ActionSummer 2007

Keeping YourPet SafeKeeping YourPet SafeThe ASPCA Animal PoisonControl Center saves lives 24/7

Protecting AnimalsRound-the-Clock

Since Menu Foods announced itsmassive pet food recall on March16, the ASPCA has been floodedwith calls from concerned pet

parents and animal welfare professionals alike.TheASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is the only 24-hour, 365-day facility of its kind, and it is timely that itis the cover story for this issue of ASPCA Action.The ASPCA is the oldest humane organization inNorth America, and we’re more dedicated than ever toour work preventing animal cruelty and findingpermanent, loving homes for adoptable pets all acrossthe country. But we are also committed to being therefor the millions of compassionate citizens like you, andone of our goals is to be the number one resource forpet parents in America.Whether it’s saving a pet that has been accidentally

poisoned, fighting to pass humane laws, rescuing animalsfrom abuse, or sharing resources with shelters across thecountry, the ASPCA is there, changing the face ofanimal welfare. It is my hope that the ASPCA, thanks tothe support of members like you, will always be there,making a difference for pets and pet parents alike—evenin the most desperate times of need.

Edwin SayresASPCA President & CEO

>> PRESIDENT’S NOTE

2 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org2 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org

Board of DirectorsOfficers of the BoardHoyle C. Jones, Chairman, Linda Lloyd Lambert,Vice Chairman, Sally Spooner, Secretary,James W. Gerard, Treasurer

Members of the BoardPenelope Ayers, Alexandra G. Bishop, J. ElizabethBradham, Reenie Brown, Patricia J. Crawford,Jonathan D. Farkas, Joan C. Hendricks, V.M.D., Ph.D.,Franklin Maisano, Elizabeth L. Mathieu, Esq.,William Morrison Matthews, Majella Matyas,Sean McCarthy, Gurdon H. Metz, Leslie Anne Miller,Michael F.X. Murdoch, James L. Nederlander, Jr.,Marsha Reines Perelman, George Stuart Perry,Helen S.C. Pilkington, Gail Sanger, William Secord,Frederick Tanne, Richard C. Thompson,Cathy Wallach

Directors EmeritiSteven M. Elkman, George Gowen, Alastair B.Martin, Thomas N. McCarter 3rd, Marvin Schiller,James F. Stebbins, Esq.

The ASPCA424 East 92nd Street

New York, NY 10128-6804(212) 876-7700www.aspca.org

E-mail: information@aspca.org

Volume 3, Number 2ASPCA Action

is publishedfour times a year by

The American Society forthe Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

424 East 92nd StreetNew York, NY 10128-6804

Postmaster—Send address changes and undeliverable copies to:

ASPCA Action ReturnsP.O. Box 97288

Washington, DC 20090-7288

Copyright © 2007 ASPCA. All rights reserved.The American Society for the

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals andASPCA are registered trademarks.

For permission to reprint material fromASPCA Action, please direct requests to:

ASPCA Action110 Fifth Avenue

Second FloorNew York, NY 10011

E-mail for ASPCA Action:ASPCAAction@aspca.org

AASSPPCCAA AAccttiioonn

Editorial created by Rebus LLC, 632 Broadway, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10012. www.rebus.com

Cover: Aaron Goodman.

Send subscription inquiries to: ASPCA Action, 424 East 92nd Street,

New York, NY 10128-6804.

This newsletter is not intended to provide advice on individual pet health

matters or to substitute for consultation with a veterinary doctor.

Photo by Kristy Leibowitz

When Deborah Novick of Newton,MA, settled in for a leisurely meal withfriends and family this past holidayseason, their pet dog Oscar, a 7-1/2 yearold dachshund with a nose for treats,was nowhere in sight. He was busy inthe next room, it later became apparent,peeling the foil wrappers off thechocolate Hannukah gelt that had beenleft unattended. “When we discovered Oscar hadeaten 40 pieces of chocolate, which Iknew was bad for dogs, I called my vetright away,” says Novick. “It was late inthe evening, and I got a recordingtelling me to call the ASPCA AnimalPoison Control Center.”Novick was soon speaking with anASPCA toxicologist, expertly trained in

managing the many potential poisons awayward pet can get into. “It’s anamazing service,” she says. “Theydetermined that Oscar had eaten a toxicamount of chocolate for his size andweight. I rushed out to buy somehydrogen peroxide to make him throwup, but that didn’t do the trick.”That’s when Novick, on the advice ofASPCA experts, headed to her localclinic, the Veterinary Emergency &Specialty Center of New England inWaltham, MA. “Oscar came in aftermidnight with a distended belly and arapid heart rate; his life was at risk,” saysDr. Heather Chalfant, the veterinarianwho treated him there. “We consultedwith the ASPCA on a treatment planand, happily, after a night’s observation,

>> COVER STORY

3Summer 2007 3

Keeping Your Pet SafeThe ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Protects Pets 24/7

Foods like chocolate, fine for people, can be toxic to pets, especially small (anddetermined) ones like Oscar.

Top 10 Reasonsfor Calls to the

ASPCA Animal PoisonControl Center

1. Pills and other peoplemedications, includingprescription drugs,over-the-counterremedies, and dietarysupplements

2. Insecticides used tokill fleas, ticks, andother insects

3. Mouse and ratpoisons

4. Pet medicines, suchas heartwormpreventatives, arthritisrelievers, andnutritionalsupplements

5. Household cleaners,such as bleaches,detergents, anddisinfectants

6. Herbicides7. Plants, such as lilies,

rhododendron,azalea, sago palm,kalanchoe, andschefflera

8. Chocolate9. Home improvementproducts, includingpaint, solvents, andexpanding glues

10. Fertilizers

Pho

to C

redi

t: K

ate

Floc

k/N

ewto

n Ta

b.

Oscar was ready to go home.”

