OUR FOUR-FOOTED
Friends Spring 2014
and how you help them
Answering the call for help Rescue Team On the scene in major neglect and hoarding cases
Spay Waggin’ Providing affordable spay/neuter
See Something, Say Something Preventing animal cruelty
ON THE COVER: Kitten season is here! Kittens like Tiger flood our shelters requiring more one-on-one care.
Our Mission
Scooby Adopted
We are equipped to care for a variety of species of animals that most shelters cannot help.
• Anti-Cruelty Law Enforcement
Our Four-Footed Friends is a publication of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, 10 Chandler Street, Boston, MA 02116. Please address all editorial and subscription correspondence to us at the address above, attention Our Four-Footed Friends Managing Editor.
• Humane Education
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• Center for Shelter Dogs (Research & Assessment)
VOLUME 115
Founded in 1899, the Animal Rescue League of Boston is dedicated to rescuing domesticated animals and wildlife from suffering, cruelty, abandonment, and neglect. The ARL carries out its mission through the following programs: • Emergency Rescue Team
• Adoption Centers (Boston, Dedham, & Brewster) • Veterinary Services • Spay Waggin’ (Low Cost Spay & Neutering) • Pine Ridge Pet Cemetery
We do not receive government funding. We rely solely on the generosity of our supporters to help animals in need.
Stay connected with us! arlboston.org Facebook.com/AnimalRescueLeagueofBoston @ARLBoston Instagram.com/arlboston
Our Four-Footed Friends | Spring 2014
—————————————— Managing Editor: Ami Bowen Contributing Writers: Ami Bowen Elizabeth Dobrska Julie Anne McNary Mary Nee Mia Tavan Marci Tyldesley Contributing Photographers: Christine S. Barton Elizabeth Dobrska Amelia Hughes Marci Tyldesley Maria L. Uribe
Contents
2 Message from the President: Springing Forward
3 Going Above and Beyond: Marc Arsenault, DIY Fundraising All-Star
4 10 Minutes with Dr. Edward Schettino
5 Spay Waggin’ : Providing Affordable Spay/Neuter
6 New Research on Dog Bite-Related Fatalities
7 The Link Between Cruelty to Animals and Violence Towards People
8 Paws in the Park 2014
10 Massachusetts Humane Lobby Day 2014
11 New Start for 19 Pups
12 Volunteer Spotlight
14 35 Farm Animals Rescued from Unlicensed Traveling Petting Zoo
15 199 Animals Removed from Large-Scale Hoarding Situation
16 On Your Marks, Get Set, Sign Up
Save a life. Donate today! Pumpkin Pie Adopted
617.426.9170 x615 arlboston.org/donate use enclosed envelope arlboston.org 1
Message from the President Springing Forward Looking back on 2013, I feel like the year just flew by — although, like so many, I never thought the winter of 2014 would end. I am proud to report that through the hard work of staff and volunteers, and your continued support, 14,352 animals received care and assistance from the ARL in 2013. They arrived at our doors from many different paths: emergency rescues, law enforcement investigations, transfers from other shelters and owner surrenders. No matter how they arrived, each was treated with the utmost care and compassion. As we continue to help animals through our existing programs and services, a surge of new activity is now also underway at the ARL. We are evaluating virtually every corner of our organization, from shelter and veterinary care; finance and human resources; fundraising and marketing; technology and facilities; to volunteer services and board governance. We are also looking outside our doors to learn about the emerging programs and best practices of animal welfare organizations all across the country.
We want to build a foundation of knowledge that will support a vision for our future; a future where we can reach more animals in need, prevent abuse and cruelty, and help foster a more humane society for both people and animals. In the coming months, I look forward to sharing with you our insights and future plans as they develop. While we plan for the ARL’s future, we also continue to work for a better future for animals in our communities. The ARL was proud to join several local officials and national organizations including the Animal Legal Defense Fund in filing a friend of the court brief in support of extending the emergency aid exception to cases involving the rescue of animals. We celebrated the decision of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court — the first animal-related decision in 40 years — to grant the extension to animals. That same month, we also celebrated “Volunteer Appreciation Week.” At events in our Boston, Dedham, and Brewster shelters, we recognized extraordinary individual service and thanked all volunteers for
Mary Nee, president of the ARL, and Mickey, a now adopted dog from the ARL’s Boston Shelter, taking a walk in Boston’s South End.
their contributions. The ARL has an amazing 500-strong volunteer core that we depend on every day of the year. Spring has finally arrived and with it warm weather, blooming flowers, and kittens who need foster homes! I am grateful for this season of new beginnings and for the support of people like you who make our future possible. Thank you. Sincerely,
Mary Nee President
14,352 animals cared for in 2013 5,601 helped by staff at our shelters in Boston, Brewster, or Dedham. 4,014 spayed/neutered through our Spay Waggin’. 3,401 assisted by our Rescue Services team. 3,334 served through our private veterinary clinic, Boston Veterinary Care. 871 tended to by our dedicated foster volunteers. 478 vaccinated at our community rabies clinics. 274 spayed/neutered at our Fix-a-Feral Clinics. 202 aided by our Law Enforcement team. 2
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Thank you for helping so many animals in need!
