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.)

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

For more information, check out http://www.herocanineconsulting.com/nosework.htm or contact me at contact@herocanineconsulting.com.

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

contact@herocanineconsulting.com

www.herocanineconsulting.com

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.

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).

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/

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.

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.

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.

ID Your Pet

Approximately half of the dogs and 2/3 of the cats we receive are strays.  Strays are more likely returned to their owners when they have identification (ID).
1.  Write your phone number with a permanent marker on the pet's collar. 
2.  Get a microchip.  Most shelters and even veterinarians offices have the ability to scan for a microchip.  When you get your pet microchipped, re-check it about a month or so after insertion.  (They sometimes back out of the insertion point.)
3. Make sure your microchip is registered and up-to-date.  When you change your address and phone number, remember to update your pet's info.
4. Make sure you have up-to-date licensing for your area.
5.  Purchase an ID tag with your address and phone numbers on it.
6.  If you do lose your pet, check with your local shelters, put up flyers in the area where you lost your pet, and if you can afford it; put an ad with a picture in your local newspaper.

Only 66% of the dogs and 3% of the cats find their owners.  Don't let your pet be one of those strays that doesn't find its way back to you.

How Cute!

We are approaching the end of kitten season and soon the phone will be ringing with requests for kittens for Christmas.  While we love to have all of our animals adopted, we are very reluctant to have them given as gifts unless the recipient is present.

Children are not quite as discriminating when it comes to choosing a pet, but many adults have a favorite breed or personality that they look for in a pet.

So if you think you want to give the gift of a pet, you should consider taking the recipient along to choose the perfect one.  If you prefer the element of surprise on Christmas Eve or Day, consider a gift certificate.  We can provide you with a gift certificate for a cat or a dog and the adopter can choose the perfect pet after the holiday craziness is over.  It has the benefit of being less stress full for both human and animal, plus there is less chance that it will be returned.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving! 

I am so grateful for my wonderful staff, a supportive Board of Directors, and many generous volunteers and donors. There are days, however, when I want to pull my hair out.  Thankfully I'm not bald yet.

So what are you eating for Thanksgiving?  Many concerned about animal welfare believe in Tofurkey.  (Or other vegetarian substitutes).  Frankly, I am happy to eat vegetarian but I do enjoy meat.  So I am eating ham for Thanksgiving.  My favorite part of the meal is a good glass of Chardonnay. 

Whether you are enjoying vegetarian (that would include wine right?) or a plump turkey and all the fixings, remember to be thankful for our four legged friends and celebrate all the wonderful people who care for their welfare.  (Even us meat eaters)

What did Solomon Do?

A reader of my blog asked what was my decision about the people who wanted their dog back.  (Some days I feel like Solomon).

I called the adopter.  She raved about the dog she adopted and how much she was enjoying her.  She also mentioned that she had bought another puppy because she really wanted a Labrador.  I mentioned how the family was regretting the fact that the dog ended up at the SPCA and really wanted her back.  She asked me if there were children involved.  Yes, there were two school age children but I wasn't sure of their ages.  The adopter wanted to talk to her husband and would make a decision.

The adopter called the family and decided that she would return the dog to the family.  There were a lot of tears and hugs exchanged when they brought the dog back and returned it to the family. It was bittersweet.  The adopter had a heart bigger than I could describe because she clearly loved the dog, and the dog clearly loved her.

This is what amazes me about my job.  I meet some wonderful people.  (I also meet a lot of idiots but that is fodder for another blog).  So now the dog is back with its original family and they are happy.  And the adopter with the big heart is willing to give us a try again and find another SPCA dog to love.  She did say it will be a little while though.  It was harder than she realized to say goodbye to her four legged friend, but she now has four two legged friends who will be forever grateful that they got their dog back.

Someday I feel Like Solomon

Remember the story about King Solomon?  He had two women, both claiming to be the mother of the same baby.  In an effort to determine who the real mother was, he ordered his guards to cut the baby in half so that each mother could have half.  The real mother cried out, no, let her have my baby.  So Solomon knew that the mother who would save her baby was the real mother.

