Dogs Rescued from Mississippi Puppy Mill Arrive at the ASPCA

On February 7, while folks around the country celebrated Super Bowl Sunday, the ASPCA Adoption Center was in festive spirit, as well. ASPCA experts gathered to welcome 34 dogs rescued from a notorious puppy mill operation in Holly Springs, MS. The dogs, which include small breeds such as Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Pugs, Yorkshire Terriers, Corgis and Chihuahuas, were discovered living in feces-encrusted pens and filth. The ASPCA worked with Pet Airways to bring the rescued pooches to the Big Apple.

“We are grateful for the collaboration of Pet Airways, which offered to fly these dogs at cost, as well as local and out-of-state animal welfare agencies that assisted in this effort,” said Matt Bershadker, Senior Vice President of the ASPCA’s Anti-Cruelty Group.

Last week, under the authority and request of Shirley C. Byers of the Marshall County Prosecutor’s Office in Marshall County, MS, the ASPCA dispatched members of our Field Investigations and Response Team to manage operations in the investigation of a local puppy mill. More than 94 dogs were seized and signed over to the ASPCA. Many were underweight with skin problems, among other medical conditions.

Participating agencies on the scene included American Humane Association, Marshall County Humane Society, Mississippi State University and Collierville Humane Society. In addition, many veterinarians and volunteers assisted in the on-site medical treatment of the animals.

“We are glad to have been able to be part of another major, collaborative effort to rescue these dogs from such deplorable conditions,” said Gail Buchwald, Senior Vice President, ASPCA Adoptions Center. “Once we have medically and behaviorally evaluated these dogs, we look forward to finding them forever homes.”

For more information about puppy mills and how to fight animal cruelty, visit www.aspca.org.

Thank You!

The ASPCA is extremely grateful to the shelters and organizations that have aided in the housing and future placement of these animals. We are honored to recognize their generosity. They include:

• Atlanta Humane Society
  
• Marshall County Humane Society
  
• Olive Branch Animal Shelter
  
• MS State University Homeward Bound program

ASPCA Pet of the Week: Lion in Winter

Loyal Leo is part Pit Bull, part Labrador, and all sweet canine goodness. He’s two years old, but still a puppy at heart, and would make a fun-loving sidekick for an experienced pet parent. This energetic young boy first arrived at the ASPCA in June 2009, but as much as we love our leaping Leo, we think he’s been here way too long and is more than ready to find a home to call his own.

Leo still needs some basic training, and will thrive best in a structured household without young children or other doggies. If you’re interested in adopting this plucky pooch, please call our Animal Placement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120. Or to view other animals looking for homes, visit our Adoption Center online.

****Got Facebook? Won’t you please donate your status to Leo? Just copy and paste the following message onto your profile status to help spread the word that this pooch needs a home!

[Name] is donating my status to Leo http://www.aspca.org/leo, a dog at the ASPCA who needs a new home.

Manhattan Man Brutally Beats and Blinds 6-Pound Dog

On February 1, Manhattan resident Joseph Graves, 30, was arrested by ASPCA Special Agent Omar Negrillo for brutally beating and blinding his girlfriend's 6-pound Yorkshire Terrier with a belt. Graves had been pet sitting the 4-year-old pup, named Emmet, while his girlfriend, a Broadway actress, was on tour in Florida.

On January 16, at approximately 5:30 A.M., Graves lost his temper after the dog allegedly misbehaved while getting ready for his morning walk. When confronted about the incident, Graves told ASPCA investigators that the dog's actions caused him to go into a rage and beat him with a belt buckle and kick him.

Despite Emmet's serious injuries, including an eye hemorrhage, Graves waited two days before taking the tiny pup to a veterinary hospital. He was finally treated at the West Chelsea Veterinary Hospital for six broken ribs, multiple contusions, bruised kidneys and internal hemorrhaging—he also underwent surgery to have his left eye removed. Suspicious of the dog's critical injuries, the hospital staff contacted the ASPCA for assistance.

"The dog suffered traumatic injuries and could have easily died if the suspect had waited much longer," says Stacy Wolf, Vice President and Chief Legal Counsel for the Humane Law Enforcement Department. "This pet was nearly killed because this person couldn't control his temper—it's inexcusable."

Graves was charged with aggravated animal cruelty, a felony, and criminal mischief. He is currently released on $2,000 bail, and is due back in court on April 27.

Emmet is currently recovering with a relative of his pet parent.

If you know of an animal who is being hurt, please report it. To report animal cruelty in New York City, call the ASPCA's tip line at (877) THE-ASPCA. Visit our Report Cruelty FAQ to learn how to report cruelty elsewhere.

35 Cats and Kittens Removed from Brooklyn Apartment

ASPCA emergency responders and veterinarians were in Brooklyn, NY, this morning to intervene in a hoarding situation in which 37 cats and kittens were living in a one-bedroom apartment. The cats’ owner, whose name has not been released, cooperated fully with the ASPCA before and during the operation. She relinquished ownership of 35 felines, opting to keep only her original two cats.

Tim Rickey, ASPCA Senior Director of Field Investigation and Response, reports that the cats’ owner was not abusive and tried to care for all of her pets, but became overwhelmed by their out-of-control breeding.