Round-the-Clock ServiceThe ASPCA Animal PoisonControl Center is the only 24-hour, 365-day facility of its kind,dispensing emergency lifesavingadvice to pet parents andveterinarians from throughoutNorth America, and across theglobe. Staff includes 28veterinarians, many board-certifiedin toxicology, aided by dozens ofcertified veterinary technicians

and assistants, includingstudents from the nearbyCollege of VeterinaryMedicine at theUniversity of Illinois inChampaign-Urbana,where the call centerfirst started nearly 30years ago. “The ASPCA

Animal Poison

Control Center has a vast amountof knowledge on so manydifferent toxins,” says Dr. Chalfant.“That’s why we use them solely,and advise people who attend ourpet first-aid class to keep theirphone number on hand, alongwith other important contacts.”Because the service is notsupported by state or federalgrants, as human poison controlcenters are, the ASPCA mustcharge a $55 fee to cover costs inmost cases. “It may seem like a lotof money,” says Novick. “But theygive you a tremendous amount offollow-up and follow-through.Not only did they talk to meseveral times during the course ofthe night. They talked to theemergency room vet several timesas well.”

A Panoply of PoisonsThe ASPCA Animal Poison

Control Centermaintains updatedfiles on morethan onemillionindividualcases and anever-expanding listof more than60,000potentialtoxins, rangingfrom pills andpesticides tohouseholdcleaners andnon–pet-friendly plants.This extensivedatabase allowsthe ASPCA to

4 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org4 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org

>> COVER STORY

As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly toa cat; one to two tablespoons can kill a 10-pound dog.

Pet First Aid KitKeep the phone number of theASPCA Animal Poison ControlCenter—(888) 426-4435—alongwith that of your local vet orclinic in a prominent location.Have ready an emergency firstaid kit that includes:

• A fresh bottle of hydrogenperoxide, 3 percent USP (toinduce vomiting)

• A turkey baster, bulb syringe,or large medicine syringe (tosquirt peroxide)

• Saline eye solution, plusartificial tear gel (to lubricateeyes after flushing)

• Mild grease-cuttingdishwashing liquid (to batheanimal after skin contamination)

• Forceps (to remove stingers)

• A muzzle (to protect againstfear- or excitement-inducedbiting)

• A can of your pet’s favorite wetfood

• A pet carrier

Always consult a veterinarian orthe ASPCA Animal PoisonControl Center for directions onhow and when to use anyemergency first-aid item.

You can purchase a Pet First AidKit at the ASPCA online store:www.aspca.org/shop

5Summer 2007 5

>> COVER STORY

remain on the frontlines of poisonprevention. During the recentcontaminated pet food recall, forexample, ASPCA experts were onhand to speak with concerned petparents and to consult withveterinary professionals managingthe crisis.The ASPCA was also among thefirst to identify, or publicize, suchpotential pet hazards as grapes andraisins, Xylitol (found in sugarlessgum), liquid potpourri, avocados(especially toxic to birds), and theantidepressant Effexor (a specialhazard for cats). Similarly, theASPCA has helped dispel commonmisconceptions and Internetrumors, such as that Swiffer WetJetproducts and Greenies brand pettreats are especially hazardous topets, both false.A newsletter and continuingeducation program help get theword out to practicingveterinarians. In addition, anASPCA Veterinary Lifeline PartnerProgram allows some 3,400veterinary clinics across NorthAmerica to gain rapid access topoison center recommendationsand other vital information,including a copy of case recordsby e-mail or fax.

A Typical DayOn one recent day, callsincluded a Persian cat thatdeveloped a weeping eye ulcer(possibly from a shampoo toremove tear stains); a Bostonterrier that gnawed on kitchen antbait; a tabby that got into kerosenein the basement; a Lab-retrievermix that chewed open a bottle ofshoe polish; and a curious muttthat consumed a cluster of box

elder bugs (apparently much lessharmful than ladybugs).More exotic cases the ASPCAAnimal Poison Control Center hassuccessfully handled through theyears include an aquarium dolphin

that swallowed a battery; a Russianspace monkey that gnawed on aTeflon panel; an anthropologist’spup that teethed on curare-tippedarrows; a fuel-guzzling chimpanzeefrom Cameroon; and a twitching

Pets & Medications:A Dangerous Mix

When Pam McQuade, a self-describedbasset hound addict from Nutley, NJ,discovered that her beloved Lady Janehad chewed into her bottle of bloodpressure medicine, she called the ASPCAAnimal Poison Control Center right away.“They informed me I should give herhydrogen peroxide to make her throw up.Though Jane wasn’t a happy camper, 20minutes later she was fine,” saysMcQuade. “I used to keep my medicationon my dining room table, where my catcould knock it down; now I keep it safelylocked away.”

Pets that improperly ingest medicationsaccounted for nearly half of the more than 116,000 cases the ASPCAAnimal Poison Control Center handled last year. The best way to preparefor a pet poison emergency is to prevent it in the first place:

“Never give your pet any medication without the direction of aveterinarian,” cautions Dr. Steven Hansen, Senior VP of the ASPCAAnimal Poison Control Center. “Even one extra-strength acetaminophencan be deadly to a cat, and just four regular-strength ibuprofen can lead toserious kidney problems in a 10-pound dog.”

Keep all drugs out of the reach of your pets, preferably in closedcabinets above the counter. “Don’t line a week’s supply of medicines upon the countertop, where a child or pet could easily knock them off,”advises Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, Medical Director of the ASPCA AnimalPoison Control Center. Remind guests to store their medications safely aswell.

“Take your medications in a safe place, such as in the bathroom withthe door closed,” Dr. Gwaltney-Brant adds. “Many exposures occur whensomeone drops a pill, or the whole bottle, and the pet dives in.”

“Child-proof doesn’t mean pet-proof,” says Dr. Camille DeClementi,ASPCA Director of Content and Records Management. “Puppies canchew and get to things a child can’t. Cats get up on everything.”

Pho

to b

y: R

ober

ta V

ega

pet tarantula accidentally leftbehind when a flea defogger wasset off. “As part of ongoing efforts toaid all animals in need, the ASPCAAnimal Poison Control Centerplays a vital role in the ASPCA’sround-the-clock lifesaving efforts,”says Dr. Steven Hansen, aveterinary toxicologist and SeniorVP of the ASPCA MidwestOffice, which includes the AnimalPoison Control Center. “Last year,we handled more than 116,000cases and helped save more than84,000 animals’ lives. Thosenumbers continue to grow.”