So this morning, a woman approached me about getting her dog back.  Her father-in-law brought the dog in because he thought it was too much for them to take care of.  To make matters worse, he lied to us and said the dog was a stray.  Meanwhile the dog was here 4 days, then adopted.  The husband called after the dog was adopted, wanting it back, and was told no-it was already adopted.  Now the wife is begging to have the dog back. 

How unfair for the SPCA staff to be put in the middle of this family's conflict.  How unfair to the adopter to even consider giving the dog back.  How unfair that the father-in-law took it upon him self to take the dog, and lie to the SPCA!  How unfair that I am asked to to my job, then undo it!

Rewards of the Job

On December 7th at 3:15 PM, Officer Larry Woltz will be presenting evidence in an effort to convict the individual who shot and killed a white German Shepherd and then threw it into the river.  (See Blog of 2/28/2011)

This has been an arduous process of gathering evidence, interviewing possible witnesses, coordinating with the district attorney's office, and distinguishing the lies from the truth. 

While this is a preliminary trial, the perpetrator will have the opportunity to either plead guilty or not.  If not, there will be a trial.  Until Dec 7........

Pet Pictures with Santa

This is a cropped and scanned picture of my dogs that I had in a little frame from one of our first pet pictures with Santa.  The Great Dane is no longer with me, but I still smile whenever I see his picture.  The beagle mix and dachshund mix are still living and loving.

Our picture taking and backgrounds have gotten much better over the years.  If you need a picture to make you smile, you should bring your famly on Saturday, Novermber 19 to have a photo taken.  Santa will be in house from 10 AM to 12 PM and 1 PM to 4 PM.  Two legged family members are welcome too.

For just $10 you will receive a 5x7 and e-mail of the photo.  Or if for $15, you will receive the 5x7 and a CD.  You are welcome to reproduce the photo.  Hope to see you there!

If you Witness Abuse

If you witness the abuse of animals call your local shelter, even if you are not sure.  The Lycoming County SPCA Humane Society Police Officers investigate every call we receive.  Some of our investigations involve simple counseling when people don't understand the needs of an animal.  Other cases require that we remove the animal(s) for their health and well being.

The Lycoming County SPCA can only investigate cruelty, abuse, and neglect in Lycoming County.  Our officers petition the court for their appointments and must participate in continuing education every two years.

People often say, 'I could never do your job.'  my response is, 'I do it because it is very satisfying to see the animals go to a wonderful home.' 

Help us keep animals in wonderful homes.  Report the abusers and help us make a difference.

Help for Injured Animals

We receive phone calls every week from people whose pets have a sudden illness or accident and can't find veterinary care.  I can understand a veterinarian's point of view.  They are self employed and have expenses to pay and earn a living.  If they have people who come to them all of a sudden with no established baseline, they ask for payment up front.  The pet owner will swear that they will pet the veterinarian, but once the pet recovers, they forget the promise.  So a veterinarian gets stiffed several times and then develops a policy of not treating unknown clients without payment first.  Is it right?

I, unfortunately see many, many pet owners who do not provide any vet care.  We receive animals with half their fur missing; flea infestations, parasite infestations, limps, lumps, injuries, emaciation, etc.  It is extremely frustrating for shelter workers and the Humane Officers to see this on a daily basis.

I believe that every pet owner should establish a relationship with a veterinarian.  That way, a pet will receive necessary vet care and, should it be injured; the vet will be more willing to let pet owners make payments.

What I would like to see is a free to low cost vet clinic where people pay based on their income.  I can dream can't I?

DNA Test for Dogs

I have a mutt.  She looks a little like a Chihuahua and a Corgi.  Some think she has Jack Russell or Dachshund in her.  Do you have a dog that you just can't figure out?

Well now you can test your dog's DNA.  I just ordered kits that we will sell for $64 plus tax.   So if you are curious, or you have a friend or family member that needs a unique Christmas gift, consider a doggie DNA kit. Sounds like fun to me!

