Rescued! - SPCA of Texas

e-Animal Talk
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Texas
271
www.spca.org 1-888-ANIMALS
SUMMER 2006 VOLUME 41 NO. 3
Rescued!
Their struggles...
Their new homes
McKinney Shelter
Becomes
Reservation
Required...
Page 3
Strut Your Mutt
Is Back...
Page 10
Do you think that “Free
Pet” was free?
Think again... Page 12
2
Please remember the SPCA of Texas in Your Will
T
he Society for the Prevention
of Cruelty to Animals of Texas
is a private, non-profit, reservation
required organization dedicated to
improving the welfare of all animals.
The SPCA of Texas is the leading
animal welfare agency in North Texas
with two shelters and three spay/
neuter clinics located in Dallas and in
Collin County, and serves as an active
resource center providing an array
of programs and services that bring
people and animals together to enrich
each others’ lives.
MISSION STATEMENT
The SPCA of Texas is a charitable
organization dedicated to improving the
welfare of all animals.
LOCATIONS
SPCA of Texas/Dallas
362 S. Industrial Blvd.
Dallas, Texas 75207
214-651-9611
Adoptions:
Daily: Noon to 6 p.m.
Surrender:
Daily: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Reservation Required: ext. 112 at 9 a.m. daily
Call for clinic hours: ext. 400
SPCA of Texas/McKinney
8411 FM 720
McKinney, Texas 75070
972-562-7297
Adoptions:
Daily: Noon to 6 p.m.
Surrender:
Daily: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Call for clinic hours: ext. 105
SPCA of Texas/
Village Fair Spay/Neuter and Animal
Wellness Clinic
4830 Village Fair Drive
Dallas, TX 75224
214-372-9997 (Spay/Neuter)
214-372-9999 (Wellness)
Wellness appointments:
Wednesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
Closed from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Spay/Neuter services:
By appointment only.
Animal Talk is a quarterly newsletter
published by the SPCA of Texas and
distributed to our contributors and friends.
ANIMAL TALK CREDITS
Editor: Maura Davies
Copy Editor: Alicia Brown
Graphic Design & Layout: Kent Gilliam
Stories and Photos: SPCA staff, unless
otherwise noted
SPCA OF TEXAS
2006 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Board Chair: Rugger Burke
Vice Chair: David C. Hudson
Treasurer: Lee Dinkel
Secretary: Amy Honey
President: James Bias
Barbara Butler
Thelbert Childers, DVM
John A. Dille
William Driscoll
Sam Price
Mary Prothro
Kit Sawers
Mary Spencer
Kirk Thor
Denise Wallace
Would your prefer to receive Animal Talk
electronically via e-mail? By doing so,
you will help the SPCA of Texas direct
more of its funds toward the care of the
animals. Please go online to www.spca.
org/newsletter and provide your contact
information. You will begin receiving an
electronic version of Animal Talk.
Message from the President
Last August, visions of chaos and disaster filled the television screen and a sense of panic
filled the air. These are the images we remember from Hurricane Katrina and those that we
are not likely to soon forget. Here at the SPCA of Texas, we understand just how important
it is to continue to reflect upon the effects of this natural disaster and to always be prepared
for any others that may happen in the future.
During and immediately following Hurricane Katrina, the SPCA of Texas stepped up to
the plate and worked tirelessly to provide aid, supplies, staff and other support to assure
good care and placement of animals displaced from disaster-stricken areas of Louisiana. In
fact, animal welfare groups from across the country banded together in an awe-inspiring
and massive cooperation to provide rescue operations on an amazingly large-scale for
thousands of affected dogs, cats, livestock, birds and other animals.
Today, a year later, we are still working together to remedy the after effects of Hurricane
Katrina. Just recently, a wildlife sanctuary out of San Antonio transferred 40 cats rescued from the hurricane to the SPCA
of Texas’ Dallas shelter. In order to help make room for cats that continue to come in to the wildlife sanctuary from
Louisiana and Mississippi, we offered to place them through our adoption program and help to find these cats wonderful
new homes. Through combined efforts such as these, there are more animals that will ultimately be helped.
As we continue to make preparations to help animals during emergency situations that may occur in the future, we not
only have had some of our staff take training classes on disaster preparedness, but we have also stocked up on kennels,
tents and crates. Just last May, we also signed an agreement with the Louisiana SPCA stating that in the case of an
emergency in either Texas or Louisiana, the two organizations will continue to work together to help transfer the animals
between shelter locations to be held and/or placed up for adoption.
Working together as a community and being prepared are essential factors in helping to save as many animals’ lives as
possible in the case of an emergency. We are very proud of the dedicated efforts and inspiring work of our staff during
Hurricane Katrina and during all of the rescues that have taken place as a result.
To help contribute to our emergency relief fund, please visit our website at www.spca.org/lifeline. Donations to this
program go to the general emergency fund including all disaster relief rescues as well as routine rescue and investigations
operations.
Thank you for your continued commitment to the SPCA of Texas. It is because of friends like you that we are able to
continue and expand our ability to make a difference in the lives of thousands of animals in need of our help.
James Bias, CAWA
President
SPCA of Texas
Events to Watch For:
Every Month –
Pet Grief Counseling: First Saturday
SPCA in Dallas
362 S. Industrial Blvd., Dallas, TX 75207
1 p.m.
Telephone counseling is available by calling
1-888-ANIMALS, ext. 172. All calls returned within
24 hours.
September –
Big Dog Adoption Special Month
During the month of September, the adoption fee for all dogs
weighing 36 pounds and over is only $50. To check out dogs
who are waiting for homes at the SPCA,
visit www.spca.org/adopt.
October –
Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month
To check out dogs who are waiting for homes at the SPCA,
visit www.spca.org/adopt.
November –
Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month
To take a look at our senior pets in need of homes, visit
www.spca.org/adopt.
Strut Your Mutt
November 4
Strut Your Mutt 5K Fun Run/Walk and 1 mile strut will
be held at the Museum of Nature and Science at Fair Park
in Dallas from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, to
register or to find out about sponsorship opportunities,
simply visit the Strut Your Mutt website at
www.strutyourmutt.info.
National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week
November 5 – 11
To support the SPCA of Texas’ many programs and services,
visit www.spca.org/donate or call 1-888-ANIMALS.
Paws Cause
November 12
Paws Cause 2006, benefiting the SPCA of Texas’ Spay/
Neuter program, will be held at Ciudad Restaurant from
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more details, please visit
www.spca.org/pawscause.
NorthPark Center – SPCA of Texas Paws and Presents
November – December
If you’re looking to adopt a new best friend or shop for petrelated merchandise, come out to the SPCA of Texas 16th
annual Paws and Presents storefront at NorthPark Center in
Dallas. More details to come. Please visit www.spca.org for
all the latest information.
Disco for the Dogs
January 19, 2007
8:00 p.m.
Tickets are $75 each
Dress is casual or disco
The hip W Hotel will host the SPCA’s newest fundraiser Disco For The Dogs. The “people-only” dancing and dessert
party will feature the groovy sounds of All Fund Radio
Show; fabulous desserts from some of Dallas’ best bakeries
and a live auction full of “hard to get and fun to have” items.
Get event information at www.discoforthedogs.com.
Get more information and keep informed about
SPCA news and events online at www.spca.org.
Are you registered on spca.org?
Register on spca.org and receive up-to-date information about SPCA news, events and
rescue information. By registering online you will also receive a free Fire Safety Sticker
to help notify emergency personnel that you have a pet in your home.
Register online today by going to www.spca.org/register.