All 37 cats were transferred to a staging area at Brooklyn Animal Care & Control (AC&C), where the ASPCA Mobile Clinic was on site to sterilize the two cats who were going to go back to the apartment and medically evaluate the others. Most of the cats appear to be in good health and were dewormed, deloused, vaccinated and implanted with microchip IDs.

After triage at AC&C was completed, the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals provided transport for the 35 relinquished cats to its various partner organizations around the city, where they will be cared for and eventually be made available for adoption. Participating shelters, aside from the ASPCA, include:

• Animal Haven
• A Tail at a Time
• City Critters
• Social Tees
• Friendly Ferals
• The Humane Society of New York
• Bideawee
• KittyKind
• North Shore Animal League
• AnimalKind

“The cats will receive complete medical exams and behavior evaluations before they go up for adoption,” says Rickey. “The collaboration among all of the participating groups, including the Mayor’s Alliance and AC&C, helped make this operation run smoothly. We were fortunate to be able to accommodate these animals, and getting them to shelters as soon as possible gives them the best chance for placement in a new home.”

Please contact these shelters directly or stay tuned to the ASPCA Blog for updates.

Here are some photos from today’s intervention:

Video Captures Woman Beating 9-Pound Pomeranian

On January 11, ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) received a tip from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) that a Manhattan woman was caught on video kicking and leash-choking her nine-pound dog. The incident occurred in the Grant Houses in Morningside Heights, the same public housing project where surveillance video captured an unrelated dog beating only two weeks prior.

At approximately 2:00 A.M. on Sunday, the NYPD's in-elevator surveillance system captured Tiara Davis beating Sparky, her four-year-old Pomeranian. The 31-year-old apparently lost her temper after Sparky urinated on the elevator floor. The video clearly shows Davis punching, kicking and swinging the small dog by his neck until he blacked out. PLEASE NOTE that the video footage is of a graphic and violent nature and is not suitable for all viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. The video can be seen here.

After consulting with the NYPD, HLE Special Agents Omar Negrillo and Brad English visited the scene, where the suspect, who works as a vocational counselor for ex-offenders, told them she never meant to hurt the dog. Davis cooperated by signing custody of Sparky over to the ASPCA and he was immediately brought to the ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital for a medical evaluation.

Tiara was subsequently arrested and charged with torturing and injuring an animal, a misdemeanor. Sparky is currently recovering at the ASPCA hospital.

"The ASPCA is pleased that NYPD is diligently examining security footage with a focus on protecting both people and their pets," says Stacy Wolf, Vice President and Chief Legal Counsel for the Humane Law Enforcement department. "Prompt police reaction here enabled the ASPCA to apprehend the abuser."

If you know of an animal whose health is being compromised by neglect or abuse, please report it. Visit our Report Cruelty FAQ to learn how to report cruelty in your neighborhood.

ASPCA Pet of the Week: Caffeinated Cola

Looking for a peppy love bug? Cola might be the one for you—this one-year-old, orange tabby wants, needs, lives for affection, and doesn’t mind returning the favor. This little feline was born with unusual, malformed toe tips on all four feet, but they’re kinda cute and don’t require any special medical attention.

“Cola's a very special, interesting cat!” says ASPCA Senior Feline Behavior Counselor Katie Watts. “He loves attention to the point where he needs a home with someone who's around most of the time. He's very lively and energetic, and would be perfect for a true cat lover who wants a cat with tons of personality. He's got it all!”

If you’re interested in adopting spunky lil’ Cola, please contact our Animal Placement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120. To see other animals looking for homes, visit our Adoption Center online.

****Got Facebook? Won’t you please donate your status to Cola today? Just copy and paste the following message onto your profile status to help spread the word that this kitty needs a home!

[Name] is donating my status to Cola http://www.aspca.org/cola, a cat at the ASPCA who needs a new home.

Meet the Stars of Operation Chihuahua!

Last week, the ASPCA welcomed 15 jet-setting Chihuahuas from San Francisco, CA, to its headquarters in Manhattan. It turns out that animal shelters in the Golden State are bursting at the seams with the wee little breed, and we are more than happy to help!  If you live near New York City, you're welcome to meet all the pups starting this Wednesday, January 13, at noon. In the meantime, here's a sneak peek at five of the cheeky, California canines.

Maximus

Teeny, tiny Maximus is only two months old, but he's already comfortable in front of the camera. He just wants to be held. (Don't we all!) Though he looks like he could fit easily in your pocket, this little guy needs special care from an adopter who enjoys the challenges of raising a puppy.

Colette

One of our golden girls at seven years old, Colette is the elder statespooch of the Cali Chihuahuas. She has a funny grin that will keep you smiling for hours of cuddly couch time. Irresistible and unflappable, this love bug will make a stellar pet for any small apartment-dwelling, Big Apple resident. 

Orlando

Orlando is a handsome, hunk of Chihuahua with a calm and collected demeanor. At five years old, this peaceful pup has supremely floppy ears and a face that would launch a thousand ships. Plus, he gets along great with his West Coast brothers and sisters. Surely he would make nice with a Yankee pooch, too.

Holly

Heartbreaker Holly is still a baby at one year old, and loves to cuddle and kiss her human friends. She has shiny black fur and precious white tips at the end of her 10 wee toes. This little lady would make the perfect addition to a caring family seeking some four-legged devotion. 

