Estimated Value? $826. Estimated Worth? Priceless.

Looking for love this summer? Why not adopt a friend.....and a buddy?!?! 

Here's a coupon from the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) that's worth sharing with everyone you know. 

Estimated value? $826. Estimated worth? Priceless.

Happy Father's Day from the Pennsylvania SPCA

Click here to watch the video: Fox Fursday: Dapper Dads, Dogs

Happy Father's Day, from the Pennsylvania SPCA!!!

We love Dads -- both the two-legged and the four-legged kind -- and we know you do, too. Here are a few ways to say, "I love you, Dad!"

Adopt a Dad! Click here to view all our adoptable Fathers: http://www.pspca.org/adoption_centers

Become a Foster Dad! Click here for information on becoming a Foster Dad for an animal in need: http://www.pspca.org/careers/volunteer (scroll down to "Foster Care Volunteer Program")

Donate in honor of Dad! Click here to make a donation in honor of your favorite Dad: http://www.pspca.org/donate

Happy Father's Day, everyone!

Urgent Appeal to the Community: Foster Homes Needed ASAP!

The Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) is making an urgent appeal to the community to provide foster homes for our dogs in need. The Animal Care & Control Team shelter (111 W. Hunting Park Avenue) and the PSPCA Adoption Center (350 E. Erie Avenue) in Philadelphia are full to capacity and we’ve tapped out our existing network of foster parents.

If you can provide temporary housing for a dog, we will provide free medical care and support in return. Foster homes are needed immediately! The longer you can foster the dog, the more lives we can save. 

If you already have a dog, you can still help – just bring your dog with you for a meet-and-greet.

If you can help, please contact ACCT Lifesaving Manager Natalie Smith at nsmith@pspca.org or (267) 385-3800 (ask for the “Lifesaving Department”), or contact PSPCA Director of Adoptions, Rescue, and Foster Care Ray Little at rlittle@pspca.org or (215) 426-6300 (ask for the “Adoptions Counter”).

To view some of the many dogs that need foster care, visit http://www.pspca.org/adoption_centers. As of today, all of these dogs are available for foster care. There are many, many more dogs who aren't listed on this website!

If you can’t become a foster, please consider making a donation to our foster program. Your donation will help offset the cost of medical care for foster animals. To make an online donation visit: http://www.pspca.org/donate (please include the word “FOSTER” in your donation). If you have questions or need additional support, please contact our Director of Development Rachel McCrystal at rmccrystal@pspca.org or (215) 426-6300 ext 217.

On behalf of all our furry friends in need, THANK YOU!!!

Want to Save a Dog's Life? Here's How.

"PSPCA Tails" is a blog about success stories......and these three sweethearts are SO CLOSE to becoming our next story, but they need your URGENT help to get there. These pooches are currently at the Animal Care & Control Team shelter (operated by the Pennsylvania SPCA) in Philadelphia.

Winston, Eva, and Princess have a RESCUE CONFIRMED to take them, but they rescue can't go there for another 7-10 days. So, they each need a short-term, temporary foster home with no other dogs to crash at for 7-10 days. After that, rescue will pick them up and deliver them safely to their second chance at life.

But they need you in order to get their second chance!

If you don't have any dogs already, and you can be a foster parent for just 7-10 days, YOU WILL SAVE THEIR LIVES!!!!!

Ladies and gentleman, I give you "Eva"......

Eva (the beautiful brown dog in the top picture) is only about 1 year old. Eva was scared when she came to us but is beginning to come out of her shell. She is playful and rambunctious and full of adolescent wiggles! Eva is learning to play and she likes to cuddle and give kisses, too! This poor little girl came to us as a stray, so she is skinny and needs to put on some weight. Sweet little Eva is scared here at the shelter, and she's waiting patiently for her foster mommy and daddy.

Next, meet "Winston".......

Winston (the goofy white dog in the middle picture) is a male neutered 3-5 year old American Bulldog Dalmatian mix. Poor Winston was surrendered here due to the health of his owner and family. He is very submissive and outwardly social and friendly, a big boy with an even bigger smile. He is feeling very lonely and confused. Winston knows “sit," “stay,” and “lay down" and he responds quickly and looks to you for the next command with a gaping smile! He is a good boy with a great attitude, considering his confusion and change of environment. Winston has been behaviorally evaluated as "highly adoptable."

Last, but certainly not least, here is "Princess"....

Princess (the striking beauty in the bottom picture) is a stunningly beautiful female Elkhound, about 2 to 4 years old. We believe Princess is already spayed, as she was adopted from a local shelter. Poor Princess was surrendered by her owner’s neighbor because they kept going away and leaving the dog locked in the house and not caring for her. Then they left a key with the neighbor and said they longer wanted her. Princess is a bit shy and aloof at first (can you blame her?!), but she warms up very quickly. She likes to come up and lick your hand and then retreat to the back of her kennel....and then come up again for more kisses and tail wagging. Princess is in great physical shape!

If you can open your home to one of these pups for JUST 7-10 DAYS and save a doggie's life, please contact the ACCT Lifesaving Manager, Natalie Smith, at nsmith@pspca.org and write "I CAN FOSTER for 7-10 DAYS" in the subject line.

Are you an animal lover? Here's your chance to walk the walk. Winston, Eva, and Princess need you. 

Thank you.

 

Are You Ready for Some Football??

Are you ready for some football?!?!?!

The Pennsylvania SPCA is! And we're throwing a "Tailgate Party" to celebrate!

Join the NFL's Jon Runyan, Barrett Brooks, and other players for an afternoon of food & fun, games & prizes, a moonbounce, a doggie kissing booth, autographs, and more.

The event is FREE and open to the public!

Date: Saturday, June 6th

Time: 1:00 to 5:00 PM

Location: The Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA), 350 E. Erie Avenue, Philadelphia

Cost: FREE!

All proceeds will fund the construction of the PSPCA's Dog Park, which will help exercise and rehabilitate abused and neglected animals.

For more info, contact PSPCA Special Events Planner Holly Russel at hrussel@pspca.org, call the PSPCA at (215) 426-6300, or visit http://www.pspca.org/.

Hope to see you there!

Sam's Super Senior Success Story

I have such a soft spot for senior dogs, it's a pleasure to share this success story on Sammy -- now known as "Sam." First, I'm sharing an email from his foster mother, Petra, who is an active volunteer with the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) and the Animal Care & Control Team (ACCT). Second, I'm posting an update from his Sam's new owners, Rob and Eileen. 

If you've ever considered fostering an animal in need, I hope this story moves you to TAKE ACTION!!