Make Sure Your Pet Always Wears an ID Tag and is Microchipped
271 Dogs Rescued from Suspected Animal Hoarder/Breeder in Decatur, TX
3
Rescue & Investigations department in need of donations
On July 17, the SPCA of Texas assisted Wise County officials as they served a warrant
for the seizure of 271 Jack Russell and Rat Terriers that had been forced to live in
crowded, filthy conditions. Some of the dogs were being kept in small cages; others
were roaming the property and yet more were living inside a feces-infested residence,
a storage building and a travel trailer on the 90-acre property, located just north of
Decatur, TX. The dog’s previous owner, Sherri Jo Berend, had been a Decatur Animal
Control Officer for the preceding six months.
Sherri Berend is served a
warrant by a Wise County
deputy for the seizure of 271
Jack Russell and Rat Terriers.
On July 26, a Wise County judge awarded the
SPCA custody of 247 of the dogs as a part of an
agreement made between the District Attorney
and Ms. Berend’s lawyer. As for the other 24, one
was ordered to be spayed and made available to
Ms. Berend. Thirteen were ordered to be spayed or
neutered and turned over to Wise County officials,
who will hold the dogs under protective custody
for up to 90 days at Ms. Berend’s expense and then
be released to Ms. Berend pending the approval
of a mental health professional and Wise County
authorities. Ten were ordered returned to their
original owners (5 people total) who attended the
hearing to request their dogs’ return. Regarding the
dogs awarded back to Ms. Berend, she is subject to
unannounced visits to her property by Wise county
officials for up to two years. Should any violations
be found during that time, Ms. Berend could be
charged with criminal animal cruelty.
On Friday, August 4, the SPCA placed around 100 of the dogs up for adoption. The
following weekend was a great success and almost the entire group found homes within
three days. As the days went by, more of the dogs were spayed and neutered and placed
up for adoption.
Then, on Friday, August 18, the SPCA transferred
45 of the Jack Russell Terriers to Russell Rescue
Incorporated for foster placement. The generous
and dedicated national rescue group placed each of
these dogs in foster homes around the country—
from Florida to Delaware-—with the eventual goal
of finding all of them new and loving homes.
Many of the dogs were found struggling to stay alive. With no drinkable
water, very little food and the Texas sun beating down on them, the SPCA
arrived just in time. The pictures above show the the conditions of the dogs
the day they were rescued, members of the rescue team preparing for their
transport, the temporary housing in McKinney and the end result of our
work and your support — two of the loving faces of dogs who got a second
chance of living a happy life.
At the time of publication, just a handful of the
dogs still awaited homes. The SPCA would like
to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who gave
these little guys and girls a second chance at life
(Please see related story on page 4).
The SPCA cared for and gave all necessary
veterinary care for this massive number of dogs
at its McKinney shelter under two enormous tents
(complete with a full compliment of gigantic air
cooling fans). No restitution was ordered in the
Decatur case, so the entirety of the expense of
caring for and rehabilitating these dogs was borne
by the SPCA of Texas.
SPCA R&I Investigators, Art
Muñoz and Colin Chilson,
enter through the fence that
hid the neglect and abuse from
the public.
The SPCA’s financial outlay for this rescue operation, which it hopes to recoup from
public donations, is estimated at over $37,000. The cost includes housing, food and
water bowls, vaccines, de-wormer, dip, microchips, food, staff labor, veterinary costs
and clinic and other supplies.
Most of the animals on the property were
packed into pens like this one. This pen alone
contained more than 30 dogs.
This year especially, the SPCA’s
Rescue & Investigations
department needs your help. If you
would like to make it possible for
the SPCA to continue serving the
public in this and future animal
rescues, please consider making
a one-time donation or sign up to
make automatic monthly donations
to the Rescue & Investigations
department by calling
1-888-ANIMALS, ext. 128,
emailing [email protected] or visiting
www.spca.org/rescue.
Report Animal Abuse
Save a life!
1-888-ANIMALS
SPCA of Texas/McKinney Will No Longer Euthanize for Space, Becomes a Reservation Required Shelter
The SPCA of Texas announces that as of Tuesday, September 5, 2006, it will no longer
euthanize animals for lack of space at its Collin County Shelter at 8411 FM 720 in
McKinney. The SPCA will no longer operate as animal control in any capacity and will
no longer take in unlimited animals, becoming a Reservation Required shelter. The
SPCA’s Dallas shelter began operating as a Reservation Required shelter on February 1
of this year. The SPCA is asking the community to be a partner in the process of finding
new homes for animals.
The goal to no longer euthanize for space was first proposed in 2000 as a part of a
comprehensive five-year plan designed to take the SPCA into the 21st century as a stateof-the-art, cutting-edge animal shelter while remaining more intensely focused on its
core mission, to improve the welfare of all animals.
Over the last two years, the SPCA’s Collin County shelter has relinquished all animal
control contracts back to the various cities/municipalities it had previously served.
“Finding homes for and keeping animals in homes is of the utmost importance to us,”
said James Bias, SPCA of Texas president. “We will never again euthanize an animal
for space at our either of our facilities, will be able to pursue our mission statement
with a renewed purpose and drive, and, as always, to make a difference, one animal at a
time.”
As a part of this policy change, stray and owner surrendered animals will be taken in by
reservation only, based on available space, which will be assigned on a first come, first
served basis. Reservations will be available every day beginning at 9 a.m.
The SPCA will never euthanize for space and never turn an animal away because of
their looks, age, breed or non-contagious treatable health condition based upon available
space and SPCA policies.
For more information on how the Reservation Required policy works, please visit
www.spca.org/rr or call 1-888-ANIMALS.
4
Rescue & Investigations
Keep Fleas at Bay with Preventive. Ask Us How!
Decatur Rescue Saves Lives and Creates Happy Tail Love Stories
Gabrielle Russell of New Orleans, LA drove 536 miles in 9 hours to arrive at the SPCA’s
Collin County shelter in McKinney two days before the Decatur rescue dogs went up for
adoption. She slept in her truck for two nights to ensure she would be the first in line to
adopt one of the Jack Russell Terriers. On adoption day—Friday, August 4—Gabrielle was
indeed the first in the door. She ended up picking out two of little girls, whom she named
Puddin and Jasmine. The ecstatic trio happily headed back to New Orleans Friday afternoon.
Carrie Atkinson from Dallas made a
large donation of food, blankets, and
newspaper, all of which she collected
from a donation drive she held at her
workplace. She currently has 2 Jack
Russells at home, both from shelters.
Carrie adopted a 10-month-old male
Jack Russell.
Susan (left) from Highland
Village, Texas, currently
owns one Jack Russell and
two Schnauzers, all from
rescues. Susan adopted a
three-year-old male Jack
Russell.
Richard from Mesquite currently has one
smooth coat, female Jack Russell at home
and wanted a wire haired Jack Russell.
Richard saw the dog he adopted on the
news. He named the one-year-old Jack
Russell, Jake. Richard says that he is ready
to give Jake a loving home and put some
meat on his bones.
Tony & DeeAnn Durant
from Mesquite heard about
the raid on the news and had
been following the story.
Two-year-old Sadie will be
an “only child” as the Durant
family does not have any
other pets.
Rescue Adoption Love Stories
My daughter and I went in to see the Jack Russell puppies on behalf of a friend who was at work and couldn’t
go herself. Finding all the puppies rescued from the Decatur acreage had been adopted, we were just looking
when we saw a really depressed little Jack against the back wall of her cubicle. She stole our hearts, and we
returned the next day to rescue our “lady in distress.” We named her Elinor, and she’s really stolen our hearts
in the past week as well as blossomed into a rowdy little romper all through our house. Thanks SPCA.
