SPRING 2016
TRANSFORMING ANIMAL WELFARE 8 PAGE |
Published For Friends of the Arizona Humane Society
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CONTENTS
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Every pet deserves a good life. This
Take our Pets on a Stay-Cation
passionate belief has driven the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) to serve a critical role in our community for nearly 60 years.
Advocacy for Animals New Bill Would Sharpen Animal Cruelty Laws
We rescue, heal, adopt and advocate for homeless, sick, injured and abused animals. Through collaborative partnerships, affordable community services, emergency
Pet Behavior Tips
rescue and our medical trauma center, we are committed to providing second chances and saving the lives of animals.
Summer Camp for Kids Transforming Animal Welfare Making Our Community a Better Place for Animals
Tips for Perfect Pet Portraits Compassion with Fashion Join Us for a Day in Paradise
Dr. Steven R. Hansen President & CEO
The Impact of Your Gift Continuing Care What Happens to Your Pet When You’re Gone?
Arizona Gives Day
L O C AT I O N S & S E R V I C E S NINA MASON PULLIAM CAMPUS FOR COMPASSION
CAVE CREEK THRIFT STORE Shop · Donate
Adoptions · Veterinary Clinic · Retail ·
13401 N. Cave Creek Road
EAMT™ · Pet Resource Center
Phoenix, AZ 85024
1521 W. Dobbins Rd.
602.765.4497
Phoenix, AZ 85041 602.997.7585 SUNNYSLOPE CAMPUS
PETIQUE AT BILTMORE FASHION PARK Adoptions · Retail 2502 E. Camelback Road, Ste. 167
Admissions · Adoptions · Veterinary Clinic ·
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Thrift Store · Second Chance Animal
602.957.3113
2016 AHS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee Ann Damiano, Chair Andrea Marconi, Vice Chair Suzanne Pearl, Vice Chair Susie Ingold, Secretary Marla Hummel, Treasurer Melinda Gulick, Past Chair Board Members Bryan Albue Anthony Alfonso Gina Apresa Katherine Cecala Bryant W. Colman Mary Frances Ewing Karlene Kieffer Adam J. Miller Kerry Milligan Kimberlee Reimann Padilla Eileen Rogers Amanda Shaw Ann Siner Dr. Craig Thatcher Matthew Waller Ron Wilson
Hospital™ · Retail 9226 N. 13th Avenue/1311 W. Hatcher Road Phoenix, AZ 85021 602.997.7585 TEMPE THRIFT STORE
PETIQUE AT THE SHOPS AT NORTERRA Adoptions · Retail 2460 W. Happy Valley Road, St. 1149 Phoenix, AZ 85085 623.582.2513
Shop · Donate 755 W. Baseline Road Tempe, AZ 85283 480.366.4617
AZHUMANE.ORG PET FINDER | DONATE LEARN | SHARE
SPRING 2016
DAFFY
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5 FACTS ABOUT
1.
When I was just a few weeks old, someone tossed me in a dumpster. I was really scared and sad and my leg hurt SOOOO badly.
2. I had almost given up hope that someone would find me, but then one of AHS’ Emergency Animal Medical Technicians™ rescued me and took me back to the Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital. The caring doctors there told me I had a skin infection and explained why my leg was so sore – it was broken.
Having fun with my friend, Corn.
3. I eventually wound up going into a foster home with this really nice woman named Sue. She was so great! She fed me from a bottle every few hours to make sure I got big and strong. 4. One of my best friends is a guinea pig named Corn. It’s weird though, I think I like him more than he likes me. 5. I now live in Phoenix and my new home is awesome! My people say I’m spunky and playful, but I think my best trait is my set of beautiful, brown eyes.
M E E T O U R P U P P Y B O W L S TA R S In an exciting first, the Arizona Humane Society had not one, but two stars when it came to this year’s PUPPY BOWL XII that aired on Animal Planet on February 7. When Roxy, a Chihuahua/French Bulldog mix, and Oscar, a kitten, both arrived at AHS just days old, they ended up in the same loving AHS foster hero home. Their friendship flourished, so much so that their special story was a featured “Pup Close and Personal” segment during this year’s Puppy Bowl. Roxy and Oscar now live together in a new, loving home.