Jeb

Jeb has more character in one tiny paw than many have in their entire furry bodies. At two years old and with an alluring underbite, he likes to "chat" with his Chihuahua neighbors at the ASPCA. Jeb would thrive with an adopter who has time to give him the attention and affection he deserves.

For more information about adopting a lil' pooch of your own, please visit ASPCA.org or call our special Operation Chihuahua hotline at (212) 876-7700, ext. 3210. 

California Chihuahuas Arrive at the ASPCA

On January 6, the ASPCA Adoption Center welcomed 15 Chihuahuas who flew from California to the Big Apple in search of new forever homes. The dogs originated from the City of San Francisco Animal Care & Control, and their in-cabin transportation was donated by Virgin Airlines. After some post-travel rest and relaxation, the tiny pups will be made available for adoption next week at the ASPCA in Manhattan.

Over the past year, California shelters have seen a dramatic increase in Chihuahua intakes—this toy breed now makes up more than 30% of the state’s shelter dog population. While demand for Chihuahuas has declined in much of the Golden State, their popularity in New York City is as high as ever.

"They're portable, and people like portability in the city," said Gail Buchwald, Senior Vice President for the ASPCA Adoption Center in New York City. Aside from easily fitting in a carrier for a subway ride, their small size is ideal for living in compact apartments.

Gail adds: “We are glad to be given this opportunity to help New Yorkers get the small dogs they want, and at the same time, help find loving homes for San Francisco’s homeless animals.”

The dogs will be available for viewing at the ASPCA Adoption Center on Wednesday, January 13, between the hours of noon and 7:00 P.M. Adoption fees will range from $75 to $200, and include all medical and behavioral treatments, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery and a microchip.

For additional information, please visit ASPCA.org or call our special “Operation Chihuahua” hotline at (212) 876-7700, ext. 3210.

DNA Links Brooklyn Man to Cat's Beating

On December 10, Brooklyn resident Lordtyshon Garrett, 31, was arrested and charged with felony animal cruelty by ASPCA Special Agents for allegedly beating his mother’s 9-pound cat, Madea, with an umbrella.

The incident took place on October 12 in the home of Garrett's mother-in-law, Deborah Bender, where the suspect and his wife were temporarily staying. Bender claims the cat beating was in response to her telling Garrett to “find a job and move out.”

In a state of fury, Garret took the 4-year-old, Domestic Shorthair into the bathroom shower, closed the door and turned on the water. When Madea was finally released, she was soaked and her breathing was labored. Despite her obviously strained condition, Garret proceeded to chase the frightened cat around the apartment, while repeatedly jabbing and beating her with an umbrella.

Soon after the incident, Bender rushed the cat to the vet's office where she was humanely euthanized due to the severity of her injuries. Bender, then promptly contacted the ASPCA for help.

While working the crime scene, ASPCA investigators found pieces of black plastic from the umbrella in the cat's litter box and located the cat-scratched umbrella which contained Madea's DNA. This evidence was vital in the prosecution of Garret and is the second time the ASPCA has used animal DNA to solve a case.

Garret was arraigned in Brooklyn Criminal Court on December 11, where he is currently being held in lieu of $3,500 bail. He could face up to two years in jail.

If you know of an animal who is being hurt, please report it—those who intentionally hurt animals may move on to abuse the people in their lives. To report animal cruelty in New York City, call the ASPCA’s tip line at (877) THE-ASPCA. Visit our Report Cruelty FAQ to learn how to report cruelty elsewhere.

ASPCA Pet of the Week: Duncan Donut

There's nothing like the holidays to bring out the childlike spirit in all of us. Tentative tot Duncan is a sweet young thing who surely does the job—at one year old, he is mouthwateringly cute and ready for a home for the holidays. Duncan first came to the ASPCA from Tennessee in September, and has spent the past few months getting adjusted to urban life.

"Duncan is very shy and loves to play with toys, once he's comfortable, that is," says Marny Nofi, ASPCA Behavior Coordinator. "With time, he has formed bonds with individual people, but he does not do well in crowds.  He needs a quiet adult home—one where there isn't too much activity or people coming and going."

A Terrier mix, Duncan will thrive best in a home without other dogs or children and with an experienced adopter who will work with him on basic housetraining. He is currently taking anti-anxiety medication, and his future pet parent should be committed to continuing this course of treatment. If you're interested in adopting this sweet lil' candy cane, please call our Animal Placement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120. Or to view other animals looking for homes, visit our Adoption Center online.

****Got Facebook? Won't you please donate your status to Duncan? Just copy and paste the following message onto your profile status to help spread the word that this pooch needs a home!

[Name] is donating my status to Duncan, a dog at the ASPCA who needs a new home.

NYC Dogs Threatened by NYCHA Housing Policy

The ASPCA and the Mayor's Alliance For NYC's Animals are calling for a re-examination of the New York City Public Housing (NYCHA) policy that went into effect on May 1 of this year. The ban—one of the strictest from any public housing authority in the country—prohibits adult canines who reach a weight of over 25 pounds from living in public housing. NYCHA tenants are also banned from owning purebred or mixed-breed Rottweilers, Pit Bulls or Doberman Pinschers and are only permitted to have one dog or cat.

