The Scoop - Spartanburg Humane Society

The Scoop
at the
Winter 2011
Inside
This Issue:
2010 The Year of the Cat
in review...p2
A special angel tree
from Beech Springs
Intermediate School...p7
Samson Gambrell:
A therapeutic
happy tail...p8
And More!
A survivor!
Nick came to us starved, weighing half his
ideal weight. Thanks to some TLC from our staff
and the help of our new Anti-Cruelty program,
he has a new “leash” on life...p3
Mark your calendar:
Camp Love-A-Pet is back with
sessions beginning on June 6th!
photo credit: K. Freseman
Board of Directors
From the President: Sandy Christiansen
Joe Brunson
Chair
Robert V. Pinson Past Chair
Brooks Crenshaw Treasurer
Susan Britt
Secretary
Ann Dennis
Keenan Mullen
Kimberly Fly
Dixie Pinson
Harry Schoen, III
Jim Grier
Pam Howard
Darwin Simpson
John Tatham
Ruth Knight
Francie Little
protecting animals from abuse,
exploitation, and neglect, to
understand my joy and pride
over this accomplishment. As
you read all about the new
department in the following
pages, I hope you will share the
excitement felt by all of us who
work on behalf of animals.
Management Staff
Sandy Christiansen
President & CEO
Lisa Cook
Vice President of Operations
Natalie DiGiacomo
Vice President of Community
Programs
Dr. Melissa Elledge
Vice President of
Veterinary Services
Dr. Dana Miller
Vice President of
Anti-Cruelty Initiatives
Dr. Donovan Qualls
Associate
Veterinarian
Kaye Cox
Finance Manager
Amy Freeman
Volunteer
Coordinator
Katie Freseman
Communications
Director
Sarah Hatfield
Behavior
and Training
Coordinator
Ingrid Norris
Humane
Education
Coordinator
Kelly Stockwell
Shelter Manager
Sandra Adorno
Assistant Shelter
Manager
Wayne Blackburn
Assistant Shelter
Manager
Hours of Operation
Shelter Adoption Hours
Monday - Friday 11 am - 6 pm
Saturday - Sunday 11 am - 5 pm
Receiving and Lost and Found
Monday - Friday 8 am - 6 pm
Saturday 8 am - 5 pm
Visit Adoptable SHS Cats & Kittens!
PetSmart Adoption Hours
Monday - Wednesday 11 am - 5 pm
Saturday 11 am - 5 pm
PETCO Adoption Hours
Monday - Saturday 9 am - 9 pm
Sunday 10 am - 7 pm
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D. Bellows
Happy New Year, friends! It
is an exciting time at the
Spartanburg Humane Society
as we look forward to the
promise of 2011.
A sincere thank you is in order
for helping us to celebrate our
feline friends throughout the
Year of the Cat. We wanted to
remind our community about
the needs of cats and kittens
and the many services available
to support them. In turn, you
reminded us that while cats may
face many challenges from overpopulation, they also have many
fans who cherish them and who
want to take part in improving
their lives and their futures.
The Year of the Cat may have
ended, but our commitment
to cats has not! As our sendoff
to 2010, we reduced cat and
kitten adoption prices from $74
to $49 in 2011, without any
reduction in services! We plan
to build upon the momentum
of 2010 to reach more cats than
ever with our services. You can
count on more updates that
will bring good news for cats in
our community.
While we turned the spotlight
on our efforts for cats, we did
not relax our work on behalf
of other animals in need. In
fact, 2010 saw the birth of the
SHS Anti-Cruelty Initiatives
Department.
You probably
don’t need to be familiar with
my background in cruelty
investigation, or my passion for
Nick, the cover dog you will
read about in this issue is one of
the first animals helped by our
department. The knowledge
that there are more animals
who are suffering, some from
even greater cruelty, is tragic.
But, I am heartened to know
that the SHS will now be able
to offer our community new
resources for the relief and
protection of animals.
All of our new efforts supplement those you have already
come to rely on from the
SHS team. As we reached
out into our community with
humane education programs,
low cost veterinary services,
and classes at our Good Dog
Academy, we worked daily to
meet the needs of animals in
our care. In 2010, SHS staff
provided shelter for more than
18,000 stray and unwanted
pets, tending to their medical
and behavioral needs while
keeping their temporary home
clean and comfortable. Each
and every animal was treated
with respect and compassion.
As you rely on the SHS, we
rely on you, our friends,
volunteers, and supporters.
You are critical to our ongoing
success and to our growth. As
the SHS accomplishes more
for animals, we will depend
on your generosity more than
ever. Only together can we
make each year brighter, safer,
and happier for animals. Thank
you for all you do to make our
work possible. Here’s to an
extraordinary 2011!
In Review
We cannot possibly chronicle
every moment inspired by the
Year of the Cat, but we can
certainly hit the highlights. . .
* We neutered 248 male
cats at our neuterathon!
* After receiving a generous
grant
from
PetSmart
Charities®, we declared
our goal of spaying and
neutering 2,010 Spartanburg
County felines. We expect
to realize this goal by the
time you read this issue of
The Scoop.
* You showed us enthusiastic
support for our May Kitten
Shower, gifting us with more
than 250 pounds of kitten
chow, 400 cans of wet kitten
food, 100 pounds of litter,
and many toys and goodies
for our kittens.
* All three $20.10 adoption
specials were a hit, leading to
a 37% increase in new homes
for cats compared to 2009.
* We held our first ever video
contest and were treated to
12 entries that showed the
joy, laughter, beauty, and
companionship cats bring to
their families.
* In December, we said
goodbye to YOTC in style,
challenging students from
8 schools to a kitty condo
decorating contest.
YOTC was only successful
because of our community’s
involvement. Stay tuned for
more ways you can help the
SHS celebrate cats.
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Introducing the SHS Anti-Cruelty Initiatives Department
a cruelty conviction for the
dog’s former owners. Nick
now belonged to the SHS
where his health continued
to improve.