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TA K E O U R PETS ON A S TAY- C AT I O N
L O V E AT F I R S T S I G H T : R A J A Owner Sladjana tells us about the impact this sweet, loving kitten has had on her: I adopted Raja this past July when I moved to Arizona from Chicago and began feeling lonely. I had no family or friends when I moved here and I work from home so my days got pretty lonely. I owned cats before, but I really always considered myself more of a dog person. However, I could not have dogs at my apartment, so I figured a cat would be just fine.
Everyone loves to get away once in a while, even our pets. Now you can take them on a stay-cation. If you’re thinking about adopting, or just want to see how a pet might fit in your home, take one of AHS’ adoptable pets home with you for a three-day stay-cation. You’ll see their personalities bloom and get a great feel for what life would be like as their pet parent. Visit azhumane.org for more information.
PHOTO CONTEST HONORS AHS
I went to AHS looking for a small kitty but the second I saw Raja I fell in love. The volunteer at AHS put him in the meeting room with me and he did not know what to do first – cuddle or play. He is still the same cat today. He is the best of both worlds. Raja completely changed my life. He not only made me realize that I am not more of a dog person but also that it is possible to love a pet like they are your own child. He keeps me entertained all day long, but most of all, he makes me feel super-loved. He loves to snuggle next to me while I work and if he is being ignored for more than five minutes, he will let you know he’s not happy. He jumps and attacks my pen while I am trying to write down notes. I interview people over the webcam and Raja loves to show his little face to say hello. He sits in front of the tub while I shower and on the counter while I do my hair. During the day he is all energy, but during the night he is all cuddles. Raja has an endless amount of toys but his favorite thing to play with is my hair. Adopting Raja was the best decision I have made since moving to Arizona. I cannot imagine my life without him. He is my child, my best friend and my source of happiness. I love my baby so much!
AHS, along with Jason Millstein Photography, is honored to be chosen as a winner in Rangefinder Magazine’s Best Friends Photo Contest. The “Down the Road” pet portraits were part of November’s Adopt a Senior Pet Month to raise awareness for, and showcase, the true beauty of our adoptable senior pets. For more information on getting your own pets portraits, visit jasonmillsteinphotography.com.
SPRING 2016
OUR EARS ARE UP
SUGAR’S SWEET ENDING Sugar was rescued by our Emergency Animal Medical Technicians™ after being found abandoned in a home without food and water. Upon examination at our Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital, we discovered that Sugar was microchipped and had actually gone missing from the backyard of her original home in 2007. Her family had searched far and wide for Sugar, a deaf Boston Terrier, but was unable to find her and had given up hope. Eight years after disappearing, Sugar was finally returned to her loving owner in an emotional reunion.
Do you have the world’s most amazing pet? Did you read a story in Paw Prints that you loved? Have a question you want answered? Or just wanted to share what’s on your mind? We want to hear from you! Email us at giving@azhumane.org.
A N T I - C R U E LT Y B I L L W O U L D B E T T E R PROTECT ANIMALS The Arizona Humane Society, as part of the Humane Legislative Coalition of Arizona, is championing a bill that, when passed, would sharpen animal-cruelty laws. Named the Anti-Cruelty Bill, this bill would do many important things, including defining the amount and type of food, water and shelter that’s required for proper care of an animal and raising the penalties on repeat animal abusers. “Last year alone, we received more than 5,700 reports of suspected animal cruelty,” said AHS President and CEO Dr. Steven R. Hansen. “We need to strengthen our ability to punish these abusers through the help of the state legislature to end this epidemic.” For more information about how you can help be the voice for animals, visit azhumane.org/advocacy.
CITY OF PHOENIX, AHS E X T E N D PA R T N E R S H I P The City of Phoenix has been a long-time partner and shares our mission to protect the pets of our community. In late December, the City approved a paid contract with AHS to continue providing our field, rescue, medical and shelter services to pets facing situations of abuse and neglect. We cannot thank the Mayor, Council and Phoenix Police Department enough for their support and eagerness to work quickly on this new agreement, demonstrating their long-term commitment to combatting animal cruelty. From left to right: Phoenix Police Detective Victoria Berry, AHS Field Operations Manager Chris West, Phoenix Police Public Information Officer James Holmes, Phoenix Police Detective Jemima Schmidt, AHS EAMT and Animal Cruelty Investigator Mark Smith.
