Thursday, February 20, 2014

How Far Would You Go

Euthanasia is my least favorite subject so why would I bring it up?  Because I'm embroiled in a difficult situation involving euthanasia.

We are fortunate that the Lycoming County SPCA does not euthanize dogs when we run out of space.  However, we do euthanize dogs that are aggressive. 

Having said that, I know that you are one of three people:  No euthanasia under any circumstances, euthanasia for qualified reasons, or euthanasia for population control.  And I make no judgment about your beliefs but I do ponder the various thoughts on the subject.

And this is why I bring up the subject at all:  In speaking with the founder of a rescue group that takes in animals that are going to be euthanized, she told me about a dog she has in her home.  The dog has bitten her three times.  One of the bites required hospitalization.  I was quite surprised by her story.  Me personally, after the second bite I would be rather frightened by the dog.

Many of us in animal rescue have a story to tell.  Yes, I've been bitten by a little Chihuahua who ended up being my best friend.  But he only bit me once and I think that is as far as I could go. 

Animal bites can be very damaging.  The bites frequently occur on the face or hands.  Your hands have delicate bones and tendons that, once damaged, can end up providing life long complications.  And your face is the first thing most people notice.  Questions about how you got those scars, or why half your face is paralyzed, can prove to be annoying or embarrassing. 

So how far would you go to save an animal's life.  It is something I think about frequently.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Sweetheart Specials


In celebration of Valentine’s Day, the Lycoming County SPCA is offering special incentives for the adoption of their four legged sweethearts.  During the week of February 10 to 15 any cat that has been at the shelter for more than 30 days can be adopted for just $14.00. 

 

            Additionally, adopters may choose a pink paper heart when adopting a cat or dog.  Inside the heart there will be special offers.  Two lucky adopters will receive a free adoption.  Other incentives include discounts in the SPCA gift shop, half-price dog training class, a free microchip, a free pet toy, or free pet treats.

 

            The best part is that adopters will benefit from the unconditional love of a cat or dog.  Adoptions include spaying or neutering, initial shots, a microchip and registration, and 30 days free pet health insurance.

           

            The Lycoming County SPCA does not recommend gifts of pets, however, gift certificates are available.  By giving a gift certificate, the recipient will have the opportunity to choose the animal they wish to adopt. 

 

            Anyone looking for a new sweetheart should consider a visit to the Lycoming County SPCA.  There are quite a few dogs and cats looking for love.  All of the animals that are available for adoption can be seen on the SPCA’s website at www.lycomingspca.org. 

           

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

A Terrific Year of Sheltering

Working in a humane shelter is hard work.  The staff who work in an animal shelter do so because they care about the animals.  We try to be up front with everyone we deal with so that it is understood that we will provide the best care possible.

2013 was full of positive changes that will make caring for our animals that much easier.  The big news was our building addition.  We added three rooms:  cat intake to house more cats, a multipurpose room for training and behavior modification; and a surgery room for in house spay and neuter.

Even though the addition was completed in August of 2013, we have already seen a positive change in our statistics.  In regard to the cats, we have adopted out 11 % more, have returned to the owner 26% more cats, and we have reduced our euthanasia rates by 33%!  Now those are some happy statistics. 

Our multipurpose room has helped with dog training making the dogs more adoptable and thereby reducing their length of stay.  Our public dog training classes have helped owners who might otherwise surrender their pet due to poor behavior.

We have finally hired a veterinarian who will perform spaying and neutering at the shelters.  This will help reduce the stress for the animals of having to transport them to unfamiliar places.  (And we all know how much cats like car rides!)

We look forward to 2014 and helping more animals find homes  and helping those animals that are in homes-stay there.