—Virginia McCoy (Fort Worth, TX)
I almost left without a little dog. I went over to Industrial on Sat. to find a Rat Terrier. I arrived about three
p.m. and WOW, lots of great adoptions had taken place. We looked around and started to leave. Then, we
saw a room called GROOMING and asked if there were pets in there...Sure enough, I opened a cage and a
nine-year-old Jack Russell male hopped into my arms. We brought “Jack” home. When I am not with him,
he is in a large Newfoundland sized crate, and for three days fast-paced in a sort of crazed way at the front of
the crate...I decided to view it as “Jack Russell Exercise” and wondered what he had been through, perhaps
for years. Mostly I kept him with me on a lead. Sometimes he would sleep. Today he has stopped some of
the frantic pacing. We went to the vet. All is well. As a life coach, I know when we can accept someone or
something exactly as it is.....it can then change. I love Jack just as he is and at the moment, he is peacefully
lying here with his head on my foot...Thank you and Bless all of you for the work that you do...It can not be
easy to make the decisions to give animals permanent peace and a chance to cross the Rainbow Bridge. But for
those who can be placed, well, thank you for JACK.
—Rosemary Redmond and Sherle Stevens, Ennis, Texas.
We had heard about the rescue of the Jack Russells on the news. My husband had wanted a Jack Russell for
a while and this was our opportunity for that and help too. The staff was fabulous that day. Helping show all
the available animals and answering questions. I would make the hour and half drive again to adopt from your
facility.
—Janet Joblin (Ft. Worth, TX)
We adopted one of the rescued JRT. Lola is a shy little girl with a fun personality despite the trauma she’s
lived. In 3 days she now runs to us and knows her name. I’d encourage folks to be patient and loving with
these survivors as nothing worthwhile is easily had!
—Lisa Greene (Dallas, TX)
You Can Help the
SPCA of Texas Stamp Out
Animal Cruelty!
When it comes to preventing animal cruelty, just one
person can make a difference.
Last year, over 11,000 people took the time to contact the
SPCA of Texas to report suspected animal cruelty and
neglect. The information we received led to over 1,300
investigations in 58 Texas counties and 729 actual animals
rescued.
We couldn’t do this without your help. The SPCA is asking
each individual to take the following steps year-round to
make life more humane for our animal friends, and to also
remember that victims of family violence often include
pets, who may be threatened, injured or killed by a violent
family member to control or intimidate other members of
the household. Just like other family members, animals
need a place to be safe.
* If you witness or hear about animal cruelty, please report
it! This includes animals being tortured, forced to fight
or denied food, water or shelter. Contact the SPCA’s
Rescue and Investigations department at
1-888-ANIMALS ext. 120, email
[email protected] or report animal cruelty online
at www.spca.org/rescue.
* Ask your children’s teachers if they include humane
education as part of their curriculum. The SPCA’s
education department serves schools throughout the
Metroplex.
* Spread the word about the importance of responsible
pet ownership, which includes spaying and neutering
and vaccinating to prevent more unwanted and
potentially neglected, abused and sick animals.
* Make sure your pets are wearing identification at all
times. This could prevent them from becoming lost and
falling into abusive hands.
* Choose your next pet from among the many animals
available at local shelters. Many have been victims of
cruelty and are awaiting a second chance at life.
* Take part in passing humane laws and support animalfriendly legislation.
For more information on how you can help, please visit
www.spca.org/rescue.
SPCA of Texas
Rescue &
Investigations
• Meet the animal cruelty investigators
• Learn about puppy mills and how you
can stop them
• Report animal abuse
• Sponsor an officer
www.spca.org/rescue
Home At Last
After the SPCA of Texas rescued 271 Jack Russell and Rat Terriers from incomprehensible conditions on a
property outside Decatur, TX on July 17, we’re proud to say that we’ve placed all but a handful of the available
Jack Russell and Rat Terriers into new, loving homes where they will finally get to live the lives they deserve.
The SPCA would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all of wonderful families from all over Texas, Oklahoma and
Louisiana who opened up their hearts and homes to a new family member or two.
Also, a big round of applause to members of Russell Rescue International for taking in 45 of the dogs to be
placed into foster homes along the east coast from Florida to Delaware, where they will remain until they become
adoptable. Fifteen of the Terriers are also being cared for by SPCA foster families.
If you would like to help the SPCA of Texas help more animals like these little guys, please consider donating
online at www.spca.org or call 1-888-ANIMALS.
Perry Ambulance Service
Injured Animal Hotline
Responding to calls reporting
injured animals only within
Dallas city limits
214-651-PETS (7387)
The Perry Ambulance Service is funded through
a generous grant from the Phoebe and Russell H.
Perry Fund of the Communities Foundation of
Texas, Inc.
Clinic
Keep Cats Inside and Walk Your Dog on a Leash
Village Fair Spay/Neuter Clinic Neuters
101 Male Cats at Neuter Scooter II
In an ongoing effort to continue sterilizing pets to help put a dent in pet
overpopulation, the SPCA of Texas Village Fair spay/neuter clinic hosted
“Neuter Scooter for a Nickel” for a second time this year on Monday, June 26.
The day was declared a great success when a near-record 101 male cats were
fixed. Neuter Scooter, in conjunction with the Doris Day Animal Foundation’s
Spay Day USA, is held in February each year, but the SPCA offered a second
neuter scooter this year to invite even more cat owners to take advantage of this
opportunity to have their male cats fixed for just five cents.
Village Fair staff checks in
several of over 100 cats for
Neuter Scooter 2. Left to
right: Colleen Davis, José
Cortes and Shana DeWever.
New SPCA of Texas
Clinic Hours at All Locations
Customers start lining up as
the sun rises over the SPCA’s
Village Fair clinic the day of
Neuter Scooter 2.
Wellness Appointments:
Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
call 214-651-9611, ext. 400 for appointment
The SPCA’s clinics are already gearing up for another successful Neuter Scooter
next February! For more information on the SPCA’s spay/neuter and animal
wellness clinics, please visit www.spca.org or call 214-651-9611, ext. 400 for
Dallas/Industrial Blvd., 214-372-9997 for Dallas/Village Fair and 972-562-7297,
ext. 105 for McKinney
Closed daily from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch
Closed Sundays
The following specials are valid at all three SPCA of Texas spay/
neuter and animal wellness clinics:
November 11
Martin Spay/Neuter & Animal Wellness Center:
Spay/Neuter Appointments:
Monday-Friday
Call 214-651-9611, ext. 400 for appointment
Drop off for surgery between 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Pick up at 3 p.m., same day
Spaying and neutering results in the prevention of millions of unwanted births.
Neutering also reduces a cat’s chances of developing testicular cancer, diminishes
roaming tendencies and decreases the urge to mark territory by spraying. If left
intact, two unaltered cats can produce more than 80 million cats over a 10-year
period, and one male cat can sire an unlimited number of kittens in his lifetime.
Upcoming Clinic Promotions:
October 16–20
5
35/45 Surgery Special – Cats & Dogs
$35 males, $45 females-additional fees apply
(vaccines, crypt, pregnant, in heat, bloodwork)
Microchip Clinic - $20.00
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call
214-651-9611, ext. 116 or 133 for Dallas/Industrial Blvd.,
214-372-9997 for Dallas/Village Fair and 972-562-7297 for McKinney.
SPCA of Texas Fall Vaccination Clinics
Vaccination Clinics:
Super Saturday Savings, walk-in only, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Perry Campus Spay/Neuter & Animal Wellness Center:
Spay/Neuter Appointments:
Monday-Friday
Call 972-562-7297, ext. 105 for appointment
Drop off for surgery between 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Pick up at 3 p.m., same day
Wellness Appointments:
Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Call 972-562-7297, ext. 105 for appointment
Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed daily from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch
Closed Sundays
Village Fair Spay/Neuter & Animal Wellness Center:
Spay/Neuter Appointments:
Tuesday-Saturday
Call 214-372-9999 for appointment
Drop off for surgery between 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Pick up at 3 p.m., same day
Wellness Walk-Ins:
Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Walk-in basis only
Closed daily from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch
Closed Sundays
The SPCA of Texas is once again teaming up with the City of Dallas
for a series of low-cost vaccination clinics for dogs and cats at various
locations throughout Dallas during the summer and fall months. To learn
more about when these clinics will be and where they will be held, please
visit www.spca.org or call 1-888-ANIMALS.
