WAGGING TALES - Charleston Animal Society

WAGGING TALES
News, Events & Happy Stories for Staff & Volunteers of Charleston Animal Society
AROUND TOWN
2016 APHE National Humane Education Conference
By: Winkie Welborn
The 2016 Association of
Professional Humane Educators
(APHE) National Conference was
hosted in our beautiful city
February 24-26, 2016. Our very
own De Daltorio, Sr. Dir. of HumEd)
was instrumental in the location
selection, conference planning, scheduling activities for attendees, and
hosting many of our out of town guests at the shelter and around town. The
conference allowed APHE members three days of professional networking
and presentations that enhance humane education programs.
The conference line-up included
informative speakers and valuable
presentations. When asked about
their favorite part of the conference,
everyone had the same response:
“Networking with other humane
educators and hanging out with
Charleston Animal Society folks.”
That’s right; there was even time for some fun with a Kick-Off Mixer at the
Charleston Animal Society, dinner and an auction at one of Charleston’s finer
restaurants, and then topping it all off with our Board President, Elizabeth
Bradham, hosting a complimentary cocktail party on Friday at her historic
home in downtown Charleston!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday, April 2nd:
The Premiere, Charleston Animal
Society’s Signature Event at the Gaillard
Sunday, April 3rd:
Lowcountry Cajun Festival @ James
Island County Park
Wednesday, April 6th:
J CREW Mercantile Grand Opening @
1130 Bowman Rd, Mt. Pl. 11AM – 3PM.
Saturday, April 9th:
Food Truck Rodeo @ Berlin’s Restaurant
Supply. 10AM – 3PM.
Sunday, April 10th:
Sesame Burgers 10th Anniv. Party @ 3727
Spruill Ave, N Chas. 12:30 – 5PM.
&
Alex and Ani Charmed by Charity @ 346
King Street, Downtown. 1 – 3PM.
Saturday, April 16th:
Lowcountry Family Field Day & Oyster
Roast @ Hanahan Rec Ctr. 9AM – 2PM.
&
Monster Music Record Store Day @ 946
Orleans Rd, Charleston. 11AM – 4PM.
&
Johns Island Farmers Mkt. 10AM – 2PM.
Sunday, April 17th:
Bees Ferry Veterinary Hospital “Pause for
Paws”. 1 – 4PM.
Saturday, April 23rd:
Barks for Bridgestone @ Firestone
Complete Auto Care. 11AM – 4PM.
Saturday, April 30th:
Lowcountry Family Field Day & Oyster
Roast @ West Ashley Middle School.
9AM – 2PM.
Sunday, May 1st:
Puppy/Kitten Shower @ CAS’ shelter.
Tuesday, May 3rd:
Lowcountry Giving Day, virtual
fundraiser.
Congratulations to De, the Humane Education Department, and the entire staff of Charleston Animal Society!
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By: Elizabeth Warner
The 142nd Annual Meeting was held in The Cedar Room at the Cigar Factory in downtown Charleston. A near
capacity audience of donors, volunteers, and staff celebrated the ongoing success, including a third year
recognition as the Most Honored Charity in
South Carolina.
The evening’s committee chair, SarahHamlin Hastings, introduced the theme of
‘Overcoming the Odds’ by sharing a
personal story of her own family pet
surviving being struck by a car.
She expressed her gratitude for Charleston
Animal Society’s hard work and extended
her thanks to all of the staff, supporters, and volunteers who ‘truly believe in us.’
Left: Deborah Chalsty
moved from California
and was stunned at the
level of commitment in
our community and
Charleston Animal
Society toward animal
welfare. She has
generously invested in the
Free Roaming Cat
Initiative.
Above :President Elizabeth Bradham
alongside Committee Chair, Sarah-Hamlin Hastings,
and Helen Pratt-Thomas (Vice President)
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Board President, Elizabeth Bradham, described the unique relationship animals and humans share, from the
beginnings of a nomadic society through agrarian communities, to modern day households. The value has
expanded to critical work in natural disasters, medical breakthroughs, and detecting drugs and explosives. In
this manner, humans have benefitted from their extended lifespans in such areas; however, the greatest risk
factor to a pet’s mortality is homelessness. What the animal society does in return is try to alleviate this threat
to animals by connecting the community with spay/neuter services and outreach. She went on to recognize
four significant donors to Charleston Animal Society this year: Deborah Chalsty, the estate of Amber Doyle,
and Laurel and Hank Greer (in honor of their beloved cat: Sam Greer.)
Below: Laurel and Hank Greer spoke of their commitment to help Charleston Animal Society in honor of their beloved cat ‘Sam Greer’ who
brought immeasurable companionship to their lives.
Following recognitions, the very touching story of Steve Hall was shared.
