St. John ACC Magazine Summer 2011 by Greg Damron

STJACC@Islands.VI The St. John ACC Magazine July, 2011 Innaugeral Issue

The St. John ACC magazine is published in association with the board members, employees, friends and volunteers of the St. John Animal Care Center in St. John, US Virgin Islands. St. John ACC Publications cannot control and cannot edit content provided by a third party prior to transmission in the St. John ACC Publications, nor can St. John ACC Publications ensure prompt removal of inappropriate or unlawful content after transmission. Copyright © 2011, St. John ACC Publications, St. John, US Virgin Islands Animal Care Center. All rights reserved. No part of the contents of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The St. John Animal Care Center name and logo and all related product and service names, design marks and slogans are the trade names, service marks, or trademarks of St. John ACC Publications, and may not be used without the prior written consent of St. John ACC Publications. Animal Care Center of St John PO Box 429 St John, USVI 00831-0429 340.774.1625

Front cover: Untitled (Calabash in Kennel) Photograph by: Yelena Rogers Magazine Produced by: Greg Ðamron

FROM THE SHELTER PRESIDENT Dear Animal Lovers,

items and clothing, too. Remember that one man’s trash is another’s treasure. Our goal for this event is $12,500!

Thanks for your support of the Animal Care Center--we couldn’t carry on without it! And, wow, isn’t this the coolest newsletter ever? Huge thanks to Laurie & Greg Ðamron for pulling it all together.

Christmas for the Animals is always a great success and we are actively looking for a wonderful villa for the venue—any suggestions? We never have damage and are actually a pretty tame crowd.

It’s been a busy year at the shelter, we have found homes for 19 cats and 25 dogs through adoptions, including 14 sent to the States. Our feral cat program has distributed 4 tons of food in our feed, trap, neuter and release program and we have neutered 80 animals.

We have great web presence and a very active facebook site, so please check us out and keep the support coming—we only get a pittance from the VI government ($12,500) and our events generate another $50,000 in good years. The other $60,000 comes from generous and loving supporters like yourselves.

At the end of 2010 the Directors decided that a smaller board would be more efficient and reduced its size to eight. (Wish the VI Senate would do that!) The board has been very effective and committees are formed and working. We tried something new this year and hired an event planner, Shanna Dickerson of Blue Skies Events, to coordinate Wagapalooza. Directors Monica Munro and Karin Schlesinger brought her up to speed and she ran with the ball. Everything was going well until the morning of the event, when the skies opened and it rained cats and dogs. At the last minute possible, we had to make the call and cancel the event. After an hour of frantic calls, we had secured the NPS ball field and paved area by the little playground for the following Saturday. It didn’t rain that day and we were able to come within a thousand dollars of our $25,000 goal. THANK YOU ST. JOHN! See pictures at: facebook, website, wherever they are! Next event will be the No Fleas, Please flea market in October (see pics from last year). We have a forty foot storage container at Gifft Hill School, so please let us know of any donations that are available. Furniture is always a great draw as are building supplies (windows, etc.). We will accept any lightly used household

For the animals, B. J. Harris, President

Membership • History • Make a Donation Christmas for the Animals Photos Wagapalooza Photos

THE ACC GOALS • • • • • • •

To spay/neuter and medically clear all the homeless animals on the island To educate the public on the importance of spaying and neutering their pets To prevent pet over-population, alleviating the suffering of unowned animals To supply food and water to unowned animals in the bush To care for and find good loving homes for abandoned animals To provide the funds for medical attention to abandoned animals in need To save enough money to build a boarding kennel and sustainable shelter

The Animal Care Center of St. John, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being and care of homeless. abandoned and abused animals on our island. For more information about the animals please stop by the ACC or call us at 340-774-1625

From the President

BJ HARRIS

TH E ADO PTABLES - O R PH ANS O F S T. J O H N LAURIE DAMRON

CAT S CAT S AND M O R E CAT S S A L LY N E L S O N

F E R AL CAT S S A L LY N E L S O N

W HAT I T’S L I K E TO B E A VO LUNTE E R LAURIE DAMRON

TH E S T. J O H N ALUM NI S A L LY N E L S O N A N D K I M B E R M A R N E N

W HERE ARE TH E Y NOW

N E W PA R E N T S

C H IL D E D UCATIO N GREG DAMRON

HOW CH I L D R E N CAN B E VO LUNTE E R S

BORROWED FROM CAPE ANN ANIMAL AID IN GLOUCHESTER, MASS.