Fearing eviction, NYCHA tenants have been surrendering their pets to New York City Animal Care & Control (AC&C), which has a contract with the city to take in unwanted animals. As a result, healthy, well-behaved pets are being removed from their homes and falling prey to overcrowded conditions and an array of illnesses in the city’s shelter system. “These dogs are not coming into the shelter ill,” says Jane Hoffman, President of the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC's Animals. “They’re healthy when they arrive.”

According to data gathered by the Mayor's Alliance For NYC's Animals, between April 1 and October 8 of this year, 119 dogs were surrendered by NYCHA residents to AC&C. Roughly half of these pets have been euthanized.

However, 62 of the NYCHA dogs have made it out of the NYC shelter system—16 have been adopted, 46 have been transferred to pet rescues and shelters with larger holding capacity and a handful have been taken back by their owners who plan to fight to keep their dogs.

“These people consider their pets family members,” notes Hoffman. “This is not just an issue for the animals. It’s a great loss for the families who are giving them up.”

According to Debora Bresch, an attorney with ASPCA Government Relations, the new NYCHA policy also means that available homes for shelter dogs have decreased. “About 172 dogs at the AC&C were adopted by public housing residents in the weeks before the new pet policy went into effect,” says Bresch.

“Under the new policy, 107 of these dogs—over 60 percent—are no longer allowed to live with their new adoptive families. Assuming that NYCHA residents would have continued to adopt now-prohibited dogs, the new policy could mean that well over a 1,000 dogs per year will be unable to find the good homes they deserve.”

Judge Rules: NYC Must Create More Animal Shelters

The ASPCA applauds a decision by the New York State Supreme Court to uphold a 2000 law mandating the existence of full-service animal shelters in all five New York City boroughs. In last week’s ruling, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Marilyn Shafer gave the City 60 days to come up with a plan to implement the law(PDF) which will ultimately allow for more animals to be adopted and fewer to be euthanized.

While the boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island are each outfitted with New York City Animal Care and Control shelters, the Bronx and Queens have only part-time animal receiving centers. Animals in these two boroughs are routinely sent to Manhattan and Brooklyn, where shelters quickly reach capacity, resulting in the euthanasia of healthy pets. Although funds were allocated for a full-service shelter in each borough, the City has not yet taken steps to purchase sites in the Bronx and Queens.

“Each New York City borough, by law, was required to have a full-service animal shelter by July 1, 2006,” states Michelle Villagomez, ASPCA Senior Manager of Advocacy & Campaigns. "The ASPCA has been urging New York City for years to fulfill its mandate and provide the people and animals of Queens and the Bronx with these shelters."

In January 2009, the nonprofit group Stray from the Heart sued the City, reasoning that its failure to set up animal shelters in the Bronx and Queens resulted in the “needless suffering and death of homeless cats and dogs." In its lawsuit, the group charged: “Homeless dogs have been dying in unconscionable numbers because the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has not provided the shelter space required by statute.”

Notes Villagomez, “Not only are healthy, innocent animals being euthanized before getting a chance at adoption, but residents of these boroughs are tax-paying New Yorkers and deserve the same services that residents in the other three boroughs receive.”

The City of New York plans to appeal the court's decision.

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ASPCA Locates Dog Attacker Through Facebook

Last Friday, September 11, ASPCA Special Agent Paul Lai arrested New Yorker Donnell Walters for allegedly beating his boyfriend’s dog, a 4½-pound Yorkshire Terrier named Lucy. Lucy’s owner alleges that in late July, a verbal dispute triggered Walters, 22, to assault the tiny canine. He is accused of repeatedly slamming or dropping Lucy to the ground, shattering one of her legs.

When ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) began its investigation, Agent Lai had trouble finding Walters. He cleverly used a variety of tools, including Facebook, the popular social networking website, to locate the suspect. Friday’s arrest was made at Walters’ Manhattan workplace; he has been charged with one count of aggravated animal cruelty, which carries a penalty of up to two years in jail.

"Lucy was the innocent victim of a domestic dispute,” says Stacy Wolf, ASPCA HLE Vice President & Chief Legal Counsel. “As unfortunate as these kinds of incidents are, it is good to know that the criminal justice system is treating them with the seriousness that these crimes deserve."

After the incident, Lucy’s owner phoned the ASPCA to report the dog’s injuries. He then brought her to the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital, where her broken leg was operated on and repaired using screws and a metal plate. Lucy was returned to her owner and is recovering well from her ordeal.

If you know of an animal who is being hurt, please report it—those who intentionally hurt animals may move on to abuse the people in their lives. To report animal cruelty in New York City, call the ASPCA’s tip line at (877) THE-ASPCA. Visit our Report Cruelty FAQ to learn how to report cruelty elsewhere.

Do you Twitter? Use this hashtag to tweet on this article: @aspca and #FacebookArrest

ASPCA Rescues 25 Dogs from Queens Hoarder

On August 19, the ASPCA, NYC Animal Care & Control and the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals worked in tandem with local police to rescue 25 dogs from an animal hoarder in Queens, NY. After a carefully planned intervention led by the ASPCA, the hoarder, a man in his mid-50s, voluntarily relinquished the dogs.