D. Miller
SHS staff member Jamie Cartee works with Nick just one
week after he arrived at the SHS.
Confronting Cruelty & Neglect
The SHS has always provided
shelter and care for victims
of abuse and neglect, but
it has long been our goal to
take a more proactive role in
fighting animal cruelty. We
are proud to announce that
this goal has been realized!
In September, veterinarian
Dana Miller accepted the
role of Vice President of
Anti-Cruelty Initiatives at
the SHS.
The SHS team immediately
set to work laying the
groundwork for a multifaceted approach to confronting cruelty. SHS Anti-Cruelty
Initiatives will supplement
and enhance existing efforts
to investigate and resolve
cases of cruelty and neglect
in Spartanburg County, while
working to strengthen local
and state animal protection
laws. We were still building
our program in October when
we met Nick – one of the first
animals who would benefit
from the services of our new
department.
Helping Nick
Except for his amazing spirit,
Nick, the handsome boxer
you see on the front cover
of The Scoop, is almost
unrecognizable from the
dog we met in early October.
When Nick first came to the
SHS, his emaciated body
weighed just 22 pounds.
Sadder still, Nick was not a
stray dog. He had not been
wandering the streets in
search of food. Nick was
someone’s “pet,” chained in
a back yard without access
to food or water.
After three months in our
care, Nick weighed 46
pounds and was healthy
enough to find a permanent,
loving home. Nick wiggled
and bounced as he said
goodbye to his friends at
the SHS, before he climbed
into the car with his new
adoptive family. There was
a lot of excitement in the air,
as much for Nick as for the
new promise of a brighter
future for all animals in our
community.
Helping Others Investigation of Animal
Cruelty
Complaints
in
Spartanburg County
Sadly, Nick’s is not a unique
case. There are many other
animals in our community
who are suffering from
neglect
or
who
are
victimized by cruel acts.
K. Freseman
Dr. Miller saying goodbye to Nick
before he went to his new home.
Meet Dr. Dana Miller
Well before Dr. Dana Miller graduated
from the Virginia Maryland Regional
College of Veterinary Medicine at
Virginia Tech, she knew that she would
not follow the path of traditional
veterinarians. Her early experiences
working in animal shelters, animal
hospitals, and wildlife rehabilitation
centers both confirmed her love of
medicine and exposed her to the range
of its applications outside of clinical
practice. At Virginia Tech she was able
to pursue her passion for conservation,
public policy, and animal law while
earning her DVM.
While we waited for Nick’s
owners to be brought to trial,
SHS staff began the work of
returning our new friend
to a healthy weight. This
required feeding multiple
small meals each day while
treating his nutrient-stealing
intestinal parasites. We also
provided Nick with all the
TLC he could handle.
Currently, animal cruelty
complaints are investigated
by animal control officers.
Given
the
size
and
population of Spartanburg
County, the number and
complexity of calls can often
overwhelm officials’ ability
to adequately respond to
and resolve complaints.
People accused of cruelty
and neglect often give up
their animals, sometimes
pay a small fine, and then
start the cycle over.
After graduation, Dr. Miller worked
briefly in private practice before
joining the Virginia Department of
Agriculture. Working with animal
control agencies to investigate animal
cruelty and neglect ultimately became
the focus of her tenure. She worked
on a wide variety of cases including
puppy mills, animal hoarding, animal
fighting, severe neglect, and brutal
cases of animal cruelty. In addition to
providing technical guidance during
investigations, she also worked closely
with attorneys, serving as an expert
witness during the prosecution of
criminal cases.
By the time Nick’s case went
to court, he had already
gained back half of his
original body weight and
won the hearts of everyone
who cared for him. Dr. Miller
provided expert testimony
that helped Spartanburg
County Animal Control win
The SHS plans to supplement
the efforts of city and county
animal control officers by
assisting with cases in which
we can have the greatest
impact. With her expertise
in veterinary medicine,
forensics, crime scene
continued on page 6
Here at the SHS, Dr. Miller continues
to develop her expertise in veterinary
forensics, using veterinary medicine
and related scienctific disciplines to
help solve crimes involving animals.
All of us at the SHS are excited that Dr.
Miller decided to add her education,
experience, passion, and dedication to
our efforts on behalf of animals.
3
Volunteer Spotlight: Anne Marie Bell
In December of 2009, Anne
Marie created “Christmas for
Kitties,” which has become
a new holiday tradition.
Starting in mid-December, she
purchases small Christmas
stockings, fills them with a toy
and treats, and lovingly places
them on the front of each
cage. The stockings are sent
home with adopters. Kitties
who spend their Christmas
Eve at the SHS get to open
their gifts with their best pal,
Anne Marie.
N. DiGiacomo
Anne Marie works with the cats and kittens waiting for their
forever homes at least 4 days a week!
Have a question about one of
our adoptable cats or kittens
at the shelter? Do they like to
be held? Brushed? Are they
quiet or talkative? To find
out answers to those types
of questions you just need
to ask our feline enrichment
volunteer Anne Marie Bell.
Anne Marie has been a
volunteer at the SHS since
June 2009, specializing in
providing loving care to each
kitty on our adoption floor.
She volunteers an average
of 25 hours a week providing
enrichment to each and
every cat and kitten! Rain or
shine, we can always count
on Anne Marie to brighten
the day of our feline friends
on the adoption floor.
Each furry feline holds a very
special place in her heart
and they all seem to know
the sound of her comforting
voice. She spends her time
at the shelter getting to know
each and every cat’s unique
personality and traits.
When Anne Marie isn’t
visiting with cats and kittens,
you will find her helping SHS
staff members take pictures
and videos for our website.
She even helps out with
descriptions, letting us know
which cats prefer feather toys
to ping pong balls and who
likes to have their belly rubbed
and who doesn’t.