If your pet is poisoned:

• Try to stay calm. Panic onlyinterferes with the process ofaiding your pet.• Take 30 to 60 seconds to safelycollect any materials involved.This will help your localveterinarian or ASPCAtoxicologist determine whatpoisons, if any, your pet mayhave been exposed to.• If you need to take your petto a local clinic, bring theproduct’s container with you.Also, use a sealable plastic bag tocollect any material your petmay have vomited or chewed.• If your pet consumes anythingyou suspect might bepoisonous, don’t hesitate to seekemergency aid, even if youranimal seems fine. “Symptomsmay be hard to detect at first,”says Dr. Charlotte Means, aveterinary toxicologist with theASPCA. “Cats exposed to lilies,for example, may initially showonly vague symptoms, like

tiredness or drinking more waterthan usual. Anywhere from oneto three days later, signs ofkidney failure, with severevomiting and an inability to pee,may develop. At this later stage,it’s not always possible to savethe animal.”

Call the ASPCA Animal PoisonControl Center Hotline at: (888)426-4435. A $55 consultationfee may be applied to your creditcard. Be ready with the followinginformation:

• The species, breed, age, sex,weight, and number of animalsinvolved;• The animal’s symptoms;• Information about the potentialtoxin (if you know what was

involved), the amount that yourpet was exposed to or ingested,and how much time has gone bysince the time of exposure. Havethe product container orpackaging handy for reference. • Important: If your animal ishaving seizures, losingconsciousness or unconscious, orhaving trouble breathing,telephone ahead and bring yourpet immediately to your localveterinarian or emergency clinic.If necessary, the veterinarian onduty may call the ASPCA AnimalPoison Control Center.

For more information and awealth of pet poison preventiontips, visit the ASPCA AnimalPoison Control Center online atwww.aspca.org/apcc. �

>> COVER STORY

6 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org

When Angel Bringelson ofSalem, OR, awoke to findher beloved six-year-olddomestic shorthair Gracielistless and drooling inFebruary, she rushed her tothe local clinic. Sores on thecat’s lips and gums led herto believe the cat hadknocked over a bottle ofdisinfectant cleaning fluid,then stepped through it andlicked her paws.

An ASPCA Animal PoisonControl Center expert wasable to walk the veterinary

team through a successful care plan that included a pain shot,medications for the mouth ulcers, and an appetite booster to get thecat eating again. After three days, including an ASPCA follow-up call,“Gracie was back to her old mischievous self,” says Bringelson. “Wecouldn’t have been happier with the service we got from the ASPCA.You take notice when someone shows genuine care and interest.”

Saving Gracie

Animal welfare groups in Austin,TX, and Tampa, FL, gathered inFebruary for local kickoffs ofASPCA® Mission: Orange™, theASPCA’s groundbreaking neweffort to expand humane care andprotection to animals throughoutthe United States. Along withPhiladelphia, PA, and Gulfport-Biloxi, MS, these communities areeach targeted to receive up to$600,000 in ASPCA funds overthree years. With ongoing supportfrom ASPCA experts, the goal is tomake each a humane community,where no animals are at risk simplybecause they lack a home.“The collaborative partnershipsof ASPCA Mission: Orange willserve as a model to othercommunities across the country,”says ASPCA President & CEO EdSayres. “We are off to a great startas we move one step closer to our

vision of creating a country ofhumane communities, onecommunity at a time.”

Homeless Animal SummitLocal launch activities included anASPCA-sponsored AustinHomeless Animal Summit, whereASPCA Mission: Orange partnersAnimal Trustees of Austin, theAustin Humane Society,EmanciPET, Town Lake AnimalCenter, and other groups pledgedto work together to end animalhomelessness.“Lifesaving ASPCA programslike Meet Your Match™, whichcolor codes pets with prospectivenew parents, and More and BetterAdoptions are already making adifference for cats and dogs at riskfor being euthanized in sheltersacross the country this year,” saysSenior VP Julie Morris of ASPCA

National Outreach. “Theseprograms will continue to boostadoptions in Austin andcommunities nationwide.”Advanced ASPCA anti-crueltytraining in Austin and otherlocales will provide furtherprotection for animals, as willongoing commitments to disasterpreparedness and grassrootstraining. Plans are under way towork with groups like Habitat forHumanity, working to educatenew pet parents on pet care andbehavior, thereby keeping petsfrom entering—or re-entering—shelters.

ASPCA Mission: Orange DayIn Tampa, a Mayoral proclamationdeclared February 26, 2007, ASPCAMission: Orange Day. There,ASPCA partners HillsboroughCounty Animal Services, theHumane Society of Tampa Bay, NoMore Homeless Pets, and AnimalCoalition of Tampa gathered tocommit to the three-year campaign.Donors were welcomed at aSunday reception, and even theFlorida Department of Citrusjoined in by providing orangesduring the weekend’s events.“We’re working to build a safetynet for animals, as efforts ramp upin other ASPCA Mission: Orangecommunities as well,” says theASPCA’s Morris. “These intense,collective efforts mean moreadoptable pets will be finding ahome.” To learn more, visit us onthe Web at www.aspca.org/missionorange. �

>> NEWS

7Summer 2007 7

ASPCA® Mission: Orange™ UpdateTarget-city kickoffs point to a more humane future for America’s pets

ASPCA Mission: Orange efforts in Austin include a new spay and neuterclinic, innovative adoption programs, and advanced anti-cruelty training.

88 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org

>> NEWS BRIEFS

Houston SPCA NamedShelter of the YearThe Houston SPCA, whichprovides aid to more than 100,000animals a year, was the proudrecipient of the ASPCA 2006“Shelter of the Year” Award,

presented on February10 at New York’s GrandHyatt Hotel. The awardhonors those whosededication raises publicawareness of the well-being of animals. Theorganization partneredwith the ASPCA totransfer lost, abandoned, andinjured pets following thedevastation of Hurricanes Katrinaand Rita. “For the past 83 years,we have worked hard to make ourcommunity a better place foranimals and people,” says HoustonSPCA President Patti Mercer(second from left), shown withcolleagues from Houston and theASPCA. “We are thrilled toreceive this recognition.” �

Classroom SupportersHats off to the 7th and 8th gradersof Martino Junior High School inNew Lenox, IL, who raised $450through a candle sale for theASPCA Hurricane Relief Fund.“Our student council was veryproud to give to these helplessanimals, especially after watchingthe news based out of Mississippi,”said teacher and advisor KimberlyHamilton. �

The ASPCA 2007 Annual Meeting of Members will be held at The ASPCA, 424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY, at 9 A.M. on Wednesday, June 13, 2007

All ASPCA members of record* are welcome to participate.

