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Challenge: Accepted Healthy Teeth Living the Shelter Life FALL 2014 Oldie But Goodie Our Mission & a Letter from Dr. Robyn The Anti-Cruelty Society “SPCA of Illinois” Founded in 1899 by Rose Fay Thomas (Mrs. Theodore Thomas) Our Mission Building a community of caring by helping pets and educating people. Adoption Center/Animal Shelter 510 North LaSalle Drive Chicago, IL Adoption Hours Mon.–Fri. Noon–7 p.m. Sat. & Sun. Noon–5 p.m. Receiving Hours 10 a.m.–6 p.m., 365 days a year Mailing Address 157 West Grand Avenue Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: (312) 644-8338 Fax: (312) 644-3878 The Anti-Cruelty Society is a private, independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are not funded or operated by any parent organization or governmental agency. Contributions are tax deductible according to IRS laws. Become a friend, fan, or follower on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, or YouTube: www.facebook.com/anticruelty www.twitter.com/anticruelty www.flickr.com/photos/theanticrueltysociety www.youtube.com/user/anticrueltytv www.anticruelty.org Page 2 The Anti-Cruelty Society A Letter from Dr. Robyn What a summer! Many Chicagoans talked about the unusual weather, but at The Anti-Cruelty Society, talk was all about the ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge. Five months went into planning, and June, July, and August were all about implementing new ideas and saving more lives than last year. We are proud to announce that we surpassed the minimum goal of 300 more lives saved, and for that, we will receive at least $6,000. Final results will be announced on October 7, but we already feel like winners! Staff and volunteers pulled together to try many new things. Some, like our One for the Purrfect One and Empty the Shelter campaigns were extremely successful, and we broke all of our previous records for the number of adoptions. We also tried some new programs that we will continue, such as Foster to Forever. Granted, not every promotion would be considered successful, but the important thing is that we always learned something worth remembering. For a more detailed summary of the Challenge, please read the article on page 16. This summer we were also fortunate to have five high school interns help us, thanks to a grant from After School Matters. These young women helped in various departments at the Society and were incredibly dedicated and remarkably mature. We look forward to hosting another group next summer. On page 20, we highlight Oliver, a senior dog, who has touched many hearts, including my own. It’s so great to see someone adopting an older animal, and even better to see that dog give back to the community! Pets bring such joy into the lives of so many. I love the name of one of our newer volunteer programs, Knitters for Critters! We want to take this program “on the road,” so if you know of any knitting groups or senior centers that may have residents who knit, help us spread the word. We can have someone visit the group, explain all that we do and how the blankets and toys will help, and perhaps also bring a cat or dog to visit and inspire the knitters. For more information, please email [email protected]. As always, thank you for joining our community of caring. We couldn’t help as many animals as we do without your continued support. Robyn Barbiers, D.V.M. President In This Issue & Board of Directors Board of Directors W.B. Martin Gross Chairman Daniel S. Jaffee Immediate Past Chairman Barbara McLucas Vice Chairman In This Issue Freeman Wood III Treasurer Sheldon Rubin, D.V.M. Features Secretary 2 Mission Statement, Facility Location, and Hours of Operation 2 A Letter from Dr. Robyn 4PET Trends 6 Ask Our Experts 7 Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Pet 10 A Little TLC Goes a Long Way Sandra P. Manne Executive Committee Member-at-Large Elliott Otis Executive Committee Member-at-Large Constance Steinhaus Executive Committee Member-at-Large Celeste (Candy) Stevens Executive Committee Member-at-Large Michael Grossman What’s Going On Steven H. Klein Barbara Provus 12 Knitters for Critters 14 Living the Shelter Life 16 Challenge: Accepted Steve Shanker Carole Wood Honorary Lester E. Fisher, D.V.M. Giving Back Shirley Gambill 20 Oldie But Goodie 22 Thank You for Supporting The Anti-Cruelty Society 24 We Are The Anti-Cruelty Society Michael Kuzma Alvin Shapiro Gloria Vaughan President On The Cover The Anti-Cruelty Society is fortunate to have many different kinds of supporters, from major donors to hundreds of volunteers and people of all ages who craft toys for the cats and dogs in our care to play with while they wait for their “happily ever afters.” We are so grateful for each and every one of you! Even by just reading this magazine - and sharing it when you’re done - you are helping us continue our commitment to caring! Cover Photo: Emily Dullum Featured on the cover of this magazine is Oliver, a gentle dog whose fascinating journey is both touching and inspirational. Read Oliver’s story on page 20. Robyn Barbiers, D.V.M. The Anti-Cruelty Society A publication of The Anti-Cruelty Society Graphic Design John-Ryan Griggs Photography Arleen Burke Meghan Coen Emily Dullum MK Jansen Todd Rosenberg The Society Staff & Volunteers Editorial Staff Paul Adee Robyn Barbiers, D.V.M. Michael Garrity Lydia Krupinski Karen Okura Trisha Teckenbrock Leslie Villasenor Fall 2014 Page 3 Pet Trends PETtrends We’ve grown to embrace pampering our pets. After all, they aren’t just random cats or dogs that live with us—they are members of our families! We cook for them, we play with them, and