When it comes to cats and
kittens, we know we can
always count on Anne Marie!
Join us in thanking her for all
she does to help our feline
friends at the SHS! Her
dedication is an inspiration to
us all.
$49
New price.
Even better value.
Great news for cats! As a sendoff
to the Year of the Cat, we have
lowered our adoption prices for
cats and kittens for 2011! For just
$49, adopters will still receive all
the same services they need to
start out on the right paw:
• Spay or neuter surgery
• Negative Feline Leukemia test
• Initial vaccination against
feline distemper and common
upper respiratory diseases
• Rabies vaccination (or a
voucher for kittens)
• One flea treatment
• Permanent microchip
identification
• One free post adoption health
exam at the SHS Veterinary Clinic
or many area veterinary clinics
• Access to affordably priced
veterinary services at our clinic
• One month of free pet health
insurance
• Pet care DVD
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Memorial and Honor Donations: 8/1/2010 - 12/31/2010
Honors
Auntie Ann
Josh, Leigh, & Kendall
West
Natalie
John & Laura Hodge
Jennifer Adair
Josh, Leigh, & Kendall
West
Dr. & Mrs. Robert Addison
Ron & Judy Marshall
Ms. Carolyn F. Alexander
Ms. Frannie Jordan
Mrs. Jack Armstrong
Sarah Halstead
Jennifer Atkinson
Pauline-Glenn
Springs Elementary
Mr. & Mrs. James G. Bagnal
Mike & Eileen Spears
Amanda Bailey
Lauren Crow
Bill Baird
Nelson & Betty Breeden
Mr. & Mrs. John P.
Barber
Mike & Eileen Spears
4
Gay Barefield
Elaine Steading
Sherman & Marie
Swofford
Dr. Judy Bazemore
Carolyn Moore
Doug Bland
Ms. Frannie Jordan
Peggy Bonner
Tessigner Family
Ms. J.D. Bradshaw
Mike & Eileen Spears
Margaret M. Bridges
Susan A. Bridges
Blair Brown & Trouble
John & Nancy
Holmes
Betty & Erinie Camp
Marjorie & Sonny
Cannon
Heather Canaday
Patricia Warren
Alison Cann
Terry & Mary Cann
Ben Carson
Beth Carson
Mr. & Mrs. Paul H. Cook
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mr. & Mrs. John Carroll
Cox
Mike & Eileen Spears
Dr. & Mrs. Bill Creasman
Marie & Lewis Miller
Mrs. Nancy Crowley
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mrs. Penn H. Dean
Beverly & John Renfro
Barbara Deichman
Pam Deichman
Dr. & Mrs. Arnold
Denler
Ron & Judy Marshall
Marly & Tom Divver
Ann Mullins
Mr. & Mrs. James B.
Drennan, III
Beverly & John Renfro
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory W.
Easterlin
Mike & Eileen Spears
Carrington & JoAnn
Edmunds
Marjorie & Sonny
Cannon
Mr. & Mrs. Dave Edwards
Mike & Eileen Spears
Sarah Farley
E.S. Farley, Jr.
Susannah Farley
Nealie Floyd
John & Minta Floyd
Dorothy Fort
Mimi Killoren
Julie Redman
Joan Foss
Ms. Frannie Jordan
Mr. & Mrs. Philip Foster
Beverly & John Renfro
Sally & Phillip Foster
Marjorie & Sonny
Cannon
Dr. & Mrs. Gordon France, Jr.
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mr. & Mrs. Ted Gage
Luci W. Daley
Johnny, Joy, Tori, & David
Galloway
Josh, Leigh, & Kendall
West
Sara Gamble
Marie & Lewis Miller
Jenney & Miles Gettys
Mr. & Mrs. Hal
Cubberley
Betty Jo & Bob Godfrey
Bob Simmons
Charles Godfrey & Cody
Jeffrey & Ann Holmes
Dr. & Mrs. James F. Green
Beverly & John Renfro
Randy & Sheila Gregory
Amy Daniels
Cassi Grier
Ruth Knight
Dr. & Mrs. Todd Gwin
Dr. & Mrs. David Berry
Jim & Lynn Haller
Eunice Knouse
Mr. & Mrs. Timothy C.
Halligan
Mike & Eileen Spears
Judy Hamer
Robin Dennan
Dr. & Mrs. Charles B. Hanna
Mike & Eileen Spears
Sally Hardy
Lynda Truluck
Mr. & Mrs. Henry
Hargrove
Debra Hargrove
David Hatchette
Jason Sturm
John & Sally Hayes
Jean Hayes
Fred Haynes
Janis Haynes
Christy Henderson
Inman First Baptist
Church Modern
Maturity
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas W.
Henderson
Beverly & John Renfro
Dr. & Mrs. Mark Hicklin
Mike & Eileen Spears
Kay Holcombe
Walker Family
Hughes Family
Mr. Richard H. Hovis &
Roscoe
Christa Hovis
Mr. Gedney Howe, III
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mr. & Mrs. Willie
Huggins
Ken & Mary Norton
Sarah Hunt
Becky Dill
Dr. Bill James
Paula & Stan Baker
Mrs. Susan Jennings &
Family
Nate & Becky Toms
Kelly Jewett
Kendall West
Mr. & Mrs. Trip Johnson
Mike & Eileen Spears
Melody Keck-Suber
Iris Browning
Mr. & Mrs. John Kells
Rebecca Chastain
Ron Killian
Marty Killian
Mr. & Mrs. Brian King
Ron & Judy Marshall
Kathryn Kotecha
Mimi & Papa
Gates & Betty Lanford
Katherine & Matthew
Brune
Ellissa Lankford
Nancy & Smith
Lankford
Mr. & Mrs. Donald P. Lee
Beverly & John Renfro
Mrs. Lynda Leonard
Carolyn Moore
continued on page 5
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Events Celebrating Animals
Our fall events are about more
than just raising funds; they’re
about raising awareness and
celebrating the bond between
people and animals, too! With
the help of our dedicated
supporters, volunteers, and many
hard working staff members,
our annual fundraisers were
not only an accomplishment
financially, but a successful
opportunity to share our love
for animals, as well. This year,
over 1,000 people participated
in Tour de Paws, Auction for
a Cause, and Santa Photos,
helping to raise over $22,000 to
benefit the many programs and
services we offer on behalf of
animals and their people.