T H E G E O RG IA TR IPL E T S JAIME ELLIOTT

“ THE BEFORE AND AFTER”

THE ACC G ET S A M UC H NE E D E D FAC E L IF T S A L LY N E L S O N

W HY IS HENRY ON TH E B UI L D ING S A L LY N E L S O N

T H E F UTUR E D R E AM

DIANA RIPLEY AND GREG DAMRON

HOW THE SH E LTE R WO R K S

S A L LY N E L S O N A N D K I M B E R M A R N E N

H OW YO U CAN BECO M E A VO LUNTE E R

BORROWED FROM CAPE ANN ANIMAL AID IN GLOUCHESTER, MASS.

T H E CAL E NDAR O F E VE NT S ACC BOARD

send us your photos contact information

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The Adoptables Calabash • Female Pit mix - about 1 1/2 years old. • Calabash (we call her Cally) was found in Coral Bay starving and very scared. Although we think Cally was abused as a bait dog, she is a very happy and loving dog who has gained almost 20 pounds since she arrived and can’t stop wagging her tail. She is in need of a home where she will be loved and get lots of exercise. She is full of energy and very playful.

Buster • Male Pit Bull - about 2 years old • Buster was seized with police assistance. He was found living in a small cage with no food, dirty water and his own waste. He gained 14 pounds after only 3 weeks at the shelter. He is extremely lovable and gets along well with other dogs. He wears a bright “smiley face” collar because he is so happy with all the love he is now receiving.

Sadie • Female Pit mix - about 2 years old. • Sadie was found roaming in the National Park She has been at the shelter the longest; over 7 months. She is quiet and reserved and loves to go for longs walks. She loves the beach and loves to swim. She gets along well with other dogs. Her perfect day is a long hike followed by an afternoon with a big rawhide. She is very patient and respectful. She would make a great companion.

Rocky • Male Island mix - age unknown. • Rocky is a stray with a heart of gold. He was brought to us very sick and very hungry. He is so grateful for the care and love he is getting at the Shelter. He is shy at first due to past abuse, but once he gets to know you, he trusts you with all his heart. He needs a good home with lots of attention and love.

Dogs come to us in a few different ways. Some are brought to us as strays; we try and reunite them with their owner or keep them as residents until adopted. Some are brought to us by their Owners who are not able to care for them properly, and some are seized by the police if they are in a bad situation. Regardless of how they get to us, once they arrive they get much love and attention (some of them for the first time) from the moment they check in. If they are stray, we post their photo in designated locations for 5 days. If no one has claimed them, they become ours. They receive a full checkup and evaluation at the vet, and if they are healthy enough, are immediately spayed or neutered. Many of the dogs that come to us test positive for heart worm. Depending on their health, they get treatment in a few different ways. Our dogs spend their days in very comfortable kennels (about 5 feet by 10 feet), get walked for a half mile twice a day, get fed lots of food and can have all the treats they want. Many have doghouses and because your generosity, all have dog beds. Their kennels get a thorough cleaning once a day and they also get to socialize and play with each other (usually two or three at a time). Our dog-walkers wear bright shiny

The Adoptables vests so everyone knows who they are walking; an ACC dog and up for adoption.

• Male Pit mix - about 3 years old • Moose was found at the starting line at 8 Tuff Miles and brought to the shelter. He spent most of his life tied on a short chain and has learned how to go on walks. He is very aloof but is gaining more and more trust in people. He needs someone who is patient and loving. He needs lots of room and a well fenced in yard and no cats. He loves hot dogs.

Lucy • Female Terrier mix - 2 years old. • Lucy is a very happy dog. She and Rocky had a littler of puppies that have all gone to good homes and sadly Lucy’s owner could not keep her. She loves other dogs and has a great temperament. She enjoys walks and car rides and just visiting with people. She would make a fabulous best friend.