Ten Things a Shelter Worker Should NOT Say

10.  WTF!  You are giving up your pet because it sheds?
9.  OMG.  You haven't taken your 3 year old pet to the vet since it was a pup and now that it has no fur left you want to DONATE it to us?
8.  Do you know how much money I make?
7.  So, you have a cat in your yard and you want us to pick it up.....if you had cockroaches in your kitchen would you expect  an exterminator to get rid of them for no charge?
6.  You tie the dog to a dog house, she is not spayed, and you wonder why she keeps having puppies!
5.  If you didn't let your cat out it wouldn't be lost.
4.  You lost your cat a week ago and you are just now calling to look for it?
3. Do you really think your child would take care of a pet without your supervision?  Do you expect him to do his own laundry too?
2.  Your dog is too big? Did you think your Saint Bernard would stay puppy size all its life?
1.  You should be euthanized.

So Touching!

One of our volunteers asked if the Lycoming County SPCA would donate a dog to TADSAW (Train a dog save a warrior).  It is an effort to help our service men by providing them with a companion.  Below is an email we received from a recipient.  Situations like this is why we come to work every day.

"We are the recipients of the dog you knew as Atlas (now named Alistair).  He was the dog you donated to TADSAW (Train a dog save a warrior a division of Penny’s from heaven).  Iohanna was the one that you dealt with and she said you would like to have an update.  So I have attached two photos of my husband and Alistair.  His training is still in progress to become a full service animal, but for the first time in over a year my husband was able to stay in a grocery store long enough to complete my whole list.  This may not seem like much to many, but because of his PTSD for him it is huge.  My husband served in Operation Joint Endeavor in Bosnia and has not been the same since.  We would like to say thank you to each and everyone one of your employees and volunteers.  Without your generous donation of sweet Alistair my husband would not be making the progress that he is.  So, thank you does not seem nearly enough and we wish we could do so much more.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

Can't Sleep

I wake up in the middle of the night and immediately start thinking of all the work on my desk.  November is a particularly busy time because we have our Sweet Temptations event.  Tickets are selling like hot cakes.  (Pun intended)  It's always a lot of fun with our celebrity emcee.   This year Stef Davis of WBRE will emcee our event.

Since it is the 10th anniversary we will have ten dessert vendors. YUM! 

There are 100 auction items and the majority can be seen through our link on our website on the events page.  There are some very special items;  a signed and numbered Armstrong print, a football signed by Joe Paterno, and more......

And don't forget our wonderful adopted dogs.  You will be surprised by some of their stories.

Shelter Closings

All across Pennsylvania shelters are closing their doors.  What does that mean for us?  It means more animals, more stress, more phone calls, more people needing help.  Lycoming County is in North central PA.  Tioga, Potter, Union, Northumberland, Montour and Sullivan Counties do not have shelters.  Bradford county SPCA called today asking if we had room for their overflow.  Unfortunately we did not.  It is just wild crazy that the State of Pennsylvania, and many of the townships and boroughs rely on SPCA's for animal control.  What will the municipalities do if the all SPCA's decide that they will be limited admission?  Where will all the animals go?  The Lycoming County commissioners withdrew $25,000 in funding for our SPCA.  I think that they should decide what to do with all the excess animals.  

No Animals were harmed

What can I say?  Happy Halloween!

Stranger than Fiction

The SPCA opens its doors at 10 a.m., but from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.  there is a buzz of activity as every single kennel is cleaned and sanitized, the animals receive food and medications, and paperwork is updated.  So it was with some surprise that I walked into the shelter on Thursday and found a sense of chaos.

Our 8 a.m. employee had just found out that her uncle passed away.  She was very close to him and it casued her a great deal of sadness.  Bless her heart though, she stayed at the shelter becasue there wasn't anyone there to take over.  When I arrived and found her crying and upset I told her to leave, she needed to be with her family. 

Another employee that was scheduled for 10:30 a.m.  called because she needed to rush her dog to the veterinarian.  She was distraught and not sure if she would make it to work. 

One secretary was unable to come in because she had just lost her mother.

Our other secretary could not come in because she was in the process of moving because she feared for her life.  (Restraining order necessary)

Luckily, I have great employees who were able to step up to the plate and help out.  Our volunteer manager helped customers who came to visit, one of our part time kennel attendants helped with adoptions, and I helped wherever I could.

Our 11:30 a.m.  employee arrived.  Whew!!!  Bult could we hold down the fort with one employee?  What if someone needed to go and pick up an injured animal?  What if someone came in and their pet needed to be put to sleep?  What if the restraining order wasn't enough to keep the boyfriend away?