Going Above and Beyond Rallying friends and family to support animals in need Late last year, Marc Arsenault contacted the ARL to propose a special fundraiser. His idea: to donate the tips earned from an entire weekend at the Centre Street Café in Jamaica Plain where he had worked as a waiter for many years. Marc also wanted to rally friends and family to support the ARL prior to the event, and help the community learn more about the mission and work of the organization. After establishing a private fundraising page on Crowdrise, he contacted a long list of personal and professional connections. He also diligently wrote hundreds of personal emails to his contacts about his passion for the ARL’s mission, and asked them to support his fundraising efforts. Within a week of posting his Crowdrise page, Marc had raised over $1,000. The amount continued to climb to over $7,000 as his personal message reached more people. In March, Marc hosted his event at the Centre Street Café. He invited Julie Anne McNary, the ARL’s new director of advancement, to talk with customers about the work the ARL
Summer Pet Safety
does to improve the lives of animals in local communities. Marc also worked incredibly hard to engage customers and shared his story of being inspired by the ARL. Over the weekend, he raised an additional $3,000. In other words, through diligence and passion, Marc’s personal fundraising efforts netted a total of more than $10,000 to help animals in need. In response to his extraordinary effort, Mary Nee invited Marc and his girlfriend Emily, another animal lover, for a private meeting. He also spent additional time with Dr. Martha Smith-Blackmore, the ARL’s vice president of animal welfare, and Maryann Regan, director of shelter operations.
Thank you, Marc! The ARL and all of the animals you have empowered us to serve thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Julie Anne McNary, director of advancement at the ARL, and Marc Arsenault, DIY Fundraising All-Star, welcome customers to the Centre Street Café.
Hot Cars Can Kill As the weather starts to heat up, summertime safety for your pet becomes a “hot” animal welfare issue. If you think you will need to leave your pet in a car, even for a few minutes, leave them safely at home instead. • Leaving your pet in a hot car for even a short period of time can be very dangerous. • Even with all the windows cracked, the temperature of a car’s interior can quickly rise to deadly levels. • Pets do not sweat the way we do; they cannot cool their bodies efficiently in hot temperatures.
Remember — even when it’s only 80 degrees outside, the inside of a car can heat up to more than 120 degrees in just minutes.
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Overcoming Barriers to Spay/Neuter
10 Minutes with Dr. Edward Schettino on… The Importance of Spay/Neuter Dr. Edward Schettino, director of veterinary medical services at the ARL.
A large portion of the companion animals coming into the ARL’s shelters comes from unplanned litters of kittens and puppies, especially during the spring and summer. National studies have also found that among pet owners who indicate their pets had at least one litter, 59% of cat owners and 38% of dog owners described the litter as “unintentional” or “accidental.”
Within the animal welfare community, spay/neuter is universally recognized as one of the most humane ways to lessen the number of homeless animals in our communities. Though the procedure comes with low risks, a recent PetSmart Charities/ Ipsos Marketing study found that more than a third of pet owners have not spayed/neutered their pet. We sat down with Dr. Edward Schettino for his perspectives on the issue. Dr. Schettino joined the ARL in December 2013. As director of veterinary medical services, he leads the ARL’s outpatient clinic, Boston Veterinary Care, as well as the Spay Waggin’ and shelter veterinary medicine programs. He also continues his work as a clinical instructor at the Cummings 4
Our Four-Footed Friends | Spring 2014
School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, where he supervises and teaches high-volume, high-quality pediatric spay/neuter techniques to veterinary students. OFFF: Do you think the growing availability of low-cost options will help improve spay/neuter rates? Dr. Schettino: Unfortunately, I think some pet owners hear the words ‘low cost’ and have concerns about the quality of the procedure. Some may assume that low-cost options don’t offer the pain management or anesthesia that they want their pets to have during the procedure. As a result, it’s important for low-cost and subsidized programs to emphasize the quality of care pets receive during and after a spay/neuter surgery. Pet owners who want to do the responsible thing, but feel highquality preventive care for their pet is financially out of reach need to feel assured that they aren’t making a tradeoff between quality of care and price. OFFF: For the pet owner who says they haven’t had the time or gotten around to spay/neuter yet, how do you increase their sense of urgency on the issue? Dr. Schettino: In one year, an unspayed female can have as many as 6 litters of kittens! The cost associated with providing adequate care for just one litter is often much more than the cost of spaying/neutering.