Angel • Female Pit mix - 3 years old. • Angel was rescued with Delta. Extremely grateful not to be tied to a tree anymore and is so happy with all care she has received. The extra love and attention at the shelter has helped her during her recovery. She does not like to share her attention with others dogs, so she needs to be an only dog.

Delta • Female Coconut Retriever - 2 years old. • Delta was rescued with Angel, tied to a tree on a short rope. Hungry and exhausted. She loves to play and tumble. She didn’t know how to go for a walk at first, but now she loves her walks and meeting new people. She loves other dogs and is a great playmate. Her best friend is Buster.

While they are with us, we try and get them adopted into their forever homes. We hold an adoption clinic at the Marketplace every Tuesday where two dogs get to go, meet people and show everyone how well-mannered they are. They get to sit for a photo shoot with our volunteer photographer Yelena Rogers and then have their picture put on the adoption poster that goes up all over the island. Our employee in charge of the care and comfort of the dogs is Kimber Marnen. Kimber is the one constant person in their lives and they all love her dearly. She walks them, bathes them, feeds them, socializes them, keeps on eye on their health and comfort and knows if anyone is getting sick or needs something, basically watching over them until they find their new home. Kimber gets greeted every morning by wagging tails and enthusiasm; there is no other job that we know of where everyone is so thrilled to see you the moment you walk in the door. If you see Kimber out on the street walking her dogs, stop by and say HI. Any one on island, residents or visitors is encouraged to come and meet these wonderful animals. They are very happy and absolutely love guests. To see all of our Adoptable Pets click here for... PetFinder.com

Photography by Yelena Rogers

Moose

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Cats Cats and More Cats

60 Cats and Counting... For months we were holding steady at 28 cats. Suddenly weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at 60 including 7 that have been fostered out. This new abundance of cats will be spayed and neutered and will not contribute to countless more. Between May 11th and July 1st, 42 new cats have come in, including 39 kittens and 3 older females. Since January, there has only been an average of one new cat brought in per month. Four cats is the average number of cats adopted out each month. At this rate we will be lucky to adopt out the existing cats in 15 months, or a little over a year. There are plans now to add another adoption clinic once a week most likely in downtown Cruz Bay at the Connections mail center in addition to the typical weekly adoption clinic at the Marketplace. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also be making locals and tourists more aware through our Facebook postings.

12 cats in 1 year 67 cats in 2 years 376 cats in 3 years 2,107 cats in 4 years 11,801 cats in 5 tears 66,088 cats in 6 years 370,092 cats in 7 years 2,072,514 cats in 8 years 11,606,077 cats in 9 years!!

Photography by Yelena Rogers

An un-spayed female cat, her mate and all of their offspring, producing 2 litters per year, with approx 3 surviving kittens per year can total:

Feral Cats Our Wild Island Residents... Our island is home to many wild feral cats. You’ve seen the figures of what just a few cats can produce if not spayed or neutered. With the help of many volunteers on the island we have a feral cat feeding program. There are 28 feeding stations set up around the island that are maintained by volunteers who trap cats, feed and water the cats, and monitor the feeding station to make sure all is well. Although it’s hard to get an accurate count, each feeding station supports about 15 to 20 cats. We supply the food for these stations and in 2010 we provided just over 10 tons of cat food.

Sue Brandi, one of our Volunteers, at the Feeding Station she maintains.

Some islanders have their own feeding stations that they take care of themselves and supply all the food and water. It’s amazing how many people are willing to help these sweet animals. To assist us in trying to maintain the feral cat population, our on island Vet, Dr. Laura Palminteri, designates Wednesdays as spay and neuter day at a discounted cost for the Shelter. With the help of volunteers and residents, a cat is trapped and dropped off at the vet’s office by 9:30am and if the cat is healthy, it is spayed or neutered and ready for pick up by 4:30pm. A spayed / neutered cat has its ear clipped just a bit so that if trapped again, it can be recognized and released. It is then taken back to where it was trapped or to one of our feeding stations. All costs for this are picked up the Animal Care Center. We encourage anyone who has a feral cat near their home, to borrow a trap and have them spayed or neutered. Just one spayed / neutered cat can help control the population. We again are very thankful for our supporters and their donations who help us maintain this important program . Thank you so much for all your kind help.