Here's an email from Petra, Sammy's foster mother:

"Sammy was an owner surrender to ACCT and listed as ~ 10 years old. He was deemed only foster care, as he was very skiddish with body handling, and very stressed and scared in the shelter. We took Sammy into foster care on March 6 and he was officially adopted on April 18. Sammy came out of his shell within 3-5 days and showed us that he was a mellow, loving and sweet dog. After Eileen and Rob adopted him, he initially developed some separation anxiety that they decided to work on with him, and Sammy now lives very happily with 2 cats, a parrot, and his wonderful parents. He could not have found a better home :-)   Updates like the one we just got from Eileen are what makes it possible to "give up" the dogs that you take into your home, and make fostering a wonderful experience for everyone involved, and most importantly Sam got his chance of living out his golden years loved and cared for which he so much deserved. Thanks to Rob and Eileen for falling in love with a (young) senior and for adopting!!!!"

And here's the update from Sam's new parents, Rob and Eileen:

"Sam is such a pleasure.  Rob and I feel like we've had him forever.  We found treats that he likes, Carvers, which are 80% chicken rather than the other crap that some of the treats have.  Rob bought him a toy last night, a stuffed squeeky ball.  We were surprised how he took to it right away.  He NEVER plays with anything. We throw the ball and he pounces on it and rolls around on the floor and finally winds up on his back playing with it!  So funny to see those short little legs holding the ball.  Take care, just wanted to give you an update on our Sam. We love him to death!!!"

Have we convinced you to become a foster?!?! Check out these links for more information -- the animals will thank you!

PSPCA Foster Care: http://www.pspca.org/careers/volunteer (scroll down to "Foster Care Volunteer Program")

ACCT Foster Care: http://www.pspca.org/acct/foster_rescue

Thank you, Volunteers!!!!

THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS!!! We had another successful "Super Pet Adoption Day" at the Animal Care & Control Team (ACCT) shelter, located at 111 W. Hunting Park Avenue in Philadelphia. Stay tuned for more updates!!!

TGIF

Happy Friday, Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) fans! Last weekend marked the unofficial start of summer (yay!), and it looks like we're in for a great season. Here are the top five reasons why I think so:

(1) I received a lovely email about Annie, a four-year-old Pit Bull (the black dog shown above!) who came to the PSPCA in April 2008. She had been adopted in January 2009 and then returned two months later. In April 2009, Annie went to her forever-and-ever home with a loving family. Her new owner wrote, "Annie has been doing really good and fitting in great with the family. Here is a picture of Annie playing in the yard with the kids." 

(2) Otis Redding, the 7-year-old Pit Bull mix I posted about on Monday and Thursday, went to a foster home last night! As much as I'm going to miss seeing the old man around the shelter, we're all thrilled that he's safe and sound in a loving home. No more "Sittin' on the Dock of the PSPCA" for Otis Redding!

(3) Another great thing happened last night: Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Second Baseman Chase Utley and his wife Jen hosted the second annual "Utley All-Star Animals Casino Night" to benefit the Pennsylvania SPCA. Chase and Jen have been outstanding advocates in the fight against animal cruelty. And they're not just advocates -- they're parents, too! The Utleys adopted a Pit Bull from the PSPCA named Jack. Jen said, "His parents were cruelty cases, they were brought in from a dog fighting ring in a row house in North Philly, and his mother happened to be pregnant." Check out Chase, Jen, and Jack Utley on ABC 6 yesterday talking about their event, the PSPCA, and their beloved Jack!

(4) If you watch "Animal Cops: Philadelphia," then you've seen Juice, the [huge!] white American Bulldog who, along with 30 other dogs, was rescued from a horrible case of cruelty/neglect in South Philadelphia last September (click here for pictures/story).  The owner had been breeding dogs illegally and some of them were used in a dog fighting ring. After living at the PSPCA for nearly a year, Juice was adopted last Saturday! With his goofy smile and stunning looks (and the endearing wads of drool that always hung from his mouth!), this gentle giant had become a staff favorite. We're so happy he's in a safe, loving home where he can finally enjoy a dog's life. 

(5) "Super Adoption Day" at the Animal Care & Control Team (ACCT) shelter is back by popular demand! On Saturday, May 30th, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the ACCT shelter -- located at 111 W. Hunting Park Avenue in Philadelphia -- will be open to the public for adoptions. We'll have dozens of cats and dogs looking for forever homes (and foster homes!) and we're counting on YOU to help spread the word! Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to stop by and meet our adoptable pets! For more details, check out the flyer posted above or visit http://www.pspca.org/events?id=254. You can also call ACCT at (267) 385-3800.

Happy summer!!! And happy Friday!!!

Mr. Pitiful Still Needs a Home!

Otis Redding is still at the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) looking for his forever home! 

Turn up your speakers and watch this video of "Mr. Pitiful" struttin' his stuff. How can you resist that face?! 

As the Otis himself would say, "I've been loving you too long to stop now." We haven't stopped loving him either. And we're not giving up until someone adopts this sweet guy. 

Could you be the one? 

Otis Redding's $75 adoption fee includes neutering, a microchip, 3 free weeks of veterinary care, and 1 year of vaccinations. He gets along with everyone, including other dogs, cats, and kids. 

He also comes with an unlimited, lifetime supply of love and tenderness. 

Come to the Pennsylvania SPCA at 350 E. Erie Avenue in Philadelphia. For more information, call (215) 426-6300 or visit www.pspca.org. 

Try a Little Tenderness

Otis Redding has been at the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) for way too long! I took him on NBC 10 this past Saturday (5/23/09), but nobody came forward to adopt him. 

He's a big boy, yes. But he walks well on a leash, he's calm, cool, and collected (most older dogs are!), and he's loving with everyone (including other dogs and cats). 

He's Otis Redding, the King of Soul....what else would you expect?!?!

To adopt Otis Redding, come to the PSPCA at 350 E. Erie Avenue in Philadelphia. For more info, call (215) 426-6300 or visit www.pspca.org. 

Come on Philly, try a little tenderness. 

Ayla

I recently received an email from Faith's Hope, a rescue group who has taken special needs cases from the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) over the past few years. Their latest rescue was Ayla (formerly known as Rajah), a deaf female pit bull who was surrendered to the PSPCA in January 2008 by another rescue group. Faith's Hope took Ayla into their care in May 2008.

Here's the update I received from Faith's Hope, which begins with a backstory on the woman who adopted Ayla:

"About 8 years ago, someone left a very dirty white Pit Bull puppy in someone's yard. That kind of thing happens a lot these days, especially in cities. Most people would have just taken that puppy to the shelter or at best, cleaned her up and found her a home. Once they found out the puppy was truly abandoned and no one was looking for her, this family chose a different path. They kept that puppy. They knew nothing about Pit Bull and like most people who listen to the news, they were a little "uncertain" and "leery" of a Pit Bull, but they gave the puppy a chance and that puppy changed their minds and hearts forever about the breed. Just as she changed a few other minds along the way.