Please note: If you are unable to attend to vote in person, please mail your proxy (see below).

VOTING MEMBER PROXY | ASPCA ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 2007

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to AnimalsThe ASPCA Board of Directors Solicits this Proxy:

The undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints Mr. Hoyle C. Jones, Mr. JamesW. Gerard, and Mr. Edwin J. Sayres, or each or any of them, with the full powerof substitution, as proxies to appear and vote in the name of the undersigned, atthe offices of the ASPCA, 424 E. 92nd St, New York, NY, on the day of June 13,2007, at 9 A.M. and at any and all adjournments thereof; and the undersignedhereby revokes any other proxy heretofore given by him or her and instructssaid proxies to vote upon any business that may properly come before themeeting or any adjournment thereof.

*You are allowed to attend and participate in the ASPCA 2007 Annual Meetingof Members only if you became a member of the ASPCA on or before themeeting record date of February 28, 2007, contributed $25 or more, and areover 18 years of age.

If you do not plan to attend the meeting, please execute this proxy immediately.Send to: The ASPCA, Attention: Annual Meeting Notice, 424 E. 92nd St.,New York, NY, 10128-6804. Only proxies received through the mail by theASPCA on or before June 12, 2007, shall be counted. Proxies may also besubmitted in person at the meeting.

MEMBER’S NAME

STREET ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP

SIGNATURE

DATED

ASPCA 2007 ANNUALMEETING OF MEMBERS

Pho

to: M

ary

Blo

om

9Summer 2007

Damsels in DistressASPCA Humane Law Enforcement in action

It was a heart-wrenching sight:A mother dog, soundernourished she couldn’t

walk, her one surviving pupclinging to her desperately tryingin vain to nurse. That’s the scenethat confronted ASPCA HumaneLaw Enforcement agents JosephLemos and Omar Negrillo, whocame to the house in Queens, NY,after a concerned citizen called theASPCA with an animal crueltytip.The starving pit-bull terrier andher emaciated pup were rushed tothe ASPCA’s Bergh MemorialHospital in Manhattan, where theyreceived lifesaving veterinary care.Their 20-year-old owner, who hadanswered the door eating asandwich, was charged withanimal cruelty after telling ASPCAinvestigators he had no money tofeed the dogs and that they hadn’t

eaten in weeks. “She was near deathwhen we rescued her,”says ASPCA AssistantDirector of Humane LawEnforcement JosephPentangelo of the motherdog, christened Damsel byASPCA staff andvolunteers who nursedthe affectionate canineback to health. Her black-and-white pup, namedJezebel, proved equallyresilient and was soonbouncing about playfullythe way a puppy should.

A New and Better LifeColin McCarthy had been to theASPCA before, workingconstruction on the ASPCA’snewly renovated state-of-the-artadoption center. When he movedlast year to a roomy new home inAstoria, NY, the longtime animallover knew where to go to adopt. “As soon as I saw Damsel at theASPCA, I knew she was the onefor me,” says McCarthy. Herenamed the loving dog Dani, inhonor of her new life, and“couldn’t imagine my life withouther now. My sister showers herwith all the latest doggie fashions,and Dani loves to take rides in mycar, play ball with her pals, and geta good scrub in the bathtub.”Sheree Biro of Middletown, NY,was equally enchanted by Dani’spup, Jezebel. “The minute I sawher, I just had to have her,” she

says of theloving pooch,now full grownat 40 pounds. “She’s one of thosedogs that sticks to you, soaffectionate. She dives under thecovers when I go to sleep at night.And when I take her to the local

pet store or the vet, everyoneknows her and shouts, ‘There’sJezebel!’” This past November, Dani andJezebel’s original owner got afitting sentence for starving thefamily of pets: 16 months in prisonfor Felony Animal Cruelty. “It’s anew degree of seriousness forsentencing in an animal crueltycase,” says the ASPCA’s Pentangelo. “You get a lot of satisfactiongiving a dog like Dani a betterlife,” McCarthy adds. “One thingthese pets are not lacking now islots of love.” �

>> RESCUE

A new life for Dani, rescued by ASPCA agents.

Jezebel the pup has a loving newhome.

>> OUTREACH

10 ASPCA Action www.aspca.orgYour Dollars At Work10 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org

18 TONSAID FOR ORPHANS� Idaho $2,000 in ASPCA emergency funds supplied 18 tons of hay to 73 hungryhorses at Orphan Acres in Viola, ID, a much-needed boost for the ongoing aidstill needed after last year’s drought. Since 1975, the volunteer group hassaved over 1,650 animals placed in its care, including Lil’ Blue McGoo (shownin photo), the horse ridden by the medicine man in Dances with Wolves thatwas later badly neglected by a new owner. “Groups like the ASPCA are soimportant, as they educate people in the proper care of animals and are thereto take action to prevent cruelty when needed,” says Brent Glover, OrphanAcres’ founder.

$2,000BIRDS FLY FREE� ColoradoA $2,000 grant to the Gabriel Foundationwas used to build an outdoor exercisearea for parrots, cockatiels, budgerigars,and other small birds, part of thesanctuary and rescue group’s new Aviaryand Adoption Center in Denver. “Toooften, smaller birds are relegated entirelyto life in a tiny cage,” says Anna Gonce,the Gabriel Foundation’s ExecutiveDirector. “Our rooms are designed so thatsmall birds can safely go outside each dayand learn how to fly, forage, and explorewith members of their same species.”