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What it’s like to be a Volunteer

“What it’s like to be a Volunteer” When Laurie Damron was asked,,, “Why did you go down and walk Sadie this morning”, I replied “Because she doesn’t have an owner and nobody loves her and she misses me”. I think people think, walking dogs is laborious and they would rather do artwork, paint buildings or be on a board, which is also very important. We look forward to walking the dogs in what might appear to be routine repetitive loops through town, because we love these dogs. The thoughts of their lonely lives creep into our every day. If more people really met these unconditionally loving animals, animals that in most cases have been abused and neglected yet respond and look at you lovingly, we would have more “Friends of the ACC”. At the end of the day, it just makes me happy.

Yelena and Dini with a Bunch of Puppies

We take the dogs on a half-mile loop. It’s great exercise and as opposed to a gym routine, is much more satisfying. When I first got involved, I thought it was going to make me sad and that it would be depressing. On the contrary, it made me happy. These dogs are better off than most shelter dogs in the States. Because we are a casual laid back island, we walk our shelter dogs. I would suggest to anyone who is sad or depressed, or could use a pick-me-up, to come visit the ACC. Don’t just stand and look, but really visit the animals. You will get more in return than you give out.

Vacationers Kelly and Christine with Sasha and Hailey

Volunteers CONTINUED

Laurie and MacLee at the Vets Office

Lindsey Bathing Angel

Another reason it’s not sad is because very few of these animals came from good environments. The majority of these animals have been abused, abandoned or lost. My husband envisioned a “Sarah McLaughlin song” and was afraid to go downstairs and see the dogs living conditions. In most cases, their homes at the ACC are the best home they have ever had. They get fed twice a day. They have a roof over their heads and their kennels are cleaned out every day. They get socialized in a big pen. They get paired up with buddies. Regardless of whether the volunteers show up to walk them, they have a person who routinely walks them, gives them their medication, watches over their progress and bathes them regularly. We do the Adoption Clinic once a week at the Marketplace. What we are doing is taking the dogs and cats to the people. It’s good PR and most people are too busy with their everyday responsibilities to stop by the ACC themselves.

Missie and Carly

We feel that giving love to these animals and hopefully pairing them with loving owners will in turn make other people happy as these friends of ours become friends to others.

“You will soon see that the hour you spend with these animals is the best hour of their day”. Denise with Jake at the Adoption Clinic

Dini and Blaze Hiking

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St. John Alumni Pablo Jake

Happy Endings... There are many wonderful stories and happy endings for many of the adopted animals of the ACC. Pabloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s living the dream and a sea-faring life in Cruz Bay.

Henry

Rufus

Puppies

Jake had been a wild dog for about a year and was recently adopted. We thought if he had a favorite movie, it would be Gremlins. Henry was a big lovable character. Many of you may see him immortalized on the outside of the Animal Care Center in a framed painting. Sable unfortunately has passed on, but we know we made this loving happy friend of the ACC very comfortable in her last days. We miss her smiling face.

Keider

Louise Big Head

Carly was our three-legged Rotty who was overlooked for some time until some loving St. Johnians fostered her and fell in love. BigHead was always a favorite. We thought BigHead would be with us for a long while, but proves there is someone for everyone.

Sable 10

Carley

Two weeks after Keider was adopted he won Best of Show at Wagapalooza.

Alumni

Continued...

Jemma

Buddy

Calloway Buddy, Calloway, LaToya and Charley all have been adopted and have great new lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Island. Elwood moved to Washington State, got a doggie lifejacket and now spends his time Kayaking, his favorite new sport.

LaToya

Elwood

Fenway

Fenway was a Boston Red Sox fan and has moved to Folsom in Northern California. His new name is Fenn. Fuzzy is on her way to D.C. Some of the Gang is in Massachusetts and the others remained here in St. John. Jemma and Jeremy found their way to St. Thomas.

The Gang

Stumpy our three footed little cat, often mistaken for Charlie Chaplin, has taken his act on the road and moved to Kansas City. We have many more past friends and wish them all the wonderful lives they so richly deserve. Thank you to all of their adoptive parents. Please continue to stay in touch.

