December 2012

Guess who just became available for adoption?? Briana, the starving, injured German Shepherd mix who was found tethered in a yard back in August.

Here’s what Briana was dealing with when she came to us: starvation, dehydration, flea infestation and, perhaps most horrifying, a deep neck wound from a collar left on so long it became embedded in her flesh.

Briana recovered beautifully over several months, revealing herself to be a mellow, soulful lady who loves to play with toys and receive attention from people.

Know anyone who’d be interested in ringing in the new year with a loyal companion like Briana? Check out her page for more info.

This resilient, amazing pup deserves to learn what a loving home is like.

Can’t give Briana a home but still want to help? Donate to the ASPCA before January 1 and you’ll receive a 2012 tax break.

Guest blog by Ann Church, Vice President of State Affairs, ASPCA Government Relations

Thanks to the support of animal advocates like you, the ASPCA’s Government Relations team was able to expand greatly this year, increasing our ability to fight for better laws for animals in all 50 states. As 2012 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of this year’s legislative accomplishments on behalf of animals. Here is a small sampling of state-level victories that the ASPCA and our mighty Advocacy Brigade helped secure in 2012:

California—“Hounding” of Wildlife
California has banned hounding, a form of trophy hunting in which radio-collared dogs are released in forests to chase and tree bears and bobcats.

Idaho—Felony Cruelty
2012 will be remembered as the year that Idaho, a long-time holdout, finally enacted a law making animal torture a felony offense. The state made cockfighting a felony as well.

Massachusetts—Animal Control Reform
Among other achievements, this far-reaching, comprehensive new law creates a statewide spay/neuter program, prohibits breed-specific legislation, places restrictions on outdoor tethering, and allows pets to be included in domestic violence-related protection orders.

New Jersey—Horse Slaughter
New Jersey banned the slaughter of horses for human consumption as well as their transport through the state—a very meaningful provision, given the continued problem of export of horses over the border for slaughter.

Ohio—Exotic Pet Ownership and Puppy Mill Regulations
Ohio’s Dangerous Wild Animal Act passed seven months after 56 exotic animals were released by their owner. (Most were killed.) Ohio was one of only a handful of states with virtually no regulations on wild/exotic animal pet ownership. In addition, the state passed its first-ever puppy mill law, which sets standards of care and requires annual inspections.

Tennessee—Felony Cruelty to Livestock
While most states exempt farm animals from their animal cruelty statues, Tennessee became one of the first to make extreme acts of cruelty to livestock subject to felony-level penalties.

It’s important to remember that these victories, as well as the countless others, could not have been achieved without collaboration among state legislators and humane advocacy groups. Let’s all continue to champion stronger laws protecting our nation’s animals and make 2013 an even better year!

Visit the ASPCA Advocacy Center to learn more.

We love connecting people with their local animal shelters—which is exactly why we love the HEART (Humane Education Advocates Reaching Teachers) program!

We awarded $50,000 in grants to HEART programs across the country to help students of all ages learn about human rights, animal protection and environmental ethics. One such program, at Stockton Elementary in Chicago, gave students a chance to participate in a service learning program focusing on animal issues.

The students organized two fundraisers to benefit the Chicago Canine Rescue and paid a visit to meet the animals they helped. A big shout out to the HEART students of Stockton Elementary for all their hard work! Great job, all!

For more information on the ASPCA Grants program and how you can get involved, visit the Grants page.

Even as we celebrate with our own families and friends this season, those of us at the ASPCA can’t forget that right now, millions of animals across the U.S. are still homeless. Without loving families to call their own, far too many of these animals are suffering alone on the streets.

If you’re like us, you might find that reality nearly too much to bear. That’s why we wanted to remind you that you can help!

We’ve got big plans for 2013, and you can be a part of them. Through ASPCA initiatives promoting animal relocation, adoption and rescue, hundreds of thousands of formerly homeless, unloved animals will get the most precious gift of all: safe, warm homes in which to spend the 2013 holidays.

If you’ve already pledged your support for homeless animals, thank you—from the bottom of our hearts. If you haven’t, please remember that it’s not too late!

In 2013, we hope to place more animals than ever in loving homes. Please help if you can.