So I called our wonderful kennel manager and asked her to come in on her day off.  When I told her the state of attendance, she couldn't believe it either.  But then the 10:30 a.m. employee arrived.  Her dog was being treated with an uncertain outcome. (And she still came in!)  Then our 8 a.m. employee came back.  She overcame her grief and came back to help out.  And our kennel manager was very understanding when I told her that we had everything under control but thanks for offering to come in on your day off.

Meanwhile I was on the phone with police worried that an unhappy boyfreind would show up at the shelter and I wanted to take steps to protect our staff.  Hopefully the threat of jail is enough to keep him away.  What this story lacks is all the details that made this day even stranger than described.

In Memory of Paco

Paco is now buried in my back yard, along with another cat-Screech and two rats.  I have to say that I never chose Paco.  He chose me.  Everyone at the shelter thought of Paco as 'my' cat.  It is funny how that all started.

First off, I am allergic to cats.  (And I work at a shelter full of them.)  So when I started working at the SPCA in 1999, there were four house cats already and then we added Paco.  There were some difficulties to having a house cat at the SPCA. But for the most part, everyone enjoyed seeing them lounging around, sitting on the counters, and teasing the dogs.

Paco was especially popular because he was so friendly and BIG.  He had a huge fluffy tail and long, soft fur.  And he would purr loudly when you pet him.  Children would chase after him so they could pet him or pick him up and he got to a point that when a child was nearby he would walk the other way. 

For some reason, known only to cats, they find their human.  Ask anyone who has taken in a stray cat.  They have a sense about those things.  So Paco chose me.  He would sit on my desk and nudge my hand so that I would pet him or brush him and he would not stop until he was satisfied.  I will miss him but I will have lots of fond memories.

Progress?

So Miss Patient here has been waiting since July to get the cat room addition finished.  I have planned and rescheduled two board meetings at the shelter so that the Board Members could tour the new addition.  Thank goodness I never had to build a house to live in-I'm not sure I would survive it.


At least I can look back and see that there actually is progress since the ground was broken.  All of the rain, flooding, and a back order for the stone work had caused the delays.

So now we have a framed room, windows, a sliding door, electricity, lights, heat and air conditioning.

Next we need a finished floor, shelves for cats to lounge on, and exterior walls.

 So hopefully Miss Patient can report that the cat room will be done in time for Santa Paws.

I have friends

I am fortunate to have friends.  Friends that I can talk to, get suggestions from, and ask for help.  I talked to two of those friends today.  The first, (the one who suggested I write this blog-yes you) came to the shelter.  When I talked about have 'bloggers block' and the fact that what I really wanted to do was complain about all the difficulties I encounter.  She gave me some good advice.  "Go ahead.  It is your blog and people need to know what it is really like to run a shelter."

The second friend who happens to be a writer for a newspaper (yes you), suggested that I write about the recent loss of Bengal tigers, bears, and other exotic animals.

Good advice from both because I often deal with people who have animals they shouldn't and sometimes the end is sad.  How unfortunate that an endangered species had to be hunted and killed to protect the people who lived nearby.  How unfortunate that all of the animals had to be hunted because of the stupid idiot that released them.  How unfortunate that we can't do unto animal abusers what they do unto poor helpless animals.

So thanks to my friends who gave me some good suggestions.  And thanks to all of you who care about animals.  Someone needs to be there for them.

The Squeaky Wheel

 You just have to see this noisy little girl.  She meows very loudly AND trys to grab you as you walk by. Abby is just screaming-"Take me home".   And what the photos don't capture is her beautiful markings.  She almost has a bengal look to her.

So if you are looking for a lot of personality Abby would be a feisty little girl to add to your home.

Bloggers Block

When I started my job at the Lycoming County SPCA I was amazed at how much writing I needed to do.  Press releases, newsletters, thank you letters, solicitation letters, web-site updates, memos, e-mails, board minutes, correspondence to the board, employee evaluations, etc.