�

�

200+HUMANE CLASSROOM LEADERS� Texas Two hundred elementary and middle school teachers learned ASPCA lessons inhumane education at a January workshop in Houston, thanks to ongoing efforts bythe ASPCA to sow a culture of compassion in classrooms across America.Educators can incorporate humane care in their curriculum, with standards-basedlessons on such topics as fighting cruelty, alternatives to dissection, and pet-friendlybooks. Many more teachers will be trained in the coming year, as ASPCA teacherworkshops are being planned for ASPCA® Mission: Orange™ communities inAustin, Gulfport-Biloxi, Tampa, Philadelphia, and beyond.

$3,500NO MORE HOMELESS PETS� MichiganA $3,500 grant from the ASPCA is helping to fund an ambitious new program in Michigan,a free clinic for low-income residents who can’t afford to have their pets sterilized. “TheASPCA has been a great help to us in our efforts to make Oakland County a no-more-

homeless-pets community by 2010,” says Deborah Schutt, chairperson of the OaklandPet Fund in Bloomfield Hills. The group is working with veterinarians and vet techs from

All About Animals Rescue and the Oakland Pet Adoption Center to sterilize up to700 cats in the coming year, with dogs to be added next year.

11Summer 2007Your Dollars At Work

11

�

$20,000SAFE STEPS HOME

� PennsylvaniaAnimal Rescue League of Western PA is using

a $20,000 Safe Steps Home grant from theASPCA and Fresh Step Scoopable Cat Litter

to establish a Trap-Neuter-Return pilotprogram that will help save the lives of many

of the more than 1,000 cats the city ofPittsburgh takes in each year. The programsterilizes feral felines, then places them in established feral cat colonies throughout the city

so that these “unadoptable” animals will not be euthanized. “This has been a great programfor us,” says Dan Musher, Development Director, “allowing us to serve a population we

weren’t able to handle before.”

� �

�

6,387 SPAY AND NEUTER SURGERIES� MississippiThe Humane Society of South Mississippi performed a record 6,387 spay andneuter procedures in 2006 at its new state-of-the-art clinic, funded in part by agenerous ASPCA grant after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. A secondveterinarian came on board last fall, helping pave the way for a record-breaking16,800 surgeries projected for 2007. The shelter is one of many groups theASPCA works with in Gulfport-Biloxi, an ASPCA® Mission: Orange™ communitythat is working to become a model of humane care nationwide.

Protect “downed” animals byurging your electedrepresentatives to support

the Downed Animal and FoodSafety Protection Act. Thishumane measure would requireimmediate humane euthanasia ofcritically ill and injured cows, pigs,sheep, goats, mules, and horses toosick to rise or move on their own.It would also prohibit theslaughter of such “downed”animals for food.“The Downed Animal and FoodSafety Protection Act was recentlyreintroduced in the 110thCongress,” says Cori Menkin,Esq., Senior Director, ProgramCounsel of Government Affairsand Public Policy for the ASPCA.

“We continue to fight for thepassage of this much needed andlong overdue humane legislation.” Animals that are destined forslaughter sometimes go “down”while en route to slaughter plants.These animals cannot stand orwalk on their own due to injuryor illness. Once at the slaughterplants, they may lie for dayswithout food, water, or veterinarycare until they are ultimatelydragged or pushed to slaughter,often by a bulldozer.

Protecting Human HealthThese practices are inhumane,often resulting in torn ligamentsand broken bones. They pose amajor health risk to people as

well. The risk of tainted meatentering the food chainincreases when downed animalsare slaughtered for humanconsumption. All six confirmedcases of mad cow disease inNorth America were reportedlyfrom downed animals.The Act (Senate Bill394/House Resolution 661)would prompt stockyards toimmediately humanelyeuthanize crippled anddistressed animals instead ofprocessing them as meat. Itwould also prompt meatproducers to improve the careof animals in order to preventthem from going down at all.Such producers currently havean economic incentive tomove downed animals through

slaughter in order to process themeat for sale in supermarkets,restaurants, and butcher shops.“There is strong consensuswithin the industry, the animalwelfare movement, consumers, andgovernment that downed animalsshould not be sent to stockyards,”notes Hawaii Senator DanielAkaka, a sponsor of the bill in theSenate. “Yet this sad problemcontinues, causing animal sufferingand an erosion of publicconfidence in the industry.” Contact your Representative andSenators now and urge them tosupport the Downed Animal andFood Safety Protection Act. Forcontact info and sample letters,visit www.aspca.org/lobby. �

>> ADVOCACY

12 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org12 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org

Urge Humane Handling of Sick LivestockSupport the Downed Animal and Food Safety Protection Act

>> ADVOCACY

13

New Mexico: Cockfighting Banned at LastKudos to New Mexico GovernorBill Richardson, who in Marchsigned into law Senate Bill 10, along sought statewide ban oncockfighting. “I am proud that NewMexico will now move beyondcockfighting and join the 48 statesthat have already banned thisoutdated practice,” said GovernorRichardson. The cruel blood sportnow remains legal only in one state,Louisiana (see below).

“The Governor really appreciatedthe broad support he received fromgroups like the ASPCA and animalprotection voters of New Mexico,”said Jon Goldstein, a spokesmanfor the Governor’s office. Thank youto all the ASPCA Advocacy Brigademembers (www.aspca.org/lobby)who made their voice heard.

Louisiana:Ban Cockfights in all 50!Speaker of the LouisianaHouse Joe Salter announced inMarch that he would support abill outlawing cockfighting in thestate, provided it is phased intwo to three years from now togive the industry time to adjust.Previous attempts to ban thepractice have stalled in theHouse. Salter, who once opposeda ban, cited New Mexico’s recentpassage of a cockfighting ban (seeabove) as one reason for hisdecision.

California:Protect All Victims of ViolenceThe ASPCA applauds California’sdrive to strengthen protections forvictims of domestic violence—andtheir pets. Studies show that 25 to40 percent of domestic violencevictims are unable to flee theirabusers because of worry overwhat might happen to a belovedpet. Indeed, 71 percent of petparents living in battered womenshelters reported that a pet hadbeen threatened, injured, or killedby their abuser. Cats, dogs, evenlivestock may be at risk. The fearperpetuates the cycle of abuse.

Senate Bill 353, authored by StateSenator Sheila Kuehl, would includepets in domestic violence protectionorders, a critical step in preventingabusers from using pets to

manipulate their victims.Urge your state

representatives tosupport this bill. Ifpassed, California willjoin Maine, Vermont,and New York inleading the chargeagainst domesticviolence.