Need a little extra good cheer? Well, the U.S. Congress just passed legislation that will help protect military dogs. Included as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013, the measure will help streamline the adoption process of retired military dogs and authorize a system of veterinary care at no expense to taxpayers. The Defense Authorization bill now moves to President Barack Obama for his signature.

“Military dogs are true heroes—they play a critical role in our nation’s defense,” says Nancy Perry, Senior Vice President of ASPCA Government Relations. “These amazing dogs have been loyal to us in extreme circumstances and deserve to be properly cared for and adopted into good homes after such unwavering service to their country. We thank Senator Blumenthal and Representative Jones for ensuring these heroic dogs’ health and well-being is properly cared for.”

This provision was included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) through the leadership of Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) in the U.S. Senate and Rep. Walter Jones (R-N.C.) in the U.S. House of Representatives. Both legislators introduced similar legislation to assist military dogs, the Canine Members of the Armed Forces Act, earlier this year.

For more information on this victory, please visit our press line.

ASPCA supporters are essential in our efforts to end animal cruelty and serve as a trusted resource for pet parents. While we depend on your generosity to meet our goals, we understand that not everyone is in a position to donate to the cause.

Here are a few fun and effective ways you can make a difference for animals in need:

Volunteer for animals in your community
Bring some holiday cheer to homeless animals in your community by volunteering at a local shelter.

Do your holiday shopping at the ASPCA Online Store
Stuff their stockings with our unique apparel, pet care products and books—many items are customizable! Shop Now.

Join the ASPCA’s online social networks
This simple action will spread the ASPCA’s mission to your friends, and their friends, and their friends!

Use the We-Care browser app
Download a simple, free and fun browser app that donates a portion of your online purchases to the ASPCA at no cost to you. Learn more.

Donate your vehicle
You can donate your old car, truck, RV or boat—in any condition and from any location—to the ASPCA and enjoy a tidy tax deduction.

Join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade
Fight to get strong anti-cruelty laws passed on federal, state and local levels as a member of the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade.

Thank you, as always, for supporting our life-saving work!

It’s almost 2013! Don’t forget to donate to the ASPCA before January 1 to get a 2012 tax-break.

Friday is the first day of winter, and while we might be dreaming of a snowy holiday, icy conditions can present challenges for our pets’ health.  

“During the winter, products used as de-icers on sidewalks and other areas can lead to trouble for our animal companions,” says Dr. Louise Murray, veterinarian and Vice President of the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. “Pet parents should take precautions to minimize their furry friends' exposure to such agents.”

Keep these tips in mind when you bring your furry friends along for the neighborhood snowball fight:

•Bring a towel on long walks to clean off irritated paws. After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet to remove ice, salt and chemicals—and check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes.

•Booties for your pet’s paws help minimize contact with painful salt crystals, poisonous anti-freeze and chemical ice-melting agents. They can also help prevent irritating sand and salt from getting lodged in between bare toes.

•Massage petroleum jelly into paw pads before going outside to protect them from salt and chemical agents. Also, moisturizing can help heal chapped paws.

For more information about ways to protect your pet’s skin and paws, check out our full list of ASPCA winter pet care tips.

Last week, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder signed three new laws that send a clear message to dog fighters: Bloodsports are not welcome in the Great Lakes State.  

Animal fighting is a felony in Michigan, punishable by up to four years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines, and so is watching an animal fight. But these new laws crack down even further. Here’s how:

•SB 356 allows local authorities to seize homes and automobiles associated with animal fighting.
•SB 358 adds animal fighting, shooting and baiting to the list of racketeering crimes.
•HB 5789 gives law enforcement the ability to shut down any venue found to be associated with animal fighting and declare it a nuisance.

Dog fighting is widespread in parts of the state, and experts have identified regions of the state as national hotbeds for animal fighting. That’s why we’re so glad Michigan decided to arm its officials with these new legal tools.

“We thank Governor Snyder for signing these critical measures to improve upon the existing law, making Michigan one of the toughest states on animal fighting,” says Vicki Deisner, ASPCA State Director of Government Relations for the Midwest.

Way to go, Michiganders! We’re one step closer to ridding the U.S. of dog fighting for good. Ready to help? Visit the Advocacy Center.