Now I have this blog.  When I am home I think of dozens of topics to blog about.  Today is Monday and all I can do is try to keep up and try to prevent my desk from disappearing under a mountain of paperwork.  So excuse me if I go and write up the agenda for our next board meeting.  And work on the budget.  And prepare the newsletter.  And think about something to write about.  (How do magazine and newspapers do this all the time?!)

Christmas???!!!

It always aggravates me when I see Christmas before Thanksgiving.  So, with chagrin, I'm hawking our pictures with Santa.  I'm only doing this because I know many of you like to feature your pets and family on your holiday cards.  (And it benefits the shelter animals.)

Have your four legged companion, or two legged family members photographed with Santa.   Your $10 donation will provide you with a 5 x 7 photograph in a holiday card frame and we will e-mail you the photo for your use.   Or, for $15, we can provide you with the photo and a CD of your photo.

So mark your calendars.  Saturday November 19 from 10 AM to 12 noon and 1 PM to 4 PM.

Tall and Small

My scans aren't the greatest but I had to share these pictures.  We had a little Chihuahua at the shelter.  He is the brindle pictured with his new family.  He seems quite at home with the Mastiff, Rottweiler, and Chinese Crested dogs. 

You just gotta love it!

Marcellus Shale Affects Shelter

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO many Marcellus Shale workers have come to this area with their dogs and can't find rentals that allow them.  OR They do not provide adequate care and we receive complaints for investigation. 

Not only are we overwhelmed with animals because there are no shelters surrounding us that will take in strays, but now we have them being imported from other states!

No wonder we are busting at the seams.

Fleas, Fleas, and more Fleas!

Fleas have been very bad this year.  We have received so many animals infested with them, and many suffering from hair loss and red, inflamed skin.   There are wonderful products on the market to keep your pets free of these parasites.   There are more issues at stake than just the annoyance of the flea bites.  Flea infested animals suffer from the bites; they will get gastrointestinal worms; and if severe, suffer hair loss; red irritated skin, and anemia.

So please treat your pets, then your house.   Our shelter sells a flea treatment by the box of six treatments, or individual treatments.  Don't let pets suffer.

Hide and Seek

Some of you may know about Geocaching.  It is a worldwide hide and seek game.  I looked into it because I thought it would be fun to do with my grandson.  You can read all about it on http://www.geocaching.com/.  You will need a GPS and a sense of adventure.  Then you look up a cache by longitude and latitude, find it, then sign the log.  It is so fun I put one at the SPCA.  Maybe you should try it, and while you are at it you can visit our animals. 

Train Your Pet

Well behaved pets are the best!  You don't have to worry about visitors, damage to your property, or other aggravations.  While we have formal classes for dogs, cats can be trained too.  At the minimum, you can train your cat to stay in doors and not jump on the kitchen table or counters.

The SPCA has a wonderful trainer by the name of Tracy Free.  Her philosophy is

"Play and Praise" Dog Training Classes. Tracy has 20 years of experience in working with animals. Tracy understands that training should be tailored to the individual needs of both the dog and the human. Making your dog more confident and wanting to please you is her ultimate goal.

What you will learn

     Week 1 Leash manners/pacing

     Week 2 Focus and Recall (come)

     Week 3 Sit

     Week 4 Down  

     Week 5 Wait/Stay

     Week 6 Graduation

The Cost

            $55 for a Lycoming County SPCA dog.

            $80 for all other dogs

            A check for the full amount is required to reserve your spot in class.  Sing up at the   

            shelter.

Requirements

     Proof of current vaccinations including up-to-dates Rabies shot.

     Current Pennsylvania dog license.

     Dog must be flea free.

What to Bring

     <嫼ɡ>    Four or Six foot nylon leash.  (No chain leashes or retractable Flexi-leads)

         Dog should wear a flat nylon or leather collar, head halter (Gentle Leader®), or Easy Walk Harness.  Martingales or nylon check chokers are allowed if fitted properly.  NO choke chains or pinch collars.

         Your dog’s favorite toy or ball.

Next Class 

          October 8th at 4:30 PM at the shelter. 

Are You a Chef?

We are having an interesting fundraiser, something we have not tried before.  Every day in the month of November we are raffling off one Pampered Chef item. 