sometimes, we even dress them better than we dress ourselves! Why even try to be shy about how much you love your furry friend? This selection of products is all about celebrating your affection and embracing just how clever (and sometimes silly) pet products can be. Rocking Bird Laser Cat Toy by Contempo (from $9.99) Her name is Bella, and her purpose is to drive your cat bananas! As Bella wobbles to and fro, a laser light inside her bounces across surfaces making her the ultimate chasing game for cats. This is an ideal toy for active cats, because it is motion activated and encourages those notso-active kitties to play, too! www.bengalsillustrated.com Cat Doormat by La Finesse ($25) Let your guests know how you really feel by giving the unwashed masses a message! Atypical but honest, this doormat lays out the philosophy of your kingdom and is made of durable, natural coir. This rough and tumble rug knocks the dirt right off boots and bare feet alike and helps spread a message of kitty love. fab.com/product/cat-doormat-462516 Triangles in Colorful Spring Pastels by Blueberry ($16.99) I’ll admit it: I have a whole bin full of collars for my dog, and if you’ve been paying attention to this column over the past couple years, I suspect you may be in a similar boat. Who can resist the lime, pink, lavender, and orange colors? This is the awesome design that your furry friend has been waiting for. www.metropaws.com Page 4 The Anti-Cruelty Society Fabulous Things for our Furry Friends Grumpy Cat “NO” T-Shirt by Grumpy Cat ($19.98) One of the internet’s most famous felines, Grumpy Cat, is no stranger to the world of entrepreneurship. How could one say “NO” to the Grumpy Cat “NO” t-shirt? Heathered charcoal with a distressed print, this screen-printed shirt has a soft feel and a trim fit. It features a portrait of Grumpy Cat and the word “NO” in large white letters—perfect for those days when you just don’t feel like being positive. www.stylinonline.com Throw Me a Bone by Cooper Gillespie and Susan Orlean with Sally Sampson ($14.95) Cooper Gillespie, an extremely literate Welsh springer spaniel, teamed with cookbook author Sampson to compile 50 delectable recipes for snacks, meals, and treats to satisfy the most discerning doggie palate. Illustrated by Cami Johnson with more than 50 endearing black-and-white photographs of Cooper and friends and liberally seasoned with stories, quotes, and nutrition tips, Throw Me a Bone makes a dog’s dinner something to look forward to. www.amazon.com Tuffy T-Rex Dog Toy by Tuffy ($22.78) Tyrannosaurus Rex is the terror that once walked these lands, and now it will once again—through your living room! I’ve watched firsthand as this king of dinosaurs was forced to submit to the vigorous jaws of an eager modern-day pup, and it holds up very well! While many other toys will last only moments as they are whipped about the house, Tuffy products are designed for the “more enthuasiastic” dog in mind. Each toy is made with four layers, including industrial grade luggage material and a layer of soft fleece on the outside. Each toy is sewn together with two layers of cross stitching and then two layers of linear stitching. www.dogtuff.com Fall 2014 Page 5 Ask Our Experts Ask Our Experts Our experts answer questions about your pets Send your questions to [email protected] or call (312) 644-8338 ext. 343 Dear Expert, I just adopted my cat, Pete, and the ride home was a bit stressful. I know I will need to take him to his veterinarian in the near future. How can I make this experience less stressful for both him, and me? — Joey Dear Joey, Karen Okura A Staff Behaviorist First, always travel with your cat in a secured cat carrier. Cats that are loose in a vehicle are not safe. They could cause or be severely injured in an accident. Second, make the carrier a fun and welcoming place to be and you’ll be worry-free. The carrier should be secured in the back seat with bungee cords or the car’s seat belts. Face the front of the carrier toward the door, so that Pete cannot see too much of the world passing him, as visual stimulation contributes to motion sickness. While you drive, talk to him in a soothing voice or play soft music. Do not release Pete from the carrier until you are safely inside your destination. Make sure to always have current identification on him, as well as a microchip implant. For more travel tips, see our article “Acclimating Your Cat to Car Travel” at www.anticruelty.org. Dear Expert, her teeth on a regular basis. There is even a toothpaste out there that tastes like chicken, so I don’t mind getting my teeth brushed anymore! Here are some easy steps to help you get started: — Suzanne Hi Suzanne, Swollen gums are certainly an indicator of a possible health issue. I recommend that you take Gigi to your veterinarian as soon as possible. If gum inflammation is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss or even more serious problems. You can tell a lot about us cats by just looking at our teeth and gums, so pay attention to them! It is important that you keep up with Gigi’s dental health, because it can lead to many other health issues later. An easy way to do this is by brushing Page 6 The Anti-Cruelty Society The carrier should be comfortable. A towel in the bottom of the carrier will help to keep Pete from slipping, as well as catch any vomitus should he become motion sick. Spray the towel with a synthetic pheromone product called Feliway® to help ease your cat’s anxiety. Build good associations with the carrier by feeding, offering treats, and placing My cat, Gigi’s gums look red and swollen. Should I be worried? Guy Thomas Society’s Cat Ambassador your cat’s