Top Reasons Given for Not Spaying/Neutering a Pet
Pet is too young for this operation
41%
Haven’t gotten around to it/ haven’t had time
32% 21%
Don’t feel it’s necessary because pet is confined to my home
11%
It’s too expensive
Source: PetSmart Charities/Ipsos Marketing
We’re all affected by animal overpopulation — millions of tax dollars are spent annually at public shelters to care for stray, abandoned and unwanted pets. Spay/neuter can help nuisance behaviors like excessive barking, roaming, and marking territory. It can also help with aggression — studies show that most dog bites involve dogs who are unaltered, for instance. That’s why at the ARL we say spay/neuter is good for pets and the people who love them.
Join Dr. Schettino for his next #ARLAskAVet Twitter Chat - June 10 Follow the ARL on Twitter @ARLBoston.org
The ARL’s Spay Waggin’ Affordable Spay/Neuter on Cape Cod and the South Shore When the ARL first launched the program close to 14 years ago, Spay Waggin’ was the first mobile spay/neuter vehicle to operate in Massachusetts. The goal of the program: to help responsible pet owners in financial need access affordable spay/neuter services. “Many people cannot afford to spay/neuter their pets,” explained Cheryl Traversi, shelter and community medicine program coordinator at the ARL.
“They love their pets and want to do what’s best for them, but need the kind of help provided by the Spay Waggin’. ” Staffed by an ARL veterinarian and two certified veterinary technicians, the Spay Waggin’ features a preparation area, a fully-equipped surgical suite, and a recovery area that can accommodate up to 40 animals. Hosted by local businesses and organizations on Cape Cod and the South Shore, the mobile
Happy clients pick up their cat following surgery on the Spay Waggin’ at the mobile unit’s stop in Hyannis.
unit arrives first thing in the morning at its designated stops. All animals receive a pre-surgical exam by the veterinarian. Next, the veterinary technicians anesthetize the dog or cat and prep them for their surgery. While they wait, animals receive kind words and attention from staff who work hard to maintain a soothing and calming environment. Each animal also receives a clean blanket or towel to snuggle in pre- and post-operation. The animal’s minimal discomfort from surgery usually disappears in a day. The younger the animal, the faster they recover from surgery. The mobile unit provides services to domestic, stray, and feral cats. One client, for instance, brought in several feral (wild) cats living in her neighborhood for spaying/neutering and other preventive care provided by the Spay Waggin’, including rabies and distemper vaccines. She wanted to do her part to control the
feral cat population in her community. “The ARL provides much needed services which otherwise would have cost me hundreds of dollars per cat,” she happily reported. Because pit bulls are the most prevalent breed entering US shelters, the Spay Waggin’ offers additional assistance to help off-set the cost of spaying/neutering a larger dog. Through a partnership with Shelter Me Inc., pit bull owners in Brockton receive a $100 subsidy, so the spay/ neuter procedure costs $50 through the Spay Waggin’. The ARL also provides spays/neuters for pit bulls in other communities for $150. During a recent stop in Hyannis, Jillian Bramley brought in her 7-monthold shelter dog Poppy, a pit bull lab mix, due to the special program for pit bulls. “The staff was incredibly kind and helpful,” she said. Visit arlboston.org/spay-waggin for the monthly schedule of stops.
5 Good Reasons to Spay/Neuter 1 Reduces the cost of pet ownership. The cost of caring for an unplanned litter far outweighs the cost of having a pet spayed/neutered. 2 Diminishes nuisance behaviors. Neutering resolves the vast majority of marking behaviors. Howling in cats and excessive barking in dogs eases and can even disappear after surgery. 3 Prevents aggressive behaviors. Neutering male dogs and cats reduces their urge to roam and fight with other males. 4 Increases longevity. The USA Today reports neutered male dogs live 18% longer than unneutered males, and spayed females live 23% longer than unspayed females. 5 Improves health outlook. Neutering male cats and dogs prevents testicular cancer. Spaying female cats and dogs before their first heat offers protection from uterine infections and breast cancer. arlboston.org 5
Expanding Our Understanding
Dog Bite-Related Fatalities Research Challenges Conventional Wisdom Analysis revealed four or more controllable factors were present in over 80% of fatal dog bites. Very importantly, breed was not one of those factors. The authors found: • In 87% of cases, no able-bodied person was present to intervene • In 85% of cases, the victim had no familiar relationship with the dog • In 84% of cases, the owner failed to spay/neuter the dog
Although very rare, fatal dog bites consistently capture media and public attention. Often the breed of the dog pre-dominates the conversation. As a result, much of public policy discussion related to the prevention of dog bites in general has focused on breed-specific legislation. The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), however, recently published the most comprehensive study of dog bite-related fatalities (DBRFs) ever done which directly challenges the conventional wisdom to focus on breed. The results of the study come as welcome news to organizations including the AVMA, ASPCA, Humane Society of the United States, and the ARL who have opposed breed-specific legislation.