While neighbors had long been complaining to each other about the excessive barking and horrible smells coming from the house, it took several years for anyone to contact authorities. Officials were finally tipped off after a neighbor complained to various city agencies about the constant barking, vile stench and the ever-increasing number of animals in the residence.

The dogs—mostly Beagles, Miniature Pinschers and mixes of the two—were living in squalid conditions and suffering from an array of medical conditions including parasites, fleas, overgrown nails and mange. Four of the dogs are pregnant.

"Hoarding situations are complex and depending upon a number of factors, including the mental health status of the hoarder, they may or may not be referred to the criminal justice system," says Allison Cardona, ASPCA Director of Disaster Response. "It is vital that authorities be notified of hoarding situations so that steps can be taken to ensure the protection of the animals. This kind of problem will not go away by itself. It will only get worse. That is why people need to speak up!"

The ASPCA also worked closely with Adult Protective Services because, as in many of these cases, the hoarder himself was in need of medical attention. "Like many psychological conditions, there are probably multiple underlying causes for animal-hoarding behavior. These are not situations that can or should be handled by animal welfare agencies alone," explains Cardona. "The ASPCA will continue to work with Adult Protective Services to monitor this man's behavior. Without intervention and monitoring, the relapse rate for hoarders is 100 percent."

The surrendered dogs are recuperating in several shelters, and ASPCA animal behaviorists are currently working with seven in particular. "These dogs have never been socialized, walked on a leash or run around in a yard," says Cardona. "Their future pet parents will need to be especially caring, patient people, willing go the extra mile."

For more information on animal hoarding, visit ASPCA.org.

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Carriage Horses Pulled from the Streets of NYC

Starting Monday, August 10, and repeating this past week, temperatures in New York City reached and exceeded 90 degrees Fahrenheit for the first time this summer. According to the New York City Administrative Code, 90 degrees is the temperature at which carriage horses must stop working and be allowed to rest in their stables. As the de facto enforcer of New York City’s carriage horse laws, ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement Agents were on hand to make sure carriage horse operations ceased and that the horses were safe. No medical emergencies were observed.

“Temperatures at that level only compound the already difficult job performed by carriage horses,” says Joseph Pentangelo, Assistant Director of ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement. “Ideally, we would like to see this industry leave New York City entirely—but until then, ASPCA Agents will continue to make sure that the carriage horses are well cared for.”

The 90-degree threshold is a strict measure of air temperature alone. The law does not take into account humidity or the extreme heat that radiates off the city’s black asphalt streets onto horses’ legs and stomachs.

The ASPCA believes that our city’s unique environment is incapable of ensuring that horses and their human passengers stay healthy and safe, and we have been fighting to get the horses off our noisy, congested streets. To learn more about the fundamental cruelty of New York City’s carriage horse industry—and to see proposed humane alternatives and solutions—please visit our partner agency, NYCLASS.

Do you Twitter? Use this hashtag to tweet on this article: @aspca and #CarriageHorses

Brooklyn Man Arrested for Neglecting Aging Pet

On August 11, Brooklyn resident Vincent Turzio, 43, was arrested by ASPCA Special Agent Kristi Adams for severely neglecting his 12-year-old German Shepherd, Bella.

Covered in urine and feces, Bella was brought to the Bay Ridge Animal Hospital, where veterinarians contacted the ASPCA about the dog’s deplorable condition. Emaciated and too weak to stand on her own, Bella was also suffering from an open wound on her hind leg that was the size of a large grapefruit. The wound was infected, and blood, bone and tissue were fully exposed.

“By the time we arrived, the vet had already made the decision to humanely euthanize the suffering dog,” explains Special Agent Adams. “Bella’s old age, coupled with the severity of her body condition and open leg wound, left the vet little choice. She had been in pure agony for some time.” The vet estimated the dog had been in this terrible state for over a month.

Turzio was charged with one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty. He faces up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Learn how to recognize and report animal cruelty in your community.

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ASPCA Happy Tails: Family Reunion

What started as a leisurely, sunny Sunday for Dan Catalano and Sarah Warren of Riverdale, NY, soon turned dark when their elderly cat, Boutros Boutros Kitty—aka “Bootsy”—went missing.

Back in 1994, Dan first discovered the 17-year-old Burmese perched on top of a metal partition near his apartment in New York City’s East Village. She was a young peach at the time, pregnant and alone, but Dan was confident someone would claim the lovely purebred. He put up signs and waited for the call, but no one ever came for her. A cat’s lifetime later, Bootsy is now firmly a part of Dan’s life.

“She really likes to sun herself outside,” says Dan. But he and Sarah were still shocked when the aging kitty, who suffers from arthritis, limited mobility and digestive problems, recently left her sun perch and hopped their back patio’s bamboo fence. Distraught, the couple scoured the neighborhood and shook the cat’s favorite treats to no avail. They eventually put up “lost cat” signs and resigned themselves to an unhappy waiting game.

Meanwhile, a Good Samaritan was already taking care of the naughty escapee. Dan explains: “A neighbor saw Bootsy crossing the street, thought she was a malnourished kitten and scooped her up.” The Good Samaritan brought the cat to the ASPCA in Manhattan, where her daughter is a volunteer and where she knew she’d be in good hands.