favorite toys in the carrier to make him more comfortable. Do all these things well before you ever need to take Pete somewhere. • Get your kitty warmed up to the idea of having her teeth brushed. Start by gently massaging her gums with your fingers or touching them with a cotton swab. • After a few rounds, place a small portion of catformulated toothpaste on her lips, so she is able to get used to the taste. Trust me, it’s delish! • Next, introduce a toothbrush that is made for cats. We have them in our store here at the Society, so stop by if you are having trouble finding one. They also make toothbrushes that fit over your finger that you may want to try. • Finally, apply the toothpaste to her teeth and brush gently. Regular visits to the veterinarian can help Gigi stay healthy. Later, Guy Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Pet Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Pet We all love to get big kisses from our pets, but let’s be honest: Sometimes our furry loved ones could use a breath mint or four. However, you should know that there’s a good chance that your pet’s bad breath could indicate a more serious issue brewing underneath his pearly whites. Maybe it was just something he recently ate, but bad breath can also be a sign of dental disease in your pet; other symptoms include mouth sensitivity, excessive drooling, facial swelling, loss of appetite, yellow or brown deposits on his teeth, loose or missing teeth, difficulty chewing, and bleeding, inflamed, or receding gums. If you notice your pet is frequently pawing at his or her mouth, that may also be a sign of dental disease. Fall 2014 Page 7 Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Pet PERIODONTAL DISEASE Periodontal (gum) disease begins when a bacterial film known as plaque, coats the tooth. Over time, the plaque calcifies, or hardens, into tartar, which can be seen as a thick layer of yellow or brown matter covering the teeth. The tartar will eventually begin to irritate the gums and create an environment where bacteria thrive. As this issue progresses, the gums become red, tender, and swollen, and eventually, they will pull away from the teeth to create pockets that trap food particles and even more bacteria. This will cause the gums to bleed, the roots of the teeth to become exposed, and/or the teeth to loosen from the gums, all of which can cause pain. Should the trapped bacteria enter your pet’s bloodstream, it can affect the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Some studies have shown that approximately 80% of dogs and 70% of cats already have periodontal disease by the time they are 3 years of age. Factors that determine the likelihood your pet will experience periodontal disease include genetics, diet, age, and previous veterinary care. PREVENTIVE CARE Obviously, as a pet owner, you’re going to want to take preventive measures to quell the onset of periodontal disease, and the best way to do that is by taking a new pet to see your veterinarian shortly after adoption. The veterinarian will help you outline a dental plan, which may include a recommendation to change your pet’s diet, treats, or chew toys. If there is already significant tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth, the veterinarian will recommend a dental prophylaxis Unhealthy mouth Page 8 The Anti-Cruelty Society (dental cleaning). Cats and dogs don’t understand the process and will not keep their mouths open during this procedure, so to safely and thoroughly clean your pet’s teeth, anesthesia is required. Your veterinarian may recommend some basic blood work to determine the best anesthetic agent for your pet, but no matter what, a veterinarian will almost always recommend that you regularly brush your pet’s teeth as a means of preventing periodontal disease. In addition to regular checkups, brushing your pet’s teeth is by far the best form of prevention, and the younger your pet is when you start brushing, the better and easier it will be to continue doing it. BRUSHING FOR BEAUTIFUL SMILES As with any activity you participate in with your pet, tooth brushing should be approached like a bonding experience by constantly reinforcing the pet’s positive behavior with praise and rewards. It may take weeks to teach your pet to easily accept brushing, so be patient. The first step is to slowly and gently rub the outside of the pet’s teeth and gums with your finger for as long as he or she will allow it. At first, you may want to dip your finger in something tasty, such as beef broth for your dog or tuna juice for your cat. Once your pet accepts this, switch to rubbing the teeth and gums with gauze wrapped around your finger, and then gradually change to using a specially designed pet toothbrush (or baby toothbrush) and some pet toothpaste. Never use toothpaste that is meant for people, as it can upset your pet’s stomach. Healthy mouth Healthy Teeth for a Healthy Pet Tooth brushing should be approached like a bonding experience by constantly reinforcing the pet’s positive behavior with praise and rewards When you brush, focus on the gum line, working up to 30 seconds of brushing on each side of the mouth at least a few times each week. Try to do this at a time when your pet is feeling most comfortable; for instance, if he or she is most at ease sitting in your lap, leave the toothbrush next to the spot where you sit together, so that you can easily access it during a quiet, peaceful moment. And remember, you can always make the overall experience even more enjoyable by rewarding the pet immediately following each session. REDUCING PLAQUE Some pets may not accept getting their teeth brushed – no matter how relaxed the environment may be. Luckily, there are other ways to reduce or possibly prevent plaque (and of course, these methods can always be used in conjunction with regular tooth brushing). Although there is no real substitute for regular dental care, a diet consisting mainly of dry food will help keep teeth and gums in good condition; there are even special plaque-reducing foods, treats, and toys that can help. The Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council appears on products that meet defined standards for plaque and tartar control in cats and dogs. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations. Proper dental care can have many long-term benefits for your pet, and just a few minutes of brushing each week could help your pet live a longer, healthier life, and keep both you and your cat or dog smiling for many years to come. Fall 2014 Page 9 A Little TLC Goes a Long Way As our pets age, their well-being tends to become a priority so that we can keep them healthy and with us for as long as possible. As pet owners, we tend to become more cognizant of the health status of our pets as they age, but in reality, we should be paying close attention to our pets’ health throughout their entire lifetimes. Animals of all ages are surrendered to the Society, and their conditions vary. Dental cleanings, amputations, hernias, kidney stones, broken bones, severe matting of fur, flea bites, etc. are all issues that need medical attention. It is our responsibility to care for these animals in need, so that they can reach their full potential (health-wise and behaviorally) and find their forever homes. In order to help all these animals, we turn to our Dr. Lester Fisher Veterinary Care Fund, established to help meet extraordinary medical needs of animals cared for by our veterinarians. Page 10 The Anti-Cruelty Society A Little TLC Goes a Long Way Dr. Fisher is widely recognized as a pioneer in humane and comprehensive health care for all animals, large and small. He helped establish modern standards for veterinary medicine in zoos by carefully recording and compiling information from zoos around the country. He also had a hand in developing the “squeeze cage,” to restrain large animals for examination with minimal stress. Since 1956, Dr. Fisher has been actively involved in pursuing the mission of The Anti-Cruelty Society by serving on the Board of Directors. He was elected an honorary board member in 1985. Each animal that enters our facility is automatically given a full veterinary exam, spayed or neutered, implanted with a microchip and given a heartworm or feline leukemia test, as well as receiving food, water, and daily loving care. The Dr. Lester Fisher Veterinary Care Fund covers additional, sometimes extensive, medical procedures, such as dental care, repair of fractures, treatment of abused or neglected animals, and much more. Francis, a 3-year-old domestic shorthair mix, is a great example of why the Fisher Fund is so essential. Francis was surrendered to us in May 2014 when his owner could no longer afford him. After his medical exam, it was determined that he had several loose teeth and was in dire need of a dental cleaning. Dental issues are quite common among felines and it is important to keep up with your cat’s dental needs. You can learn more about the side effects of neglected dental work on page 8. After Francis’ teeth cleaning and extractions – which were able to be performed thanks to the Fisher Fund – he was feeling like himself again! While in our shelter, he proved himself to be a calm, gentle, and laid-back sort of guy who loved nothing more than just hanging out with human friends who would stop by to visit. We are happy to say that Francis found his perfect match in July when his new friend, Jordan, adopted him! Francis is now happily living in a home where he will enjoy the rest of his life. If you would like to learn more about the animals helped via the Fisher Fund, or would like to donate to help cover the medical needs of our animals, visit www.anticruelty.org. Fall 2014 Page 11 Knitters for Critters Gene rous volu nteer s are helpi ng the Society’s cats and dogs find happiness: One stitch at a time! K n it t e r s for Crit t e rs Photo: Meghan Coen Page 12 The Anti-Cruelty Society Knitters for Critters “By knitting for one of the critters at The SOCIETY, I send a little warmth and love...” The new Knitters for Critters program is a fun opportunity for crafty people who are looking to help a shelter pet. Using basic knitting or crochet skills, volunteers in this program create blankets, toys, and other enrichment items for cats and dogs – and all from the comfort of their own homes! Clara Orban, who joined the Knitters for Critters team in late 2013, has been busy this season, not only crafting blankets and toys for shelter pets, but also leading the way in recruiting other people in the community to take part. “I had been volunteering at other organizations for more than a decade, but had always been a big supporter of the Society. I wanted to start volunteering, but wasn’t sure where or how. When I discovered the sewing group, and heard that they were looking to start a knitting circle, I realized that would be a great way to begin volunteering. With Knitters for Critters, knitters can make something for cats or dogs from their own supplies. It’s a great way to enjoy crafting and make a cat or dog feel at home while waiting to be adopted. I love working on these projects; I think I’m up to my seventh dog blanket now. By knitting for one of the critters at The Anti-Cruelty Society, I send a little warmth and love to a furry friend.” The Knitters for Critters