That dog's name was Storm, she was a beautiful dog and she became a very loved member of that family. Some time later, that family also adopted a male Dogo Argentino who is deaf, his name is Duke. The family has gone through some changes since. The wife and husband are now divorced. Duke went to live with the husband, Storm stayed with the wife, who has two grown sons, the oldest one is about to graduate from college. Storm had an impact on his choice of dog breeds as well, he now owns two pit bulls, both adopted from a shelter. The other son just started college. The woman and Storm lived alone in Northeast Philadelphia and were best friends. Sadly, Storm passed away of bone cancer.

Although she was understandably heartbroken over losing Storm, she is a dog lover and she loves having a dog around to keep her company and share her life with. So she went to petfinder and started searching. And because she only lives less than a mile from me, one of the first Pit Bulls that came up in her search was Ayla. She fell instantly in love with Ayla and emailed me hoping she hadn't been adopted yet. Both me and Ayla's foster mom spoke with her and we both had a very good feeling about her finally being "the one!" Her references were wonderful, her situation pretty much ideal for Ayla. She owns her own home, she lives alone, no other animals, she has Pit Bull experience, she has experience with deaf dogs, and she works full time but pays her neighbor to come over in the middle of the day to let the doggie out. She is home by 3 pm every day.

I did the home visit, her home is beautiful and you can tell how much she loved Storm. After the home visit, she drove to the Ayla's foster mother's house to meet Ayla. It didn't take hervery long to decide Ayla would be making the trip back to Philadelphia with her. Finally, after so many months in foster care, after spending a few months in a shelter along the way, Ayla has a home of her very own! I am just so VERY happy for her, she is a wonderful dog and she has been incredibly patient."

The Pennsylvania SPCA is very proud of Ayla!

And we're not the only ones!

Ayla was photographed by professional pet photographer Melissa McDaniel, who traveled the country meeting with rescue dogs and deaf dogs for upcoming photo books titled Rescued in America and Deaf Dogs. A large portion of the proceeds will be donated to animal welfare groups, such as the Pennsylvania SPCA.

“This is a series of photo books with educational content, designed to call attention to certain topics, raise awareness on issues, celebrate the beauty that is around us, and give non-profits ameans to raise money for themselves,” said McDaniel.

Deaf Dogs will feature more than 50 deaf dogs from the US and Canada. The purpose of the book is to dispel the myths that surround deaf dogs.

“We could learn so much from these inspirational animals that never let their handicap hold them back," said McDaniel.

For more information on the books and to order, visit http://melissashouse.typepad.com/shelterstories/preorder-the-photo-books.html. You will have the option to donate to the Pennsylvnia SPCA when you order.....and the dogs will thank you for your kindness!

Super Adoption Day at ACCT

Saturday was a SUPER day for Philadelphia's animals! The Animal Care & Control Team (ACCT) shelter, powered by the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA), hosted "Super Adoption Day" on May 16 from 11 AM to 4 PM. This was the first time ACCT opened its doors to the public for adoptions, and the public responded enthusiastically: six dogs were adopted and several others found loving foster homes!

From the balloons decorating the parking lot to the happy pups playing on the front lawn, the atmosphere at ACCT was festive and uplifting. When potential adopters arrived at the shelter, dozens of smiling volunteers were on hand to answer questions, lead meet-and-greets, assist with adoption applications, and help the animals put their best paws forward. With so many volunteers helping out, every dog in the shelter got to roll around in the grass and sunbathe. This gave visitors a chance to see the dogs outside of their kennels, in a natural setting where they could interact with them and see their personalities shine through. Both the dogs and the public loved every minute of it!

"Super Adoption Day" could not have happened without our volunteers, an amazing group of animal-lovers who donate their time, skills, and resources to give Philadelphia's animals a second chance at life. Volunteering at a large, urban animal shelter is challenging work, particularly when a struggling economy has led more and more people to surrender or abandon their pets. But our volunteers consistently go above and beyond the call of duty, and "Super Adoption Day" was a testament to their dedication, passion, and spirit. 

Roscoe, Tuck, Tyson, Bambi, Jessica, and Booker -- the lucky dogs that got adopted on Saturday -- give "Super Adoption Day" two paws up, and their furry friends back at the shelter can't wait to do it again soon! 

Congrats to the Class of 2009

(Click on the pictures to see a larger version!)

On May 11, the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) hosted the Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) exam at our Philadelphia Adoption Center and we are pleased to announce that 10 dogs passed with flying colors. This was the first time that the PSPCA has administered the CGC exam at our shelter.

The CGC exam is a certification program administered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) that rewards dogs who have good manners at home and in the community and stresses responsible pet ownership. The United States Senate and 35 state legislatures, including Pennsylvania, have resolutions endorsing the Canine Good Citizen® concept. The CGC exam is also a pre-requisite to therapy dog certification.

Of the 10 dogs that passed the CGC exam, seven were Pit Bulls/Pit Bulls mixes, including three that were adopted from the PSPCA. Two of the adopted Pit Bulls had been rescued from cruelty cases in Philadelphia by PSPCA Humane Law Enforcement Officers.

The Animal Farm Foundation is generously providing the PSPCA with a $150 Incentive Award for each of the seven Pit Bulls/Pit Bull mixes that passed the CGC exam. This will generate a total of $1,050 in support for the PSPCA.

“The Animal Farm Foundation’s AKC Canine Good Citizen® Incentive Award is designed to bring together dogs, their owners, and the community,” said Stacey Coleman, Foundation Manager for the Animal Farm Foundation. “Dogs and their owners strengthen their bond by training together for their CGC. In turn, the dog-owner teams help the shelters by earning much needed funds for the homeless animals in their community. We are pleased that the Pennsylvania SPCA is participating in our incentive award program and is successfully bringing their community together for the good of the animals.”

The PSPCA provided scholarships for all Pit Bull/Pit Bull mix owners whose dogs took the CGC exam, which would otherwise cost $25 per dog.

“Pit Bulls have been misunderstood and maligned for years due to sensational myths and advocates of breed bans,” said Nicole Larocco, Director of Animal Behavior & Training for the PSPCA. “This means that Pit Bulls often linger in the shelter for months because they are overlooked and unwanted by potential adopters who are not aware of their loyal, loving nature.”

During the six weeks leading up to the exam, Larocco taught a training class to help dogs and their owners prepare. Five of the 10 dogs that passed the exam had participated in Larocco’s class.

Beth Strecker, an approved CGC evaluator who has volunteered with the PSPCA for nearly 40 years, administered the exam on behalf of the AKC.

22 Litters and Counting

Kitten season is not coming. It's here. And it's in full swing. The Animal Care & Control Team (ACCT) shelter -- which is run by the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) -- is overflowing with litters!

Twenty-two litters, to be exact. And that number is rising rapidly.

We have kitties. We have mommas. We have kitties and mommas. We have some mommas who were turned in without their babies, so they're taking care other mommas' kitties, who were turned in without their mommas. (Try saying that five times.....)