| Tour de Paws |
A little rain and unseasonably
cool temperatures didn’t stop
215 cyclists from joining us for
the annual Tour de Paws cycling
event. This, year we saw many
familiar faces as well as several
new faces for the 28 or 62 mile
rides. Dedicated volunteers
helped us staff two rest stops
and provide a hotdog luncheon
to riders who completed their
trek across the beautiful roads
of
southern
Spartanburg
County. With over $10,000
raised, we can officially call Tour
de Paws 2010 a success! We
hope to see all of our cycling
enthusiast friends at Tour de
Paws 2011 on September 10th.
B. Szustak
A Tour de Paws rider relaxes with a
puppy after a hard ride.
| Auction for a Cause |
Our supporters and volunteers
were the backbone of the
SHS’s participation in this
year’s Uptown Sertoma Club’s
Auction for a Cause. From
donating their time to staff the
event, donating auction items,
and shopping for our many
items available for purchase,
our supporters made this
auction a success! We received
donations of over 127 auction
items for both the silent and
live auctions. And, with over
600 people in attendance, we
are happy to report, we were
able to raise over $9,000 to
support our Animal Assisted
Therapy program!
S. Cotheran
Auction patrons were encouraged to bid high
and bid often as they shopped for items.
| Santa Photos 2010 |
The good little boys and girls (of
the furry and feathery variety)
came out in droves to tell Santa
just how good they were in
2010! This year at our annual
Santa Photos fundraiser, we were
happy to see 133 dogs, 5 cats,
and even a bird – many of whom
were adopted right here at the
SHS! Santa Joe Brunson and
photographer Aaron Moller once
again donated their time and
talents while Debbie Hackworth
at Discount office again donated
the office supplies we needed to
make this event a huge success.
Together, we raised $2,400
to support the programs and
services at the SHS!
A. Moller
Rita Settle’s cat Smokey Blue posed with
Santa Joe Brunson last holiday season.
Memorial and Honor Donations: 8/1/2010 - 12/31/2010
Dr. Beth Levine
Jean Levine
Mr. & Mrs. Cam Lewis
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mr. & Mrs. David Lyon
Mike & Eileen Spears
Dr. & Mrs. Nat
Magruder
Bill & Joe Ann Lever
Janis Dengler
Mr. & Mrs. Barry Mason
& Family
Nate & Becky Toms
Dave & Atha McBride
Sandy & Willie
Huggins
Miss Carolyn McCarthy
Helen Johnson
Kaye & Don McCurry
Clara & Gene Baker
Susan & Joe McCutchen
Cora & Floyd Stewart
Paula McDaniel
Rita Turbyfill
Mr. & Mrs. Glen McGee
& Winston
Ann & Jeffrey Holmes
Mr. & Mrs. Allen H.
McIntyre
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mr. & Mrs. Troy F.
McKinney
Beverly & John Renfro
Mr. E.L. Miller
Mike & Eileen Spears
Pam Miller
Marty Killian
Mark & Cheryl Monson
Kyran Dowling
Matthew Monson
Dr. & Mrs. Peter Ryan
Carolyn Moore
Glyn Shackelford
Brad & Bethany
Morton-Rhyne
John & Fay Livingston
Rex Myers
Maureen McCloskey
Dr. Gillian Newberry
Jennifer Fetterman
Patty Osborne
Monika Wells
Mr. & Mrs. H. Lynn
Parker, Jr.
Beverly & John Renfro
Margaret Peach
Lynda Truluck
Mr. & Mrs. E. Norman
Peterson, Jr.
Beverly & John Renfro
Mr. & Mrs. Richard
Petty
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mr. & Mrs. Jason Pie
Mike & Eileen Spears
Pine Street Animal
Hospital
Patsy Hammett
Mr. & Mrs. Robert V.
Pinson
Beverly & John Renfro
Mr. & Mrs. Gary W.
Poliakoff
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mrs. Furman Poteat
Lynda Truluck
Mr. & Mrs. Douglas
Powers
Ron & Judy Marshall
Mr. & Mrs. Lee Powers
Ron & Judy Marshall
Susan Richards
Maureen McCloskey
Ralph Rivera
Lisa Anderson
Glenda P. Anderson
Monta M. Anthony
Mary Arnett
Velma Atkinson
Darryl Balderson
Nancy Bow Bane
Kelly M. Barrett
Samuel David Berry
Janet Blexrud
Harriet Bolen
S. Barbara Boyd
Mrs. Ernest Camp, III
Kathleen M. Cates
Laura H. Corbin
Shelley Foster Crow
Nancy T. Dischler
Dory M. Djerf
Louise Floyd Dobson
Lisa S. Dodd
Minta W. Floyd
Martha T. Foster
Ruth K. Friedberg
Vivian W. Funk
Billie W. Gilmer
Kay C. Green
Margaret Green
Nita E. Harris
Jean Hayes
Kathryn S. Heacox
Sue W. Lansberry
Frances S. Loudon
Melissa S. Morehead
Elizabeth West Morgan
Melissa R. Parris
Mary Ada R. Poole
Jackie H. Prince
Mary Margaret Roberts
Bertice T. Robinson
F. Rachel Ruff
Carter W. Smith
L. Smith
Lynda Truluck
Anne R. Turner
Ben & Kathleen Willard
Judy B. Womble
Ronnie & Dianne Rogers
Josh, Leigh, & Kendall
West
Danny, Jane, & Nick Rogers
Josh, Leigh, & Kendall
West
Emily & Alan Rossi
Tim, Ellie, Megan, &
Sarah Elsbury
Paula & Alvaro
Fernandez
Ueli K. Schmid
Marina Kakouras
Harry Schoen
Bill & Tracie Schoen
Courtney & Glen Scott
Marjorie & Sonny
Cannon
Prudy Scott
Martha Carlisle
Mrs. Glyn Shackelford
Carolyn Moore
Caitlyn Sheppard
Carolyn Taylor
Brad Sill
Diane Swift
Smith Animal Hospital
Robin New
Ms. Babs Smith
Ms. Frannie Jordan
Gene, Barbara & Lauren
Smith
Josh, Leigh, & Kendall
West
Gretchen Smith
Mayo Mac Boggs
Kella & Jimmy Smith
Steve & Lee Anne
Williams
Miss Marcie Smith
Ms. Frannie Jordan
Spartanburg Animal Clinic
Doctors & Employees
Conni Harrell &
Ted Mueller
Spartanburg County
Animal Control
Officers
Karen Pridgeon
Robert Speiss
Steve Sherbert
Mr. & Mrs. Henry J.