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TRAINING TIPS Common sights, sounds and activities can often cause your wellbehaved pup to turn into a frantic furry friend. Debbie McKnight, Manager of AHS’ Behavior Programs, shares a few tips on how you can train your dog to handle these tricky situations. Barking when the doorbell rings Many dogs act like the doorbell is a cue to bark, but you can teach your dog that the doorbell is a cue to come to you instead. The easiest way to do this is to know when the doorbell will ring – either because you send someone out to ring it, or if your dog responds to a doorbell ringing on TV, you can record it. Have your dog on a leash near you and have some high-value treats, like hot dogs or cheese. With your dog within arm’s reach, ring the doorbell and then immediately feed your dog a couple of treats. If he barks before you get the treats to him, that’s ok. Keep repeating this step (ring bell, give treat) until you see your dog start to turn towards you in anticipation of treats when the bell rings.
Jumping up on people during greetings Most dogs jump on people because they want attention. To teach them a new greeting, the dog needs to get attention when they do a more appropriate behavior – usually ‘sit.’ If you’ve tried teaching your dog to sit when they approach someone but they are too excited to listen, you can try a different method. As the dog approaches, have someone toss a treat on the ground a couple of feet in front of them. With repetition, the dog will start to anticipate the treat on the ground and will look down rather than jump up. This interrupts the dog’s excitement and it’s easier to ask him to sit before he gets any attention.
Pulling on their leash There are a number of ways to teach a dog to walk politely on a leash and it’s best to meet with a trainer to see which method will be the most effective and fastest for your particular dog. Most dogs generally walk faster than humans and they want to get to interesting things in a hurry. If you allow them to pull you to the item or smell of interest, you may be reinforcing pulling on leash. One training tool that works for the majority of dogs is the Easy Walk Harness. This harness has a leash attachment in the front which provides a sort of “power steering” to help control the dog. No matter which method you choose, reinforcing polite walking with rewards is the best way to teach the dog not to pull.
Did you know AHS offers training classes and private training lessons for dogs and puppies? Our classes, taught by certified trainers, can help turn your dog into the best-behaved pet on the block. For more information, visit azhumane.org/dogtraining.
Debbie McKnight, AHS Manager of Behavior Programs, CPDT-KSA, has a Master’s Degree in Behavior Analysis as well as 15 years of training and behavior experience. Debbie is the proud pet parent of a 2-year-old German Shepherd, who she describes as “not perfect yet.” Her German Shepherd agrees.
SPRING 2016
ANIMAL RESCUE SQUAD KIDS CAMP
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TA I L S A N D TRAILS
Dr. Jason Stanhill, AHS Veterinarian, teaches camp participants how to care for pets.
In February, AHS hosted more than 70 young animal lovers for our hands-on Animal Rescue Squad youth education camps. The children enjoyed participating in mock rescues and surgeries with our EAMTs and veterinarians, clicker training with our behavior team, and visiting with adorable animal guests, including a special alligator visitor from Phoenix Herpetological Society.
Take a hike…with our dogs! Our dogs love to get out on the trail for a long trek. Join our weekly, docent-guided, dog-walking hikes, where you can take one of AHS’ adoptable dogs out for some exercise during a special morning walk. Children ages 6 and up are welcome to participate with a parent as dog handler. Visit azhumane.org/volunteer to learn more.
T E L L I N G TA I L S Children ages 6 and up are invited to share their favorite stories with our furry friends while they await adoption during Telling Tails Story Time. This free hour of storytelling helps our cats practice their people skills, while students grow more confident in their reading skills. It’s a win-win, and totally adorable! Telling Tails Story Time is offered one Saturday a month at the Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion. Visit azhumane.org/volunteer to register your child.