But word of mouth started to work in Dan and Sarah’s favor. A friend who manages a feral cat colony in the neighborhood saw their signs and heard about the Good Samaritan who had rescued such a cat. Tuesday night, the Good Samaritan called and told Dan that Bootsy was safely ensconced at the ASPCA.

First thing the next morning, a full three days after Bootsy was lost, Sarah went to the ASPCA to pick up the beloved elder, who’s now slightly miffed because her little neighborhood jaunt means the end of her patio privileges. “We’re just so happy to have her back,” says Dan with a sigh of relief. We do love happy endings!

Do you Twitter? Use this hashtag to tweet on this article: @aspca and #ElderCatReunion

ASPCA Asks Court to Direct Helmsley Money Back to Dogs

The ASPCA, along with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Maddie’s Fund, filed suit this week in New York Surrogate’s Court to intervene in the matter of the late Leona Helmsley’s $5 billion estate. The suit seeks to overturn an earlier ruling that allows the Helmsley Trustees—those responsible for issuing charitable grants from the estate—to disregard Mrs. Helmsley’s specific instructions that her wealth be used to help dogs.

“Just a fraction of the money involved in Mrs. Helmsley’s estate is a game-changer for animal welfare,” says Marsha Perelman, ASPCA Board Chair. “The fate of dogs in this country could very well rest on the decision of this lawsuit—it is that critical.”

No nonprofit groups involved with animal welfare were contacted or given an opportunity to register formal objections prior to the court’s controversial ruling last fall. As a result of that ruling, and in clear violation of Mrs. Helmsley’s wishes, less than 0.1% the trust’s initial round of grants was allocated to dog welfare-related charities.

“Dog fighting, puppy mills, pet homelessness and overpopulation are not $100,000 problems. But they’re not billion-dollar problems, either,” says Ed Sayres, President and CEO of the ASPCA. “Mrs. Helmsley understood the importance of animal welfare. She wanted her worldly estate to make our society better for dogs and animals—and if distributed as she intended, it definitely has the power to do so.”

This case has larger implications beyond the fate of the Helmsley estate. The three organizations believe that the court system has a responsibility to protect the wishes of any decedent, and also to protect the charity world from the whims of trustees who wish to ignore estate planning instructions. The misdirection of the Helmsley fortune should be of interest to everyone who hopes to provide for beloved pets after death, as well as to the multitude of organizations, from nonprofits to universities, that rely on bequests.

The groups involved in the lawsuit are not seeking grants for themselves, but do hope to work with the Helmsley Trustees in an advisory capacity to award grants to animal welfare groups of various size and scope around the country. “There has been a sea change in recent years in how we treat animals. It’s a shame that the Helmsley Trustees don’t understand or respect that change,” says Sayres.

Do you Twitter? Use this hashtag to tweet on this article: @aspca and #HelmsleyEstate

Dying Doves Rescued from NYC Park

Two weeks ago, dozens of White Ringneck doves took up residence in Flushing Meadows Park in Queens, NY. Although no one has come forward, the most likely explanation for the sudden appearance of these non-native birds is that they were released during a local wedding.

Unlike their pigeon relatives, White Ringneck doves are heavily domesticated birds who are unable to care for themselves—so rather than enjoying their newfound freedom, the 40 to 45 doves were attacked by larger birds and dogs, bombarded by rain, and suffered from starvation, hypothermia and infections. Happily, about half of the flock has been captured and is receiving veterinary care, while rescuers continue to search for those still remaining in the park.

“There is a common misconception that doves are just white pigeons, and that they’ll be fine out there in the world,” says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. “As this case has illustrated, nothing could be further from the truth. While I would hope that those responsible for releasing these doves in Queens didn’t know any better, at least this episode can serve as a lesson to make responsible decisions when involving live animals in an event.”

Setting doves loose isn’t the only popular, animal-related festivity faux pas. Releasing balloons can also endanger many species of wildlife, particularly birds and aquatic animals such as turtles, whales and fish. Animals often ingest deflated balloons, which can cause choking or gastrointestinal blockage, and can become entangled in the attached ribbons and string.

For more information about celebrating safely with animals, please visit our seasonal and holiday tips online.

Do you Twitter? Use this hashtag to tweet on this article: @aspca and #RescuedDoves

Brooklyn Woman Assaults Two ASPCA Agents

On July 23, ASPCA Supervisory Special Investigator Annemarie Lucas and Special Agent Kristi Adams arrested Brooklyn resident Andrea Stewart, age 39, after the woman attacked the two Agents.

Responding to an anonymous tip about a neglected cat, the Humane Law Enforcement agents arrived at Stewart’s residence to find a seven-week-old, one-pound orange tabby with his whiskers cut off and a serious injury to his right front paw. “The kitten’s leg was broken,” says Supervisor Lucas. “As of now, he might lose his paw and is suffering from a rib fracture as well.” It was determined that Stewart had failed to get medical attention for her cat.

Says Joseph Pentangelo, Assistant Director of ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement, “In response to the agents’ decision to seize the kitten, Stewart choked and knocked down one of the ASPCA uniformed officers and punched the other."

Stewart was arrested by ASPCA Special Agent Kristi Adams and taken to Kings County Hospital for observation. The agents were treated for injuries at local hospitals, while the kitten, named Macaroni by officials, was taken to the ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital, where he’s expected to recover and be readied for adoption.