Steinberg
Mike & Eileen Spears
The Floyd Stewart
Family
Mr. & Mrs. Joe
McCutcheon
Chuck & Josie Stokes
T. Charles Conrad, III
Russell & Sandra Surrells
Josh, Leigh & Kendall
West
continued on page 6
5
well in the bottom third of the
nation. We believe we can and
should do better. The SHS AntiCruelty Department will also
be working to make stronger
laws protecting animals.
D. Proffitt
Nick’s favorite thing to do at his new home is sprawl out on the
couch with his family!
continued from page 3
management, and courtroom
testimony, Dr. Miller is uniquely
positioned to offer resources
previously unavailable to our
community for investigating
and prosecuting animal cruelty
cases.
The majority of Dr. Miller’s
cases will be those that
benefit
from
consistent
follow-up, which is often
critical to effectively improving
inadequate care or conditions.
In instances of neglect, Dr.
Miller will empower individuals
to make responsible choices,
educating them about proper
pet care and connecting them
with affordable SHS resources
and services, such as low
cost veterinary care. When
education is not enough, or
in cases of intentional cruelty,
Dr. Miller will work with law
enforcement and solicitors
to build strong cases and to
prosecute perpetrators.
Beyond Cruelty Investigation:
Lobbying for Stronger Laws
Protecting Animals
Two
recent
nationwide
analyses of state animal cruelty
laws placed South Carolina
Nick’s former owners were
convicted of animal cruelty,
but the punishment they
received was just a slap on the
wrist. Their penalty for nearly
starving Nick to death was
$200 plus court costs, which
is unfortunately a typical
outcome for cases of neglect
in our county. They were not
even required to pay a penny
for the cost of rehabilitating
and caring for Nick while he
was in our care. We think
Nick’s former owners, and
others who deprive their pets
of basic care like food, deserve
a stronger message.
Laws must be strong enough
to result in penalties that
punish the perpetrators of
cruelty and send a message
that inhumane treatment of
animals will not be tolerated.
In the 2011 legislative session
we plan to work to improve
both of the shortcomings
highlighted in Nick’s case.
There will be legislation that
both increases the penalties
for neglecting animals and
also adds provisions requiring
defendants in animal cruelty
cases to pay for the cost of care
for their animals while their
case is in the court system.
Our efforts to change the
laws in South Carolina will be
stronger with your support.
Legislators respond when they
hear that their constituents
feel strongly about an issue.
Learn more about how you can
help strengthen the penalties
for animal cruelty and other
legislative efforts at:
www.spartanburghumane.org/advocate.
The Future
We look forward to a future
in which cruelty will not be
tolerated and one in which pets
will not want for something as
basic as food. This future will
not come easily or quickly, or
without hard work. We are at the
beginning of a long journey. But
the SHS does not shy away from
hard work or a tough challenge.
We have a worthy vision, a strong
will, and motivation like none
other — animals like Nick who
receive little more than empty
bowls, but who reflect hope and
possibility in their warm eyes and
sloppy, grateful kisses.
Memorial and Honor Donations: 8/1/2010 - 12/31/2010
continued from page 5
Bill Tice
Fredrich & Ann Wenz
& Paisley
Mr. & Mrs. Nate Toms &
Family
Nate & Becky Toms
Mrs. Rebecca H. Toms
Mr. & Mrs. Foy
Dr. & Mrs. Gregory
Valainis
Mike & Eileen Spears
Mr. & Mrs. Freddie
Watson
Ron & Judy Marshall
Donna West
Lynda Truluck
Jesse West
Josh, Leigh & Kendall
West
Mr. & Mrs. Wendell
Whelchel
Mr. & Mrs. Vic Smith
Pam & Mollie Wheeler
Josh, Leigh, & Kendall
West
Mr. & Mrs. Lewis White
Mike & Eileen Spears
6
Rob & Barb Wilder
Ricky & Lisa Shehan
Mr. & Mrs. Donald B.