Steve had been honorably discharged from the Marine Corps after receiving
three purple hearts. However, he suffered from PTSD and had nightmares
to such a degree to render him disabled. Aldwin Roman, Dir. of Anti-Cruelty
& Outreach, had initially worked with the family through a referral from
180 Place. The Pets and Vets program was relatively new at 180 Place, but
the Hall family ultimately had gotten their dog ‘Scout’ spayed through CAS.
Steve’s relationship with this four legged companion banished his ‘demons’
and he began to heal from his military scars.
In a bizarre turn of events, Scout developed a chronic fungal disease last fall during the terrible flooding in our
region, and the family turned to Charleston Animal Society for help. Sadly, despite significant efforts, Scout
succumbed to the antifungal resistance disease and Steve began to spiral down again. Desperate, Steve’s wife,
Stephanie, communicated with our Outreach Specialist, Kristin Kifer, in December and shared her fears with
her. Steve had begun having flashbacks and panic attacks again. Kristin scoured the shelter and other rescue
organizations for a ‘successor’ to Scout. It seemed that no one had any German shepherd pups. One day a
mangy, nearly hairless puppy came to the shelter. Kristin had found the miracle. The pup (now named
Kimber), once treated for the skin infection, was discovered to be a German shepherd, and she soon became
Steve’s link to healing his spirits. Steve and his family, ‘Kimber’ included, celebrated with Kristin and
Charleston Animal Society for another incredible success to add to our history.
‘Kimber’ presents her new family: Stephanie and Steve Hall and their daughter. Joined by Kristen Kifer who coordinated the adoption.
CEO, Joe Elmore, shared the outcomes from 2015’s events, the
stunning number of services provided to the community, the
effect of responding to opportunities for triage, legislative efforts,
outreach, and serving as educators for the humane treatment of
animals. He also expressed that the growth of Charleston Animal
Society has allowed us to partner in crises across the Southeast
including flooded shelters and hoarding cases. Rawle Murdy was
thanked for pledging their services to public relations.
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Joe commended the dedicated service of many staff members including Dr. Elizabeth Fuller, who left her baby
and husband the day after Christmas to tend to equine emergencies. (Additionally, Dr. Fuller has been named
to the South Carolina Board of Veterinarians). As a final note, the community was encouraged to get involved
in the upcoming expanded mission of No Kill, No Harm, No More.
Next in the program was the Community Ambassador Award. This year, the award was presented to
Veterinary Specialty Care, LLC. Dr. Bianucci, while accepting the award, recalled meeting Kay Hyman of
Charleston Animal Society many years prior for his early Saturday morning radio show. He told of how she
always appeared, giving up weekend time consistently, to promote the love of each weekly featured pet and
to encourage the public to come make a lifetime friend through a shelter adoption. This dedication compelled
him to recognize that in his practice “we often see owned animals, but to us at Veterinary Specialty Care and
Charleston Animal Society: they all matter”.
Veterinary Specialty Care has partnered with Charleston Animal Society countless times over the years,
treating homeless animals at a fraction of the true cost of their medical, surgical, and recovery expenses. A
very familiar example was the tragic case of ‘Caitlyn’ whose owner had left her for days with electrical tape
wrapped tightly around her muzzle. The horrific wounds had been captured in a heartbreaking photograph,
and the story went viral. Followers from around the world shared in our outrage and hope while the
treatment and healing process was facilitated by Drs. Bianucci and Jameson.
To end the program, featured guest speaker, Rebecca Wesson Darwin of Garden & Gun magazine was chosen
for her dedication to taking risks for her passion about the South. She told of similarities between her vision
for her magazine, its readers, and the mission of Charleston Animal Society and its community. Both show
dedication, sensitivity, and achievement against conventional longshot odds for success. Rebecca heralded the
rising of a new south in which consciousness, and beauty, and creativity rise to the surface. The community is
reflected in accomplishments ranging from her beautifully written, photographed magazine to the efforts of
this successful animal welfare organization.
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Featured presenter, Rebecca Wesson Darwin (Garden and Gun magazine), spoke to the parallels of ‘predicted failure’ of her magazine with the
‘predicted failure’ of Charleston Animal Society’s ability to succeed with its No Kill
Community goal.
Below: Hat Ladies of Charleston volunteered time distributing programs for the Meeting’s
presentations.
LOOKING FOR LOVE
By: Morgan Sneed
Lola is a pretty young girl who’s ready for a home to call her own! With beautiful golden eyes and a lightly
spotted white coat she would make a striking companion for anyone. Lola’s appearance is not her only unique
feature; she’s deaf as well which makes her even more special. Her lack of hearing definitely doesn’t slow her
down; coming from life as a stray she’s had quite an adventure so far. Estimated to be around two or three
years of age, Lola’s just waiting to share her life with her forever human, whether that be on a hiking trail,
trips to dog parks, or just a wonderful romp in the backyard.