Charley

Stumpy

Jeremy

Photography by Yelena Rogers

Fuzzy

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Where are They Now Liminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;... Would you believe, sailing, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, winning blue ribbons, playing in the snow and just liminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

St. John ACC Calendar Soon Come... Each year we create a St. John ACC Calendar commemorating some of our best animal friends from the past. The calendar will be available soon at the ACC. Please stop by for your copy and when you do be sure to take the time to go down stairs and visit with all our friends.

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Child Education “Our hope is that inside each child the heart will waken so that no animal ever feels like an orphan and our Island will be filled with love and care.” The Animal Care Center runs a number of humane education programs for children, with the belief that if one can enlighten the mind of a child, both animals and humans will benefit in the long run.

Children Visiting a Puppy at the ACC

The ultimate goal of the program is to reach children through ‘Pets in the Classroom’ teaching them responsible, longterm pet care at an early age and providing the psychological and developmental benefits associated with the human-animal bond. Studies have shown that caring for pets has a positive effect on children, improving school attendance and teaching children responsibility, as well as encouraging nurturing and building self esteem. We currently visit 2 of the schools here on St. John where kids spend time with a volunteer, the volunteer’s pet or an ACC animal, reading books and learning about spaying and neutering and why it is so important. We share stories of our pets and how they care for them. The goal of the ACC is to raise awareness of the benefits that interacting with pets has on the development of a child’s character and capacity to empathize with and care for others. As part of its mission, the ACC is dedicated to promoting the child-pet bond both in the home and at school. The Pets in the Classroom program clearly supports this mission.

First and Second Graders at Gifft Hill School raised money for the ACC with their ‘Pennies for Pups’ Program

Educating our youth is extremely important to the ACC. We are continually looking for volunteers to assist with school programs and spending time with our children to show them how rewarding a pet can be.

How Children Can Be Volunteers

o many of our supporters are the children of St. John and our young island visitors. Many ask us what they can do to help. Here is a list of a few things that can be fun for kids and would allow them an opportunity to play a huge role in helping the Animal Care Center. Our supporters come in all ages, and we are grateful to our youth who care so much that they want to help. If coming into the Shelter isn’t possible, but you want to help, the following is a list of opportunities you can complete outside of the shelter to benefit the animals in our care by raising funds or collecting supplies. We encourage both children and their parents to get involved in these projects.

ORGANIZE a BAKE SALE / HAVE a LEMONADE STAND Organize a bake sale at your school, church, or office. Recruit people to help you make delicious treats and sell them at the bake sale. You can also set up a lemonade stand in front of your house or in your neighborhood. Advertise that the money collected at the bake sale or lemonade stand will be donated to Animal Care Center of St John. You might consider making posters to advertise these events in advance. Before planning to host one of these events, remember to seek permission at the desired location in advance.

MAKE GIFTS for SHELTER DOGS / CATS Pick any of the following projects to complete for the shelter dog or cats.

Sock Cat Toy Supplies: Infant or child’s cotton sock, polyester fiberfill, non-toxic permanent magic marker, needle and thread and/or Velcro. Optional: Catnip or small craft bells Directions: 1. Optional: Stuff the toe of the sock with catnip or a craft bell. 2. Follow with the polyester fiberfill for stuffing. 3. Fill to the start of the ribbing on the sock. 4. Tuck the ribbing into the sock top. 5. Sew the top closed or sew Velcro to inside of sock. 6. Decorate sock with non-toxic magic markers so no kitty can resist them.

‘Adopt Me’ Bandanas These colorful bandanas can be worn by shelter dogs and cats to get noticed by potential adopters! Supplies: Colored fabric/permanent non-toxic markers, Solid-color bandanas. Directions: 1. Place the folded bandana on the table. Draw only on the side that faces up. 2. Your bandanas should be colorful and fun. It’s a good idea to include some words or phrases on your bandanas. (Examples: “Adopt Me!”, “I’ll be your best friend!”, “Help me find a home!”)

STJACC@Islands.VI

Georgia Triplets

Festival Food Fair Twelve-year-old triplets Casey, Lindsey and Sydney Gordon were on St. John with their parents last week and donated about $1,100 in cash and another $600 worth of toys, bones and more to the St. John Animal Care Center. “We were down here on vacation last year for about a month,” said Casey Gordon. “We met two people who asked us if we wanted to walk dogs. We said we’d love to.” With that encouragement, the sisters walked dogs for the ACC once a week throughout their trip. The girls not only enjoyed themselves, the experience left a lasting impression on the Gordon sisters.