Core vaccines that every dog and cat should receive yearly, as well as
the Rabies vaccine, will be administered by the SPCA for a total of $17.
Microchips will also be available for $20 (includes free registration) and
heartworm tests, Heartgard® heartworm preventive and Frontline® flea
preventive will be available at a 10% discount.
Vaccinations are $17 per pet ($8.50 each) which includes Rabies and
combination shots (Distemper-Adenovirus Type 2 Parainfluenza-Parvovirus) for dogs; and RhinotracheitisCalici-Panleukopenia for cats. Microchips (small chips with an ID code that are inserted under the skin) are $20.
Heartworm tests, Heartgard® heartworm preventive and Frontline® flea preventive are 10% off.
At all events with the City of Dallas, the city will be on hand to register people who qualify for free spay/neuter
services (proof of state assistance necessary) and will also register vaccinated pets.
Thanks to this wonderful community partner, we hope to vaccinate, microchip and prevent fleas and heartworms
for hundreds if not thousands more pets.
New, Convenient Online Spay/Neuter
Appointment Booking
Does your pet still need to be spayed or neutered? Are you
looking for an easy way to make an appointment? Now you
can make your pet’s spay/neuter appointment online in less
time that it takes to make a cup of tea or coffee.
Simply go to www.spca.org/appointment and complete the
online form. Remember that it is imperative to have your
pet spayed or neutered as soon as possible. This simple
surgery will save thousands of animal lives.
Now, it’s easier than ever to help the SPCA help the animals.
Keeping the Holidays Bright for Pets
Remember to “pet-proof” your house for the holidays. The following guidelines are recommended for protecting man’s best friend:
• Food—-certain food—can be fatal. Alcoholic beverages and coffee are exceptionally dangerous, as are onions, salt, yeast, fatty foods, macadamia nuts and chocolate.
Keep Fido out of the trashcan, too—spoiled and moldy foods can also cause digestive problems.
• Keep poisonous plants out of reach or in areas where pets aren’t free to wander. These include lilies, which can cause kidney failure in cats; poinsettias and holly, which can
cause vomiting and diarrhea; and mistletoe, which can cause cardiovascular problems and gastrointestinal upset.
• Keep the water in your Christmas tree stand covered. Tree water is often infested with fertilizer, bacteria and other harmful elements.
• Christmas trees themselves can be hazardous—ki
don’t decorate the bottom third of the tree to remove the temptation to play with all the shiny goodies.
• Keep electrical cords—a chewing temptation—away from Fido and Fluffy.
• Plastic gift bags can suffocate—keep them out of animals’ reach.
• Make sure candles and other unprotected flames are not within your pets’ reach. Spilled wax can cause burns if a curious cat or dog bumps into one and a flickering flame begs
to be sniffed, pawed at or knocked over.
• Human medications, often used more during the holidays, should be stored out of pets’ reach. Just one regular-strength ibuprofen tablet can cause stomach ulcers in a ten-pound
dog and aspirin is poisonous to cats.
• Fumes from wrapping paper burned in the fireplace can be toxic to birds.
• Place telephone numbers for your veterinarian, an emergency vet service, the SPCA and ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-ANI-HELP) in a
convenient location.
• The SPCA recommends that anyone interested
an informed choice about the pet.
For more information, log on to www.spca.org or call the SPCA of Texas at 1-800-ANIMALS.
6
Protect Your Pets from Holiday Hazards
Letters & Love Stories
Hello from The Two of Us,
TRAVIS
This past Monday I adopted Travis from The SPCA in McKinney. He had
been a stray and had been with the SPCA for over two months. Travis and
I are both very happy. We are having a great time getting to know one
another. It is so much fun to watch him as he discovers this wonderful world
we live in. He loves the grass, the birds, his squeakers, his tennis ball etc.
but most of all he loves me. It is so much fun to watch him run, play and
stretch his legs. This is the second time I have adopted from the SPCA and
they have been very nice dogs. It is one of the most rewarding experiences
of my life. I am a supporter of the SPCA and always will be.
Thank you for all the great work you do for our Community and these
wonderful animals.
Warmest regards,
Diane & Travis Grant
monster
Charles Haley, former NFL Linebacker/Defensive End for the San Francisco
49ers and Dallas Cowboys, has not only had the good fortune of being the
only player in NFL history to have been on five Super Bowl-winning teams,
but now his fortune has become even better with the adoption of an adorable
little puppy from the SPCA of Texas! Charles, Brianna, Madison and
Princess Haley visited the SPCA of Texas last month and decided to add little
Monster to their loving family. There’s no doubt that Monster is quite the
fortunate one himself!
DALLAS
Dallas is doing GREAT! He is quite the traveler you know - had 2 airplane
rides to get home and did not bark once.
He came home to the children (we have 3) and 2 cats, who are about the
same height as he....he is chasing them around the house and enjoying the
children so much. I couldn’t have been more blessed with a wonderful
addition to our family. He does not mind bathing or traveling by air or car
(we took him on a 1 ½ hour trip to the Lake home this weekend) and is just
so loving and getting to be our “protector” by barking when anyone rings the
door bell.
We are so happy to have him as part of our family....thank you SO much for
all your help.
Thanks,
Michelle Kaleikini
Hillsboro, Oregon
GINGER
SPCA of Texas Headquarters
It was a year ago today that my husband, Hank, and I brought Ginger, a twoyear-old lab mix, home from the SPCA. We had seen her picture on the website
and were immediately attracted to her smiling face. We decided to be at the
SPCA when the doors opened the next morning.
It was a bit of a challenge to get Ginger on a leash so that we could take
her to the play yard to get to know her. Once in the yard, she showed little
interest in us, instead spending her time running along the fence looking for
a way to get out.
She seemed nice, though, and Hank thought she “had potential” so we decided to adopt her.
Hank sure was right—Ginger is an absolute delight. She is endlessly curious, always loving, and a constant
source of amusement and entertainment.
She loves squeaky toys, tummy rubs, “hangar flying” at Aero Country airport in McKinney, taking walks (she gets
two a day), swimming, riding in the car, and going to the dog park. She also gets along well with our two cats (both
were strays; one came from the SPCA).
Thanks again to the volunteers and employees of the SPCA for all their hard work and for taking care of Ginger
while she was waiting for us to find her.
Sincerely,
Carolyn Ritchie
P.S. Attached is a picture of Ginger swimming in the Guadalupe River near Kerville.
Keep Cats Inside and Walk Your Dog on a Leash
OWEN
Hi, my name is Katie Hummel and I very recently adopted Jessie [now Owent], a
6 year old Collie/Spaniel mix from the McKinney shelter. I just wanted to thank
you all for your help and let you know that he is doing wonderfully in his new
home! He is getting used to the environment very quickly and is just as sweet as
he can be. I’ve included a picture after his grooming today. Thank you, again!
Best Wishes,
Katie Hummel
MIA
Hi y’all - so far, she is settling in just fine. She was very good in the car, and she has been accepted
by our other 2 dogs already and she warily is accepting them. The pug I have has always been the
lowest in the pack and she accepted that Mia was above her, however my male big dog came to
me repeatedly to reaffirm his position as 2nd but, accepted Mia just fine after all the sniffing was
done…
We still haven’t left her alone with the other two, nor will we for quite a while and when I
know she is healthy enough... Right now she is on the couch with my son after eating some
dinner, and relaxing drowsily against him - its really sweet. I really believe she will be happy
here.
Sincerely,
Debbie Privett
BELLA
Hello,
Everyone who worked the day that I adopted my new dog seemed concerned about her when
we left, so I wanted to send an update and let everyone know that “Misty” (now named Bella) is
doing great. She is very happy, gaining weight and has adjusted to her new family very well. We
are equally as happy to have her as she is to have us...
