Thursday, December 29, 2011

Miracle on Reach Road

This little dog arrived as a stray on 12/8/11.  (The camera had the wrong date!)  As you can see from the photo, she was very emaciated.  Her gums were completely white.

We began feeding her small meals, wormed her, and weighed her to monitor her progress.  Just when we were ready to take her to the veterinarian's, she passed a yard of stool that was mostly fabric!!!!

The poor little girl was unable to absorb what she ate because she had ingested so much fabric.  Her weight on intake was 27.8 pounds.  We are happy to report that she is a little over 31 pounds now, her gums are pink, and she is happy.  She is timid and will growl if she feels intimidated.  However, if you get her out of her kennel she quickly warms up to people. 

 We named her Destiny and her recovery is the best Christmas gift we could receive.  (Donuts are a close second.)

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

Whatever your celebrations are, I hope that you enjoy every minute.  My spoiled dogs and cat will wake up to gifts under the tree.  If only every animal could enjoy the comforts and love of a family.  As you think about the new year to come, consider some way that you might be able to help an animal in need.  It could be as simple as providing fresh food and water to an animal that is kept outdoors, or as lavish as providing a new wing on an animal shelter.  Whatever your ability is, I hope you will find it in your heart to share your love.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Merry Christmas!


I had to share.  The dog on the right is Grace.  She was adopted from our shelter.  You would never guess that this is the same dog from my blog on July 20. 

Hope your four footed friends enjoy the holiday too!

Friday, December 23, 2011

Random Acts of Kindness

Students at South Williamsport Jr/Sr High School presented a check to the SPCA for $350.  The group is called Random Acts of Kindness and consists of 52 students.  Hilary German is one of the teachers who works with the group.  This year they chose to help the SPCA animals by doing fundraisers.  In appreciation for their efforts they had a visit from April, a Pit Bull mix.  She was quite excited to see all of the students and made friends along the way as she wagged her tail through the halls.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Little Visitor

Here's your smile for the day.  If you look closely you will see a tiny squirrel at the left front door.  He waited there long enough for me to grab a camera and snap a quick picture.  As I tried to zoom in he took off.  Just like some of our donors, he wanted to remain anonymous.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Unique Training Class

Silke Wittig is a dog trainer from Bloomsburg and she has offered to teach a class at the SPCA.  Below is her information about the class.

“K9 Nose Work® Basics” at Lycoming SPCA, Williamsport
6-week group class starting on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at 5:00 PM (course ends March 7)This class is offered through the Lycoming County SPCA.  The classes will be held at Lycoming County SPCA, 2805 Reach Road, Williamsport, http://www.lycomingspca.org/. 2 spots are reserved for dogs currently at the shelter with volunteer handlers.“K9 Nose Work® Basics” at Lycoming SPCA, Williamsport6-week group class starting on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at 6:30 PM (course ends March 7) – if above class is full.This class is offered through the Lycoming County SPCA.  The classes will be held at Lycoming County SPCA, 2805 Reach Road, Williamsport, http://www.lycomingspca.org/.  2 spots are reserved for dogs currently at the shelter with volunteer handlers.

Thanks to the Lycoming SPCA director, staff and volunteers for their support!

Happy Christmas!

Silke

Silke Wittig
BA, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CHES, BFRP, CTDI, CNWI
HeRo Canine Consulting LLC
175 B Tunnel Road
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
tel. 570-458 5749
cell 574-612 8170

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Pets in Your Will

When we have children, we often prepare our wills in the event that they would lose their parents.   We name a guardian, and sometimes a trust for them.  The same should be considered for our pets.

I've had the conversation about who would take care of my pets in the event of my passing.  Since each dog has a different personality, I have different people that would be willing to take one on. 

Now if you live alone, naming a guardian in your will is even more important.  Not only should you name a guardian, but you should assure the financial care of your pet in your will.

Another tip is to carry a card in your wallet stating that you have pets that will need care in your absence.  Record names and phone numbers of people who could care for your pet(s) in the event that you are in an accident.

I always call it my insurance plan.  If I have a plan in place it is less likely that I will need it.  I hope you won't need it either.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Every Picture Tells a Story

Following is a happy story from a happy adopter!

Dear Lycoming SPCA Staff,

We adopted a guinea pig from you on Oct. 21, 2011.  We've since renamed him Jack.  Our girl (spayed), Fiona,  had lost her cagemate and was grieving for her friend.  I can't express how happy we are about bringing Jack into our family.  He and Fiona get along famously, they're quite the couple.

Jack has become a favorite at Cornell U, the exotics staff adores him.  He was neutered and recovered in record time.  He now loves veggies and hay and even yells at me for not moving quickly enough at dinner time.  He zooms around their cage every night as we tuck them in. 

I received your newsletter today in the mail.  I see that his previous "owner" has been found guilty, thank goodness.  The picture showing the cages broke my heart.  I immediately picked Jack up for a snuggle.  I can't believe he once lived in those horrible conditions, he's so loving and trusting.

My husband and I wanted to thank you for everything you've done for these guinea pigs.  Small animals are often forgotten and over looked.  We've sent in a donation in his honor. Thank you all and happy holidays!

This photo was taken a few days ago before his little spa treatment (nails, ears and bath).

Thursday, December 8, 2011

1074

As of start of business on December 7, we had 1,074 adoptions.  We need 99 adoptions to equal the number we had last year.  We have an average of 96 adoptions per month so I'm sure we can do it.  Check out our website to see if there is someone you want to adopt.  http://www.lycomingspca.org/

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Recommendations for Sentencing

Our employees were understandably upset by the return of the emaciated dog to its owners.  I loved the analogy one employee put forth, "That would be like giving a pedophile a kid!"

Today more banter included; "We might as well give the drug dealers their drugs and cars back."

There was a Sandusky comment too-you can imagine that one.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Animals Have No Rights in Williamsport!



Look at the condition of this poor animal.  A little thin isn't he?  A little hair loss from starvation too!  Wounds on  the legs, and filthy ears.  Guess what?  The owner was found guilty.  But, the dog was returned to his owner by our Williamsport Magistrate after we returned the dog to a healthy condition.  We just don't understand it.  Do you?  Below is his picture after he gained 16.4 pounds, was treated for worms, wounds, ear mites....I just don't understand it.

More Progress?



On October 25, I posted a blog titled "Progress?"  If you look at that picture you will notice that not much has changed since then.  There are two tiers of bricks at the base of the addition and it has been that for almost three weeks.

This has got to be the longest project in the history of the SPCA. And since we were established in 1892, that says a lot.  No wonder people go nuts when they are building a home.  I've learned a good lesson in patience and to never build my own home. 

So no plans for an open house any time soon.

Monday, December 5, 2011

Special Gifts

Working for a Humane Society gives my friends and relatives the idea that I love animal themed gifts.  I'm always surprised by the things that can be made for animal lovers.  I have received some really great gifts such as an umbrella with cats and dogs on it.  (So it's always raining cats and dogs).  A scarf with dogs on it.  A door mat saying "Wipe your Paws", candles shaped like a cat and a dog....  Well you get the idea.

One gift that is especially appreciated is a gift of a donation to one of my favorite charities.  It never has to be exchanged for size and is always appreciated.  I just love it when people come to the shelter during the holidays and ask for a gift card for a friend or family member.  (Even if it isn't for me!)

So this holiday season, when you are stumped as to what gift to give the animal lover on your list, consider a gift to an animal shelter.  I know the animals will certainly appreciate it.