project is a great opportunity for groups or individuals looking for an easy way to impact a cat or dog’s stay at the shelter. If you’re interested in creating a set of items to donate to the shelter, would like to start your own Knitters for Critters group on our behalf, or have supplies like yarn and needles that you’d like to donate, get in touch with us! We have starter kits available as well as an ever-growing set of preapproved project instructions that we can send your way. Details about starting a project or group can be found on our website at www.anticruelty.org/ways-to-get-involved. Fall 2014 Page 13 Living the Shelter Life Living the Shelter Life The summer of 2014 was both exciting and busy at the Society. Our participation in the ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge inspired a number of new promotional endeavors and events that caught the public’s attention and helped save the lives of more animals than we adopted last summer. Fortunately, the Society got some help during this busy season from five enthusiastic and hard-working high school students who worked here as interns for 6 weeks thanks to a grant from After School Matters. In order to help them receive a well-rounded education about day-to-day life in an animal shelter – and to provide assistance to all of our busiest departments over the summer – the five interns were placed into three different positions. Carly, a senior at Jones College Prep, and Andrea, a junior at Lane Technical College Prep, worked in the shelter; Olivia, a recent graduate of Lincoln Park Page 14 The Anti-Cruelty Society High School, served as the Communications intern; and Kirstin, a senior at Nazareth Academy, and Lisa, a junior at Jones College Prep, lent their efforts to the Humane Education Department. Most of the interns had previous experience with the Society as participants in “Exploring The Link,” the anti-violence after school program for teenagers. These students initially joined the program because of their passion for animals, and that experience piqued their interest to continue to explore this line of work. “I applied for the internship because I really enjoyed the After School Program and was curious about what the staff members do at The Anti-Cruelty Society,” explained Lisa, who eventually wants to study veterinary medicine. Living the Shelter Life Adding to that sentiment, Carly expressed an eagerness for experience. “The Anti-Cruelty Society offered the opportunity to explore the inner workings of one of the largest and most renowned animal shelters I have ever come across. I have been volunteering with a different shelter for several years, but gaining another perspective of the shelter experience was very exciting to me,” she said. The students were motivated to apply for this internship for different reasons that are nearly as diverse as the many departments within The Anti-Cruelty Society. Carly plans on working with animals and is currently interested in pursuing a degree in animal science. On the other hand, Kirstin is interested in pursuing a career as a special education teacher, while Olivia is interested in getting experience working for a large-scale non-profit, as she intends to work for a human rights-focused organization after college. The interns also frequently worked together to complete projects that would benefit the entire shelter, such as a series of videos on kitten behavior or making crafts for the Society’s Star Wars Day promotion. In addition, they did a lot to help out in their respective departments. For example, Lisa and Kirsten, working in the Humane Education Department, saw themselves quickly promoted to not only assisting, but actually leading a significant number of the different off-site summer camp programs for youngsters of various ages. Reflecting on her first time leading one of those programs, Lisa said, “I felt very nervous, and it was reflected in my performance, seeing as the children reacted to whatever you put in. Put little in, get nothing out. Afterward our supervisor provided feedback on what we could have done and how to improve for next time. We also met another young lady who gave us tips, and after that I feel my presentation skills improved substantially. The knowledge and practice I gained in public speaking will always be helpful in both classroom and work settings.” As the Communications intern, Olivia wrote blogs for the Society’s website, and as shelter interns, Carly and Andrea were thrown right into the day-to-day realities of working with hundreds of cats and dogs, including occasionally having to clean “poopcovered laundry.” “Even though I had a lot of shelter experience coming into the program, the grand scale of The Anti-Cruelty Society’s operations brought to mind the proverb, ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’” said Carly. “In this case, however, it is not a child, but a cat, dog, or even a rabbit or guinea pig. Every person in the shelter contributes to every animal’s path to a new home. From the shelter personnel to the clinic staff, the maintenance crew to the public relations team, behavior and training staff to the dedicated volunteers, everyone plays a part. It’s very inspiring to watch that taking place, and I am grateful to have been a part of it.” The program gave the interns a chance to learn what it means to work in an animal shelter through invaluable real-life experiences that they would not have been exposed to otherwise. However, the interns also helped out all over the shelter during a very busy summer season – learning by actively assisting in work and projects – which was greatly appreciated by the staff. Not only did