Illinois:“Paw” & OrderNearly 300 parole agents from theIllinois Department of Correctionswill be better equipped to protectanimals from abuse, thanks tostepped up anti-cruelty training fromthe ASPCA. “Such training is crucialfor protecting our animals,” saysLedy VanKavage, ASPCA SeniorDirector of Legal Training andLegislation. VanKavage addressedthe agents at two special half-daytraining sessions at the City ofChicago Police Headquarters inMarch. Topics ranged from a newIllinois law that mandates convictedfelons spay or neuter and microchiptheir pets to “Officer Safety: How toRead a Dog Like a Book.” She andother members of the ASPCALegislative Services Team givedozens of talks across the countryeach year, working to build a morehumane future for pets from coast-to-coast.

13

State Highlights

TAKE ACTION IN YOUR STATE

To learn more about importantanimal welfare bills in your stateand find contact info and sampleletters for your state lawmakers,join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigadeat www.aspca.org/lobby.

Summer 2007

Are you an animal lover and planning awedding? If you are, we have a wonderfulsuggestion for you. Why not make acontribution to the ASPCA in lieu of weddingfavors in honor of your guests? The ASPCAhas place cards that indicate a donation hasbeen made in honor of your guests in lieu ofwedding favors. If this is something thatinterests you, please e-mail your name,address, fax number, or e-mail and you willbe sent a sample of the card. If you like thecard and should you ultimately decide to dothis, you may either make a credit carddonation or send a check with the number ofcards you would need.“The cards will besent to you via two-day UPS to ensure thatyou receive them in a timely fashion.”

Please contact Linda Tiramani, Manager of Special Giving, ASPCA, 110 Fifth Avenue, SecondFloor, New York, NY 10011, e-mail: lindat@aspca.org, (212) 876-7700, ext. 4516.

>> SPECIAL GIVING

14 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org14 ASPCA Action

Donations In Lieu of Wedding Favors!

A Special Tribute to PaigeThis past February, ASPCA memberSandra Reilly of New York City lost herbeloved companion, Paige. Sandrahad adopted the German shepherdmix when she was only four monthsold from North Shore Animal League.When the adored pet passed away atthe age of 17, Sandra knew shewanted to memorialize the dog thathad become such an important part ofher family. “Even though I’m mourning,I knew immediately I wanted to usethis time to create hope for otheranimals,” says Sandra. “I decidedgiving a gift to the ASPCA in Paige’smemory was the perfect way to honorthe many good years she gave me.”

Sandra isn’t the only one who willmiss Paige. She also shares her homewith Travis, a 12-year-old dog also

adopted from North Shore AnimalLeague, and Maggie, a six-year-oldadopted from the ASPCA. “The issueof shelter adoption is so important tome; shelters have given me three of thebest friends anyone could wish for,”says Sandra. “I know the gift I made inPaige’s memory will help make sureother dogs have the chance tobecome someone’s best friend.”

An Honor, Tribute, or Memorial Gift isa wonderful way to celebrate thespecial people, pets, and events inyour life—and give the gift of life foranimals in need. If you are interested ingiving this way, contact Linda Tiramani,Manager of Special Giving, ASPCA,110 Fifth Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York,NY 10011, e-mail: lindat@aspca.org,(212) 876-7700, ext. 4516.

>> PET PARENTS

1515Summer 2007

Never leave your petunattended in a vehicle. Evenwith the windows open, a parkedcar can quickly become a furnaceon a hot day—and kill a pet.

Always provide plenty offresh water, including on hikesor at the beach. If your dogspends time outdoors, provideaccess to shade. Keep cats indoors.

Avoid excessive exercise,especially after meals. Early-morning or evening walks are bestin hot, humid weather, especiallyfor old, overweight, or snub-nosedbreeds like bulldogs and pugs.

Groom regularly to helpstave off summer skin rashes andother problems. Brush cats often.

Be alert to coolants thatmay leak from your car. The sweettaste can attract animals, and evena small amount can be fatal.

Avoid sunscreens orinsect repellents not labeledspecifically for use on animals.Some ingredients, like DEET, cancause problems if misused (see“Ask Our Experts,” page 17).

Cocoa mulch, citronellacandles, compost piles,even certain garden plantscan also be a hazard to pets. Visitwww.aspca.org to learn more.

If you suspect a problem, callyour vet or the ASPCA AnimalPoison Control Center at (888)426-4435 (fees may apply).

High-Rise SyndromeEvery summer, scores ofunsuspecting pet parents intowns across Americaunknowingly put their pets atrisk when they open theirwindows to balmy weather. Theproblem is so prevalent thatveterinarians have a name for it:High-Rise Syndrome. Cats inparticular, intrigued by apassing bird or wind-carriedleaf, are apt to fall out ofunscreened windows, leadingto broken bones, internalinjuries, or worse. “During thewarmer months, we see threeto five cases a week,” saysLouise Murray, D.V.M., Directorof Medicine at the ASPCA’sBergh Memorial Animal Hospitalin NYC. “Pet parents need toknow that this syndrome is100% preventable.”

• Install snug and sturdyscreens in all your windows.

• If your screens are adjustable,make sure they are tightlywedged into window frames.

Caution: Cats can slip throughchildproof window guards,which don’t provide adequateprotection!