AHS’ summer camps offer a fun and interactive educational opportunity for young animal lovers. Animal Adventure Camp Ages 9-12 June 27-July 1 July 18-July 22
Camp Victory Vets Ages 13-17 July 11-July 15
Visit azhumane.org/kidscamp for more information.
JOIN US AT AN EVENT Want to know what we’re up to and where we’re headed? Check out our online event listings at azhumane.org/events.
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What began as a mission to save more pets ended up
transforming an entire community. For nearly 60 years, the Arizona Humane Society
fare, which served as the catalyst for the most rapid
has been committed to serving both the pets and
change AHS has ever experienced. Through leader-
people of our community. In our mission to improve
ship and collaboration, we introduced new intake
the lives of animals, AHS has never been content to
and adoption processes, implemented several new,
be just another animal welfare organization. Three
innovative life-saving programs and focused on pro-
years ago, we embarked on the most comprehen-
viding resources to help keep pets in homes. As we
sive reassessment of every program and procedure
continue to provide the best solution for pets and
with the ultimate goal of making Maricopa County
people, we know that now, more than ever before,
one of the best places to be a pet — not one of the
we are truly making our community a better place
worst. We invented a new playbook for animal wel-
for animals.
SPRING 2016
THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE CARE IN O U R C O M M U N I T Y.
AHS serves a unique role, providing leading-edge medical and behavioral care and innovative solutions that are helping us save more lives than ever, even animals who are considered “untreatable” by other shelters.
Emergency Animal Medical Technicians Whether it’s a cat who has been hit by a car or a dog who has been abused and neglected, our pet paramedics and cruelty investigators rush to the aid of sick, injured and abused animals and save the lives of thousands of pets every year.
Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital Led by a highly-skilled medical team who can treat the most severe medical conditions, our trauma hospital treats the vast majority of the Valley’s injured and abused homeless animals.
Parvo Puppy ICU Our Parvo Puppy ICU specializes in the treatment of puppies and dogs with the deadly parvo virus.
Kitten Nursery ICU We care for high-risk kittens, ensuring they receive a healthy start to grow into happy and loving family members.
Behavior Programs We work one-on-one to help rehabilitate dogs to overcome behavior challenges that make finding a loving home difficult.
Pet Resource Center A call center featuring trained, compassionate specialists who provide struggling pet owners with resources and alternatives to help keep their loving, furry family members in their homes.
Admissions by Appointment A groundbreaking, transparent intake process that ensures every pet is given his or her best chance for success, while allowing us to fast-track sick and injured animals.
Feline Programs The addition of feline specialists and new programs, such as Working Cats and expanded Trap-NeuterReturn, provide improved welfare and additional placement outlets for more cats.
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Behold the transformative power of
innovation, compassion and excellence. As the leading champion for animals and their well-being, AHS will go wherever necessary – from the tightest crawlspaces to the most neglectful homes to the highest courtrooms – to seek justice for animals. Once home to the “second worst pet overpopulation crisis in the United States,” Maricopa County is now ground zero for the nation’s most innovative work with homeless animals and pet owners in need. Feline
Euthanasia
Canine 2013
5,034
2014 2015
15,685
3,589 1,399
9,478
2,692
13,067
20,719
80% decrease over three years
4,091
Intake 2013
13,974
2014 2015
12,435 7,957
Trauma Hospital Patients 2013 2014 2015
23,281 17,885 8,868
16,852
37,225
30,320
55% decrease over three years
Despite our dramatic decrease in intake, the number of animals we are caring for in our Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital remains the same. Today, two out of every three pets who come through our doors receive treatment in our trauma hospital. 6,305 6,267 6,590
5,327 5,186 4,845
11,632 11,453 11,435
Charts represent AHS statistics. Since 2012, The Alliance for Companion Animals, a group of seven animal welfare organizations in Maricopa County, has reduced euthanasia by 71% and intake by 38% Countywide through the Fix.Adopt.Save. initiative.
SPRING 2016
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Photo courtesy of Jason Millstein Photography.
W E WO N ’ T S LOW D OW N . We have made remarkable strides over the past three years and are saving many more lives, but we aren’t done yet. In the coming year, we will: •
Expand our Pet Resource Center.
•
Increase our trauma hospital capacity and expand our Emergency Animal Medical Technician program.