the Society get a few extra helping hands this summer, but we also got the chance to begin training the next generation of animal welfare advocates. Fall 2014 Page 15 Challenge: Accepted Challenge:D E T P E C C A Page 16 The Anti-Cruelty Society Challenge: Accepted It’s been quite the summer at The Anti-Cruelty Society. Our participation in the ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge has been both exhausting and exhilarating for all our staff and volunteers, who have been working tirelessly since June 1 to help us meet our goal of finding forever homes for more cats and dogs than we did last summer—a goal that we were able to surpass with flying colors. New Summer Looks at The Anti-Cruelty Society At the beginning of the summer, we introduced our mascots, Grand and LaSalle to the community. Their “marriage” on June 1 launched our first adoption promotion celebrating weddings. They have since been seen on the streets of Chicago promoting adoptions and voting during the Challenge. Beyond saving the lives of so many animals, a notable part of the Society’s participation in the Challenge has been the wide array of new events and promotional campaigns that we have undertaken in the last few months in order to drum up support and find homes for as many cats and dogs as possible. Of course, as tends to happen, some of these endeavors were more successful than others, but all of them were met with great excitement and enthusiasm from the Society’s staff and dedicated volunteers. Many of the new programs launched this summer will be continued after the Challenge. This includes our new Foster to Forever program, which gives long-term shelter residents the chance to live with volunteer foster families in order to meet potential adopters outside the shelter environment. Likewise, our Virtual Foster program will also continue, allowing social mediasavvy animal lovers from all over to “foster” a shelter cat or dog by sharing photos and information about the pet on their favorite social media sites. “Our 500+ volunteers truly went above and beyond this summer, helping with everything from special events and community outreach to dog walking and cat socialization. Our team of dedicated shelter helpers were key to our success,” said Lydia Krupinski, Director of Volunteer Services. Another big hit during the Challenge was the introduction of the “Adopt Me” vests that were put on Foster to Forever dogs and shelter dogs any time they were out and getting some exercise. These vests helped identify the dogs as available for adoption and were Fall 2014 Page 17 Challenge: Accepted especially handy in drawing attention to another new shelter initiative that will likely be sticking around (weather permitting): Puppy Parades! During the month of August, teams of staff and volunteers reached out to a wide array of local River North businesses to act as destination sites. Teams, along with adoptable dogs, would walk through the neighborhood and garner attention for all the great companion animals available back at the shelter. And finally, although it took some trial and error, the Society was able to find just the right promotions to bring people in the door and break all previous adoption records. Early in the summer our staff organized various off-site adoption events and coupon promotions (including offering a Groupon for half-off adoptions and handing out coupons at the Chicago PRIDE Parade) that returned less-than- Page 18 The Anti-Cruelty Society stellar results. However, on the weekend of July 11–13, the Society lowered the adoption fee for adult cats to just $1 in its “One for the Purrfect One” campaign. By the end of the weekend, 74 cats had found new homes. The success of the 1 dollar “CATpaign” inspired everyone to go one step further, and on August 22 and 23, every animal in the shelter had his or her adoption fee completely waived, although we still performed standard adoption screenings. It’s safe to say that although everyone was expecting it to be busy, no one was prepared for what happened. For two days straight, the shelter was completely crowded with potential adopters, staff members, and volunteers. By the end of the weekend (including Sunday, August 24), 157 cats and dogs (plus a few rats and guinea pigs) found new homes, compared to just 43 during the same weekend last year. Challenge: Accepted David Dinger, Vice President of Operations, had this to say about the event, “You just knew something wonderful was happening when, in spite of all the extra effort and hard work by everyone, there were giant smiles, high fives, and laughter all day long. It was truly exhilarating!” Howdy, Partner Outreach is another important part of what we do at The Anti-Cruelty Society, and the Challenge presented us with a great opportunity to take the initiative to reach out to local businesses and form new partnerships that can continue to grow long after the competition is over. The Humane Education Department – in conjunction with Volunteer Services – has hosted a number of corporate volunteer groups for one-day volunteer sessions, including Google, Allstate, and Salesforce, many of which have continued to help after their day of service by assisting the Society in getting out the vote on Facebook during the Challenge. For the Puppy Parades, the Society teamed with local businesses and organizations like MB Financial Bank on Ontario St., Chosen Model Management, and Open Books, using their locations as stopping points for the parade to allow their employees, as well as curious passers-by, to stop and meet the dogs while they rested. Going one step beyond that, Groupon actually allowed the Society to hold an