Thanks,
Cathleen Manning.
ORLEY
Hi. I adopted my Blue Heeler, Orley (known to you as “Stippy”) at the Dallas SPCA 5 years ago. When I
adopted her, she was a shy and quiet adult dog who had braved the “big tornado of 2000” that hit Fort
Worth while huddling outside with what was apparently many other dogs in a neglected back yard in
Arlington.
When Orley joined Kip (also an SPCA dog) and me at our home in Dallas, she at first seemed very
skeptical and scared. Now she tries to rule the roost and is very happy and comfortable. She is also very
talented at balancing on window sills and loves going to the office with me on Saturdays, when she is very
well-behaved. Orley has made a great companion for Kip and for me and we are glad to have her as part
of our home.
Thank you for helping to bring Orley to my family!
Lisa Dreishmire
Dear SPCA,
PRINCE
I would like to take a moment and update you on Prince (lab/pitbull mix) who was adopted in January 2006
from the Dallas SPCA.
My sister, her boyfriend, and I went to the spca looking for an older dog to adopt. We spotted Prince, known
as Bear at the time. He was quiet and didn’t jump or bark when we approached. Although he was a puppy (6
months old), we took him to the get acquainted area. He was afraid of my sister’s boyfriend, but seemed to be
a little more comfortable with my sister and me. Well, we just thought he was the most adorable thing in the
world. He was so well behaved. We thought we could bring him out of his shell.
We soon realized he wasn’t just shy. He was afraid of everything. He had never been on a leash. He was
afraid of getting into a car. Going on walks was a foreign thing to him. He was afraid of children, men, other
dogs. He was a bit of a mess. Two weeks after we brought him home, he was diagnosed with distemper. He almost died!
After much TLC, he recovered and is now a very energetic and spoiled dog. He loves his brother, Buddy who was adopted from the SPCA in 2001. He
has a healthy respect for his sister, Lola (a cat)… He looks forward to his walks every day and loves car rides.
I’ve attached some pictures so you can see how beautiful he and his siblings are. They have brought much happiness to my family and me.
Thank you so much for what you do.
Natalie Izaguirre — Carrollton, TX
7
8
Education
Keep All Dog and Cat Licenses as well as Annual Vaccinations Up-to-Date
Scooter and Snip’s Play Yard
Scooter and Snip’s Play Yard is for the young and the young at heart alike, featuring games, fun facts and other cool
activities. So come along, put on your thinking cap and get ready to have some fun!
ZING BUT TR
A
UE P
!
AM
S
T
ET FAC
Incredible dogs~
* A dog’s nose has about 4 times more scent cells than a cat’s and 14 times
more than a human’s.
* Dogs see in color, but not the same way people do. Dogs see like
people with red/green color blindness, meaning they can see bluish
and greenish shades but not reddish ones.
* An estimated 1 million dogs in the United States have been named
the primary beneficiary in their owner’s will.
* Dogs can alert their owners of an epileptic seizure up to an hour
before it occurs. Some dogs even appear to be able to smell some cancers!
* The heaviest dog ever weighed 319 pounds.
* The oldest dog ever died at age 29.
Pet Word Find
Circle each letter of all the words listed below
as you find them. The remaining letters will
spell a surprise word!
BALL
CARRIER
LOVE
PET
SPAY
WAG
Marvelous cats~
* Cats do not learn tricks to win their humans’ approval, unlike their
canine counterparts.
* Cats are either right-pawed or left-pawed.
* A cat can jump as much as 7 times its height.
* By the time a cat is fifteen years old, it has spent an estimated ten
years of its life sleeping.
* A frightened cat can run as fast as 31 mph, which is just a little
faster than a human sprinter.
* Cats see in color.
Lending a Helping Paw
SPCA Offers New
Behavior Help Line
What do you do when your beloved kitty cat
starts thinking outside the box? How about
when little Lucky takes a shine to a pair of
your shoes? Help is just a phone call away!
The SPCA is proud to offer its Animal
Behavior Help Line. If you need advice
on how to solve your pet’s behavior issue
or whether you should contact your
veterinarian for help, our staff will walk you
through a possible solution.
Critter Camp: Adventures for Two-legged Critters
This summer, 33 critters who were craving some creative activities while
they were out of school for the summer came to the SPCA of Texas’ two
shelters in Dallas and McKinney to have fun and learn all about animals in
the process at Critter Camp 2006.
Animal Behavior Help Line
214-651-9611, ext. 109
Critter Camp celebrated its tenth year in 2006, and provided a wonderful
opportunity for children to not only learn about important values such as
kindness and love, but it also provided the perfect setting for them to learn
more about appropriate animal care. Activities included guest speakers,
tours, games, insect safaris, dog washes and making homemade pet treats as
well as learning more about the SPCA of Texas and animal welfare issues.
Critter Camp 2006 was divided into three sessions: two sessions of Critter Camp for Little Critters between the ages of 6-8
years old and one session of Critter Camp for Growing Critters between the ages of 9-12 years old. Each week-long session
took place Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at either the Dallas shelter or the McKinney shelter. Space was
limited and every spot was filled.
Keep an eye on www.spca.org next year for the eleventh annual Critter Camp!
Education Literature
Knowledge and understanding of canine
behavior can play an important role in
preventing dog bites. This coloring and
activity book created by The SPCA of
Texas is designed to help children learn
why dogs bite and show them how
they can be bite free. Also available in
Spanish.
CATS
LEASH
PAWPRINTS
SHELTER
VACCINATE
SURPRISE WORD: __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
Astounding pets~
* Dogs can donate blood to other dogs and cats can donate blood to
other cats.
* Studies have shown that people who own pets live longer, have
less stress and have fewer heart attacks.
* Over 50% of all pet owners would rather be stranded on a desert
island with their pet, not another person.
Be Bite Free
CATNIP
DOGS
NEUTER
PLAY
SPCA
Pets are Part
of the Family
The introduction of a new pet into a
child’s life can be a very exciting time. It
is also a great opportunity for parents to
teach caring and responsibility towards
all living things. This coloring and
activity book created by The SPCA of
Texas teaches kindness toward animals to
children of all ages.
To receive a copy of any of these books, please call 972-562-7297, ext. 135
or email [email protected]. A donation of $2 is requested per book.
Offsite Adoptions
Make Sure Your Dog Tests Negative for Heartworms and is on Preventive
Offsite Adoptions
Volunteering at the SPCA of Texas
Have you ever wanted to do something to help animals but just haven’t had the right opportunity
come along? The SPCA of Texas is always in need of animal lovers’ helping hands. By joining
the SPCA Volunteer family, you will be an integral part of building that special bond between
people and animals. Because the SPCA relies so heavily on volunteers, there are a broad range
of opportunities available. Many of the SPCA’s programs have been designed to fit within
any lifestyle. You may work with pets in either one of the SPCA’s two animal care centers, be
involved in one of the foster care programs, or spend time at one of the hundreds of offsite mobile
adoption locations. From humane education outreach to administrative office work, there are
many ways to help the SPCA—and help animals—as a volunteer!
To become an SPCA of Texas volunteer, all you need to do is complete a volunteer application,
which can be found at www.spca.org, or by calling 214-651-9611, ext. 137, and mail or fax it
to the SPCA. Once the volunteer office receives your application, a staff member will contact
you. At the time of the volunteer orientation, the SPCA asks new volunteers to give a one-time
volunteer fee to offset the cost of aprons and badges.
How to contact the SPCA of Texas Volunteer Department:
Dallas Animal Care Center Martin Spay/Neuter Clinic
362 S. Industrial Blvd.
Dallas, Texas 75207
214.651.9611 x137
For more information, please visit www.spca.org or call 1-888-ANIMALS.