•
Expand our foster hero program to help care for homeless newborn kittens.
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Grow our community outreach and education programs.
•
Spearhead advocacy efforts to protect Arizona’s animals.
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Collaborate with our partners to increase spay/neuter efforts.
No one does more to save pets. Thank you for your support of the Arizona Humane Society and for helping us become a unique example of what can be accomplished for animals in need. We will continue to break boundaries and save more lives. We do this because just like you, we unequivocally believe that every pet deserves a good life. As long as there are pets in need, AHS will champion their cause, proving that no one does more to save pets.
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PERFECT PET PORTRAITS Capturing your pet on camera can be a challenge. A sudden movement, an unseen distraction or a case of camera shyness can turn your flawless photo moment into a blurry, disappointing mess. But capturing your pet at his very cutest isn’t impossible. AHS Photography Coordinator Alex DeForest offers up a few tips that can help you snap the perfect pet photo.
1
Be the dominant distraction. Sometimes simply getting your pet’s attention is the real trick. Even if there are no obvious distractions, your pet will find one. Usually high-pitched squeaks or silly noises will do the trick. A fun and unique way to get your furry friend to focus on you is with a harmonica (whether you can play or not). The secret to getting the most out of your noises is to wait until the moment you are ready to take the picture, as your pet can lose interest quickly.
Eye contact can make for an engaging portrait of anyone, including your pet. As you get your pet’s attention, make sure to capture the moment they look at the camera.
3
Don’t give up so quickly. Be patient and always on the ready for the sudden sneeze or yawn that will make for a fun photo.
Make your pet chase you for a great action shot. Hold the camera low and run backwards. Be sure you have your camera set up for action mode. Set your aperture priority mode with an ISO of around 800 and set to burst mode with continuous focus on all points.
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Give your pet what they want — their arch nemesis. For dogs, try spraying them with a hose and watch them show their silly side. For cats, try something like feathers or marbles that they can use to display their natural instinct of curiosity and attack.
Alex DeForest, AHS Photography Coordinator, received his Associate’s degree in Digital Photography 10 years ago and has been learning through experience ever since. Alex found his best friend and confidant, Lily, at AHS when he failed as a foster parent. Lily, a chocolate Lab mix, is always the life of the party.
SPRING 2016
COMPASSION WITH FASHION 2016 Sunday, April 3rd The Phoenician |
Don’t miss the boat to save a life! Help the sun shine on homeless pets at the Valley’s cutest charity event. More than 1,000 guests will indulge in a seated island feast, surf a silent auction filled with treasures and take in a splashin’ fashion show featuring AHS’ adorable adoptable pets. A heart-warming event for the entire family where shimmering fantasies become stunning realities. Tables and tickets for this can’t-miss event are almost sold out! To purchase or for more information, visit azhumane.org/cwf or contact Carrie Hughes at 602.323.8831 or chughes@azhumane.org.
LUNA SHINES BRIGHT THANKS TO BROOKS PROJECT Luna and her family came to the Arizona Humane Society’s Margaret McAllister Brock Veterinary Clinic in severe distress – Luna in physical pain and her parents in emotional distress, after Luna was diagnosed with an “open pyometra,” a serious infection inside of the uterus that is actively draining. Luna’s parents are low-income individuals who receive government assistance, and could not afford the full cost of testing, surgery and after-care. But thanks to a very generous gift from Jeff and Shari Brooks, who want to help those struggling to afford
high-quality medical care for their pet, Luna was given a second chance at life. Through the Brooks Keeping Families Together Project, Luna’s family received financial assistance and AHS veterinarians were able to successfully perform Luna’s surgery and save her life. “Shari and I are grateful every day for our five dogs and that we have the funds to pay for their medical treatment,” Jeff Brooks said. “We have an enormous amount of empathy and caring for those dog owners who do not have the resources to pay for medical care”.
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Parvo Puppy ICU
EAMT
Kitten Nursery
T H E I M PA C T O F A L I F E S AV I N G G I F T Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital A lifesaving gift could provide critical resources such as: an incubator, a month of controlled drugs or surgical supplies or a teaching microscope.
