Tuesday, April 30, 2013

I Love Volunteers

Every single day we have a  volunteer help us in some way.  When I think about all they do it makes me smile.  Here is a list of just some of the things volunteers do to help us in our mission:
  • walk dogs and socialize cats.
  • take animals to off site locations to encourage adoptions.
  • take pictures of animals and events.
  • help with fundraising events.
  • help with office work.
  • update petfinder web site.
  • organize yard sale.
  • work at registration tables.
  • set up and tear down for events.
  • sell raffle tickets.
  • help with dog training.
  • help with landscaping.
  • donate supplies.
  • love animals!

Friday, April 19, 2013

Adopt Me!

In an effort to increase our cat adoptions, our staff had the idea to let one cat roam the shelter and greet visitors. Our first effort is with Fat Boy, the cat pictured above.  While he is affectionate with the staff, he has been avoiding the SPCA house cats because they were not very nice to him. He currently spends a lot of time in the back rooms.  He has been slowly adventuring out and about our lobby so we are hoping that someone will meet him and take a liking to him.

If you are looking for an affectionate, full figured cat, then you should meet Fat Boy.  He is neutered, up to date on his shots, microchipped and leukemia negative.  His adoption also comes with 30 days of free pet health insurance. 

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Meet Jade


Jade is one of the nicest Staffordshire Terriers I've met recently.  She has a wonderful temperament and loves everyone.   Her owner had a change in her living arrangements and could not keep her.  recently she was at the Community Arts Center to meet ticket holder for the recent show 'Stunt Dogs'.  She needs some obedience training.  (Something every dog owner should do).  You really need to meet her to see what a beautiful personality she has.  If I didn't have 2 dogs, 2 cats, a bird and a rat-I would want to adopt her myself.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Cat Condos

Our kennel manager researched several types of cat kennels for our new addition.  There is quite a variety to choose from but we found that the type of 'Cat Condos' featured above will fill our needs nicely. 

Each condo has three sections.  The larger section we call the 'lounge'.  The two smaller areas can be used for the 'bathroom' (AKA litter box) and the 'bedroom'.   Not featured in this photo are storage drawers that can be placed at the bottom of the condos.  Not only will the drawers provide convenient storage, but the added height will make it easier for staff to clean the kennels.

We received glowing references from two other shelters who are using this type of housing so we are looking forward to having them installed.  The only possible down side to these kennels is that we will like them so much that we will want to replace our existing cat kennels! 

Monday, April 8, 2013

Making People Feel Bad

A family brought in their dog because of a medical issue that they could not afford to treat.  This happens quite often and causes needless suffering for animals when they do not receive the care they need. 

After we provided the dog with treatment, the former owner wanted the dog back.  When I pointed out the fact that they were unable to financially care for the dog I was told that I was mean and made him feel bad.  The end result is that my job requires that I make sure animals are cared for properly and do not suffer from neglect. 

I'm sorry I made someone feel bad.  That wasn't my intention.  I was just pointing out that nothing has changed.  The dog needs care and they are unable to provide that.  So now I'm mean for pointing that out.   I just can't understand people sometimes!

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Construction Day 17

The footers are in, the foundation is lain.  Soon the contractors will be enclosing the foundation for our new rooms.  Offices are being rearranged so that we can make room for our new cat room addition.  While everything seems to be such a mess, I know that in a couple of months we will have a new addition and things will be closer to 'our' normal.

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Touched by Generosity

Not everyone loves animals, but those who do generously support our efforts.  We are fortunate to have so many people donate items we need.  We have a wish list of items that we use on a daily basis.  And on a daily basis I see a cart full of supplies to replenish what has been used.  Many of the items are donated by young children who request the supplies in lieu of birthday gifts.  How cool is that!

I am thankful every day for all of the wonderful people who help us care for the animals.  We couldn't do it without you.

PS  In the middle of all these donations is our curious house cat-Josie.  She has to check everything out when it arrives at the shelter.