Since it is a felony to assault a New York State Peace Officer, Stewart could receive two counts of felony assault and one count of animal cruelty.

Do you Twitter? Use this hashtag to tweet on this article: @aspca and #AgentsAttacked

ASPCA Pet of the Week: Ziggy Stardust in Her Eyes

Looking for a sweet-faced sister who will keep an eye on things? Look no further than Cora, a two-year-old Tabby cat who’s sitting at our shelter right now, waiting for your love and affection. Deemed a Private Investigator by our expert behaviorists, Cora is a mellow kind—content to hang out and while away the long summer days watching the boob tube or examining your floorboards.

Though we think she’s perfect in every way, Cora does have a misshapen iris in her left eye. It doesn’t cause her any vision problems—it just looks really cool, like David Bowie, who famously has one pupil that’s smaller than the other. So why not get hip to the ways of this modern miss and adopt her today? Please call the ASPCA Animal Placement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120, to set up an appointment. Or to view other animals looking for homes, visit our Adoption Center online.

****Got Facebook? Won’t you please donate your status to Cora today? Just copy and paste the following message onto your profile status to spread the word that this kitty needs a home!

[Name] is donating his/her status to Cora http://www.aspca.org/cora, a cat at the ASPCA who needs a new home.

New York Dogs Hurt by Leptospirosis

June’s near-constant rains may have helped make some dogs in New York City critically ill. Local news outlets have been reporting that several otherwise healthy dogs are believed to have died in recent weeks from leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that occurs worldwide and is transmitted in several ways: through bites, contact with the urine of an infected animal, or exposure to contaminated soil, food or bedding.

Veterinarians at the ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital (BMAH) confirm that leptospirosis outbreaks do increase during periods of heavy rainfall because the Leptospira family of bacteria thrives in stagnant or slow-moving water. City dog runs with poor drainage and a lack of fresh drinking water create ideal conditions for the disease to flourish. 

Fortunately, there is a leptospirosis vaccine—talk to your vet about whether vaccinating is a good idea for your dog. “Like other vaccines, there may be a higher rate of adverse reactions in small-breed dogs,” says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at BMAH. “The vaccine should be administered separately from other vaccinations and in two stages—one shot followed by a booster two or three weeks later.”

The ASPCA also urges dog owners to be on the lookout for the following symptoms: fever, vomiting, poor appetite, lethargy, coughing and labored breathing. Infected dogs may become jaundiced (yellowing of the eyes and skin) or stop urinating if the disease is severe. Leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics, but prompt medical attention is vital as the disease can be fatal and can be transmitted to humans.

Furthermore, “when outdoors—whether at the dog run or by a pond—dog owners must be vigilant about not letting their pets drink stagnant water,” warns Dr. Murray. “We recommend the leptospirosis vaccine, but don’t allow it to make you lax. Because there are many strains of the disease, vaccination does not guarantee absolute protection. Always bring fresh drinking water when you take your dogs on outings.” 

What do you think? Tweet on this article. Include @aspca and #Leptospirosis

Hundreds of Pets Are Now Happier in Harlem

This past weekend, the ASPCA's fleet of five Mobile Spay/Neuter clinics offered—completely free!—spay/neuter surgeries and other medical services at the first-ever ASPCA Harlem Community Block Party. Thanks to the hundreds of supporters who attended, the event was a massive success! 

We spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped over 100 pets and booked appointments to serve over 250 more in the coming weeks. 150 pets were licensed.

And this is really cool—over 40 pit bull and pit bull mixes were vaccinated! (A sick pit is the pits, so this is great news.)

Thank you for helping to spread the word about the importance of spay/neuter.  Not only will your care and concern have a dramatic effect on New York City's homeless pet population, but spayed/neutered pet will live longer, healthier lives!

	New Yorkers: To find out when the ASPCA Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic will be visiting your neighborhood, log on to www.aspca.org/877spaynyc, or call (877) SPAY-NYC.

We’re Painting the Big Apple…Orange?

That’s right, orange. That’s our color, so wear it like you mean it in honor of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month this April. We’re going to get down and party on behalf of animals.

So dress yourself, your kids—even your pets—in ASPCA orange and join us on Tuesday, April 7, in New York City's Union Square Park from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. for an evening of commemoration. Highlights include:

• Free refreshments and entertainment, including live music by the X Brothers—featuring Joe Bouchard of Blue Oyster Cult
• A variety of pet-themed activities, including caricaturists, photographers and airbrushers
• Meet-and-greet time with ASPCA's animal cops, behaviorists and pet poison prevention specialists
• Fun giveaways and free vaccinations for cats and dogs at our mobile clinic
• The showcasing of some of our wonderful animals who will be looking to find their forever homes
• A spectacular sunset surprise, when buildings throughout the city will light up in ASPCA orange!

Make no mistake, animal lovers—we’ve got plenty of reasons to celebrate! From the ASPCA Disaster Response Team’s efforts during Hurricanes Gustav and Ike to our involvement in Tennessee’s largest-ever puppy mill raid, we’ve had many victories in fighting animal cruelty in the past year. ASPCA founder Henry Bergh would be proud!

	Don’t live near New York City? There’s still plenty of orange action to be had. Check out the events happening near you—if you don’t see one, start your own!