Lola’s story has included some sad moments too, having been with
Charleston Animal Society since December, she’s been returned a couple of
times from would-be adopters through no fault of her own. Lola will have to
be trained with more visual gestures since she won’t be able to pick up the
sound of her human’s voice (even spray bottles could be helpful to
discourage unwanted behaviors). She can get a bit excited around her twofooted friends, so the ideal home for Lola would include no small children.
She does love to play rough with some of her big dog friends, but she’s still
not fond of sharing, so being an only dog would probably suit her well.
Lola’s hoping to find that patient family who will teach her how to be the
best dog she can be, and to finally give her the chance she yearns for.
Lola doesn’t let her situation get her down. She spends loads of time playing with toys while she’s been with
Charleston Animal Society and has a great time entertaining herself while she waits. Her favorite place in the
world is outside, making sure to relish in sniffing every blade of grass when she gets her walk time! And
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there’s nothing better than finding a good stick to gnaw on once she’s had a bit of exercise. She’s waiting
patiently for the day she gets adopted and can just feel it coming soon! If you have a hankering for a little
adventure and would love a girl that doesn’t mind getting down and dirty, please stop by and check this sweet
lady out; you won’t be disappointed!
HOMEWARD BOUND
FROM FACEBOOK TO STORYBOOK
By: Elizabeth Warner
In 2015, the family of Gracie Russell and Ben Walters lost two aging rescue dogs. It was a tough experience
especially for their two children who were in elementary school when they acquired both of the young dogs.
Back in January, despite not looking for a new friend so soon, Gracie happened to see a post about foster dog
‘Natasha’ on Trish Elsie’s Facebook page. The name was reminiscent of the old cartoon Bullwinkle and caught
Gracie’s attention. The more she read about the plight of this dog that was waiting to be adopted, the more
she wanted to meet her. It took all of five minutes, and even reluctant Ben, was swept away by the affections
of this near stranger of a dog. In fact, the 5 year old brindle Staffie mix seemed to sense the doubt in Ben and
she climbed right up on his lap. ‘Natasha’ became ‘Jessamine’ or ‘Jessie’ for short. Ben selected the named
‘Jessamine’ for the Carolina vine that is a perennial bloomer of the south.
Courtney Gumienny, adoption specialist, worked with Gracie and Ben to
complete the adoption process. A medical evaluation at the shelter
revealed that Jessie needed heartworm treatment. Once home, things
became somewhat worrisome, however. Jessie’s mammary glands began
showing signs of potential disease, possibly cancer. A week later,
Charleston Animal Society covered an initial surgery which thankfully
revealed no cancerous nature to the lumps. Two weeks later, the second
surgery for the remaining glands proved successful. All paid for through
the generous support given to Toby’s Fund.
Now in early March, Jessie has been able to resume her lively role in the family demonstrating her personal
two-foot happy dance. Sara continues to teach Jessie (a quick study) some new tricks. And, Jessie is living the
fairy tale life.
Jessie is pictured below as Little Red Riding Hood
And, everyone lived happily ever after.
The End (or beginning actually) 
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WHO’S WHO?
By: Mary Beth Dew
MEET “CHARLIE”: A Spay/Neuter Lifeguard Volunteer
When “Charlie” McCurdy and her husband are not at home enjoying their three dogs, two of which were
adopted from Charleston Animal Society, she can be found doing a variety of activities for Charleston Animal
Society. She enjoys animals with fur (no reptiles, please), honing her skills as a volunteer in the spay/neuter
clinic every week, and cooking.
It all started about a year and a half ago, when Charlie’s experience
working in the medical field for an oral surgeon helped her decide to
take her husband’s advice and fill a need at Charleston Animal Society.
Once lifeguarding was described to her, she knew this was her
opportunity to help give back to the community’s animals in a way she
would enjoy. Little did Charlie know she would become a part of the
spay/neuter clinic’s family as she often thinks of the veterinarians and
the techs as her “kids”. She admires their focus and appreciates
everything they have taught her about animal lifeguarding and other
skills. She had the opportunity to learn how to properly clean an
animal’s ears, what it means when you see eye darting in recovery, etc.
Charlie also appreciates the extra things she can contribute such as
doing more than “sitting on the beach”, which is a phrase used to
describe watching over the animals coming out of surgery. She takes
pleasure in helping with tasks they allow a volunteer to do such as scrubbing instruments.
Charlie believes that lifeguarding for Charleston Animal Society is a match made in heaven because everything
about the organization and staff brings her great joy.
She loves taking care of her extended shelter family and is known for bringing them wonderful goodies such as
deviled eggs, “bacon crack”, and peanut butter chocolate banana cake to name a few. Why some may ask?
Charlie says it best, “It makes me smile whenever I see the staff smile.”