Volunteers of the Month
February
Holly Gemmell
Lori Turner
Janet G’Sell
March
April
Barb Robertson
Scott Farrow
Peggy Sinclair
May
Carter Robertson
**Strut Your Mutt 5K Fun Run/Walk
and 1 mile strut will be held on Saturday,
November 4 at the Museum of Nature and
Science at Fair Park in Dallas from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more
information, to register, or to find out about sponsorship opportunities,
simply visit the Strut Your Mutt website at www.strutyourmutt.info. Look
for the Mobile Adoptions Vehicle (MAV) and adoptable dogs, too!
**The SPCA of Texas Paws and Presents storefront will run from
November to December at NorthPark Center for a 16th year. If you’re
looking to adopt a new best friend or shop for pet-related merchandise,
come out to the SPCA of Texas Paws and Presents storefront. More details
to come. Please visit www.spca.org for all the latest information.
For more offsite events, please visit www.spca.org/calendar.
All volunteers are required to be 18 years of age or older. If you are between 12 and 17, you may
volunteer if a parent or legal guardian becomes a volunteer and attends with you. If you’d like to
help the SPCA help dogs, cats, rabbits and even horses, goats and pigs, we’d love to have you join
our team.
Teresa King
Rebecca Biderich
Jeanie Nadel
Upcoming Offsite
Events:
**Pets from the SPCA are available for adoption on many Saturdays
throughout the year at the Pet Adoption Center sponsored by Reliant Energy
in partnership with General Growth Properties, Inc. at the following malls in
the Metroplex area: Collin Creek Mall, Hulen Mall, The Parks at Arlington,
Stonebriar Center, Town East Mall and Vista Ridge Mall. Check out www.
spca.org/calendar to see which General Growth Property the SPCA will be
visiting with adoptable animals each Saturday.
SPCA Perry Campus - McKinney
8411 FM720
McKinney, Texas 75070
972.562.7297 x109
January
Lou Olinger
Suzanne Demaree
Gloria Franklin
Tammy Mills
Tricia Elliot
June
Jenner Poppe
Fran Piel
Leigh McCormack
July
Jonathan Dudko
Rich Bushart
Linda Ahlenius
Paws
& Presents
Coming to NorthPark
in November
Center
August
Mary Reese
Bruce Mueller
Susie Moore
The Outreach & Volunteer Relations department has gone back to
school once again! The Humane Education programs offered by the
SPCA of Texas emphasize fundamental lessons such as the importance
of spay/neuter, teaching children to Be Bite Free and teaching the 10
Acts of Kindness toward animals. More topics can be addressed based
on each individual request.
If you are a parent, school or civic group interested in learning more
about the SPCA’s educational programs, please contact: Kristen Everett,
Humane Education Coordinator at 214.651.9611.x122 or by email at
[email protected].
Pet Grief
Counseling
The SPCA
Wants You!
If you’re interested in becoming
an SPCA of Texas volunteer,
applications can be found
online at www.spca.org or call
214.651.9611 ext 137 and we’ll
mail one to you!
Are you or someone you know
mourning the death of a beloved pet?
The SPCA’s pet grief counseling
group meets monthly and is free:
1st Saturday/1 p.m.
SPCA/Dallas
362 S. Industrial Blvd.
Dallas, Texas 75207
More info:
1-888-ANIMALS ext. 172
SPCA Media Partners 2006
Scheduled Weekly Placements
Monday
KDFW-TV4/6:55 a.m./LIVE
“Good Day” Pet of the Day
DCTV (Dallas Community Television) Channel 27
Pets of the Week
www.lynnetotin.com — Adoptable Pets
www.nbc5i.com — SPCA Events




Tuesday
KMKI Radio 620 AM/T-F — Pets of the Week (times vary)
KDBN 93.3 FM-The Bone & www.933thebone.com
Pet of the Week
The Weatherford Democrat — “Paws to Consider” Column
City of McKinney (Ch. 15) — Pets of the Week
Greensheet — Pet of the Week





Wednesday
KDMX Mix 102.9 FM/8:10 a.m. Pet of the Week/LIVE
Dallas Morning News/(Park Cities edition)
Pets of Week
KSCS Radio 96.3 FM (www.kscs.com)
Pets of the Week
KLAK Radio 97.5 FM (www.975klak.com) — Pets of
the Week & Events from Collin County




9
Thursday
WFAA-TV8/12:55 p.m./LIVE
“Tailwagger” Pet of the Day
McKinney Courier-Gazette — “Paws to Consider” Column
(Also runs in other Star Community Newspapers)
McKinney Courier-Gazette — Pets of week
Lakeside Times–Little Elm — “Paws to Consider” Column
Dallas Voice online broadcast — 2@2
(www.dallasvoice.com) — Pet of the Week
Friday
KDFW-TV4/6:55 a.m./LIVE
“Good Day” Pet of the Day
KTVT-CBS11/6:55 a.m./LIVE
“CBS 11 Early Show” Pet of the Day
KZPS Radio 92.5 FM www.kzps.com
Pet of the Week
People Newspapers — Pet of the Week
(8 Metroplex editions)









Saturday
KRLD Radio 1080 AM/7:10 a.m.
(Neil Sperry/The Colony Pet)
WFAA-TV8/8:15 a.m./LIVE
“Tailwagger” Pet of the Day


KUVN-TV23 (Univision) 5:15 p.m.
(“Noti-Mascota”/TAPED/Spanish)
KEOM Radio (88.5 FM) 7:30 a.m./2:30 p.m.
Pet tips/interview--TAPED
Dallas Morning News/Neighbors Sections —
Pets of the Week
Coffee News of North Texas
Events in Collin/Denton County
Sunday
KRLD Radio (1080 AM)/8:10 a.m.
Neil Sperry/McKinney Pet of Day
KEOM 88.5 FM/8:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m.
Pet Tips/Interview--TAPED
KTVT CBS11/10:50 a.m.
Pet of the Day/TAPED
KSKY 660 AM/11 a.m.,
The Dirt Doctor Howard Garrett — Pet of the Week
Turtle Creek News — Pets of the Week
*Coverage rotates with other area shelters
Monthly
Neil Sperry webletter — Pets of the Month/Info
Dallas Child Calendar — Events
C+C Pets — Events

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
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


10
Development
Partner with Your Dog for Basic Obedience Training
Pet Flix 2006 Film Festival a Tail Wagging Success
Pet Flix 2006
Only at Pet Flix 2006 could showing films featuring stars in nothing but their birthday suits be called a family
event. But that’s exactly what you get when the stars are animals and humans are reduced to either playing
secondary roles or not even appearing at all.
More than 250 people showed up for the second annual, completely sold out, Pet Flix Film Festival at Studio
Movie Grill-Addison. Although the festival was interrupted briefly by a fire alarm, which was set off by a patron
smoking in the restroom, the night was a huge success.
The winning film for this year’s event was submitted by Wendy Woody and Tara Chadwick of Richardson. Their
film, World Cat 2006, re-enacted this year’s World Cup final game between Italy and France as interpreted by cats.
The unique film featured cats playing the roles of the World Cup athletes and performing the actual play-by-play.
Woody and Chadwick created a scaled-down soccer pitch complete with goals. The cats wore jerseys resembling
the ones worn by the actual teams. Even if you don’t follow soccer, this film brings down the house with laughter.
The second place film, La Chienne Noir (The Black Dog), had a 1940’s detective film look, complete with black
and white cinematography and Sunset Boulevard theme music. This film tells the story of a man finding the
perfect dog, but then losing her and feeling that the only thing left to do is wait to die. In the end, the dog returns
and the man feels like he’s not the one leading the dog on the leash, but that the dog is leading him.