Guest blog by Nancy Perry, Senior Vice President of Government Relations

Yesterday was the National Day of the Horse, designated by the U.S. Senate in 2004 as a day for “people of the United States to be mindful of the contribution of horses to the economy, history and character of the United States.” This led me to take stock of how our nation is doing when it comes to equine protection. While there have been advances in horse protection, much work remains to be done.

A 2012 national poll found that 80% of American voters oppose horse slaughter. Even though the last domestic horse slaughter plants have closed, the slaughter of American horses has continued in Canada and Mexico. Attempts made this year to resume horse slaughter in the U.S. were thwarted by massive public opposition. Legislation to ban these practices awaits action in Congress.

This spring, media attention focused on the plight of racehorses.  A New York Times investigation detailed the tragedies befalling these equine athletes as a result of widespread drugging. Congress quickly introduced legislation to address this root cause of catastrophic injuries, and we continue to press for its passage.

We worked to draft a new piece of legislation to clamp down on “soring”—the practice of inflicting pain in horses’ legs and hooves so severe that they move with an unnaturally high-stepping gait.  This new bill was introduced in Congress this year to amend the Horse Protection Act and end soring once and for all.

While New York City continues to allow the shameful and dangerous practice of driving carriage horses on congested city streets, the ASPCA has backed a pilot program to replace those vulnerable animals with vintage, electric cars. This project is gaining momentum but has not yet replaced the antiquated urban horse-drawn carriage. We continue seeking ways to implement alternatives to the suffering of these noble creatures.

Though Congress recognized wild horses as living symbols of the American West in 1971, competition for public land use has threatened the welfare of our last mustangs. In 2004, a backroom deal led to the amendment of the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act permitting the sale of these iconic animals for the first time. This exception allowed over 1,700 mustangs to be sold to notorious pro-slaughter buyer Tom Davis (a devastating discovery made earlier this year). Many fear those horses were sent to slaughter, despite the Bureau of Land Management’s policy against such an action. In response to this incident, the agency just announced reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future—but it may be too little, too late. The ASPCA calls for an end to the sales program and a return to the preservation focus of the Act.

In 2004, when the U.S. Senate recognized December 13 as the National Day of the Horse, it called America to action, stating “horses are a vital part of the collective experience of the United States and deserve protection and compassion.” We at the ASPCA pledge to remain committed to this challenge and will ensure you know when and how you can join us in fighting for our beloved horses.

Okay, we admit it. Lady comes with certain limitations. She’s a senior. Her limited vision and hearing make it so she can’t live with cats or most other dogs. And well, she needs daily medication for her arthritis. WAIT! Don’t click away quite yet. Even if you can’t personally provide a home for Lady, we could really use your help in spreading the word.

Although Lady has endured a lot of suffering in her life, she adores hugs and kisses, playing tug-of-war, and—it’s true—sitting in your lap! Despite her charming personality, she has been at our shelter for nearly two years. So we’re asking all of our supporters to use social media to help Lady find a home for the holidays. Please share this flyer on your Facebook, Twitter, blog and other social networks. Together we can find her a home!

If you live in a teens-and-up household and are interested in adopting this sweet girl, please call our Adoption Center in New York City at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4900, or come meet this special Lady in person.

It’s hard to understand how someone could beat an animal to death with a rock, and then proudly post a video of the grisly scene online. And yet, that’s exactly what one individual did. On December 3, ASPCA Agents arrested Jordan Heuer for attacking, injuring and causing the death of an opossum in a Queens, New York, park.

After the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) received complaints about a video of the incident posted online, the organization referred the issue to the ASPCA. We opened a criminal investigation.

“This is a disturbing case of violent abuse in which the suspect went out of his way to not only inflict pain on a helpless animal victim by smashing it repeatedly on its head with a rock, but to also record and post the brutal event on the Internet,” says Stacy Wolf, Vice President and Chief Counsel of the ASPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement and Legal Advocacy departments.

Heuer, 18, was charged with one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty—under current New York law, felony animal cruelty charges can be brought only in cases involving companion animals. If convicted, he faces up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

“This is precisely the sort of case that supports making the more callous acts that cause serious injury or death to wild animals into felony offenses,” Wolf notes, citing the extreme depravity of the opossum’s death.

We couldn’t agree more, and our Government Relations team is on the case. Bill Ketzer, ASPCA Senior Director of Government Relations for the Northeast, adds: “We will continue to work with legislators…to help shape laws to cover these types of especially heinous acts, regardless of whether the animal victim is a pet or a wild animal.”  