In other words, we are in dire need of foster homes.

Our goal is to place every single one of them in time for Mother's Day on May 10. Preferably sooner, of course, as there are surely 22 more litters waiting on deck. 'Tis the season.

ACCT will provide all veterinary care and medicines free of charge, as well as support and information on bottle-feeding, caring for kittens, and other foster-motherhood questions. You can think of us as the Dr. Spock for all things furry.

To see pictures/descriptions of all 23 litters looking for homes, visit: http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/pet/1159182271.html.

If you can make a difference and become a foster parent, please call ACCT at (267) 385-3800 or stop by our shelter at 111 W. Hunting Park Avenue in Philadelphia between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM (we're open 7 days a week!). Or, you can email Natalie (nsmith@pspca.org), Jill (jsweeney@pspca.org), or Jennifer (jlayton@pspca.org).

Thank you for finding room in your home and your heart for these precious babies.

PS: Still on the fence? Here's some inspiration: http://www.myfoxphilly.com/dpp/good_day_philadelphia/fox_fursday/050709_Fox_Fursday_Mama_Pets_Need_Homes_Too

Canine Good Citizens

On Monday, May 11, the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) in Philadelphia will administer the Canine Good Citizen Exam to approximately 15 canine candidates and their owners. This is the first time we've offered the exam and we're excited to see who will comprise our first graduating class.


Pit Bulls and Pit Bull mixes have been invited to take the exam for free. Nearly half the dogs signed up are Pits, some of whom were adopted from our shelter.

With so much negative publicity surrounding this misunderstood breed, the PSPCA is proud to show the world what good citizens they can be, particularly in the hands of responsible owners.

The handsome boy shown above is Louis, who was rescued by PSPCA humane law enforcement officers in 2008. Louis is taking his Canine Good Citizen Exam on Monday, so be sure to send him some good luck vibes!

We Love You, Mom!

Mother's Day is just around the corner (May 10th!), so the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) is encouraging everyone to think outside the box -- or the cage -- this year.

Mothers play so many different roles at our shelter, so we came up with three very special ways to say "I love you, Mom."

#1: Adopt a Mom!

Many cats and dogs come to our shelter with "buns in the oven" and give birth to kitties and puppies. Their babies get adopted quickly but the moms are overlooked because they're older, so they're left behind in the shelter. In other cases, our humane law enforcement officers rescue "breeding mothers" (dogs who are used to give birth to litter after litter) from puppy mills, backyard breeders, or dogfighting rings. When the dog can no longer produce litters, the owners often neglect them -- or worse -- so we step in and save them. So one way to show moms how much we appreciate everything they do is by adopting one! All of our adoptable animals (including Lisa, the dog shown above, who was a breeding mother in a Philadelphia dogfighting ring) are listed on the PSPCA website at: www.pspca.org/adoption_centers.

#2: Sponsor a Mom!

We understand that not everyone is able to have pets, but you can still show your support by sponsoring one. For a donation of $50 or more, we'll send your Mom a photo and the story of one of the animals in our shelter. Your donation will help cover the animal's food, shelter, and medical care while it waits to be adopted. Normally the Sponsor-a-Pet program is $150 for cats and $200 for dogs, but we will honor the reduced price of $50 (for cats and dogs) until Tuesday, May 5, at 5:00 pm (this guarantees that your gift arrives in time!). To sponsor a pet for Mother's Day, contact Katie Riecks, Development Associate, at (215) 426-6304 ext. 272 or kriecks@pspca.org.

#3 Become a Mom!

That's right, you can become a Mom -- a foster mom! -- in time for Mother's Day! Foster moms provide caring homes for animals that are too young, too sick, or too unsocialized to be adopted yet. And now that kitten season has arrived, we especially need foster moms to take nursing cats and their babies. Newborn animals, nursing moms, and sick animals require much more attention than they can receive from the shelter staff. Foster moms can give them animals the extra TLC they need before finding their permanent homes, and they also clear space in the shelter for other animals waiting to be adopted. To become a foster mom, visit the PSPCA website at http://www.pspca.org/docs/Foster_Application_Internet.pdf or the Animal Care & Control Team (ACCT) website at http://www.pspca.org/acct/foster_rescue.

On that note, here's a video of a mommy cat and her baby kittens, who were born one day after arriving at the PSPCA.

Happy Mother's Day!

Couch Potatoes

Yesterday I wrote about a cat who likes broccoli, so today I'm writing about potatoes.....couch potatoes, to be exact!

Here are two emails I received about dogs who love to lounge. Both of them were adopted from the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) in Philadelphia.

The first email is from Nanci, who adopted Dempsey (formerly known as Heinz) -- the pit bull in the top picture:

"We adopted Dempsey in mid-January of 2009 and he’s as happy as he can be. He is an amazing addition to our family! He’s just loving life and his new pack. He is incredibly gentle with the kids. When the baby hands him his dog toys, Dempsey is so careful and gentle while accepting them. Everywhere I take him, he is simply fawned over and eating it up. His new vet is in love with him. Dempsey is a great on following commands -- he can sit, lay, and stay. Dempsey also LOVES other dogs and has made a few new doggie buddies at the dog park (there are no restrictions on pit bulls where we live!). His favorite activities are chewing on his bones, getting massages, and resting on his old man chair….it’s now his!"

The second email is from Anne, who adopted Buddy (formerly known as LT) -- the Lab mix in the bottom picture):

"Buddy is doing GREAT! What a sweet dog! He loves to play, he goes for long walks two times a day with my dad, and he hangs out with his new sister Maggie every now and then. She usually comes in to raid his toy box and Buddy doesn't mind at all, mainly because he's a big 'ol couch potato. He and my dad made quick friends! I take him with me on Sundays to my friend’s house and we walk through the cemeteries with her dog, Jay. She also has 3 cats and 2 birds, and Buddy is NOT aggressive with other animals. We are so HAPPY that someone saw what a great dog he was and set things up so that he could at meet his new sister, which obviously went well and now he has forever home. We love Buddy so much!!! Take care and thanks again for checking in."

He Likes It! Hey Mikey!

I've officially run out of excuses for not eating my vegetables.....even the cats are doing it!

Read this success story about Mikey, who has an affinity for broccoli. Mikey was surrendered to the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) on New Years Eve of 2008.

"We adopted Angel, who we have since renamed Mikey. The week before we adopted him, I was at the PSPCA with my sister and saw him. The following weekend my 19 year old daughter went with me to “visit." We opened the cage and he instantly put his two front paws up on her shoulders and snuggled under her chin and began purring. She looked at me and said “I think he just adopted us.”

Mikey settled right in with our other male cat and our big dogs. He is extremely calm, loving, and affectionate. For the first week or two, the cats avoided each other, but after that, they became the best of friends. They play, sleep, eat, and watch the birds from the patio window together.