Wildman
Mike & Eileen Spears
Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth Wynn
Ron & Judy Marshall
Bailey
Sonja Carlson
Bandit
Norma Orourke
Bella
Marge Rossi
Bow-D
Barbara Baughman
Buddy
Wayne & Margaret
Punch
Buffy IV
Gere & Diane Ablett
Buster, Bonnie, Bull,
Ginger & Gabby
Beth Levine
Cleo
Cynthia D. Stewart
Dollie & Duffy
Dorothy & Hunter
Henry
Fritz
Charlene Linder
Gizzmo
Jeff Hayes
Maddie, Tug, & Katie
Laurie Everhart
Mario & Morgan
Carol & Hunter Jackson
Mollie
Gloria Story
Oscar
Gail & Lynn Lewis
Page
Katherine & Joe
McClellan
Rambo
Mr. & Mrs. Bobby
Jackson
Rosie & Roxie
Neal & Pat Hayes
Rudy
Susan Coakley
Sadie
Stacey Cummings
Samantha Lynn
Jean Solesbee
Scooby
Liz Bonds
Sir Duke
John West
Tiger
Bill & Kay Chidester
Wally
Nedra Passmore
Jake Blount
Eden Long
Sugar & Angel Brazil
Steve Brazil
Pet Brown
Mary & Frank Watts
Beni Huentemann
Hilde Huentemann
Colt Medlin
Sally & Randall
Chambers
Millie Nolden
Jamie Nolden
Odus Turner
Eden Long
Reecie & Riley Willis
Eden Long
Hans Williams
Eden Long
All the homeless pets in
our care
Jan Finley
Memorials
Jimmy
Stephanie Highsmith
Sophie
Mary Robertson
Karen Allen
Bryan, Carrie, Fin, Jack, & Sarah Allen
Lavonne & Craig
Hirshberg
Jerry Sisk
Wayne & Lynn Turner
Constance Armitage
Carolyn F. Alexander
Kelly Babb
Sylvia & Paul Babb
Kathleen Collins
Ruth B. Evington
Joseph F. Balentine
Patricia Capps
Harriet Ancrum
Ballenger
Cathy & Jimmy Mayo
Mary Jane Means
Marian Beck
Mary Jane Means
Kim Brooks
Anne Beglin
Sara Gillard
Dr. William Ralph Boone
Earl & Brenda Kelley
Christopher Kent
Lake Emory
Homeowners Association
National Board of
Chiropractic Examiners
C. Chester Brown
Betsy Burrell
Edwin & Ponda
Caldwell
Faye & Kent Deal
Melissa & Steve Johnson
Sue W. Lowe
Sharyn Shaw
Mr. & Mrs. Hal Warlick
Elizabeth B. Weld
William L. Brown
Mr. & Mrs. Bernard S.
Harvey
Roy Bussey
Marion J. Painter
James Byram
Richard & Linda Laycock
Myrtle Cartee
Shirley Blake
Carolyn Converse
Carolyn & Barrett
Burns
Walter C. Converse
Mrs. John Dulken
Bill & Betsy Henry
Mary Fawcett
Wood Lay
Mary Jane Means
Harry & Margaret
Schoen
Darwin & Bonnie
Simpson
Elizabeth H. Young
Susan Young
Tommie Lee Davidson
Conni Harrell & Ted
Mueller
Susan Leigh Dill
Murphy Mahaffey
Family
James Dills
Suzanne M. Dills
Mary Drake
Dwight & Elizabeth
Pridgeon
continued on page 7
T
S
J
O
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L
C
s
d
g
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What to do if you
suspect cruelty
or neglect
e
e
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s
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n
s
r
If you suspect that an animal may
be suffering from cruelty or neglect,
report it. Never assume that a
bad situation will resolve itself or
that it isn’t any of your business.
Because animals cannot speak for
themselves, we must be their voice.
.
e
e
s
s
ll
r
e
t
m
e.
g
e
o
y
d
d
7
County and city animal control
departments
are
actively
responding to public complaints.
The SHS will supplement, not
substitute, their efforts. We will
assist all local departments when
requested.
Complaints made
directly to the SHS will be triaged
to identify those that can best
be served by the strengths and
resources of our department.
Even if you are unsure whether or
not a situation should be reported
to animal control or to the SHS,
submit a complaint form online at:
www.spartanburghumane.org/anticruelty
or call us at 864.583.4805, ext. 121.
Dr. Miller will evaluate each report.
If we do not investigate, concerns
will be shared with the appropriate
animal control department.
Pass It On: Beech Springs Intermediate School
We were delighted when their instructor, Gayle
Martin, told us about their special idea. The
students wanted to organize an angel tree for
SHS animals. She began the project by making
ornaments for many of the cats, kittens, dogs,
and puppies available for adoption at SHS. On
each one was a picture of an animal waiting for
a home as well as items from our wish list that
he or she would like.
Students (and teachers) who wished to
participate were instructed to select an
ornament from the tree, purchase gifts
for the animal on the ornament, and bring
the gifts back to school so they could all
be delivered together. The project was so
successful that half way through, they had to
make more ornaments!
Photographer
Students Haley Thackston and Jordan Brown and
their teacher Gayle Martin helped to fill the stockings
of many animals waiting for adoption at the SHS!
For the past six months, the Beech Springs
Intermediate School’s Animal Lovers Club
has been learning about all different kinds of
animals, including the animals right here at
the humane society. Through our Humane
Education Department, students learned just
how much these animals need their help.
For their annual holiday service project, they
wanted to do something extra special for the
animals.
The club collected more wish list items this
year, than any other year! On Saturday,
December 18th, the club presented us with
all the gifts for the animals. Not only did they
fill our tree, there were enough presents to
fill five shopping carts!
We eagerly presented the animals with the
gifts. The dogs enthusiastically squeaked their
new toys and the puppies gobbled up their
treats. The cats enjoyed dining from new
bowls and the kittens loved their catnip-filled
toy mice. There was something for everyone!
We were so delighted with the Animal Lovers
Club’s unique idea, we wanted to Pass It On!
Memorial and Honor Donations: 8/1/2010 - 12/31/2010
Tyler Sean Dunn
Michael Darcy
Donald & Alice
Henderson
Nota Ramantanin
Tyler Snipes
Sandy Edwards
Mr. & Mrs. Wesley
Hammond
James E. Garrett
Heather Abrams
Sarah Thomas
Olema Goodwin Hicks
Philip & Judy Urso
Charles H. Gray
Bob & Phyllis Wyatt
& Miss Reid
Louise Ansley Harrell
Dora Harrell
Clifford Barron “Barry”
Hayes, III
Paula & Stan Baker
Marjorie & Sonny
Cannon
Nancy & Mason
Carlisle
Jane Carlson & Paul
Schooley
Sally & Randall
Chambers
Mr. & Mrs. Robert
Chapman, III
Emily Desa
Mrs. John Dulken
Katharine Fearington
Tom & Martha Fedell
Mr. & Mrs. William P.