If you’ve witnessed abuse, don’t hesitate: Report animal cruelty.

Still searching for that perfect gift? We’ve got you covered. ASPCA Symbolic Gifts are appropriate for any animal-lover on your list—your purchase will honor him or her by providing support to animals who desperately need our help. With plenty of Symbolic Gifts to choose from, including medical treatment for sick animals and critical care for animal victims of cruelty and disaster, you’re sure to find the perfect way to help us rescue animals in need.  

Dogs, cats, horses and other companion animals of all shapes and sizes will benefit from ASPCA Symbolic Gift purchases this season, and the positive impact they’ll feel will last well beyond the holidays. Each gift includes a certificate of appreciation, a greeting card featuring ASPCA-rescued animals and a special item for gifts of $50 or more—plus, standard shipping is free.

Consider giving an ASPCA Symbolic Gift today, and make this holiday season one that benefits the lives of animals nationwide.

This holiday season, as you search aisle after aisle for that perfect gift, keep in mind that your most important gift may be right under your nose. With one click, you can give abused animals a second chance.

Every 10 seconds, an animal is abused. It’s heartbreaking: These animals are neglected. They are scared. And they are struggling to survive.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. This holiday season, please join us in helping abused pets get the second chance they deserve.

Your small donation  will bring a bit of holiday cheer to pets in need—and the second chances they have been wishing for.

We can’t thank you enough for helping us save lives. 

A playful cat with a unique name at the ASPCA Adoption Center in Manhattan found a loving home with plenty of human and cat companionship last month. Tom Selleck’s adopter shared the following story with us:

Tom is doing wonderfully well and I am extremely happy to have him in my family. I decided to adopt Tom because he was recommended to me and, when I met him, he was perfect. I adopted a cat from the ASPCA about five years ago, and I was impressed by how much the staff knew about each animal.

I was looking for a playmate for one of my cats who is very active. I went in without any preference for my new cat's age, gender or type—what was important was personality. Tom was the first one I saw. He was not afraid to approach me and, when I held him, he was already climbing all over me. Just like the other cats I've adopted, I was able to make a quick connection to him. Somehow I knew he was the one.

Tom has two older cat sisters and an older cat brother. He adjusted very quickly to his home. I was going to keep him in one room, separated from the others until he felt comfortable, but when I left the room for a bit, his older brother opened the door and let himself in. When I came back, they were already sniffing each other and getting comfortable. Now Tom and his brother are almost inseparable. They sleep together on top on me.

As long as Tom is happy, anything goes. His happiness makes me happy—I love him so much. I am extremely thankful to the person who introduced me to Tom.

Did you adopt a cat or dog from the ASPCA? Send us photos at happytails@aspca.org for a chance to be featured on the blog.

If you were separated from your pet during Hurricane Sandy, there is a chance your dog or cat is under the care of the ASPCA at our Emergency Boarding Facility in Brooklyn. We’ve partnered with Animal Care & Control of NYC (AC&C) to help pets displaced by Hurricane Sandy find their homes. Please check the lost dog database and lost cat database for photos and details about each animal at the shelter. Additional pets are listed in the AC&C Found Pets Database.

The ASPCA boarding facility, located at 1508 Herkimer Street in Brooklyn, is open seven days a week, from 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., through Dec. 17. If you think you recognize your pet in our database, please call (347) 573-1561 before visiting.

We bet you agree: One of the best parts of adopting a pet is the sheer joy of visiting the shelter and choosing your new pal. Whether an exuberant puppy kiss or a kitty head-butt seals the deal, you usually know in a single moment that you’ve found your newest furry family member. We wouldn’t trade that experience for the world!

So when we hear about people giving pets as gifts (usually a no-no in our book) we don’t really see the appeal. Why deprive your loved one of that special time at the shelter—the instant she realizes she’s met her new best friend?

At the ASPCA, we have a much better idea. Through our Gift-a-Pet gift certificates, you can pay an adoption fee for your loved one but still give her the joy of choosing her own pet. Each certificate is good for one kitten or cat adoption at the ASPCA Adoption Center on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

Interested in giving an ASPCA Gift-a-Pet gift certificate? Find out how on our Gift-a-Pet page.