Meet You At the Seaport On Monday!

See the morning sun shine on the ocean, huddle up with a bunch of good-looking people dressed in orange, and still get to work on time. What better way to prove your devotion to animals than to wake up really, really early? Help us kick off Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month by joining us in a groundbreaking “Go Orange” photo shoot. A professional photo team will creatively arrange all participants to spell out the letters “ASPCA.” Aerial photos will be taken, and used nationwide to further promote Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month.

So, how do you get involved? It’s easy! Just throw on your brightest orange clothing—T-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, hats, jackets, coats, etc.—and head over to New York City’s South Street Seaport at 7:30 A.M. next Monday, March 30. Don’t forget to grab your friends and family members, too. The more participants—and the more orange they wear—the better! Come join in the fun and become part of a photo that will show the world you care about animals! Or come to fulfill your secret modeling fantasy.

What: Go Orange Photo Shoot
When: Monday, March 30, 7:30 A.M. (Ouch…sorry, but it’ll be worth it.)
Where: South Street Seaport, the north side. See map—X marks the spot (we always wanted to say that).

	Don’t live in New York City? How about organizing a photo shoot like this in your hometown? Don’t forget to send us the pics!

Next Time, We Hope She Brings Cookies!

Yesterday, we received a visit from the domestic goddess, Martha Stewart. She came to tape a segment on the ASPCA for her talk show!

Martha will be the honoree of the ASPCA’s 2009 Bergh Ball, which will be held at the Plaza Hotel on April 23. Kudos to Martha for getting in on the April action! As you know, April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. Visit www.aspcaapril.org for more info.

Martha trades kennel decoration ideas with Ed Sayres, President & CEO of the ASPCA, and Lambert, an 11-month-old male domestic shorthair who is available for adoption.

	Who says having a pet has to cramp your style? Buy a bed for your pet that matches the color of your comforter!

Get a Load of Our Own Best in Show!

That’s right! We had our very own talent show here at ASPCA headquarters on February 13. Eleven canines, all available for adoption at the “A,” and their handlers showcased their talents  for a panel of celebrity judges that included film and television actress and ASPCA supporter Candice Bergen (pictured), high fashion model and AIDS activist Maggie Rizer, President and Founder of DeLuca Dog and Friends, Greg DeLuca and ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement Assistant Director, Joseph Pentangelo.

The dogs were judged on several criteria, including overall presentation, dog’s attentiveness to the handler and creativity of the commands learned.

Super Tiger earned first prize, winning the judges over with his ability to crawl, attend “spinning class” and—undoubtedly his fave—take a nap on cue.

 Tiger is still available for adoption. Come on, you know you want to tell your friends you adopted an award-winning dog.

To see videos of the rest of the contestants, check out the playlist on YouTube! To see photos from the talent show, view our Flickr album.

	Encourage your local shelter to put on a talent show. They can charge a small admission fee to raise funds for the shelter and promote the fabulous dogs available for adoption!

15 Minutes of Fame for 5 ASPCA Mutts

Line of the day: “He peed on my foot and I’ve had that warm feeling ever since!” Those were Julie Raposa’s words when introducing her dog, Sam, on The View this morning. 

Host Whoopi Goldberg (as if you didn’t know) with Siren, ASPCA mutt available for adoption.

The View held its first Mutt Show, in which ten mixed-breed dogs were showcased. Five of the contestants were dogs owned by viewers, and the other five were dogs available for adoption at the ASPCA! We think it’s great that all of the ladies of The View have dogs at home, except for Whoopi, who has a cat—and a “granddog!” If you saw the episode, OMG, how cute was that segment of Joy’s mutt getting booted from Westminster?

Speaking of the high society of dogville, Westminster’s David Frei judged the dogs on appearance and temperament. He selected the ASPCA’s Eggy, a seven-month-old Dalmatian mix, as “best in show” of the adoptable group. Eggy was then up against Pete, viewer Jill Altruda’s pooch, who took home the grand prize. But that’s okay—as Frie put it, all the ASPCA dogs will be winners by having someone adopt them.

Eggy, runner up for Best Mutt in Show.  “He needs an alpha human in his life. ” —David Frei, Westminster judge.

To see photos and adoption info for all five dogs who are available at the ASPCA, please visit this special page on The View website.

	Teachers, grab a copy of The View host Joy Behar’s children’s book, Sheetzucacapoopoo: My Kind of Dog, to share with your class! You can discuss adopting a mixed-breed dog with your students.

How to Find Love You Can Count On Tomorrow (Hint: It Doesn’t Involve Another Person)

“Your looks are laughable
Unphotographable
Yet you’re my favorite work of art…”*

It's not too late to find your funny (and furry!) valentine. Visit the ASPCA's New York City headquarters this Saturday and Sunday, February 14 & 15, for our annual Valentine adoption event. As a special treat, we're kicking off the fun with our annual Best in Show talent contest on Friday—and all cats over age 3 are free during the entire weekend!

The ASPCA is located at 424 E. 92nd St., between First and York Avenues. We're open Saturday from 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. and Sunday from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. For more information, please visit the ASPCA Adoption Center online or call (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120.

	*Yep, those were lyrics from the song “My Funny Valentine.” How ‘bout serenading your furry sweetheart tomorrow? Who knows—she just might sing along!