Dr. Amy Marder, director at the ARL’s Center for Shelter Dogs (CSD), and Dr. Gary Patronek, a consultant to CSD, joined co-authors Jeffrey Sacks, lead author on earlier studies of DBRFs, and Karen Delise and Donald Cleary, both of the National Canine Research Council, in an in-depth analysis of all DBRFs known to have occurred during a ten-year period between 2000–2009. The authors employed investigative techniques different than those used in previous dog bite or DBRF studies. Instead of relying primarily on information contained in news accounts, researchers compiled detailed case histories from homicide detectives, animal control agencies, and case investigators. Using these sources, researchers collected information over a longer period of time, revealing more facts pertaining to each case.
Thank You to the Frank Stanton Foundation for the generous support of the ARL’s Center for Shelter Dogs 6
Our Four-Footed Friends | Spring 2014
• In 77% of cases, whether because of age or physical condition, a victim had compromised ability to manage their interactions with the dog • In 76% of cases, the owner kept a dog as a resident dog on a property, rather than as a family pet • In 38% of cases, the owner had previously mismanaged the dog • In 21% of cases, the owner had abused or neglected the dog In only 45 (18%) of DBRF cases could researchers make a valid determination that the animal was a member of a distinct, recognized breed. Twenty different breeds, along with two known mixes, were identified in connection with those 45 incidents. The conclusions of the study unequivocally invigorate the trend towards repealing breed-specific legislation. Public and private strategies directed at improving our understanding of dog behavior, as well as how dogs are cared for and managed in our communities, will have a much greater impact on bite prevention and control.
The Link Between Cruelty to Animals and Violence Towards People Call to Action: “See Something, Say Something” As part of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month in April, the ARL continued the “See Something, Say Something” public education campaign to encourage reporting animal cruelty to local authorities. All too often, animal cruelty remains undiscovered. By many estimates, four out of five cases remain concealed from authorities. As a result, public awareness and reporting suspicions of animal cruelty can play a critical role in prevention. According to the National Link Coalition, a strong connection exists
Watch Lt. Borgal’s video at arlboston.org/ take-action
between animal abuse and other forms of family and community violence.
76% of animal abusers also abuse a member of their family. The ARL utilized radio public service announcements, mobile and electronic billboards, media outreach, and social media to inform and inspire greater awareness of animal cruelty. To help the public identify and report animal cruelty, the ARL published the “7 Subtle Signs of Animal Cruelty” and provided “See Something, Say Something” emergency contact cards at all three shelters and Boston Veterinary Care. A video featuring Lt. Alan Borgal, director of the ARL’s Center for Animal Protection, further described different examples of cruelty
Clem Adopted
and neglect, and assured citizens they can express concerns to local authorities worry-free. “You can call anonymously and be protected as a complainant,” Lt. Borgal affirmed in the video. “If the animal is okay, then the animal control or police officer will find that out.” We can all give a voice to victims of animal cruelty if, when we see something, we say something to local law enforcement.
7 Warning Signs of Animal Cruelty 1 Howling or barking for a sustained period of time or hearing an animal cry in pain with higher pitched, more persistent vocal sounds than usual. 2 Singed, matted, chronically or excessively dirty hair or fur. 3 Wounds, unusual scars, hair loss, frequent limping often on different legs, or signs of improper nutrition such as weight loss or prominent visible ribs. 4 Animals kept caged or tied with little room to move for long periods of time or without regular interaction with people. 5 Lack of protection from the weather or fece- or debris-strewn living areas for animals. 6 Collars, leashes, or halters so tight they visibly dig into the animal’s face or neck. 7 A large number of animals coming or going from a property.
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Paws in the Park 2014 Saturday, May 31
Fun for People and Their Pets As of this writing, Paws in the Park — the ARL’s signature annual event on Cape Cod — is just days away! The event will feature family and dog-friendly activities, entertainment, and contests. Proceeds from the event benefit the ARL’s Brewster shelter. “For the ARL, Paws in the Park is a chance for us to kick off the summer season on the Cape and celebrate the relationship between people and their pets,” explains Mary Nee. “Thanks to the continued and
generous support of our Presenting Sponsor Nauset Pet Services and other local businesses, we look forward to making this community event even more memorable for everyone.”