Only 300 tickets will be sold at $10.00 each.  If you like to cook and like to help our animals-then this is an easy way to contribute.  (And possibly win a great prize).  Stop in the shelter and pick up your ticket, or mail us a check and we will complete a ticket for you and send you your number with the drawing schedule. 

Filled to Overflowing

Ferrets snug in their cage.

Our shelter is officially overwhelmed.  Every single space has animals.  We have
61 cats
59 dogs
32 guinea pigs
5 ferrets
2 birds (not available for adoption)
2 rats
1 rabbit
1 turtle
25 fish
1 iguana (not available for adoption)

and a partridge in a pear tree (Just kidding about the partridge). 

Should We Count the Individual Fish?

What would you do if you saw a five foot iguana hanging from a window?  Well, in this case, they called the SPCA.  The iguana was just the beginning.  It is difficult to capture all of the cages, but Office Woltz and staff removed 32 guinea pigs, one 12 year old dog, one turtle, one aquarium of fish (about 25), and one huge iguana.  The living conditions were so bad that the house was condemned.

Fortunately for the animals, the owner relinquished all but the iguana to the SPCA.   Soon we will be making them available for adoption.

Hard at Work

I wasn't kidding when I said I had the best employees.   The front desk is a constant hive of activity as staff:

• Answers phones,
• Helps customers,
• Takes in animals,
• Adopts out animals,
• Answers questions,  (lots and lots of questions)
• Schedules vet appointments,
• Makes follow up calls on adopted animals,
• Takes calls regarding possible cruelty and neglect,
• Provides recommendations regarding problem animals,
• And did I say answers phones?
• Completes dog licenses,
• Assists low income individuals to provide spaying and neutering of pets. 

And this is just front desk activity!

Paco

This is Paco on my desk.  He can be demanding and often nudges my typing hands until I stop everything and pet or brush him.  He arrived at the shelter as an emaciated adult in 1999.  We think he is about 13 years old now.  Someone saw something very special in him (and they were right) and he became a house cat. 

For some reason Paco singled me out, sitting on my desk, eating my lunch, and seeking my attention.  Cats have a knack for  finding their new families and Paco is no exception.  Everyone at the shelter loves him and he pretty much loves everyone too.  He isn't too fond of children but his response is just to walk away.

He has used up several of his nine lives.  The first when he was found, emaciated and brought to the shelter.  His next was when he was attacked by a dog that had gotten out of the kennel.  After that incident Paco lived with me for a few years until he stopped using his litter box.  I took him to the vet who did not find anything initially.  I brought him back to the shelter.  He continued to have accidents and started to lose weight.  So, back to the vet.  He was hyperthyroid.  Got that under control and he resumed using his litter box. (Another life)

He continues to have health issues that we treat (like anemia).  (Another life)

And he gets upset when he can't come in my office.  For instance I had Miracle in my office while she was awaiting adoption and Paco would not come in because Miracle wanted to play with him.  So he started licking himself making bald spots.  (Is that 1/2 a life?)

Anyway, he is an interesting character and we love him very much.  How can you not love a cat who walks across your desk, drinks whatever beverage you have, shares your lunch, and purrs like a Harley Davidson?

Best Employees Ever

Our employees work here becasue of their love of animals.  Kelli is a prime example of one terrific employee.  She often volunteers her time after work to add stories to the animal's profiles.  She has fostered numerous animals in her home  (thanks to her Mom & Dad too).  Kelli is the Canine team leader and monitors the dogs for health and temperament issues and reports them to the kennel manager.  We can always depend on Kelli to care for the aniamals and go above and beyond!  Her list of abvoe and beyonds goes on and on.  The SPCA and our animals are so lucky!

Remembering 9/11

September 11 is one of those days that I will always remember.  I will also remember the search and rescue dogs who helped find people who were buried under the remains of the twin towers. 

Today is a day to remember and be thankful that we have rescue volunteers and workers, police and firefighters, health care givers, amazing search and rescue dogs, and the ability to heal.

Peace and Love

Unsung Heros

Wow!  What a week.  Being so close to the Susquehanna River was nerve wracking.  The thought of evacuating all of our animals was a concern.  My heart goes out to all of the families who did have to evacuate and did experience flooding.