He loves attention from us as well, and will still put his front paws up to be picked up and carried around like a baby looking over my shoulder or snuggling under my chin.

We have found (by accident) that he finds people food amusing as well as an occasional tasty treat. He will bat a piece of broccoli around the floor, pick it up in his mouth and toss it around for a few minutes, before finally eating it (yes…he eats broccoli).

Mikey has been a wonderful addition to our family and we are so happy that he is with us. His constant purring makes us think he is pretty happy with his home as well."

"Puppy Mills: Exposed" Airs Tonight on Animal Planet

Do you remember my story about Baxter, the white labradoodle shown above? He was rescued by the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) from a puppy mill outside Philadelphia: http://pspcatails.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_27.html.

Tonight you can get the full scoop on Baxter and other puppy mill dogs by watching Animal Planet’s “Puppy Mills: Exposed” episode, which airs tonight (Monday, April 27) at 10:00 pm EST on Animal Planet.

The episode features real-life footage of PSPCA humane law enforcement officers busting local puppy mills and saving animals from abuse and neglect.

You’ll learn why Pennsylvania – specifically Lancaster County – is called “the puppy mill capital of the east.”

You'll also learn why it's so important to adopt, rather than shop, for pets.

"Puppy Mills: Exposed" is something everyone should see....even if it's past your bedtime.

To learn more about the PSPCA’s efforts to stop puppy mills in Pennsylvania, visit: http://www.pspca.org/news/puppy_mills.

Happy Hour Has Gone to the Dogs!

You are NOT going to believe what just happened.

I'm in my office at the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) and four dogs walk over to my desk. They all looked familiar and they seemed to know their way around the place.

One of them -- the Australian Cattle Dog/Collie mix-- steps forward and hands me a letter. The brown Pit Bull with the perky ears says they're not leaving until I post it on the blog. The Pug starts licking my face and says she won't stop until I do it. The white, three-legged Pit Bull says he needs me to type it for them.

He only had three legs, how could I say no?

So here's their letter, which I'm posting on the dogs' behalf.

To all the dogs in Philadelphia:

Our names are Uluru, Mary Todd Lincoln, Mazzy, and AJ. We were each adopted from the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA), where all of our moms work.

As PSPCA alumni, we want to give something back to all the dogs who are still in the shelter, so we're throwing a happy hour to raise money for a PSPCA dog park!

Yep, that's right. Happy hour has gone to the dogs! The festivities take place tonight, Thursday, April 23, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Parc (227 S. 18th Street in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia).

You see, we have great lives now, but we remember what it's like to be a shelter dog. We'd sit in our kennels all day long, dreaming of green grass and fresh air. We'd have so much energy, we didn't know what to do with ourselves. All we wanted to do was run around.

At times we got a little stir-crazy. Other times we felt like giving up. Most of the time our muscles hurt from not being used.

Now that we're adopted, our moms take us to the park everyday. Boy, is that living! We run, we play, we sniff grass, we meet friends......life couldn't get any better!

And that's why we want to build a dog park for our friends who are still at the shelter. We think it's the perfect way to keep them happy and healthy while they're waiting for good homes.

But we need your help. So here's what we're asking:

(1) Invite your owners to the happy hour tonight. Make sure they know that a portion of tonight's drink sales will directly benefit our dog park project.

(2) Invite your owners' friends to the happy hour tonight. The more, the merrier.

(3) If they can't come, don't bark at them. Just remind them to show their support by donating online: http://www.pspca.org/donate/dogpark

One last time......Thursday, April 23, 5:0o to 7:00 PM, at Parc.

We hope to see you there (and yes, we will ALL be there....and so will our moms!)!

Sincerely,

Uluru, Mary Todd Lincoln, Mazzy, and AJ

Three Lucky Dogs

There's an old saying that three white dogs together are a sign of good luck, so today's story is about......three white dogs!

Last Thursday, the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) helped rescue three white Shepherds running loose on Roosevelt Boulevard in Philadelphia. The dogs had escaped from their yard and were darting into oncoming traffic.

With help from some good samaritans, the Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT) caught the dogs and brought them to safely to the shelter. The following afternoon they were reunited with their owner, who was thrilled that they survived the incident.

"They're going to get a shower, they're going to see their vet again, and then they're going home and getting a steak dinner," said the dogs' owner.

These dogs certainly had luck on their side!

In case your dogs are NOT so lucky, please -- PLEASE! -- have them licensed and microchipped!

If you live in the City of Philadelphia, you are required by law to have your dog licensed. Licensed dogs picked up by ACCT are held for at least five days while efforts are made to contact you. However, unlicensed dogs are only required to be held at the shelter for 48 hours.

To purchase a license, visit the PSPCA (350 E. Erie Avenue in Philadelphia) or ACCT (111 W. Hunting Park Avenue). The costs vary, so please click here for more information: http://www.pspca.org/acct/e-acct.

The PSPCA also recommends that you have your pets microchipped. A microchip is a a small radio transponder (the size of a grain of rice) that is inserted under your pet's skin between the shoulder blades in a relatively painless procedure. If your pet becomes lost, any shelter or veterinary office can use a scanner to quickly identify your pet by its microchip. Thousands of petowners are reunited with their pets every year thanks to microchips.

The PSPCA offers low-cost microchips for $15. To schedule an appointment to have your furry friend microchipped, call the PSPCA at (215) 426-6300. For more information, visit: http://www.pspca.org/services/hospital.

Finding Time for Jade

It's a cold and rainy day outside, but this email truly brightened my day!

This is from a Mechanicsburg resident who drove two hours to adopt a dog from the Pennsylvania SPCA's (PSPCA) Danville Adoption Branch. Ironically, the dog was originally surrendered to the shelter because its previous owner "didn't have enough time."

Dear Kim,

My name is Jessica. My husband and I adopted a 2-3 year old black lab mix from the Danville SPCA about a month ago. I just wanted to let you know that she is a wonderful dog, we feel really lucky to have found her.

We named her Jade, and she's doing really well. She's getting along with my cat, Diva (though by "getting along," I mean she's staying out of Diva's way). Diva is quite well named, I adopted her from the SPCA in Norfolk, VA, about 4 years ago. Jade doesn't bother her at all.

Jade is also doing great with our 6 month old son Colin. She just watches him, lets him grab her hair, and she licks his ears. He's constantly laughing at her, while he watches her play.

Jade loves her tennis ball, going walking and jogging, and most recently, going to the dog park where she gets along great with other dogs.

I was really impressed with the Danville SPCA, and have nothing but nice things to say about them, which is ultimately why I was willing to drive two hours to adopt a dog from the nice folks at the Danville SPCA. They were wonderful and very easy to work with.