Finishing the top three was Adopting from the SPCA. This film was produced by the International Thespian
Troupe, #88733 from Pioneer Heritage Middle School in Frisco. The film began as part of a project the students
did to help promote the SPCA’s adoption program and ended up being entered into the film festival. Some of the
students in the film were also in the audience and even performed an improvisation to entertain the crowd as the
judges made their final votes for the winning film.
All three of these films, along with Shake It Up, a submitted film that was interrupted because of audio issues at
the theater, will be available for viewing on the Pet Flix website at www.spca.org/petflix through September.
All event proceeds benefited the programs and services of the SPCA.
Pet Flix 2007 has not yet been scheduled, but the SPCA is hoping to host it again sometime next June. So
remember to keep checking www.spca.org for upcoming event information.
Strut Your Mutt
Goes for a
Second Run
www.spca.org/shop
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8 p.m. - Where
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700
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Get your pet suited up for the
season with his or her own
personalized uniform or get
other pet-related items at
our online store. Your online
purchase through our website
supports the animals we serve.
ets: $75 - Tic
Tick
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ts
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ill
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Football season is here!
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For more information, to register, or to find out about
sponsorship opportunities, simply visit the Strut Your Mutt
website at www.strutyourmutt.info.
Go to www.spca.org/pawscause for more
information and to purchase your tickets and
calendar.
Frida
y
,J
an
.
You can support this year’s event by creating a team,
joining a team, registering as an individual or by sponsoring
a participant. Everyone who registers and raises at least $25
will receive a Strut Your Mutt 2006 t-shirt.
There will be great food and drink, an expanded
silent auction, raffle items and a new Bone
Appetit prize drawing! And of course, you’ll be
able to purchase your 2007 Paws Cause desktop
calendar!
om
s.c
og
ed
Don’t miss the second annual Strut Your Mutt 5K Fun Run
and 1 Mile Strut. This year’s event will be held on Saturday,
November 4 at the Museum of Nature and Science at Fair
Park in Dallas from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This family fun event
for people and pets includes a 5K fun run and 1 mile strut.
Tons of fun events and entertainment are scheduled and
vendors will be onsite with some of the best in services and
merchandise.
Join us at Ciudad Restaurant on Sunday,
November 12th from 6 to 9 p.m. for a purrfectly fun evening for our furry friends!
A Groovy Dancing & Dessert Party to Benefit
the SPCA’s Adoption Program
Lost a pet? Found a pet?
Using the SPCA’s online e-pole, you can post the pet’s picture and
information on a webpage viewable to everyone who visits our website.
The process is easy and free. Simply go to www.spca.org/lostfound
today and help get a lost pet back home.
Judges: A glittering
crew of five judges
awarded the night’s
winner. From left to
right: Tony Zazza
of the New Morning
Mix with Tony and
Cappy on Mix 102.9;
Victoria Snee, WB33
entertainment reporter; James Bias, SPCA of Texas
president; Larry Powell of www.readlarrypowell.com
and Urban Animal Magazine; and Martha Powell of
World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth
First Place: Pet Flix 2006
Best Picture winners Tara
Chadwick (left) and Wendy
Woody, both of Richardson,
celebrate receiving this year’s
coveted Golden Bone award
for their film World Cat 2006.
The grand prize gift was a
$300+ weekend stay for a pet
at the Wüf Pet Resort and
Spa.
Second Place: Runner Up winner
for her film, La Cheinne Noir, was
Katy Daiger of Austin, TX. She
received a pet care package from
Pet Supplies PLUS.
Thank you to our sponsors,
Hill’s Science Diet, VCA Animal
Hospitals, Wüf Pet Resort & Spa,
Pet Supplies Plus and
Jim Jim Wine.
SPCA of Texas Raffle Winner
Receives Tickets to Luxury
Suite at Rangers Game
The SPCA of Texas raffled the chance to attend the Texas
Rangers versus the New York Yankees game on Tuesday,
July 25 in a luxury suite at Ameriquest Field, and our
lucky winner was Laurie Sherwood of Dallas. She, along
with 15 of her friends and family, enjoyed an evening at
the ballpark in complete comfort.
If you missed out on buying
a raffle ticket this year, the
SPCA hopes to repeat the
deal next year, so stay tuned
to www.spca.org for details!
The luxury, 20-person, airconditioned, indoor/outdoor
suite featured televisions,
concierge service and included
food and drinks, a value of
over $3,000.
Raffle tickets were $20
each and less than 500 were
sold. There was no limit on
how many tickets could be
purchased by each individual,
and each ticket bought was
worth two entries in the raffle.
SPCA of Texas president
James Bias presents the
luxury suite tickets to
Laurie Sherwood and
thanks her for her support.
Additionally, each person who purchased a raffle ticket
received a coupon to have their pet microchipped for $20
at the SPCA of Texas. The regular price for microchipping
is $28.
All proceeds benefited the animals cared for by the SPCA
of Texas.
Donations
Birthday Generosity
Tail wags and purrs to Reilly Houck
Hall of Dallas for donating $200 worth
of in-kind donations on June 23. In lieu
of presents for her 10th birthday party,
Reilly asked her guests to bring dry and
canned dog and cat food, cat litter, dog
chew bones, dog collars and even cute
little sweaters.
Thank you, Reilly!
More Birthday Gifts for
the Animals
Brooks Vickery of Dallas celebrated her eleventh
birthday party, but instead of presents, she asked for
donations for the SPCA of Texas. On June 27, Brooks
brought the SPCA a $20 bill and a check for $20.
Thank you, Brooks!
Wild Things Lend a Paw
Amanda Price (left) and Angela Wallace of
the Dallas Zoo brought bags and boxes full of
homemade pet toys to benefit the dogs and cats of
the SPCA of Texas. The toys, creatively decorated
paper towel rolls with bells inside and paper bags
with bells inside as well as catnip spray, were created
as a part of the Dallas Zoo’s Animals in Action
enrichment summer camp.
Sweet Success
Erin Files (age 10) and Emily James (age 10), both
of Dallas, ran a successful lemonade stand in their
neighborhood and raised $44 for the homeless dogs and
cats at the SPCA of Texas. The young ladies brought
their donation to the SPCA’s Dallas shelter on July 19.
Lemon Lift
Maddie and Margie Gant, age 10 and 7 respectively,
adopted their dog Molly from the SPCA a couple of
years ago, but they were looking for things to do this
summer that would help out many other dogs (and
cats) they couldn’t take home. So they decided to have
a lemonade stand in their Dallas neighborhood and
donate the profits to the SPCA. In just two days, the
sisters raised $70 and brought their proceeds to the
SPCA’s Dallas shelter on June 28.
Coins for Cats
Thanks to the students at
Merriman Park Elementary of
Richardson Independent School
District, the dogs and cats at
the SPCA of Texas have more to
wag and purr about. The school
held a “Coins for Cats” drive in
which students brought in change
from home, to the tune of $425!
Whichever class brought in the most change won a pizza party, so it was a
win, win situation for all involved.
Don‛t Litter! Spay or Neuter Your Pets
Big Dogs Rule! And They Need Homes, Too
11
SPCA of Texas offers $50 adoption fee for all large dogs during September
The SPCA of Texas’ animal shelters in Dallas and McKinney are full to bursting this
summer—as they are every year at this time. We’re in need of a more than a few great homes
for the bigger dogs in our care. To encourage people who were already considering bringing a
new family member home to come out and adopt, the SPCA is offering a special low adoption
fee of only $50 (regularly $90) for all large dogs weighing 36 pounds or more at all SPCA
locations and all offsite venues.
The $50 adoption fee includes spay/neuter surgery, all yearly shots, rabies shot, de-worming,
a leash or carrier and microchip (A quick, non-surgical process which involves injecting a
tiny, sterile microchip containing an un-alterable ID code between a pet’s shoulder blades,
enabling animal shelters to locate owners of lost pets). The SPCA also offers a 10 day health
guarantee at any of the SPCA’s three clinics (see www.spca.org/locations for more info) or at
any Metroplex-area VCA Animal Hospital (see www.vcapets.com for more info).
