLAIR
WESTMORELAND
SOMERSET
ADAMS
MONROE
NORTHHAMPTON
SCHUYLKILL
LEHIGH
BERKS
BUCKS
LEBANON
MONTGOMERY
LANCASTER
BEDFORD
FRANKLIN
PIKE
CARBON
DAUPHIN
PERRY
FULTON
WYOMING
LACKAWANNA
NORTHUMBERLAND
CUMBERLAND
FAYETTE
WAYNE
COLUMBIA
MONTOUR
HUNTINGDON
WASHINGTON
SUSQUEHANNA
LUZERNE
INDIANA
LAWRENCE
GREENE
BRADFORD
YORK
CHESTER
DELAWARE
PHILADELPHIA
Every Shelter Animal Deserves to
Live Happily Ever After
PENNSYLVANIA
Dear Friends,
Rescuing animals from cruelty, providing necessary
veterinary attention and rehabilitation care, and achieving
justice on their behalf are all fundamental to our mission
at the PSCPA. However, these are only partial victories.
It’s only when each animal finds its forever home that we
can truly know we have done well.
Both litigation and rehabilitation can take years, but
we strive to do our best for each of our shelter pets
during their stay so that they can one day realize their
dreams of being adopted. Noelle, a female Pit Bull
we had rescued from an unlawful breeding operation in December 2011, recently got her
wish. Noelle did not become available for adoption until early August 2013, because during
the litigation against her accused abusers, she had still legally belonged to them. As a larger
dog, she was often overlooked by potential adopters, but our staff and volunteers adored
her and worked hard to find her a new home. In May 2014, she was finally adopted by
roommates Lauren and Rebecca, and she has been enjoying her new life near
Fairmount Park.
In August, Lauren and Rebecca brought Noelle back to our Erie Avenue shelter for a
reunion, and the changes to both Noelle’s physique and demeanor were shocking – in a
wonderful way. She was slimmer, she looked healthier, and her love for her new parents
was obvious.
We specialize in before-and-after. We take dogs and cats from horrific conditions, and we
work with them and for them until they have a chance to live as they deserve. Your generosity
makes all of this possible. Only with your continued support can we continue to save animals
like Noelle.
Thank you for helping us write these happy endings.
Jerry Buckley
CEO
The Pennsylvania SPCA is
dedicated to protecting
animals, preventing cruelty
and improving the health
and quality of life for animals
in Pennsylvania.
Locations
Headquarters:
350 E. Erie Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19134
215-426-6300
Danville Branch
2801 Bloom Road
Danville, PA 17821
570-275-0340
To Donate
Visit www.pspca.org/donation
or email
[email protected]
To Volunteer
Visit www.pspca.org/volunteer
or email
[email protected]
Cruelty Hotline
Call 866-601-SPCA
Meet our new Board Members
We proudly welcome Gina Gilliam, Joanne Boyle, and Julie Klim to our
Board of Directors, and thank them for sharing their professional expertise
and passion to promote the welfare of animals in Pennsylvania.
Chief Executive Officer
Jerry Buckley
Chief Operating Officer
Mary Jo Bernardo
Financial Controller
Jennifer Green
Director of Humane
Law Enforcement
George Bengal
Gina Gilliam
Federal Public Relations
Professional
2
Joanne Boyle
Attorney, Elder Law
Julie Klim
Organizational Leadership
and Strategic Consultant
Director of Development
Jennifer Welsh
Visit us online at:
www.pspca.org
Lexi’s Amazing
Transformation
A
ll she needed was love, and that’s what she found.
Before
Lexington, a 6-year-old Pit Bull mix, was severely emaciated
when our Humane Law Officers rescued her in October
2013. Too weak to move, she had to be carried into the
arms of our veterinary staff. Lexi spent more than two
months in our Shelter Hospital before she was strong enough to
endure stomach surgery to remove the foreign objects she had been
eating to fill her belly.
On Christmas Day, Lexi was given a clean bill of health and placed
up for adoption, and early in January, Helio Deoliveira walked into
our East Erie Avenue shelter and fell in love.
With love and care, Lexi has blossomed into a beautiful, healthy,
and happy family member. Mr. Deoliveira says, “She is one of us…
She is part of our family.” Lexi’s constant smile is proof that she
understands what it means to be loved.
After
Thank you to all of our supporters, to our volunteers, and to the Deoliveiras for giving Lexi a second chance!
Humane Education Update
Animal abuse and neglect know no boundaries – and neither
do our efforts to end these atrocities by promoting kindness
to animals through education. From traditional classroom
settings to summer camps to nursing homes, we are spreading lessons of compassion across geographic, economic, and
cultural lines. Since launching our Humane Education program
in February, we have reached more than 1,400 students and
community members with valuable lessons on preventing
animal cruelty, pet handling and care, animal safety, and other
animal welfare topics.
3
Compassionate Cat Control
is a Better Bet at Parx
Inside Per
Parx Casino has a lot of cats. A lot.
And when those cats needed help, the
Pennsylvania SPCA was there.