I know that there is a real epidemic of unwanted pets, and you guys are really doing a good thing finding homes for them. I am really glad we found Jade and were able to adopt her, she's awesome, and fitting into our little family like we've always had her.

Thanks a lot,

Jessica

Teamwork

The following success story illustrates the power of teamwork, especially when animal lovers are involved.

In May of 2008, Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) Humane Law Enforcement Officer Greg J. rescued a very special dog from a cruelty/neglect case in Northeast Philadelphia. The dog was NyNy, an older Doberman Pincher who was left in a yard with large, open, infected wounds on this forearms, the result of "lick granuloma." His nails were so overgrown that they were digging back into his paws. NyNy was bleeding in multiple places and he suffered from hypothyroidism, which had gone untreated for years.

When Officer Greg arrived at the scene, he knew right away that NyNy was a special dog that deserved a second chance. He recalled:

"After initially seeing NyNy in his rear yard hobbling toward me, my heart went out to this dog that clearly hadn’t received necessary vet care, nor had his grossly overgrown nails clipped. He had a great large yard and yet he couldn’t enjoy painlessly running around it."

Officer Greg brought NyNy back to the PSPCA to begin the healing process. "NyNy didn’t put up any resistance to going for the ride to the PSPCA when I put him in our vehicle," he said. "Even on the exam table, he was extremely cooperative and let our vets treat his wounds and trim his nails."

NyNy spent two months at the PSPCA healing from his wounds, both physical and psychological. He was still unsure about people and didn't know how to trust them. But PSPCA staff and volunteers never gave up on NyNy, whom they knew was a loving dog underneath all the fear and anxiety.

In July, Pam T. of the Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc. came forward to find a permanent home for NyNy. Pam reached out to her extensive network of Doberman lovers and connected with RhondaSue, who gladly opened her home to NyNy.

RhondaSue shared the following update on NyNy, whom she how refers to as "Jack":

"Jack's gait is very good. He runs and pounces and wants to be hugged and petted all the time. He is good about taking food from your hand.

Jack has not overcome his obsessive licking on his left front paw, so he wears an Elizabethan collar ("E-collar" or "E-cone") that is transparent.

He is quite the charmer with visitors. He "cones" them (pushes his E-cone against them) and won't leave until I tell him to "go to blankey." He likes men and women both but seems to have a preference for women. He is good with older children.

Jack does not bite. He loves his blankey and has "his" spot in the living room. He is not food aggressive and sits and waits until released to eat. He takes thyroid medication every morning and Rimadyl once a day.

I have two other large dogs (neutered males) with whom he gets along fine. There is the occasional growl over a bone or who can squeeze through the door first but no aggression. Jack loves to be petted and sit right by me. He keeps his eye on me all the time. He loves being in the house. He goes outside to do his business but has absolutely no interest in staying outside even now that nice weather is here.

Jack has a forever home with me. It was love at first sight for both of us. He has never been anything but loving to me. Thank you for not putting him down and contacting Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA to take him. That chance he was given has been a blessing to both Jack and me. We love each other and he will have a loving home for the rest of his life."

When I shared this update with Officer Greg, he was thrilled to hear that NyNy/Jack is living the live he deserved.

"He’s a very kind dog that now has the opportunity with another home to provide the loving companionship I know he’s capable of providing," he said.

Now that's teamwork! What a great example of what can be accomplished when animal lovers work together.

To Love and Be Loved

A 19th century French author named George Sand once said, "There is only one happiness in life: to love and be loved.”

Judging by the picture above, Layde Luv and her new owner, George, would probably agree.

Layde Luv was adopted from the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) on Valentine’s Day of 2009. I recently received the following update from George.

"My family and I adopted a dog which we picked up on Valentines Day, hence her name Layde Luv. She's a loving, playful pitbull terrier.

Since the adoption, Layde seems a lot more comfortable with human interaction and a lot happier also. She interacts very well with children of all ages. She doesn't like to be alone very long, so she is in my car with me a lot! She thinks she's a lap dog when she jumps right into your lap to cuddle, nuzzle, and play.

Layde enjoys warm baths in between grooming appointments. People in the nieghborhood love all the different sweaters she sports when it's chilly.

I am in the process of training Layde. She already knows the basic commands sit, stay, come, and down. She loves going to the park and running with me. Although we have not mastered off-leash walking yet, she walks on a lead properly, without pulling, etc.

Layde has already become a member of the family and shows us her growing love and devotion daily...and we do sincerely love her!"

Happy Easter!

The Easter Bunny arrived early this year!

Actually, the "bunny's" name is Helio and he's a 1.5-year-old cat who, along with his three sisters, was abandoned on a doorstep near Danville, PA, in November 2007. A good samaritan brought the kittens to the Pennsylvania SPCA's (PSPCA) Danville Adoption Branch. The kittens were underweight and in desperate need of some TLC, so they were transferred to the Philadelphia Headquarters to receive medical care.

The three females went to foster right away, but poor Helio didn't have any takers.

That's when Heather, a PSPCA employee, and her officemates decided to give the poor guy a chance. They took Helio in as an "office foster," allowing Helio to relax alongside their desks while they worked (and kept a watchful eye on him!).

But as luck would have it, Helio hurt his leg and, at the same time, he became ill. His temperature reached 105 degrees. Things were not looking good.

Once again, however, Helio pulled through. After weeks of cage rest, extra feedings, and medical care, he began to heal.

Not wanting to take any chances, Heather decided to foster Helio at her home, where he could regain his strength in a quiet, peaceful environment.

And he's been there ever since!

I guess you could say it was destined to happen. Heather had been looking to adopt a friend for her resident cat, Cagney -- who is also a PSPCA alum.

In fact, Cagney was born at the PSPCA! His mother was brought to the shelter as a stray and gave birth to a litter of seven kittens. Sadly, only one of the kittens -- Cagney -- survived. Heather adopted him in October 2007.

And if that weren't enough, Heather's mom adopted Cagney's mother, Lucy!

So now everyone -- Helio, Cagney, and Lucy --lives together under the same roof as one big happy family. (Did I mention they also have a dog, Hunter, who was adopted from the PSPCA in November 2007? We'll save him for another post....)

Heather wrote the following update:

"Cagney and Helio are complete opposites, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Cagney is a typical cat—he will decide when he wants to be scratched behind the ears and who will pet him.

Helio on the other hand, lives up to his namesake—race car driver and "Dancing with the Stars" champion Helio Castroneves. He races and dances around the house constantly—you would never know he had such a rough start in life."

And the Easter Bunny ears?

"Helio happily obliges my wanting to dress him up in funny hats."

I'd say it's working out well for him. In fact, Helio just won a photo contest on "People: Pets" for being so darn cute: http://www.peoplepets.com/photos/funny/easter/10.

On behalf of Helio, Cagney, Lucy, Hunter, and the rest of the PSPCA animals.........Happy Easter!