Gee
Jim & Cassi Grier
Mr. & Mrs. J. Tom Grier
Roger & Marianna
Habisreutinger
Paul, Charles & Lydia
Habisreutinger
Irene Howell
Mrs. Sadie Jackson
Billie McConnell
Diana McGraw
Kate Murphy
Patricia Page
Carolyn D. Pennell
Norman & Jo Pulliam
Ron & Caroline Smith
Susan Towson
Jacquelynn Segars Uhl
Susan Young
Heide Minett Hilburn
Betty A. Hilburn
E. Mack Horton
Janet Horton
Manning Howell
Mr. & Mrs. D. Boyce Woolbright, Jr.
Robert T. Hunt
Jody Henderson
Scott & Nene Hubbard
Bobby Laughter
First Baptist Church
Eric Nodine
Christina F. Law
Al & Geri Lech
Jeffrey Scott Lewis
Lewis Family
Mr. C. Ray Lewis
Carolyn F. Alexander
Bill Littlefield
Yvonne Littlefield
Frances G. McCallister
Eastside Baptist Church
Ginger Goforth
Betty K. Hartis
Claude & Evelyn
McCallister
Tony, Steve, Harry,
Emiliano & Laura at Piedmont Farm &
Garden Supply Olive Merril McGhie
Odom, Terry, & Cantrell
Attorneys at Law
Anthony Napoli
Susan & Anthony
Thrift
Eileen Nolen
Gail McCullough
Winston Bradley Parker
Wanda Church
Carol S. Nichols
Robert Patterson
Gail Patterson
Sidney R. Petty
Kelly L. Petty
Gunter Pillar
Helga Doerholt
Dieter & Marie
Ollinger
George M. Hill &
Sons, Inc.
Margaret Morrell Powell
Joyce Beeman
Rebecca Roach
Betty Quinn
Bommer Industries, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. W. J.
Laughridge, III
Robert & Barbara
Sprouse
Walter D. Reaves, Jr.
Beverly Davis
Jolene & Joe Dawson
Robert Payne
Richardson, IV
Bill & Betsy Henry
Cathy & Jimmy Mayo
Gail McCullough
Sylvia T. Patterson
E. Scott Richardson
Mark Rives
Mr. & Mrs. Joe Rives
Sigmond Robbins
Theresa Lassiter
Jan Rosenberg
Van & Lina Morrow
Mr. K.C. Smart
Somersett
Homeowner’s
Association
Ginny Smith
Christine W. Lynn
Russell Sparrow
Deborah S. Sparrow
R.C. Sprouse
Mr. & Mrs. Joe
McCutcheon
Pete Staggs
Mr. & Mrs. David Cash
Kitty Stephenson
Jamie & Jennifer Cubitt
Dr. Jim Stinson
Kay Stinson
Phyllis Taylor
Eugene & Mary Burns
Lem & Jo Walker
Ruth Rawls Thaxton
Sue W. Lowe
Gail Thomas
Pat & Chuck Robbins
Ken & Ann Towery
Jackson Gray Turpin
Victoria Darwin &
Derek Turpin
Adam Vann
Carlton M. Mullinax
Paul Vaughn
Wanda Nix
Loretta J. Wallace
John G. Wallace
Nancy Wheless
Janet Horton
Mr. N.B. Whelton
White Oak Therapy
Staff
Evelyn Jennings Whitmire
Kay Foster & Jim
McCullough
John R. “Dick” Wieder, M.D.
Ashlan Village, Inc
Mr. & Mrs. Wayne
Baldwin
Joyce & Donald
Coggins
Allan & Nora
Elberfield
Loretta Emory
Louise Foster
Edward & June Garren
Jack, Rebecca, &
Meta Hoge
Mary Black Heath
System
Mike & Dottie Mayfield
Mary K. Robertson
Andrea, Joel & Somi
Swartz-Merrill
continued on page 8
7
Happy Tail: Samson Gambrell
Samson was made for
this role. Because of his
size and his beautiful
white coat, he instantly
attracts attention, but
it is his sweet, gentle,
appreciative
nature
that draws people in.
Samson came to live with
us over Thanksgiving in
2008. As the months
passed he continued
to gain weight and
blossomed
into
a
wonderful member of
the family; yet, he still
seemed restless. Gary
wondered if keeping
watch over us and three
cats wasn’t enough
responsibility.
We visit with folks
in nursing homes,
hospitals, and hospice,
as well as children
with special needs.
Whether the people he
is visiting are young or
old, in the classroom,
in wheelchairs, or in
hospital beds; Samson
knows he is there
to make them feel
better. He proudly sits
and is petted, loved
on, and hugged. He
always brings smiles
to all. There are times
I wonder, who the
visits mean more to,
the people we meet,
Samson, or me.
“He’s a big dog. Maybe
he needs a big job,” Gary
said. It was clear he loved
people. To this day, he
has never met a stranger
– greeting everyone with
enthusiasm and charm.
So, a job with people was
a must.
Samson no longer has
the deepest, saddest
brown eyes. His eyes
are still deep brown,
but now they are bright,
shiny, and filled with
joy, love and purpose.
Gary was right, Samson
wanted a job.
As if by magic, we
were given information
on how to become
a therapy team. We
knew immediately we
had found Samson’s
calling. With classes
and some practice,
it was obvious that
My real point in telling
you about Samson is
there are many other
special animals at the
SHS waiting for an
opportunity to show
you just how great they
are. Your Samson may
be there right now!