adoption event right in the lobby of its office building on Chicago Ave. Needless to say, it’s certainly been a summer to remember here at The Anti-Cruelty Society. We tried to find many new ways to increase adoptions, most of which were successful. Of course, none of it would have been possible without the hard work and focus displayed by everyone involved, from shelter staff to volunteers to our many corporate partners, new and old. Although we won’t have the official contest results until October 7, we already feel like winners! The summer of 2014 will likely be looked upon as a significant time in the Society’s history, for all of the reasons outlined above, but most importantly, because we were able to find homes for so many animals and make a real, positive impact on our community. FOSTER TO FOREVER The Anti-Cruelty Society has developed the new Foster to Forever Program as an innovative way to find long-term animals their forever homes. This groundbreaking project, which was modeled on the ASPCA’s Adoption Ambassadors endeavor, empowers Society foster parents to recruit, screen, and adopt shelter pets straight from their care, creating a seamless transition between the foster and permanent family. Animals that enter the Foster to Forever program are 100% adoption-ready. Vaccinated, altered, and temperament assessed, these are cats and dogs who are already adoption-approved. All they need is a family or individual willing to house them while we work together to secure them a permanent home. Not only is the Foster to Forever program an inventive way to place available animals, it’s also a great opportunity for people interested in fostering who are not yet ready to make the leap into caring for sick or under-age pets. Foster to Forever volunteers are provided with medical and behavioral support directly through the Society, as well as a customized media package for each animal who enters their care. With posters, business cards, and a social media strategy created to help in each pet’s promotion, the foster caretakers have the support needed to successfully find an adoptive home for their current charge in 4 weeks or less. For more information about the Foster to Forever program, or the foster team, visit our website at www.anticruelty.org/ways-to-get-involved. Fall 2014 Page 19 Oldie but Goodie It takes a special person to adopt an elderly animal, and Patty Mills is a wonderful example of such a person. Page 20 The Anti-Cruelty Society Thousands of animals come through the doors of The Anti-Cruelty Society each year. Since we are open-admission and take in any animal in need, we greet a wide variety of animals that arrive at different stages of their lives. We encounter healthy animals, sick animals, very young animals, energetic animals, shy animals, and elderly animals. Our job is to rehabilitate these cats and dogs – behaviorally and medically – in order to prepare them for adoption. Many times, elderly animals (older than 7 years) will spend a longer time in our shelter waiting for their forever homes, simply because they are not spry young pups or kittens. The truth is that elderly animals make some of the best companions. Although we may not know our older animals’ history, our focus remains on their futures and where they can live the rest of their lives. It takes a special person to adopt an elderly animal, and Patty Mills is a wonderful example of such a person. And Oliver, an 8-year-old Labrador retriever mix, is a perfect example of why elderly animals make great companions. Photos: Emily Dullum Oldie but Goodie Oldie but Goodie Oliver was transferred to the Society in October of 2013 via the PetSmart Charities® Rescue Waggin’®. He came from a Tennessee shelter with minimal information regarding his history. All that we could tell was that he was a sweet, mild-mannered dog who loved to lean on humans for attention. Upon his arrival, Oliver was examined by one our veterinarians. It was determined that he had arthritis and significant enamel wear on almost all his teeth. In order to alleviate his pain and prepare Oliver for adoption, our medical team removed ten of his teeth. A couple weeks after Oliver healed from surgery, Patty, a human resources director at The Fountains at Crystal Lake senior community, came to the Society wanting to adopt a dog that she could take to work with her every day. This dog had to be special, because he would be in charge of bringing a smile to the faces of the community’s senior residents. As a senior dog himself, Oliver fit the bill perfectly! Each day, Oliver arrives with Patty at the retirement home and picks up the treats that three of the residents leave for him outside their doors. He then goes and sits with Patty as she does her daily duties up until lunch, when he gets to walk around and say hello to everyone. He even provides inspiration for the residents who are a part of the community’s Knitters for Critters club (read more about that on page 12)! One big job for Oliver is going into the Alzheimer’s wing. Many times, his presence has inspired emotional reactions in people, and it is said that he tends to bring out the best in those suffering from the disease. When he is able to get certain people who would otherwise stay quiet to open up and talk, it makes everyone understand and appreciate why Oliver has become a permanent resident at The Fountains. The impact that animals have on the human spirit is truly inspiring, and Oliver has the pleasure of making an impact on people each and every day. As a senior dog with many health issues, we know that Oliver had a rough upbringing. We thank Patty for opening her heart and home to a very special