Two Happy Endings for Two German Shepherds

The Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) is a big fan of German Shepherds, so today's post is about two of our former residents: Alfie and Angie.

You've probably heard about Alfie (in the top picture), the German Shepherd "hero dog" who alerted her owners when their two-year-old son climbed onto the roof of their home in 2006. Sadly, last week Pennsylvania (PSPCA) Humane Law Enforcement Officers found Alfie abandoned in the basement of that same home.

Alfie had very little food, no water, and feces were covering the ground. She was 15 pounds underweight and severely dehydrated. Alfie been neglected for at least two months. PSPCA Officers brought her to the shelter, where she received much needed medical attention and TLC.

Thanks to the outpouring of concern from the community, Alfie went to a loving foster home within days of being rescued. Now she's on her way to a permanent recovery.

Another one of the PSPCA's former Shepherd residents is Angela, the beautiful black dog in the bottom picture.

Angela -- now known as "Angie" -- came to us from animal control in January 2009. After a one-month stay at our shelter, she was adopted by a loving family.

Angie's new owner shared the following update:

"Me and Angie are doing wonderful. She has 2 best friends, my dog Ginger and my cat Shadow. They play all the time. She also has a couple of friends over at the nearest dog park. We go there 4 times a week and she loves it.

I believe Angie is very happy and I'm completely happy with her. I wanted to let you and everyone at the PSPCA know that she has a great family who loves her.

Angie is an amazing dog, a diamond in the rough. I love her and I thank you so much for giving her the chance to meet me and fill the missing part in my life. I'm full now, I have everything I could ask for.

We are happy and love the PSPCA. Just let me know if there is anything I and my family can do. Thank you."

Two happy endings for two beautiful dogs!

Curious the Therapy Dog

I’m proud to share the following update about Curious, a lovely and talented Pit Bull who was rescued by the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) Humane Law Enforcement team from cruelty/neglect case in Philadelphia. She spent one month at our shelter before going to a rescue group.

“I am the founder of Wet Nose Rescue and the person who pulled Curious from the PSPCA.

One of our volunteers asked to foster her and fell in love. Needless to say, she turned into one of those "failed fosters" and Curious became a permanent member of their family.

It didn't take long for her to learn that Curious was not only sweet, but a very special and gifted dog. She and her husband also had two other dogs in their family, one of which they did not know was ill (Chance).

Curious exhibited some unusual behavior towards Chance, who started having seizures that Curious seemed to recognize prior to them occurring. It was eventually found that Chance had a brain disorder.

Through the remainder of Chance’s life, Curious made herself inseparable from him and was his constant companion and guardian. She would literally lay on top of him during seizures to keep him from falling.

During this time, Curious started her training to be a Therapy Dog, but she always seemed a little distracted. Her owners were not certain Curious would ever be able to complete all the necessary training.

When Chance passed away, they started to see a change in Curious. She seemed less distracted and actually started playing and acting more like a dog, almost as if her job of watching over Chance was complete now.

The owners took Curious back to her Therapy Dog classes and she passed with flying colors!

We are all so proud of this wonderful girl, and what a tribute to all of those wonderful Pitties!”

Does anyone have a tissue? What a touching story!

Curious is one of the many Pit Bulls who once called the PSPCA home: in 2008 we sheltered 7,163 dogs and 1,052 (14%) of them were Pit Bulls.

Sadly, the breed has been misunderstood and maligned for years due to sensational myths perpetuated by the media and advocates of “breed bans.” This means that Pit Bulls often linger in the shelter for months because they are overlooked and unwanted by potential adopters who aren’t aware of their loyal, loving nature.

We can change this. We NEED to change this.

And we need your Pit Bulls to lead the way!

So on Monday, May 11, the PSPCA will offer the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test – and the PSPCA is providing full scholarships to all Pit Bulls and Pit Bull mixes! That’s right….it’s FREE!

The CGC test is the first step in becoming a Therapy Dog. CGC is a certification program administered by the American Kennel Club that rewards dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. It stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs.

We know there’s no shortage of Pit Bulls who are up for the challenge, so we kindly ask that you schedule an appointment by emailing nlarocco@pspca.org or calling (215) 426-6300 x259.

For more information, check out “DOG-102A: Canine Good Citizen Test” on our website at http://www.pspca.org/services/training_behavior.

Two paws up for Curious for leading the way!

Living the Good Life

I recently received an email from “Cookie’s Papa,” the proud owner of a Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) alum! Cookie is a 4-year-old Rottweiler/Shepherd mix whose previous owner fell on hard times and lost her house, so she surrendered Cookie to our shelter.

“Cookie’s Papa” wrote:

“We adopted Cookie in December 2008. I met her at a mobile adoption that I was working at as a volunteer and I went to the PSPCA the next day and adopted her. I knew Cookie was special because everyone at the shelter was so sad to see her go.

Cookie had a rough first week or two trying to figure out where her "tootsie rolls" go, but she learned quickly. She now knows how to sit and give paw. Cookie is our baby and she never leaves my side. The neighborhood knows her by name because she greets everyone with a wet kiss.

She goes to the spa once a week for massage and doggy time. Cookie is the love our life and I can't imagine life without her.”

Everyone at the PSPCA is happy that Cookie is living the good life, complete with weekly spa trips! Every dog deserves to be pampered.

Cookie’s pals back at the shelter could use some pampering, too. Many of the animals that come to us have never had a bath until they enter the shelter. After they're rescued from cruelty and neglect, our grooming tub is their first stop! Once they're sudsed up, we see a whole new animal: healthier, fluffier, and much, much happier.

April showers mean especially muddy paws, so this month we’re collecting grooming supplies for our shelter animals. You’re invited to donate shampoos and conditioners, grooming clippers, and special treatments (medicated shampoos for flea, tick, mange, and skin irritations) to the Pennsylvania SPCA. Clean, gently used towels are always welcome, too!

To help our furry friends look and feel their best, visit our website: http://www.pspca.org/donate/wishlist.

Our animals need all the help they can get finding new homes. Your grooming donations will help them put their best paw forward!

PS: Cookie, we love your new set of ears!

Birds and Baseball

The Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) isn't home to just cats and dogs -- we also have hamsters, horses, ferrets, rats, pigs, donkeys, bulls, roosters, chickens, iguanas, guinea pigs, turtles, ponies, bunnies....and birds!

Yes, birds.

Two days after Christmas of 2008, the PSPCA Humane Law Enforcement team rescued more than 60 birds (and one cat!) from a trailer home in Northern Pennsylvania. The majority of the birds were in dirty, broken cages and others were flying freely though the trailer. All of them had been badly neglected, but the majority were healthy enough to be adopted.

So what happened to the birds?

Just ask Margaret and Jacqueline, who adopted one of them. His name is Trua and he's a two-year-old Cockatiel.