Emergency Animal Medical Technicians Your gift can provide a digital camera or investigation/evidence collection, cruelty & rescue training courses or ambulance fuel for an EAMT rescue vehicle.
Parvo Puppy ICU Your gift could pay for stackable washers and dryers to ensure proper sanitation, prescription food, and Parvo tests and vaccinations.
YOUR GIFT MATTERS $50: Supplies a splint to set a fractured leg $100: Provides supplies and medication to treat a laceration $500: Fills the gas tank of one EAMT rescue vehicle for a week $750: Spay or neuters 10 dogs or 25 cats
Kitten Nursery It costs more than $70,000 a year to run our Kitten Nursery. Your gift can provide critical supplies, medications and transitional kennels for momma cats and their kitties.
Behavior Programs Your gifts can help our shy and fearful dogs by supporting the purchase of beds and kennels, enrichment supplies and toys and training certification for our trainers.
$1,000: Saves the life of one severely injured animal For more information on how you can help, please contact Nancy Mitchell at 602.997.7585.
Thank you for being a friend to animals in need. With your continued support, we can give more animals the gift of a second chance. � Dr. Steven Hansen, AHS President & CEO
SPRING 2016
C O N T I N U I N G C A R E : YO U R B AC K U P P L A N Pets generally have a shorter lifespan than their owners. But what happens when your pets outlive you? Have you considered who would care for them with the same love, attention and devotion you have all these years? When you enroll your pets in AHS’ Continuing Care Program, your mind can rest easy knowing your pets will be protected, cared for and loved. Continuing Care is a special benefit provided to Legacy Circle members. Pets who are enrolled in the program and have owners who predecease them, are placed with loving families who have been carefully selected by AHS staff. How it Works •
Decide how you would like to include the Arizona Humane Society in your final giving plans.
•
Consider sharing your plans with AHS by completing a statement of testamentary provision.
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Complete the Enrollment and Agreements forms.
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Tell us about your furry friends and how we would best facilitate placement.
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Make an appointment to have your pet microchipped (at no charge) at our Sunnyslope Campus.
•
Share your plans with your family members, friends or personal representative and include your Continuing Care program material with your Will or Trust documents.
To learn more about Continuing Care and the Legacy Circle, contact Joyce Melter at 602.997.7585 ext. 1034 or email jmelter@azhumane.org.
C H A R I T Y N AV I G AT O R The Arizona Humane Society has achieved Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. Charity Navigator is the nation’s largest and most-utilized evaluator of charities, and the 4-star rating is its highest honor. Only 29 percent of rated charities boast the 4-star rating.
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Phoenix, AZ Permit No. 456
1521 W. Dobbins Road Phoenix, AZ 85041 azhumane.org
S AV E T H E D AT E : A R I Z O N A G I V E S D AY A P R I L 5 Join the Arizona Humane Society for this powerful 24-hour online giving experience that will help provide second chances to homeless pets! For more information, visit azgives.org.
C A R D I N A L S FA N S R A I S E $53,250 FOR HOMELESS PETS Thank you to the Arizona Cardinals and Cardinals fans for donating $53,250 during the 50/50 raffle on December 27, 2015. The record-breaking total and ongoing partnership will truly help AHS to transform Maricopa County and save even more lives.
P E T- F R I E N D LY P L AT E S
Arizona pet-friendly license plates are available for only $25 per year, and $17 from each plate helps support spay and neuter services for dogs and cats in Arizona. Order your plates at azpetplates.org or call the ADOT Motor Vehicles Division Offices nearest you.
2 0 1 5 I M PA C T REPORT
Help Save Homeless Pets Want to help us cut down on printing and mailing costs so we can buy more toys and treats for our homeless pets? If you would prefer to receive the electronic version of Paw Prints, sign up at azhumane.org/pawprints.
2015
IMPACT REPORT
Photo by AHS Staff Photographer Alex DeForest 1
View at azhumane.org/impactreport.
EMERGENCY AMBULANCE EAMT™ SERVICE Sick & Injured Rescues Report Animal Cruelty
Daily 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. ¡ 365 days a year 602.997.7585 Ext. 2073