11 AM – 2 PM Drummer Boy Park Brewster
One of the largest dog-friendly pet festivals on the Cape, the ARL expects more than a thousand attendees and their pooches at Paws in the Park 2014.
in-tree rescue. Enjoy a variety of food, shopping, games, activities and exciting giveaways. Cool 102’s Joe Rossetti and WCOD’s Stephanie Viva will emcee the festivities.
Attendees can climb aboard the ARL’s mobile Spay Waggin’, try on the ARL rescue team ice suits, and get an up close look at a mock cat-
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS for supporting Paws in the Park 2014
Presenting Sponsor: NAUSET PET SERVICES
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Our Four-Footed Friends | Spring 2014
Visit arlboston.org/paws-in-park for more event information and pre- and post-event pictures.
THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR
Over 40 years of tail-waggin’ good times! DOG & CAT BOARDING DAYCARE & PUPPY BUS SERVICE BATHING & PET SUPPLIES PET SITTING & TRAINING PICK UP & DELIVERY Check out our website at nausetpetservices.com or call us at 508.255.0081
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Working Towards a Better Future
Massachusetts Humane Lobby Day 2014 Giving a Voice to Animals in Need Massachusetts Humane Lobby Day invites citizen animal advocates to speak to legislators about animal protection laws at the state level. This year’s gathering achieved record-high attendance, clearly demonstrating to elected officials how deeply their constituents feel about animal welfare issues.
for passage of proposed legislation to increase penalties for animal cruelty.
The ARL participated for the second year in Lobby Day events. During the welcome rally for participants, ARL president Mary Nee delivered a keynote speech calling
After the rally, a team of over 20 ARL staff and volunteers visited the offices of all 200 state representatives and senators to deliver information about the work the ARL does on behalf
LEFT: ARL staff and volunteers gathered at the State House on Massachusetts Humane Lobby Day at the ARL’s exhibit table. TOP RIGHT: Mary Nee, president of the ARL, speaking to animal welfare supporters during Lobby Day welcome rally. BOTTOM RIGHT: ARL volunteers prepare to deliver ARL information to state legislators.
of animals in their communities. They introduced themselves and offered the ARL as a resource to help with animal-related constituent concerns. Thank you to everyone who supported Massachusetts Humane Lobby Day 2014!
Turtle’s Recovery Former Bait Dog Now a Therapy Dog and Animal Welfare Symbol Almost five years ago, the ARL’s Rescue Services Team responded to a call from a concerned citizen about an injured dog. The team found an emaciated and gravely wounded female pit bull laying curled up and motionless. She appeared weak, her body covered with scars and open sores. Her injuries appeared consistent with those seen on “bait dogs” — dogs used to train fighting dogs and usually abandoned after a life of cruel and inhumane treatment. The Rescue Team decided to call her Turtle in honor of where they found her, near Turtle Pond Parkway. Had someone not called the ARL to report seeing her, Turtle probably would not have made it through the night. 10 Our Four-Footed Friends | Spring 2014
TURTLE THEN… her injuries including scars and open sores appeared consistent with those of a bait dog in 2009.
TURTLE NOW… fully recovered and on the scene with Representative David Linsky (D-Natick) at Humane Lobby Day 2014.
Turtle immediately went to Tufts Veterinary Emergency Hospital where veterinarians were able to stabilize her condition. She successfully underwent surgery to close numerous bite wounds and received treatment for broken teeth, intestinal parasites, fleas and nutritional deficiencies.
Turtle went home with the attending veterinarian who first treated her.
Once she recovered from her surgery, she faced a long and arduous period of physical and behavioral rehabilitation at the ARL. After months spent in the care of a dedicated ARL foster volunteer,
Today, Turtle lives a happy, healthy life, spending much of her time visiting schools and hospitals as a therapy dog. She also made a special appearance at the Massachusetts State House during Humane Lobby Day to encourage attendees to give a voice to victims of animal cruelty. Visit arlboston.org/turtles-story to learn more about Turtle’s recovery and the signs of dog fighting.