Summertime HazardsDon’t forget to mind your pet on those hazy, lazy days

>> PLANNED GIVING

16 ASPCA Action16 ASPCA Action

A Great Way to Provide for Animals

For many years I thoughtabout making a planned giftfor the ASPCA, but kept

putting it off using the excuse thatI was just too busy. About one yearago, I quit making excuses andtook action. In talking with myinvestment representative I learnedthat I could make a gift byimplementing a Transfer on Death(TOD) Agreement through thefinancial organization where Ihave my account. Moreimportantly, I learned that it wasextraordinarily easy. You just sign aform and there is no requirementfor an attorney’s involvement. I selected the ASPCA for severalreasons. One was the fact that ithas survived and is still goingstrong after 140 years. I have greatrespect for a nonprofitorganization that can withstandthe test of time overcoming all

sorts of challenges, big and small.Its mission statement is just asfresh and relevant today as it was140 years ago. The ASPCA has a wide range ofprograms and services, which issomething I really appreciate. Inthis sense, it is a department storerather than a boutique. I do nothave to donate to several differentorganizations because I have theassurance and knowledge that theASPCA is covering many needsand issues all the time in anintegrated and coordinatedmanner.I am retired from a long careerwith a nonprofit human serviceorganization. I worked very hardto make certain that donors feltthey were getting a return for theirinvestment. I feel that way aboutthe ASPCA. I believe the returnon my investment is substantial. �

This article by Bill Hamelau, amember of the ASPCA Henry BerghLegacy Society, shows you just oneway you can provide for the ASPCA.We hope we have started you thinkingabout how you can make a differencefor animals in need. For moreinformation please call our Director ofPlanned Giving, Marsha Pierson,CFP, at 212-876-7700 ext. 4505,or email her at marshap@aspca.org.

II KKnnooww WWhhoo YYoouu AArree

Who do you think you arewith those flashing darkeyes that say “You’ll nevercatch me!”

Who do you think you arewith that wavy black hairthat my fingers can’t touchenough?

Who do you think you arewith that cocky li t tle s trutthat says “I’m so cute!”

Who do you think you arewith those li t tle bites andnips that drive me crazy asI beg you to s top?

I know who you are

Oh yes, I know far too well

You’re Rowdy, our dog!

—Bill Hamelau

www.aspca.org

>> ASK OUR EXPERTS

1717Summer 2007

Steven Hansen, D.V.M., is a veterinary toxicologist and SeniorVP of the ASPCA Midwest Office, which includes the AnimalPoison Control Center.

Q. Can I use mosquito repellent on mypet? M.S., Palm Coast, FL

Christa Coppola,Ph.D., is a certifiedapplied animalbehaviorist andbehavior fellow at theASPCA Animal

Behavior Center.

Q.My one-year-old pup is growing increasinglywary around strangers duringwalks. Might he bite? D.A.,Lake Havasu City, AZ

Q. Is it OK for my pet todrink from the toilet? It’streated with a cleaning tablet.H.P., Milwaukee, WI

A. Being able to tell when yourpup is going to bite is an importantskill. Most dogs exhibit somecombination of the following: directstaring, pulling, barking, growling,snapping, and/or lunging forward.These behaviors depend on yourdog’s individual personality andprior experiences as well as thestranger’s appearance and behavior. Isuggest walking him on a headhalter so you have more control ifhe does react aggressively. Whenyou see a stranger approaching, usetreats to get his attention anddistract him until the stranger passesand is no longer in sight. In timeyour dog will associate the presenceof oncoming strangers with goodthings—food! The main thing toremember is: Don’t put your dog ina situation where he isuncomfortable and has theopportunity to bite.

Nip Nips in the BudBug Sprays

A. Never use any product on an animal that is notspecifically created for them. Many mosquito repellents made for peoplecontain DEET, which may cause nervous system problems in cats anddogs. Consult your veterinarian for an appropriate product to use on yourpet. The same goes for products intended for one species. Some flea andtick shampoos made for dogs, for example, contain permethrin, which canbe deadly to cats, even in small amounts. If the label says “For use in dogsonly,” do not use it on other pets.

A. Plain toilet bowl water itselfis usually not a hazard. Most toiletbowl cleaning tablets that are usedaccording to label directions wouldnot be expected to cause seriousclinical problems, provided theanimal does not ingest the tabletdirectly. Typically, we see only mildstomach upset. If your dog or catmay have come into contact with

more of the cleaner than would normally be present in the toilet bowl,contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison ControlCenter at (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).

HAVE A QUESTION? ASK OUR EXPERTS E-mail: ASPCAAction@aspca.org, or write: ASPCA Action, 424 East 92nd Street, New York, NY 10128

Visit www.animed.org for more answers about your companion animal health and behavior questions from the ASPCA experts.

Eau de Toilette

18 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org18 ASPCA Action www.aspca.org

>> PEOPLE & EVENTS

HolisticveterinarianBabetteGladstein,V.M.D.,abandoned alucrative career asa stockbroker to

enter vet school and devote her life toanimals. Today, Dr. Gladstein makeshouse calls throughout the New Yorkarea and serves on the fundraisingcommittee for the ASPCA’s annual Bergh Ball, scheduledfor May 10 this year. “It nurtures thesoul to heal animals and see theirprogress,” she says. “It’s so much better

than money.”Q. What animals do you treat?A. Dogs, cats, horses. I specialize inrehabilitation medicine, helpinginjured and older animals that arelame or in pain, and often labeled“hopeless.” One 3-year-oldminiature dachshund named Emmawas totally paralyzed in herhindquarters after having backsurgery for an injured disk. A yearlater, she is running and playing.

Q. Which therapies do you use?A.Acupuncture, ultrasound,chiropractic, massage, swim

therapy—everything that a humanphysical therapist would offer. I alsoserve as a “patient advocate,”helping to guide animals throughsurgery and other challenges.

Q. How does the ASPCA help?A.With its beautiful new cage-freeshelter, the ASPCA is in a pivotalposition to up the ante in adoptionsand education. Animals give us somuch. A cat or dog lowers bloodpressure, and offers companionshipfor seniors; walking a dog providescardiovascular benefits. The least wecan do is take care of them. �

More than 360 animal loversgathered ringside onFebruary 4 at The Palm

Beach Polo Equestrian Club inWellington, FL, to show their support for horses in need at theFourth Annual ASPCA Equine FundLuncheon. “The ASPCA EquineFund is dedicated to improving thelives of abused and neglected horsesthrough rescue activities, grants,education, and lobbying efforts,” said

event founder and Honorary ChairWilliam Secord, a longtime ASPCAboard member. Co-Chairs Joanie Goodman,

Kim Jacobs, and Frances Lindnerwere supported by Vice-ChairsJanice Aron, Penelope Ayers, R.Bruce Duchossois, MajellaMatyas, Michael F. X. Murdoch,and Jenny Wren Sutton. Ms.Ayers, Chair of the ASPCA’sEquine Committee, made a specialpresentation to horse trainers KimMitchell, Dennis Mitchell, andJustinus Petrus Van Der Kallen,who in the aftermath ofHurricanes Katrina and Rita spentmonths bringing hay, feed, water,supplies, and veterinary assistanceto scores of stranded horses. �

ASPCA Honors Equestrian Heroes(Far left) Bill Secord, Ed Sayres, andHoyle Jones. (Left) Co-chairs FrancesLindner and Joanie Goodman. (Below) Penelope Ayers, Scot Evans,and Sandra Lobel.