Margaret wrote:

"Trua is a wonderful bird, and he brings our family a lot of love and makes our daughter Jacqueline so happy. He kisses and goes on our hand just like our Jingels did. Jingles is so missed, we had him for 16 years. Now we have Trua and he has a wonderful home and is cared for so much."

It looks like Trua is also a Phillies fan!

Speaking of the Phillies, the PSPCA is having a "Pup Rally" tomorrow, Thursday, April 2, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM in Rittenhouse Square Park in Philadelphia. We're joining the Phillies Red Phanatic, Phillies Broadcasters, and Phillies Ballgirls to raise funds and awareness for the PSPCA.

It's free and open to the public -- especially the dogs (or the Chase Mutleys, rather). At 5:45 PM there will be a "Pup Parade" and prizes will go to the best-dressed pooches, so dress your pups in their Phillies best.

For more information, visit our website: http://www.pspca.org/events?id=218.

Sadly, we can host any birds tomorrow, but we know that Trua will be there in spirit! Judging by the picture above, maybe he's planning to call in???

Baxter: From Puppy Mill to Forever Home

On Friday, March 27, at 11:35 pm (EST), ABC's "Nightline" will be investigating puppy mills. ABC Correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi and investigators from "Nightline" traveled to Pennsylvania to visit Lancaster County's notorious Amish commercial breeding facilities that have made Pennsylvania "The Puppy Mill Capital of the East."

Alfonsi interviewed, on camera, an Amish breeder while touring his facility -- a first for network television. With approximately 500 dogs housed on his property, this puppy mill owner speaks openly about an industry cloaked in secrecy and suspicion....and the cruel factory farming of man's best friend.

The term "puppy mill" is used to describe a factory farm where dogs are bred in inhumane and unsanitary conditions. Dogs are kept in cages that are far too small to adequately house them, many never leaving the cages during their entire lifetime. These animals are deprived of proper nutrition, veterinary care, and socialization, all for the monetary benefit of the owner.

Commercial pet stores often buy their puppies from the cheapest means possible, which are usually puppy mills. If you purchased a puppy from a pet store, you might have contributed to the puppy mill epidemic.

The biggest sufferers are the unwanted and unsold puppies, as well as the "breeding mothers" and "breeding studs," who produce litter after litter for years. These animals are treated as machines, capable only of breeding. When they are no longer "useful," they are mercilessly killed.

Baxter, the Labradoodle shown above, was a "breeding stud" at Limestone Kennels in Chester County, Pennsylvania (a suburb of Philadelphia). With help from Main Line Animal Rescue -- a leading advocate against puppy mills -- Baxter was rescued by the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) and adopted into a loving home. His story illustrates both the tragedy of puppy mills and the triumph of organizations and individuals who truly love and respect man's best friend.

BACKGROUND:

In July 2008, John Blank, the owner of Limestone Kennels, surrendered nine dogs to Main Line Animal Rescue that were suffering from various health issues. Bill Smith, the Director of Main Line Animal Rescue, brought those animals (including five chocolate labs, one yellow lab, one Shiba Inu, and two Jack Russell Terriers) to the PSPCA for medical evaluation. After thorough exams by PSPCA veterinary staff, the PSPCA Humane Law Enforcement team determined there was enough evidence to further investigate Blank for failing to provide veterinary care for his dogs.

An undercover PSPCA agent visited Limestone Kennels and purchased a three-week-old Yorkshire Terrier puppy from Blank. The legal age for selling puppies in Pennsylvania is seven weeks. When the undercover agent contacted Blank because the puppy was sick, Blank left a voicemail message stating that he "called a man from Texas" and was told that toy breeds (such as Yorkshire Terriers) suffer from low blood sugar, so the dog should be given "one cc of light corn syrup" to "get its sugar back." The puppy died from dehydration, hypothermia, and emaciation.

On July 17, PSPCA Humane Law Enforcement officers obtained a warrant and removed 23 dogs from Limestone Kennels. One dog had an embedded collar, another had an untreated puncture wound to the neck that had abscessed, and others had conjunctivitis. The PSPCA officers also found three-week-old puppies without their mothers. All the dogs were taken to the PSPCA headquarters in Philadelphia, where they received treatment for their illnesses and were later placed for adoption (once they received clearance from veterinary staff).

On July 23, the PSPCA returned to Limestone and removed 66 additional dogs. As a result of the PSPCA investigation and a subsequent investigation by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, Blank pled guilty to eight counts of animal cruelty, two violations of Pennsylvania's Dog Law, and one summary charge of harassment. Blank's license was permanently revoked and he was placed on two years' probation, during which time he cannot own more than five personal dogs.

BAXTER'S NEW LIFE:

In the fall of 2008, Baxter, who was once a "breeding stud" at Limestone Kennels, got a second chance at life -- one that did not revolve around cruelty, profit, and exploitation. A wonderful family adopted him from the PSPCA and Baxter now lives in a loving home where he's learning what it means to be part of a family.

Baxter's adoptive parent, Janice, shared the following update:

"Baxter has brought such joy to us. He likes to sometimes share a bed with Cocoa and sometimes he likes to take up space on my bed! He loves to just race around the backyard and loves to play ball. When my husband sits down to read, Baxter keeps him company.

You and the others are the voice for those who cannot speak. Thank you for the work you do. I will do my part in the fight against puppy mills by educating people.

When my husband and I walk Baxter around, people often stop and of course I always interject into the conversation Baxter's story.

We will once again march in the Puppy Mill Awareness Day parade."

I hope you will join me tonight to watch "Nightline's" puppy mill investigation (or view it online if you can't stay awake!). If you are involved with animal rescue, if you advocate on behalf of the millions of puppy mill dogs interned in our nation's commercial dog breeding facilities, or if you just simply love animals, you will not want to miss this.

We owe it to Baxter.

Sister Act: Lucy and Maddie

Yesterday I wrote about two sisters who ended up in the same “forever home.” Today’s story is also about two sisters, but believe it or not, they aren’t actually related by blood.

Lucy (in the pink collar) is a Standard Poodle mix who was adopted from the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA). Her new sister is Maddie (in the red collar), who had already found her forever home.

The pictures above show the two girls enjoying their “forever yard” during their first week of sisterhood. From the looks of it, it’s hard to believe they weren’t separated at birth!

Here’s an email I received from their mom:

“Lucy came home with us a week ago. While we are working through some health issues with her, she is the sweetest, most beautiful dog. All is going well. She is integrating in well with our other dog, Maddie. It will take some time for them to be best friends, but they are on their way.

Lucy was starved before, but now in one week has gained weight and was potty trained in 1.5 days. Not an accident since then for over a week now. She is even uncrated and has free run of the house at all times, including bed time, where she sleeps right next to us.

We are thrilled with her and I am so glad you do what you do. Truly, Lucy seems so very happy!”