Charlie looks forward to every Wednesday and the occasional Cat Blitz when she sees her “kids” and all of
God’s creatures who need her loving care.
*Charlie was recently nominated as a Shelter Hero in the Hill’s Pet Nutrition contest for her exceptional
dedication to volunteering. There will be (5) winners from the top (10) finalists, who will receive a $10,000
donation to the participating shelter (Charleston Animal Society!). Paws crossed folks!!
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RELATIONSHIPS MATTER
Pets for Life-Relationships Matter
(The I in this article is our own Aldwin Roman)
I met Julius Strong last year after he had called animal control because he wanted to surrender his dog, Poppy.
As an animal welfare worker, it is always hard to hear that someone wants or needs to give up their animal.
Sadly, the majority of cases are due to owners who are either uneducated on proper animal care and/or just
don’t care enough. Sometimes we inadvertently cast pre-judgments because sadly, judging people comes
naturally and sometimes it is how people cope with the terrible things that they see day in day out. My
reaction to hearing that Julius wanted to give up his dog wasn't all that different. My mind still jumped to the
conclusion that this person isn't willing to make a commitment to his pet. I can't stop my mind from doing this
initially, but I can reserve judgment long enough to listen to the reasoning behind the decision. And that's
what Pets for Life is about, everyone is allowed to form opinions, but you simply don't judge until you have
heard everything and put yourself in that person's shoes. It’s about practicing true empathy.
Why did Julius want to give up his dog Poppy? It was simple for Julius; he felt that his dog was suffering and
he could not afford the veterinary care needed to relieve that suffering. Poppy was his buddy, his canine
kindred spirit, and he actually couldn't bear the thought of not having him around. But he felt responsible for
making sure his buddy was healthy and happy so he decided to make the hard decision of letting him go so he
could get the care he needed. When I met Poppy at the Julius's home in the Accabee Neighborhood of North
Charleston, the first thing I noticed was that he wasn't neutered. But again, I dug deeper into the relationship
between Julius and Poppy and found out that he had taken Poppy to our Spay/Neuter Clinic years ago but the
surgery was denied because Poppy has a scrotal hernia which makes surgery more complicated. As years
went on, Poppy had developed a skin condition that caused him to lose his hair and also get bad ear
infections. Julius could do nothing to help Poppy. He was elderly, lived on a fixed income, and could barely
afford the office visit never mind what it would cost to treat his condition.
So here I stood in the middle of a neighborhood in North Charleston with Julius and his dog, trying to think of a
way to keep this pair together. I told Julius about our Pets for Life program, about how we offer vet services
to families and their pets to help keep them in their home and to help make our neighborhoods healthier and
safer. I asked him if I could help him with Poppy's health would he want to keep him. His eyes got bigger and
he put on a big smile, and you could see the relief he felt from hearing that. He would get to keep his buddy
and get help for him. Best news ever for Julius and Poppy.
First things first, we were going to get Poppy an appointment to get neutered and have the scrotal hernia
fixed. One of the requirements for Pets for Life is getting your pet spayed or neutered. Poppy's veterinary
exam revealed that this would not be possible. On top of the scrotal hernia and skin issues, Poppy had
something going on with his lungs, possible lung cancer, which made him a less than ideal candidate for
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surgery. Julius wasn't breeding Poppy, nor did he have any intention to do so, so I decided to go ahead and
help treat the other problems without having to have Poppy neutered.
I see Poppy at least once a month for some reason or another. Poppy is kind of a happy little mess that always
has some flare up of his skin and ear problems. Turns out his owner, Julius, is also in and out of the hospital
for health issues as well. After 6 months, I really see why these two are such a pair and I’m glad I was able to
cast those initial thoughts aside to take the time to really know their story.
Julius admits it himself, both him and Poppy are an odd combination of medical chaos, but that's part of what
makes them so close. They are both just trying to get by, leaning on each other for support.
Pets for Life helped keep this pair together – Relationships Matter!
**See the next couple of pages for some great snapshots from around Charleston and
the shelter, showcasing some of the amazing work you all are a huge part of… All of
us at Charleston Animal Society thank you for your part in saving lives!!
Issue 12 – 03.21.2016
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SNAPSHOTS
By: Mary Beth Dew
Volunteer (Leanne) with adoptable dog, Riley, in the Post & Courier play yard.
MORE PHOTOS FROM CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY’S ANNUAL MEETING
Aldwin & Kristin-what a team!
Just look at those smiles!
Issue 12 – 03.21.2016
“Family”
Hi Jodi!!!
Page 10 of 12
Lookin’ sharp!
KITTEN ROOM LOVE
New momma & babies
ROCKIN' PET ADOPTION EVENT AT VINYL COUNTDOWN
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Shaving J WOW (Hum Ed’s rabbit)
Beautiful Cat waiting to get to the adoption floor (Cat Kennel 800)
.
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