But I do need to commend all of the individuals who stepped up to the plate and agreed to help in fostering our dogs and cats in the event of an evacuation.  THANK YOU.

And thanks to the Lycoming CART members who set up shelter for the animals that were evacuated in Muncy.  Coordinator Sherri Moore with her husband Spurg, and son Mike, along with a few other CART members who set up the animal shelter.  Kudos for braving the weather and lack of power.  I'm sure the animal owners were grateful that their animals were well cared for .

In the unlikely event.....

In the unlikely event we would need to evacuate the animals at the SPCA, would you be able to foster a cat or dog?   If so, please call us at 570-322-4646 and let us know if you could take a cat or dog, or multiple cats or dogs.

The cats have crates.  The dogs would have leashes and collars.  We do have a limited number of large crates for the dogs.

Prepare Pets for Possible Disaster

Know where you can go with your pets in case you need to evacuate.  Make sure your have:

1. Collar and leash.  Write your phone number on the collar as well as having your dog license and ID tag.  Think about getting a microchip for a lifetime identification for your pet.
2. Food, bowls, water.  (Pan with litter or shredded newspaper for the cat(s)).
3. Shot records.
4. Pictures of your pet(s).
5. Medications.
6. Crate and bedding.
7. Toys and treats.

Prepare any other special items for your pet(s).  Don't be put in a situation where you can't take your pet with you because you aren't prepared.  Places that will allow you to stay during a disaster may not allow pets if you do not have shot records and a way to confine you pet.  (Leash, crate).  So plan ahead and be ready.

Work in Progress

This will be our free roaming cat room.  We will have a sliding glass door leading from the main cat room into this room.  Cats will have room to run and play.  Look out the windows.  interact with visitors. And lounge around all day.  There have been studies related to illness in shelter cats finding that cats that have room to play with separate areas for feeding, and bathroom, fare better than cats confined to smaller spaces.   We have lots of ideas for platforms, beds, and walkways.  I hope the cats are as excited as I am. 

 

Love for Sale (Legally)

Nothing warms my heart as much as seeing an animal walk out the door with a new family.  Sometimes, the staff knows deep down that it won't work.  We try to give them good information so that they can make an informed decision.  Sometimes we flat out say no.  (It never goes well). 

We discourage giving pets as gifts, however, we can provide gift certificates so that the recipient can choose the pet that is right for them.

If you are a parent and think your 12 year old is going to feed, water, walk, and clean up poop without constant nagging you should not get a pet.

If you work 12 hours a day, you should not get a puppy.

If your significant other is allergic, you should not get a pet.

If your landlord says you cannot have a pet, there is a 100% chance that the landlord will find out and you will need to get rid of your pet.

Seems like common sense but sometimes people lose their sense when they see and adorable puppy or kitten.  Just today a couple brought in their two dogs.  One of which they paid $999.99 at a pet store in New York.  Plus microchip, warranty, supplies; they ended up paying $1400.00.  Wow! 

And now the dog is here looking for a new family.  What price would you pay for unconditional love?

Get Ready for Paws for a Cause

It is hard to believe that September is almost here.  September immediately brings to mind our Paws for a Cause! walk September 17th.  I know that several teams are vying for the top honors of donating the most funds.  As reward for their hard efforts, the team will have their name engraved on our perpetual plaque, and win six gas cards. 

Walkers donating $100 or more will  have their names entered into a drawing to win a pair of travel tickets to Washington D.C. courtesy of AAA travel.

Individuals have the opportunity to win T-shirts, gift certificates, and over-night stays based on their level of donations. 

More details may be viewed on our website at www.lycomingspca.org.

Wonderful Adoption Story

(Below is an e-mail we received from an adopter.  And yesterday I received a visit from another adopter.  I just love these people!)


Hello,

We adopted Polly at the end of May.  We were told that she was one of the dogs that led to the rescue of all those beagles.  I just wanted to give an update on how Polly is doing.  She fits in great!  Our whole family loves her.  She's a little slow on learning all her commands, partly my fault for not being consistent, but with no proper training, I think she's doing great!  She sits on command, though it takes a few seconds because she can't stop wagging her tail (and her whole body pretty much wags with it).  She's learned high five instead of shake, lol.  She's pretty good at stay, and comes when she wants to, lol.  She knows what no means and drop it when she takes something that doesn't belong to her, like the cat's food, lol.  She is a big chewer, and no matter how many bones she has, she's always finding something else to chew on, so we're trying to break her of that habit.