A. Moller
Mary Robin Gambrell and Samson are some of
Mrs. Mackie’s favorite visitors!
Samson weighed only
60 pounds when Animal
Control found him
lost, tired, and hungry.
No one is sure how
long he had been
on his own, but he
weighed half of what
a Great Pyrenees of
his size should. Once
at the SHS, Samson
was bathed, loved,
and fed lots of puppy
food to begin to gain
his weight back. It
wasn’t long before my
husband Gary came
home one day and told
me they had a “pyr.”
He knew I would go
and say “hello.”
After going for a walk
with Samson, I fell in
love. Even though he
was extremely skinny,
he was noble, strong,
and calm.
He had
the deepest, saddest
brown eyes I had ever
seen. I was hooked and
with a little convincing,
so was Gary.
Don’t be shy! We love to hear from our lucky shelter alums who have found
happiness in new homes. Your special “tail” may be considered for an
upcoming edition of The Scoop or may be featured on our website.
Memorial & Honor Donations:
continued from page 7
John R. “Dick” Wieder, M.D.
David & Norma
Stokes
Martha S. Thomas
George & Katie
Thomason
Hugh Wilder
Roy & Pat Fowler
Steven Wilson
Pat Denham
Shirley Hyland
Mary Kate Wingo
Ted & Laura Cothran
Big Shirley
William Jones
Bo
Harry Schoen
Bonnie
Helen Phillips
Boo Boo
Cynthia & Laurent
Leclair
Brutus & Bo
Patricia Likes
Buck
Marta & Leonard
Batche
Bud
Glenn & Vivian
Dorsey
Bully
Susan Tate
Buttercup
John & Laura Hodge
Calli
Atlanta Environmental
Management
Cleo
Cynthia Stewart
Corky
Harry & Della Varner
Digger
The Nettles
Mary Helen Wade
Diva
Bill & Ethel Helderman
Duffy
Joyce & Keith Hartline
Dulcie & Riley
Susan Thoms
Elwood
Wanda & William Clary
Frasier
Gloria & Waylon Sasser
Fuzzy & Miss Kitty
Beth Levine
Ginger
John & Laura Schwartz
Gizmo & Raz
Sandra & Paul Jennings
Hoagie
Dee Goforth
Itchy the Beagle
Tina Paradis
Jackie
Judy Smith
Jasper
Beverley Harrison
Jock
Mickey Suttles
Joy
Cora & Dean Whitfield
Kate
Robin New
Katherine Ann
Ken & Mary Norton
Kayla
Thomas Good
Ki-Ki
Mar Baker
Lil Girl
Cynthia & Laurent
Leclair
Lily
Joann & Dale Evans
Lucky
Shirley Reynolds
Mehw
Mary Woodyard
Missy
Deborah & Jack Ruppe
Missy, Oppie, Andy,
Tigger, Mittens, All
Animals
Marion Painter
Missy & Smokie
Lewis Taylor
Mr. Stinky
Jennifer & Kenneth
Sizemore
Mystic
John & Sally Pilley &
Robin
Ollie
Joanne Pappas
Pepi
Jacqueline & Oliver
Wilson
Pepper
Betty Hall
Pooh
Jo Ann & Carrington
Edmunds
Rex
Yates Family
Riley
Sherman & Marie
Swofford
Rocky
Joyce & William
Howard
Susan Tate
Rybak
Kerry Ballenger
Johanna Kimmel
Scooter
Susie Dempsey
Scooter
William Petterson
Shasta
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph
Gasperetti
Shilo
Marta & Leonard
Batche
Simon
Gail & Lynn Lewis
Sophie
Mary Robertson
Sweet Mindy
Mr. & Mrs. Richard
Kershner
Sydney
Edward Macbay
Tanna
Susan Loftis
Ted & Gracie
David & Jane Tate
Teddy
Carolyn Schumacher
Tiffany, Sheba, & Einya
Gwendolyn W.
McAbee
Tucker & Rosie
Barbara & Billy
Leaphart
Wesa
Barbara Baughman
Kudzu Adamson
Mavis Pearle Watson
Staff Ballard
Evelyn Garris
Turbo Ballenger
Kerry Ballenger
Boo Barrett
Tammy Barrett
Molly Boggs
Roberta, Cha, Beth,
& Joan
Cuddles Bourgeois
Kris McKinney
Bailey Boyd
Francie Little
John Braun
Betsy A. Braun
Belle Buton
Margaret Nixon
Whoopie Cherry
Roxanne Gheorghiu
Pansy Clime
Kathleen & Robert
Clime
Teddy Corn
Mr. & Mrs. James Corn
Jacques Yves Cousteau
Carole & William
Stairs
Cooper Darby
Holly, Adair, & Phillip
Watters
Onyx Enright
Floyd & Gloria Turner
Klaus Finley
Jan Finley
Scout Haller
Marvin & Kathy Cann
Fred & Ann Wenz
Abby Gail Hallman
Luke Hallman
Woody Hartis
Kathy Coley
Coby McClure
Ricky & Lisa Shehan
Pablo Medlin
Steve & Tammy
Gazikas
Guardian Log Home
Care
Sugar Nix
Wanda Nix
Nestle Chocolate
Osburn
Melinda & J.R. Osburn
Wally Passmore
Nedra Passmore
Buck Powell
Bib Gosnell
Marty Scaglione
Larry & Sue Scaglione
Megan Sparrow
Deborah Sparrow
Susie Sprouse
Kaye & Norbert
Robinson
Sam Switzer
Kathy Coley
Miss Honey Turner
Mr. & Mrs. John Turner
Please send your stories and pictures to 150 Dexter Road, Spartanburg, SC 29303,
care of “Happy Tails.” You can also submit your photos, videos, and stories
online at: www.spartanburghumane.org/happytails.
8
Honor and Memorial Donations can be made online at
www.spartanburghumane.org/honor
or by calling 864.583.4805, ext. 103.