New Start for 19 Pups 800+ Mile Journey Brings Them to Cape Cod The ARL’s Brewster shelter welcomed 19 very lucky puppies to Cape Cod after an 800-mile road trip from Madison, Mississippi. Through a partnership with the Animal Rescue Front (ARF) and animal shelters in Mississippi and Louisiana, the ARL’s Brewster shelter participates in transports of homeless puppies from the South several times during the year. Often because low-cost spay/ neuter options are not as readily available, animal control facilities and shelters in other parts of the country find themselves with far more stray or abandoned puppies than they can find homes for locally. Sadly, a large number are euthanized every year because of overpopulation. After the puppies received veterinary care, paper work, and travel certificates, volunteers in Mississippi gently coax them into crates and carriers to start the trip north. Volunteers drive in shifts, stopping every four to six hours for a stretch break for the dogs.
PUPS ARRIVE… Animal Rescue Front and ARL staff and volunteers including Mary Nee, president, (third from left), and Sandi Luppi, Brewster shelter manager (far right) welcomed 19 puppies to Cape Cod.
They look for fields and open spaces where they can set up temporary fencing so the puppies can really run, as well as have food and water. During the breaks, volunteers also send photos and updates to keep potential adopters upto-date on their newest family member. When the van arrives about 36 hours later, Brewster staff and volunteers get the puppies settled in their kennels. An ARL veterinarian provides a veterinary exam and care during the required 48-hour quarantine period. “We do the follow-up veterinary exam just to make sure we cover all the areas, and ensure the puppies are
all healthy and ready to go to their new homes,” clarified Sandy Luppi, manager at the Brewster shelter. Licensed by the state to take outof-state dogs, the Brewster shelter took in 160 puppies through the transport process in 2013. Eager families on Cape Cod had already spoken for each of the 19 pups from this transport, with another 25 to 30 people on a waiting list. The ARL’s Brewster shelter has worked with the ARF since 2010 and looks forward to continuing to unite homeless animals — near and far — with loving human companions.
Kitten Season is Here! Foster Parents Needed Can you open your home to an adorable kitten or even a whole litter for a temporary period of time? The ARL needs foster families to take in pets, generally kittens and occasionally puppies, who need more one-on-one care and attention. In addition, an animal may also need a foster home to help recover after surgery or to re-acclimate to living inside a home. To learn more, visit arlboston.org/foster arlboston.org
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Volunteer Spotlight ARL Celebrates National Volunteer Week in April At the ARL, our 500 volunteers not only support our work, but they also further it — helping us in big and small ways to improve the lives of animals in need and advocate for a more humane society. Each of our shelters in Boston, Brewster, and Dedham hosted dinner receptions during National Volunteer Week to thank volunteers for their commitment and support, and to honor individuals nominated by staff for going above-and-beyond on behalf of the ARL.
Congratulations to Our Award Winners
Kate Hanson, Best of Boston Award Winner
Best of Boston Jane Urban, Boston Shelter Kate Hanson, Boston Shelter Cape’d Crusader Jack Bakker, Brewster Shelter Dedham’s Most Dignified Rachel Sisson, Dedham Shelter Four Footed Friends Best Foster Kerry Norton, Brewster Shelter Medicine’s Most Marvelous Maryanne Hertel, Dedham/Boston Shelters Unsung Heroes Laurie Gail, Boston Shelter Marilyn Wales, Dedham Shelter Margaret Wirth, Boston Shelter
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Laurie Gail, Unsung Hero
Debby Vogel, Volunteer and Educational Programs Manager
Jane Urban, Best of Boston Award Winner
Thank you to our corporate partners! Clear Channel
Polka Dog Bakery
Polka Dog Bakery will donate
50% of proceeds from all Valentine’s Day Treats to the Animal Rescue League of Boston now through February 14. FIND A PARTICIPATING STORE NEAR YOU AT ARLBOSTON.ORG/SPREADTHELOVE
Learn more about adopting a pet at arlboston.org/ spreadthelove
Stephen Ross, president, Clear Channel Outdoor, Boston Division (at left); Mary Nee, president, ARL; Michael Dobson, digital media manager, Clear Channel Outdoor; Rochelle Cowan public service director, Clear Channel Outdoor.
Clear Channel Outdoor donated digital billboard space to help the ARL raise awareness for several of the animal welfare issues we champion, including cruelty prevention and spay/neuter.
Thank you to Polka Dog Bakery and families willing to open their hearts to a shelter pet!
Polka Dog Bakery donated 50% of sales of Valentine’s Day dog treats at all of its retail locations to the ARL.
Sullivan Tire
Spay Waggin’ staff and clients thank Mark Sullivan from Sullivan Tire for hosting the Spay Waggin’ at stores on the Cape and South Shore.
Sullivan Tire warmly welcomed the ARL’s Spay Waggin’ to its Rockland location to provide spay/neuter services to pet owners in financial need. Sullivan has offered to host the Spay Waggin’ at other locations on the South Shore and Cape Cod.