You might not think of a casino as a
place where cats congregate, but Parx
Casino in Bensalem, Pa., is also home
to a racetrack, and where there are
horses and barns, there are cats.
Employees and community members
care for the cats, who live on the
property both individually and in colonies. The rising feline population recently
prompted Parx to reach out to local organizations for assistance.
In June, the PSPCA partnered with Women’s Humane Society, Bucks County
Animal Response Team, and Animal Lifeline to provide services for the cats.
Many had loving caretakers who were thrilled their animals were receiving
veterinary care for the first time. Mobile units outfitted with surgical and
examination equipment were set up for the cats, who were either brought
by caretakers or captured by experienced trappers for vaccination and
microchipping. Spaying and neutering was performed on site as needed,
and then the cats recovered and were released to their caretakers or barns.
In three days, we helped 154 cats. Their caretakers can be confident that the
animals are healthy, altered, and protected against diseases. And the cats can
get back to their “jobs” of keeping the stables rodent-free and putting a smile
on the faces of Parx racetrack workers.
This project was a great experience for the staff and a wonderful opportunity for
the PSPCA to help our community and engage with other organizations. We’re now even more prepared to join forces with other caring people and groups
to help animals.
Animals Help Make the
Impossible Dream Possible
Chazz Lopez, a friendly young man from
North Philadelphia, first came to the
PSPCA as a volunteer in July 2013. In just
nine months, he amassed an astounding
1,700 service hours. Recently, the staff
and volunteers celebrated Chazz’s
commitment to animals and his
graduation from high school at age 20.
Chazz admits the road to graduation
seemed like the impossible dream.
Diagnosed with dyslexia and mild autism,
he had difficulty focusing in school and
often ended up in fights. Finally, after
three school transfers, Chazz entered a
program at Doylestown’s New Hope
Academy, which offered a volunteer
internship that led him to PSPCA. Here,
Chazz discovered his love for animals
and a natural ability to relate to others.
“When I’m around animals, the dyslexia
and autism disappear,” Chazz explains.
“Working with pets so closely enables me
to understand what they’ve been through.
I’m more tolerant and compassionate, and
that helps me relate better to others. The
animals don’t judge me.”
Chazz’s goal is to become a vet tech, and
we will be cheering him on as he gets
closer to realizing his dream. And he is
on his way, since recently becoming a
member of the PSPCA staff.
4
rspectives
Bark & Whine
is Coming Up!
Sponsor the Pennsylvania SPCA’s second annual Bark & Whine benefit, and
save a life!
Help us raise much-needed funds to continue our lifesaving 147-year-old
mission, and join us to honor animal advocates Jennifer Utley and
Gerry Shreiber. This year’s event will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2014,
from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Fairmount Park’s Horticulture Center.
The Power of Love
Joanne Spina, a 33-year-old single mother
from South Philadelphia, has come a long
way. Before joining the PSPCA in 2010 as
a kennel attendant, Joanne was living in a
homeless shelter, was unemployed, had
no job skills, and was struggling to get out
of an abusive relationship.
Thanks to the kindness of a social
worker, Joanne found a job she loves at
the PSPCA, and a true vocation working
with homeless animals. Affectionately
known as “The Cat Whisperer,”
Joanne’s extraordinary bond and gift
of communication with cats make her a
shelter favorite for tips on cat handling.
“I understand what these cats are going
through,” she humbly explains. “I know
about fear and recognize it in their
eyes. I can tell which cats were abused,
neglected, and abandoned. They are
devastated and demoralized, just like I
was. I give them space, time to heal,
and lots of love. Eventually, they
come around.”
Today, Joanne is full of hope for her future,
for her two daughters, for her six pets,
and for the animals she lovingly cares for
while they await their forever families.
Sponsorships range from $1,000 to
$50,000. Sponsors will enjoy various
benefits, but most important, you will
be a hero to all of our shelter animals.
Our work is 100 percent donor-funded.
Your support will provide a lifeline for
thousands of animals in need each year.
Of course, you’ll want to be there for
the fun! You will mix and mingle with
our adoptable animals and fellow animal
advocates while enjoying cocktails,
Jennifer Utley and Gerry Shreiber at
the PSPCA
hors d’oeuvres, and dinner, and
participating in our spectacular live and silent auction. Dress is business casual.
Individual tickets are $250 per person, and will be available online on Monday,
September 1, at pspca.org. Tickets for our Young Friends (35 and under) are
$150 per person.
Last year, the event sold out early, so don’t delay. It’s an evening you won’t want
to miss!
For more information, visit our website at www.pspca.org or contact
Patti Mecca, Director of Corporate Relations and Events, at 267-463-2317
or [email protected].
Phillies Keep Animal
Advocacy in the Lineup
The Philadelphia Phillies have hit a home run for
animals with their 2014/2015 pet calendar – which
has sold out! The 18-month calendar features
Phillies players and Manager Ryne Sandberg
posing with our adoptable animals or their own
furry family members. It did not take long for
Phillies fans and animal advocate to grab theirs.