senior animal in need. In the ten short months that she has had him, he has touched so many people in this world! To see all of our animals available for adoption, from puppies to seniors, visit our website at www.anticruelty.org. Fall 2014 Page 21 Thank You Thank You for Supporting The Anti-Cruelty Society We want to say thank you to our wonderful donors for generously supporting The Anti-Cruelty Society. We are so fortunate to have each and every one of you as partners in our important work. You belong to a strong, committed group of individuals, corporations, and foundations that choose to make gifts to support our animals and programs on an annual basis. Your generosity contributes greatly to our ability to cover our expenses, which totals more than $7.1 million for this year. There is no question that The Anti-Cruelty Society has outstanding support from the community! We were curious about why you contribute to us, so we asked that question in a recent survey. Here’s what we discovered: • You care about and love animals and want to help them find loving homes. Page 22 The Anti-Cruelty Society • You want to help reduce animal overpopulation. • You like to keep your contributions in your community. • You trust that the Society uses your gifts effectively. • You support the fact that no animal is ever turned away. • You appreciate the active role the Society plays in the community. • You were previous adopters or employees. Many of you shared personal stories about how the Society impacted you, including one person who surrendered a cat 40 years ago and contributes now in order to help others faced with similar situations. Thank You Without your support, we simply would not be able to do the important work that we do! Your gifts make it possible for us to serve more than 50,000 animals and families annually through adoption services, humane education and community outreach programs, our low income veterinary clinic, affordable spay/ neuter services, and cruelty investigations and rescue. Your gifts also support the trainers and behaviorists who work with our shelter animals, operate a free behavior hotline for concerned pet owners, and oversee the SAFE (Short-Term Accommodations for Emergencies) program for pet owners in crisis situations who are in need of short term support. As a comprehensive animal welfare organization, The Anti-Cruelty Society meets the needs, and often exceeds the expectations, of both the animals and people in the Chicago community. We are so much more than just a shelter. With your partnership, we are able to provide much needed support for our animals awaiting their forever homes, and have a positive impact on the people who adopt them, including animals like Hunter and Kat, whose stories are featured on this page. Hunter Alexia shared her story about adopting Hunter from The Anti-Cruelty Society. “Earlier this summer, I decided I wanted to rescue a dog. I’ve suffered from OCD my whole life, and now that I’m 24 and have just purchased my first home, I thought a dog would help me. I ended up rescuing a 13-week-old shepherd mix from the Society. Hunter has made such a wonderful impact on my life, and my OCD and anxiety have reduced tremendously. We are doing puppy training classes and puppy play dates, and he has made me so happy. Never did I think a dog could save me.” Kat In closing, we would once again like to express our sincere gratitude for your support. Thank you so much for: • Taking the time to open, read, and respond to the cards and letters that we send to share our latest stories. • Attending an event, hosting a supply drive, and all of the other ways you support us. • Your generosity and for each gift you make, as we know these gifts come from your heart. • Supporting our mission. • And most of all, for caring for our animals and helping us find their forever homes. We look forward to our continued partnership over the coming years. If you have any questions, or would like further information about The Anti-Cruelty Society, please contact the Development Department at (312) 645-8036. Kat is a beautiful 6-year-old who was surrendered to The Anti-Cruelty Society when her owners moved and could not keep her. After being at the shelter for several months, we noticed that Kat was declining in sociability, not eating, and beginning to lose weight. These signs indicated that the stress of the shelter was affecting her well-being, so she was chosen for a vacation from the shelter and went to a foster home. Kat made incredible strides and really blossomed in her new environment. Her appetite improved dramatically, and she began to gain weight. Her foster parents learned that Kat loves to play with dangly toys, chasing the toys and happily rolling around the floor with them. She also enjoys catnip nibblers, and chewing on them keeps her content for quite some time. We’re pleased to share that Kat’s story has a happy ending. After spending time with her foster family, they fell in love with her and kept her as their very own cat. These are known as “foster failures,” and we think they’re great! Thanks to your support, Kat, Hunter, and thousands of other cats and dogs are able to get the extra special care they so deserve while they wait to be adopted. Fall 2014 Page 23 We are The Anti-Cruelty Society The Anti-Cruelty Society is a community of businesses, classrooms, partner organizations, families, and individuals who actively care for the welfare of animals. We are a community of caring. We want to celebrate this community through the stories told by you. Please tell us how the Society has impacted YOUR life. Please share your stories and photos with us at: [email protected]