You can help too! Visit arlboston.org/volunteer to learn about volunteer opportunities arlboston.org
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Answering the Call for Help
35 Farm Animals Rescued from Unlicensed Traveling Petting Zoo At the beginning of February, the ARL’s Rescue Services team helped MSPCA-Angell remove and transport 35 farm animals from a property that had minimal shelter and no food or water in Ludlow, Massachusetts. The animals’ owner allegedly operated an unlicensed travelling petting zoo and brought the animals to fairs and other events for a fee. Neighbors living close to the property where the animals were kept contacted authorities with concerns about their care and treatment.
Enforcement department charged him with 36 counts of felony animal cruelty, two counts of assault and battery on a police officer and one count of resisting arrest. He was arraigned in Palmer District Court and, as of this writing, awaits his pre-trial hearing. Thanks to caring neighbors and your generous response to our calls for support, “the Ludlow 12” at our Dedham shelter received medical attention, proper nutrition, and a visit from the farrier, a specialist in equine hoof care.
The ARL’s Rescue Services team brought 12 of the animals, including standard and miniature donkeys, Shetland ponies, sheep, and goats, to our Dedham shelter. The more severely emaciated and sickly animals, including pigs and alpacas, went to MSPCAAngell’s Nevins Farm facility.
With TLC from staff, the personalities of these gentle creatures started to shine through as they relaxed in their new environment. Those with overgrown hooves learned to walk properly again. All of the animals began gaining weight and going out into the livestock paddock on warmer days.
Ludlow police arrested their owner and the MSPCA-Angell’s Law
By late February, their previous owner officially surrendered them
LEFT: Forrest, one of the standard donkeys that came to the ARL’s Dedham shelter, quickly became a staff favorite. MIDDLE: Brian O’Connor, manager of the ARL’s Rescue Services team, helped transport 12 animals from the unlicensed petting zoo to the Dedham shelter. RIGHT: Phoebe, a pony, getting settled in at our Dedham barn.
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Thank you for helping animals recover from cruelty and neglect. With your support, these animals received care, attention, and a chance at a better life. to the ARL and potential adopters began asking about them almost immediately. Since then, 9 have gone to their new homes, including stafffavorite Forrest, a standard donkey. He and miniature donkey Flapjack went home with a family who had always dreamed of owning donkeys. Named after characters from the hit television series, “Friends,” Chandler, a goat, and Ross and Phoebe, Shetland ponies, remain at the shelter, as of this writing, while they wait for a new home.
199 Animals Removed from Large-Scale Hoarding Situation Late in February, the ARL again partnered with MSPCA-Angell to remove 199 animals from a home in Lynnfield, Massachusetts.
“If you see something that
In one of the largest hoarding situations the ARL has responded to in recent years, the Rescue Services team discovered a wide range of species including dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles living in unsanitary conditions, stacked in cages and crates in different areas of the home.
to your local police or the
suggests an animal hoarding situation, say something board of health.” ARL staff established a temporary isolation area for the cats that required long-term medical treatment, and found places for them at the Pat Brody Shelter for Cats in Lunenburg, Massachusetts, where they continue to receive rehabilitative care. The ARL also asked Jabberwock Reptiles in Winchester, Massachusetts, for assistance with taking in the reptiles rescued from the home, including sickly blue-tongued skinks and snakes. The reptiles all battled malnutrition and upper respiratory infections and sadly one succumbed to complications from the infection.
All of the animals were voluntarily surrendered to the ARL and MSPCAAngell, and 60 of the animals rescued from the home came to our Boston shelter. According to Dr. Martha SmithBlackmore, vice president of animal welfare at the ARL and a member of the veterinary response team that attended to the animals as they arrived, many had serious health issues resulting from neglect. “When people suffer from the complex psychological conditions that lead to animal hoarding, they become overwhelmed with caring for all the animals they accumulate,” explains Dr. Smith-Blackmore.
Bernie and Phyll Adopted
The remaining four skinks and snakes continue to make progress in their recovery. The six dogs rescued from the home who came to our shelter received a complete medical evaluation, spay/ neuter when necessary, and have all found new families. The birds in our care have all found new homes as well.
What you should know about animal hoarding • Animal hoarding is an increasingly frequent and pernicious problem the ARL has encountered for more than 20 years—animal hoarders have an almost 100% likelihood of repeat behavior. • The sudden influx of a large number of animals greatly stresses the resources of animal welfare organizations. • The animals often have medical issues and/or behavioral issues and may have to remain at the ARL shelter as evidence throughout the sometimes multi-year prosecution of a case. • The ARL assumes the entire expense of providing food, housing, and veterinary care for animals seized from a hoarder. • Animal hoarding is not a harmless eccentricity of a neighbor or someone living in the community — both the people and the animals involved need help.