Net proceeds will benefit the PSPCA.
The Phils’ All-Star second baseman Chase Utley
and his dog, Jack, are also starring in billboards in
and around Philadelphia. The “Enough is Enough” campaign advocates the
need to end abuse against animals, and spotlights the PSPCA’s work to save
animals’ lives. Thank you to Chase and Jack for helping us ensure that
“Enough is Enough!” Jen Utley, Chase’s wife, is a member of the PSPCA’s
Board of Directors.
5
Meet Dr. Jeffrey Stupine,
Head of the PSCPA Wellness Clinic
How many veterinarians’ career paths have included a stop in equity trading? We
know one, and we’re proud to have him on our staff as Head Veterinarian of the
PSPCA Wellness Clinic.
Dr. Jeffrey Stupine studied economics at George Washington University and
worked as an equity trader for more than four years before he decided to become
a veterinarian. He studied at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary
Medicine, where he graduated with his VMD in 2010. He joined the Pennsylvania
SPCA in December 2011 as a part-time veterinarian in our Wellness Clinic, in addition
to working at a private veterinary practice, and since April 2014, he has overseen our
Wellness and Vaccine clinics.
Our Wellness Clinic treats as many as 40 first-time patients every day, and more than 200 patients on our bi-weekly
low-cost vaccine days. Dr. Stupine is planning for capacity expansions to test for diseases such as diabetes and
Cushing’s disease. With his expertise and commitment to expanding the low-cost services we offer to clients who
may otherwise be unable to afford pet care, Dr. Stupine is a tremendous asset to our Clinic.
Dr. Stupine loves shelter medicine. “There are unbelievable opportunities to make a profound difference,” he says.
“We are saving lives.”
Ask the Experts Preparing for Your Veterinary Visit
Bringing your animals to the vet is necessary for their health. Pennsylvania SPCA
Head Veterinarian of the Wellness Clinic, Dr. Jeffrey Stupine, shares his medical
insights to make the visit easier for everyone.
Q. My pet is having a routine wellness visit.
What should I bring?
A. For your first visit, bring any medical records you have for your pet regarding
vaccination history, currently prescribed medication, and other past results.
Q. My pet’s behavior has changed recently, and I am
worried. What should I tell the veterinarian?
A. The more information you provide, the easier it is to investigate and diagnose
your pet’s possible health issue. Observe when the problem started and how
your pet’s eating or drinking behavior has changed. Take note of as much
detail as you possibly can, and tell your veterinarian everything.
Q. Do I need to bring a stool sample or urine sample on my pet’s next
visit to the vet?
A. If you are concerned that your pet is ill or is having digestive issues, samples can be useful in
making a diagnosis. Call your vet to see what samples you should bring with you. Capture urine
or stool samples in a clean container, and if you need to keep it overnight before your visit, make
sure it’s refrigerated.
Q. What’s one thing you wish clients knew about our clinic?
6
A. If you are a returning client doing a checkup on a previous condition, you do not have to wait in
the wellness line.
What’s the Scoop?
Plan an Event to Help Save Lives
Organizing an event at your business is an easy way to support
the animals in our care. Philadelphia restaurant Tattooed Mom
recently held a fundraiser to help care for our shelter animals.
Patrons enjoyed a fun casual brunch while making kennel
enrichment toys for shelter cats, decorating bandanas for
adoptable dogs, and donating items for the shelter. Contact
us at [email protected] if your business is interested
in holding an event to help shelter animals.
Low-Cost Vaccine Clinics
Our Danville shelter is offering low-cost Vaccine Clinics to help
pet owners from Montour and adjacent counties maintain the
health of their dogs and cats. A walk-in clinic makes it easy to
have pets vaccinated against diseases such as rabies and
distemper. Patients can also be microchipped and given flea
and tick preventive medications.
Fall Supply Drive
Join our Fall Supply Drive for shelter pets in need. We will be
collecting towels, blankets, food and water bowls, pet food, and
treats. If you have new or gently used items to donate, please
contact us at [email protected] to arrange a visit.
iPet Companion
Have you checked out our community cat room via iPet
Companion? Our friends at Pet360 helped us set up an interactive,
robotic system that allows users to play with our adoptable cats
with the click of a mouse! Our cats benefit from the stimulation and
socialization as they wait to meet forever families. You can play for
free at http://www.ipetcompanion.net/client/pennsylvania-spca/.
7
Invest in the future of the Pennsylvania SPCA
with a gift of stock.
Donating stock to the PSPCA not only provides
fundamental and immediate support, but is also
one of the most cost-effective gifts you can
make! When you choose to donate appreciated
securities (previously held for one year), you
may qualify for tax benefits including:
w A charitable income tax deduction for the fair
market value of the donated securities, and
w Capital gains tax elimination when transferring
securities directly to PSPCA, rather than selling
them in an open market.
For more information, please contact Jennifer
Welsh, Director of Development at 267-463-2313.
The PSPCA recommends that you consult with your
financial advisor on the best way to take advantage
of this giving opportunity.
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: 267-463-2313
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