By Jaime Elliott St. John Tradewinds Crowds braved a few showers on Sunday afternoon, June 26, in order to enjoy the bounty of Food Fair and Coronation for “An Astronomical and Cultural Splendor in Heaven for Festival 2011.” Food Fair honoree Joyce Sprauve thanked the crowd and encouraged everyone to try her famous whelks and mango tarts. Lieutenant Governor Greg Francis and his wife Cheryl were on island for the festivities. While Cruz Bay’s Frank Powell Park remains closed for renovations, the Food Fair was hosted this year along the waterfront and in the street in front of the Post Office, both of which were closed to traffic. The Love City Pan Dragons kept the crowd entertained, while local delicacies like conch in butter sauce, stew chicken, and pates were dished up for fair-goers. Emcee Alecia Wells kept the program running smoothly as recently-elected St. John Festival Princess 2011 Ashyria Kelly was crowned with the help of 2010 Princess Destini Garcia and Cheryl Francis. Francis also helped 2010 St. John Festival Queen Shante Monsanto Weeks place a towering crown on 2011 Festival Queen Kinia Blyden. Kelly joined Lt. Gov. Francis and Blyden in cutting a red ribbon to officially open Food Fair 2011!

More Food Fair Inside: Pages 2-3

St. John Tradewinds News Photo by Tristan Ewald

FESTIVAL:

Food Fair Honoree Pages 2-3 Miss St. John Selection Page 5 St. John Princess Show Page 4 Festival Bike Race Page 7

STT/STJ Chamber of Commerce Fights Another Increase in Gross Receipts Tax Page 8

Georgia Triplets Raise More Than $1,600 for Local Animal Shelter

Page 11

V.I. Park Trails Looking Better Thanks to SCA

Page 10

“We fell in love with the cats and the dogs at the shelter,” said Lindsey Gordon. When the girls returned home to Atlanta and began preparations for their Bat Mitzvah celebration — set for September 10, just after their 13th birthdays — they were asked to do a community project. With memories of the abandoned and neglected cats and dogs at the St. John ACC in their minds, the Gordon sisters immediately knew who their Mitzvah project would benefit.

From top left: Denise Walker, Sally Nelson, Laurie Damron and Lower row: Casey Gordon, Kimber Marnen with Pablo, Lindsey and Sydney Gordon, and Sadie

“We thought the ACC was a really good shelter because they don’t kill any animals,” said Sydney Gordon. “We wanted to help all the dogs and cats we had met.” “So for our Mitzvah project we wanted to give them something that they really need: more comfort, love, and to be adopted.” After talking to ACC Shelter Administrator Sally Nelson about the shelter ’s needs, the girls sent out an email to family members and friends asking for their help.

Casey, Lindsey and Sydney Gordon with their bounty of gifts for the St. John Animal Care Center

Georgia Triplets CONTINUED Family members were quick to respond. The Gordon sisters brought down five boxes of towels, toys, bones and more for the dogs and cats at the ACC as well as a cash donation. ACC officials met with the Gordon family at the group’s weekly adoption clinic at The Marketplace on Tuesday, June 21, for the official donation. The Gordon girls were having so much fun with the animals at last week’s ACC adoption clinic, the trio has agreed to volunteer at the shelter during their vacation again this year. “And we’d like to do this again for the animals,” said Lindsey Gordon. The girls put a smile on many faces last week, not the least of which was on their mother Laura Gordon’s face. “We are very proud of the girls,” she said. “This was all them. It was entirely their idea.”

Casey, Lindsey and Sydney Gordon with Delta, Dawn and Buster

For more information about the St. John ACC or to make a donation, check out www.stjohnanimalcarecenter.com or call 774-1625. * Exerpts from the original article by Jaime Elliott from the St. John Tradewinds June 27-July 3, 2011

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The ACC Gets a Much Needed Facelift Visitors to the ACC may have noticed a bit of a change... Friends of the ACC got together and in a short day gave the St. John Animal Care Center a much needed make-over. Trim was replaced, signs were cleaned up and repositioned and a Caribbean paint theme was applied. We have a few more special plans that will hopefully make the ACC an even happier more welcoming place. Thank you to all our friends for donating your time and efforts.