Oz, a rare munchkin cat Adopted
arlboston.org
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ARL’s 2014 Boston Marathon team (from L to R) Carolyn Curran, Karen Gondoly, Margaret Hallowell and Turner Smith.
Congratulations to our 2014 Boston Marathon Team! For the fifth year in a row, the John Hancock Marathon Nonprofit Program offered charity bibs to the ARL to recruit volunteers for the 118th running of the Boston Marathon. Runners selected to join the ARL team had to raise a minimum of $7,500 and we are happy to report all together the team collected over $37,000 to help animals in need.
Boston Marathon team — Carolyn Curran, Karen Gondoly, Margaret Hallowell and Turner Smith — hit the ground running on Patriots Day.
After months of training through one of the coldest winters we have had in New England in recent years, the four talented runners on the ARL’s 2014
When asked what motivated her to join the ARL team, Karen Gondoly replied: “As an avid runner and animal lover, I’m proud to
Due to a hip injury, Turner Smith had to participate as a spectator. She most definitely did her part on race day to cheer on her teammates who all completed the grueling 26.2 mile course.
represent the Animal Rescue League of Boston in this year’s Boston Marathon: for the memory of those lost last year, both furry and not; for a race that makes this city great; and for an organization that does amazing things for the animals of Massachusetts.”
Thank you to John Hancock and our 2014 Boston Marathon Team!
On Your Marks, Get Set, Sign Up Upcoming Opportunity to Run for Animals on Cape Cod! Runners wanted… August 17, 2014 This summer on August 17, the New Balance Falmouth Road Race celebrates its 42nd anniversary. More than 11,000 runners — including many of the world’s elite distance runners — will gather in Woods Hole, Massachusetts for the challenging 7-mile run. The ARL will have a limited number of charity bibs available for runners who are interested in participating in this classic summer road race. ARL runners pledge to raise
16 Our Four-Footed Friends | Spring 2014
in Woods Hole to Tommy’s workplace, The Brothers Four, in Falmouth Heights.
at least $1,250 for their effort, and we will be there to cheer them on! Visit arlboston.org/falmouth-roadrace by June 6 to join the ARL team.
• The ARL has fielded a team in the Falmouth Road Race since 2013.
FALMOUTH ROAD RACE FUN FACTS • The race was first held on a Wednesday afternoon because its founder Tommy Leonard’s birthday. • The course is 7 miles because that was the distance from the Captain Kidd
Introducing… The Animal Rescue League of Boston
President’s Council Program
T
he Animal Rescue League of Boston’s (ARL) President’s Council is a group of dedicated individuals who donate annual leadership gifts of $1,000 and above. To more meaningfully thank, inform, and engage our most generous and loyal supporters, the ARL now offers special benefits to President’s Council members. PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL DONOR LEVELS
Supporter $1,000 Join us at our two new President’s Council events, receive our new President’s Council Newsletter, and enjoy private tours of our Boston shelter with your friends and family.
Sustainer $2,500
I am so pleased with the newly designed
In addition to all the benefits outlined above, Sustainers will receive an ARL staff-selected packet of research articles and case studies on the issues in animal welfare we feel most passionately about.
President’s Council program. The donor
Benefactor $5,000
levels make it possible for the member to
All of the benefits outlined above plus Benefactors may opt into our new ARL Book Club, receive a copy of the book selection, and participate in a group discussion with ARL staff and President, Mary Nee.
“As a current President’s Council member,
better understand what their contribution level means to the ARL. The new offerings for donors at the various levels will also
Advocate $10,000
result in much greater engagement
All of the benefits outlined above plus Advocates will have a private breakfast with Mary Nee and hear her vision for the future of the organization.
between the ARL and its key contributors.” — Mary Dawley ARL President’s Council Donor and Champion’s Circle Donor
Visit arlboston.org/presidents-council to learn more. arlboston.org
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Animal Rescue League of Boston | 10 Chandler Street | Boston, MA 02116-5221
Non-profit organization US Postage PAID Permit No. 267 Providence, RI
Animal Rescue League of Boston
Night at the
RED SOX
Save the Date! Thursday, August 21, 2014 Fenway Park Visit arlboston.org/red-sox-night for details!
Dog Training at the Animal Rescue League of Boston Beginner and advanced classes for all ages! Sign up now at arlboston.org/dog-training or call (617) 226-5664 All classes held at 10 Chandler Street, Boston