Visit any of the two SPCA locations—in Dallas (362 S. Industrial Blvd.) or McKinney (8411
FM 720)—or any offsite adoptions event (for complete listing, please visit www.spca.org/
calendar) and take home a new friend today.
Adoption fees for small dogs and puppies are $185 and cats and kittens are $80.
A wide variety of breeds and ages await you at the SPCA’s two shelters as well as various
offsite venues. And, the SPCA urges everyone to take time to find the perfect canine
companion, taking into account their lifestyle; the needs of the pet; and the pet’s age, size and
temperament before making a commitment. Don’t hesitate to ask the shelter staff for help on
making the perfect match.
Ever Heard of a Barking Telephone?
Turn those cell phone ringers on high and get ready
to be the envy of all your friends as you proudly
play the SPCA of Texas’ “Adopt a Big Dog”
ring tone, written and performed by Edie
Brickell. To download the ring tone to your
phone today, visit http://www.groupietunes.
com/artists/spcaoftexas.
The cost is only $2.95 and you’ll be
supporting the SPCA in our efforts to protect
and care for homeless and abused animals.
While you’re there, you can also purchase
official SPCA of Texas wallpapers!
Don’t forget to get
your Adopt A Big
Dog ringtone and
support the SPCA!
www.spca.org/ringtone
Pet Tips
Halloween Safety Easier Than Saying “Boo”
Halloween is right around the corner and while planning how much candy you need to keep
the trick-or-treaters happy, your costume and the costume for your kids, keep in mind some
simple guidelines to keep your pet safe:
• Keep your pet indoors, even if it does seem like a sure way of winning a costume contest
to include your pet. Not only will it keep your pet from becoming frightened by children’s
pranks and costumed people roaming the neighborhood but also it will keep your pet from
becoming the victim of someone’s cruel jokes or tricks. Be extra careful if you have a
black cat.
• If you have a protective dog that might feel threatened by strangers, keep it away from the
door when trick-or-treaters arrive.
• Make sure your pets have I.D. and collar on so that if they do get out and get lost, you
can be contacted. To be safe, it is best to have your pet microchipped so that he or she is
permanently identifiable. Of course, make sure your pet is spayed or neutered and current
on all vaccinations.
• Don’t give any candy, especially don’t give any chocolate, to your pets—even a small
amount of chocolate can be fatal. Make sure that all Halloween treats are put where your
pets cannot get to them.
Giving Thanks, Keeping Pets Safe
Papers for Pups
This Thanksgiving, the SPCA of Texas urges pet owners not to feed bones from any type of
fowl to their pets.
Thanks to the generous students of Lakehill Preperatory School in Dallas,
who donated a large amount newspaper for the SPCA’s animals, puppies will
have plenty of clean bedding to snuggle in. Brooks Vickery and Paige Padilla
led the newspaper donation drive for the school and brought it in on June 27.
Bones from traditional holiday fare such as cooked turkey, goose, chicken or duck are
extremely dangerous. Smaller bones can be more brittle. Chewed bones can splinter and
puncture internal organs or choke an animal to death.
Due to a change in format, the complete
listing of all of our generous donors will
only be published in each year’s annual
report. Thank you for your patience and
understanding.
People should also be aware of loose covered trash containers. Dogs and cats can get hold
of “cooking string” and the bones if the trash is not secured. Discard harmful items in sealed
baggies if necessary.
Poultry can also cause vomiting and diarrhea. Many pets are unable to digest the fowl we
prepare for the holidays.
If a pet does swallow a bone and shows signs of pain or gagging, rush it to a 24-hour pet
clinic. Call your veterinarian in advance and see what his/her holiday hours are. Make sure
you have a number and address for the closest animal emergency clinic.
Your pet will be grateful to you this holiday season if you thank them with a special pet treat
made especially for them.
12
Make Sure Your Pet Always Wears an ID Tag and is Microchipped
What Dreams Are Made Of ...
At the SPCA of Texas, we dream of finding a home for each of the
animals in our care. But until they find their forever homes, we plan
to build a new shelter that will give us room to grow and give them a
place to shine.
We dream of a marvelous new facility that will enhance our ability to
prevent suffering and abuse; provide dignity, comfort and well-being;
and promote caring relationships between people and
pets in the North Texas area.
The new animal care center, spay/neuter
and wellness clinic and administration and
resource center, slated to open in the next
three to five years, will be a safe harbor,
a soothing retreat for healing, a training
center, an educational hub, a home
away from home and a community
gathering spot.
The six-acre property is located
at 2400 Lone Star Drive, just off
Interstate-30 West, approximately
2.5 miles from our current shelter, and
includes a 72,000 square-foot building.
What has begun as a dream for a better shelter for the animals in our
care and expanded opportunities for the people we serve will become
a reality with your help. If you share our dream to save more lives
and provide more programming for the community, please consider
supporting this exciting project.
With your pledge to the SPCA’s Capital Campaign, you can make the
animals dreams come true. To learn more about how you can help,
please call 1-888-ANIMALS or visit www.spca.org/dreamingbig.
Visit our pet info center online
at www.spca.org and get
information about ...
Air Travel Tips
Alternative Holiday Gifts
Area Vet Clinics
Benefits of Responsible Pet Ownership
Car Travel Tips
Disaster Planning
Dry Bath Tips
Eating Habits
Emergency First Aid Kit
Feed Pets Like You Love Them
First Aid
Food Labels - How to Read Them
Halloween Safety
Holiday Safety
Horse Rescue
Household Hazards
Lost & Found Help
Microchipping
New Year’s Resolutions
Overpopulation
Pet Friendly Housing
Pet Friendly Places
Pet Personality Profile
Preparing for Baby’s Arrival
Protecting Pets from Fire
Rabbit Care 101
Removing Pet Stains & Odors
Separation Anxiety
Skunk Odor Removal
Spay / Neuter
Spring Cleaning Tips
Vacationing With Your Pet
Vacationing Without Your Pet
Vaccinations
Website Links
When You Move
Don’t forget the SPCA’s Animal
Behavior Helpline for your petinformation needs.
214-651-9611 ext. 109
Dreaming
Big
To learn more about the SPCA’s Capital Campaign and to find out
how you can help us achieve our dreams for the animals, please visit
www.spca.org/dreamingbig or call 1-888-ANIMALS, 163.
Do you think that “Free Puppy” or “Free Kitten” was a great deal?
Think again.
Pet Owner Expenses
Adoption
Spay/Neuter
Possible in heat/pregnant/cryptorchid/hernia
General Health/Behavior Exam prior to adoption
Nail Trim
Microchip Identification
Initial Vaccinations (FVRCP/cats; DHLPP/dogs)
Canine bordatella Vaccine (dogs)
Rabies Vaccine
De-worming
Heartworm Test (dogs)-FeLV/FIV Test (Petco Cats)
Temporary Carrier
Temporary Leash (slip leash acts as collar)
Nutritious Food/Treats during stay
Supplies during stay (litter, toys, towels, etc)
Resources: Informational CD after adoption
Pet Health Insurance 30 days after adoption
Veterinary Exam within 10 days after adoption
Antibiotics (meds) after adoption within 10 days
First bag of food (4 lbs)
Love and Attention until adoption
Total Cost
Free Dog/Cat
Adopted from SPCA
Free
$40-$100
$17-$88
$28
$8
$28
$17
$17
$17
$11-$24
$22-$30
$6
$5
$25-$30
$15-$20
$25-$50
$10-$40
$28
$12-$40
$8-$9
Priceless
$50-$185
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Included
Priceless
$339-$585
$50-$185