Giving Back to Animals

19Summer 2007 19

Charm School

Abaker’s dozen of lovablemutts strutted their stuff atthe ASPCA Charm School

& Talent Show, held February 2 atthe ASPCA’s newly renovatedAdoption Center in Manhattan.On hand (left to right) werecelebrity judges Bernadette

Peters of Broadwayfame, AnimalPrecinct’s AnnemarieLucas, radio DJAngie Martinez,and TV’s “TheBachelor” PrinceLorenzo Borghese.“The talent showis testimony tohow far thesehomeless dogs have

come since their arrival at theASPCA,” says ASPCA Senior VPGail Buchwald. “The event raisedawareness of what valuablemembers of the family that shelterpets can become as we worktoward finding homes for allanimals in need.” �

>> PEOPLE & EVENTS

ASPCA volunteers andcats up for adoption hitthe boards on February 7for a post-performancecelebration of theBroadway hit GreyGardens, a musical aboutthe eccentric life offormer socialite EdithBeale, her daughter“Little” Edie, and their 52cats. The musical’s leadproduction company, Eastof Doheney, donated hundreds ofcans of cat food, kitty litter, pettoys, and show tickets to mark theshow’s 100th performance. “We’redelighted to be working with theASPCA to help animals, and hopeour beloved Edies would be proudof the work being done in their

name,” said producer KellyGonda.

*Reminder: June Is Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month. Learn moreabout feline care and the joy ofadopting a shelter pet atwww.aspca.org. �

Grey Gardens

Q. What was the nameof your first pet? A. Dannielle D. Dawg, or Dannyfor short. She was a shelty Itaught to sing opera. Wethought about going on stupidpet tricks on Letterman, but itwas always funnier just to seeand hear her doing it at home.

Q. Which do you prefer:Cats or dogs?A. I love cats and dogs fordifferent reasons: dogs becausethey wish so much to please, andcats because they could care lessabout pleasing.

Q. Do you share your lifewith pets now? A. I have three pets: my goldenretriever Angel, my black alleycat, Dare (Devil), and my 12-year-old son. Dare thinks he is adog, Angel thinks she is aperson, and my son thinks he isa grown-up, so they are all self-starters!

Q. Why are groups likethe ASPCA so important?A. We need the ASPCA toremind us to care for all God'screatures, to keep us informed ofthe inhumane treatment ofanimals, and to give us thecourage to reach out to themembers of our population whocannot speak for themselves.

Celebrity CornerVictoriaClark,

Tony Award winning actress,The Light in the

Piazza

Geo

ffrey

Tis

chm

an P

hoto

grap

hy

Geo

ffrey

Tis

chm

an P

hoto

grap

hy

Founded in 1866, the ASPCA (American Society for thePrevention of Cruelty to Animals) was the first humaneorganization established in the Western Hemisphere and todayhas one million supporters. The ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animalsthroughout the U.S. The ASPCA provides national leadership inhumane education, government affairs and public policy, shelter support, and animal poison control. The NYC headquarters houses a full-service animal hospital, animalbehavior center, and adoption facility. The Humane LawEnforcement department enforces New York’s animal crueltylaws and is featured on the reality TV series Animal Precinct onAnimal Planet. Visit www.aspca.org for more information.

Have a rescue tale for the ASPCA? Send us YOUR STORIES E-mail us: ASPCAAction@aspca.org, or write: ASPCA Action, 424 East 92nd Street, New York, NY 10128. Please include your name, address, and a photo (high-resolution digital or print) we can keep. Stories will be edited to fit.

ASPCA Action ReturnsP.O. Box 97288Washington, DC 20090-7288

YOUR STORIESOffice DogRich N. and Nugget, New York, NY

Last August, mygirlfriend Kate, aveterinary technician,was contacted about ashelter puppy with afractured pelvis thatneeded to be fostered.So, we brought her backto my apartment andstarted thinking ofpeople who might be

willing to take her into their home once she healed.It didn’t take long before the little brown muttmade herself right at home in my lap. I remembersaying, “You’re such a little love nugget,” and fromthen on, we started calling her Love Nugget, whichsoon got shortened to Nugget. I started sneaking her into work with me while myboss was in Europe. But after a few days, my secretwas out. Fortunately my boss loves dogs and allowedme to keep bringing Nugget to the office. Before Iknew it, the whole office had fallen in love with her(so had Kate and I; we decided to keep her).Nugget has become a mascot around theworkplace. She greets people at the elevator and attheir desks. It’s hard to imagine her not being herenow.

Reminder:Wednesday, June 27 is “Take Your Dog toWork Day!”

Every Horse Has a StoryPam M., Connecticut

More than 25 years ago,Patty Wahlers bought twostarving ex-race horsesfor $1 and walked themthree miles to her barn torehabilitate them. Today,HORSE of Connecticut,the volunteer organizationshe founded inWashington, CT, hassaved over 500 horses andponies.As a volunteer the past five years, I have met manyremarkable animals who have been helped out ofhorrible, sometimes life-threatening situations. Oneof my favorites is Velvet, who, despite being a petitethoroughbred, ended up a Premarin mare and cameto HORSE skinny, dirty, and tired after having sixfoals in six years. Another favorite, Misty, came as astarvation case and could not be ridden because of agenetic disorder caused largely by careless breeding.And then there’s Toby, who had flunked out of apolice horse program and been so badly treated hewas terrified of people. With months of regular andgentle-but-firm handling, Toby slowly began to trustpeople again. He is now living happily with Robertand Maria, their three boys, and their four otherhorses. Maria coos and sings to her horses, andwhenever I think of her cooing to Toby while she’sgently petting him, I can’t help but smile.

Toby

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage

PAIDPPCO