She still gets scared easily.  Squeaky toys scare her.  If you throw a toy for her to go after, she cowers first, then runs after it.  When we go out back to go potty, any noise or movement stops her in her tracks and we have to start the whole process of sniffing around for that perfect spot.  IF the neighborhood kids are bouncing a ball, she cowers and hides behind me.  Something about the sound it makes really scares her.  She spends a lot of her naps under the couch, though when she is really scared, she tries to hide under my computer desk while I'm trying to work, lol.

She's about 98% house broken.  She's really good about letting me know when she needs to go potty during the day.  At night, that's a different story.  I've been buying those puppy pads and putting them down in the living room (where she sleeps) every night and she actually goes on them instead of the carpet, so that's what matters to me. 

She gets along just fine with our two cats, and is only interested in the bunny when we pay attention to the bunny.  As for her and our American Bulldog, Shiloh; I've attached a picture so you can see how well they get along.  :-)

Thanks again for letting us adopt this sweet girl.  She quickly became a part of our family and it's hard to remember what it was like before she got here.

Foster Home Needed

Before                                                                                    After

It is difficult to see from the before picture, but this Chow Chow was full of fleas, matted and dirty fur, and red irritated skin. While at the veterinarian for grooming she was found to have mammary tumors.   She is at least ten years old and was left outdoors in unsanitary conditions.  Officer Woltz has a hearing regarding the neglect case in September but we would like to find a long term foster family for this friendly dog.  We will ask the judge to relinquish the dog to the SPCA so that we can find someone to care for her.  Because of her age and the mammary tumors we are doubtful that we will be able to find an adopter for her.  But if you know of someone who would be willing to give care to this sweet girl, please send them our way. 



Pardon Our Mess

While construction on our new addition is proceeding, our cats are being kenneled in our board room.   We have rearranged things in all areas of the shelter to accommodate the felines while the work is being done.  Our staff has been wonderful in helping the cats adjust to the new housing.  Hopefully the weather will cooperate and the construction can proceed quickly.  Until then, we still want to find homes for our homeless cats and kittens.  If you can't adopt a cat yourself,  just let your friends and family know that we have great pets for adoption.

More Follow-up

Can you believe this is the same dog from my post of July 20?  Below is the e-mail I received from her adopter.
"

Hi Vickie,

Wanted to let you know that Grace is doing great. Had her to the Vet's this morning, she weighs 72 lbs. now, her hair is coming in pretty fast now and her old hair feels soft.  She is also getting a little muscle in her hind legs due to her increasing strength...running with Shem is helping. Her personality has blossomed and at times she is a brat (in the most loving way) I have started some training with her now that she is stronger.  Such a sweet, loving dog, think I will eventually put a TDI on her and take her to the nursing homes.

Attached is a picture of Grace with her nyla bones....notice she gathers them up and usually has several under her while chewing on one, don't think she wants to share with Shem."

What a nice way to end the work week!

Teddy Bear Update

Teddy Bear is the little Chihuahua with Hydrocephalus and no eyes.  Through some remarkable maneuvering, the little guy was transported to Chicago.  A veterinarian there found it remarkable that he was still alive.  They treated him with medications to help reduce the fluid build-up and recommended a low sodium diet.  His foster mom reported that he seems to be walking straighter. 

Just from his short time here we discovered what a loving little dog he was.  He was very alert to sounds and would stand up and walk toward your voice.  As soon as you picked him up he would wiggle around and lick your hands.  His favorite thing was to have his belly rubbed.

I just love happy endings!

Awesome!

Ali Swank held at dance at Trout Pond Park.  She arranged for the rental of the facility and a DJ.  Admission was $5.00 with proceeds for the Lycoming County SPCA.  After expenses she was able to donate $240 and some pet supplies.  Now that is quite impressive.  I am amazed at the youth of this generation.  Many are so generous and donate their time, talents, and when possilbe, goods or cash.  It makes my day to meet such caring people.