WHY IS HENRY ON THE BUILDING? Our Poster Dog... When we painted the ACC to its new look, we wanted to put something important on the front that had meaning. We painted the same week that Henry (the dog that had been there the longest) was adopted and it just all made sense. We put Henryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portrait on the outside of the ACC because we are a No-Kill shelter. Because we are no-kill, it allowed Henry all the time he needed to find his new best friends. He was with us for a long time, and had been adopted twice, but came back each time. Henry was always such a happy positive dog with a smile. Some wonderful Islanders, John and Brandi, found a stray dog and brought him to us. John started volunteering weekly coming by and walking him. One day, he walked Henry and Henryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life changed forever that day. They fostered him to see if he was a good match, and within 2 weeks he was a permanent member of their family. He even gets along with their ACC cat!!! His picture now hangs on the outside of the shelter to remind everyone that all abandoned animals deserve a good home and until they find it, they have a happy home with us. Our dogs have all the time they need to find the right owner. It is due to the support of people like you, that allows us to take care of these animals until they find their special home.

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The Future Dream

he future of the St. John Animal Care Center is in the ‘Dream Phase”. It is well understood that the St. John ACC has outgrown its current location. There have been discussions with the local government and the consideration of a larger land parcel for the future home of the ST. John ACC. The New Animal Care Center will be a place where families and children can come visit dogs and cats, take the dogs out into the park to play or even bring their own pets for recreation. Facilities will include a dog walking path for exercise and obedience training, a dog agility area and training pens for one-on-one opportunities without the distraction of other more playful pets. The grounds are meant to be large enough to host Special Events such as Wagapalooza. The New ACC will incorporate expanded kennel facilities, quarantine and health care, adoption reception area, pet retail, and much more. It is the St. John Animal Care Center’s intention that we will be a model facility with goals to bring health and safety to the animals of St. John as well as a special awareness to the people of St. John and St. Thomas. The future plans for the Animal Care Center in St. John are planned to be exponentially bigger and better than anything experienced in the past.

If we don’t dream big and create the Big Vision, we will never realize it. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts, hard work and donations and we will do our very best to help realize the big dream and help every dog and cat on St. John in need of our help.

HOW THE SHELTER WORKS? What goes on... Nothing uneventful ever goes on at the ACC. Come in and meet our staff and see what an amazing job they do.

Shelter Manager, Sally Nelson with Jeremy What goes on at the Shelter... anything and everything. A typical day can range from cleaning cat cages and walking dogs, to so much more and actual fun. Sally, Kimber, Connie, Ayala and Scott work hard at keeping it all together. Everyday all dog kennels are thoroughly cleaned, all cat cages and litter pans are cleaned, dogs get walked and fed twice each day, and all the cats get fed twice and medicated if necessary. In addition to that, we are so lucky to have many visitors stop by for a tour and to meet the animals. We spend Tuesday mornings getting ready for our weekly adoption clinic. Wednesdays is spay and neuter day at the Vet. Fridays we take anyone who needs attention to the vet. In addition, our Feeding Station Volunteers come by to pick up cat food. We continually do what we can to take care of the dogs and cats and get them adopted. On any given day, we can be brought stray dogs or cats or called about animals in need of rescue. An intake of an animal can vary depending on the situation. In all cases we get them to the vet as soon as possible, to make sure they are OK. Some are desperately in need of care and our on island vets are always ready to help. Making a new animal comfortable and feel safe can take a bit of time. Any free time we have we spend loving all the little ones.

Kimber Marnen with Henry in the Playpen

STJACC@Islands.VI

Look into My Eyes You are Getting Sleepy, Very Very Sleepy... You are Going to Pine Peace Market Purchasing a Bag of Cat Food and Bringing it to the Animal Care Center.

Creature Feature Frankie... Occasionally we get a dog or cat into the ACC that is truly remarkable. Frankie is one of them. Frankie has the biggest eyes of any cat we’ve met. Her eyes are so captivating that you find yourself standing and staring, moving your face closer and closer until you are frozen in an unblinking state. Frankie’s hypnotic eyes are a beautiful shade of blue and constantly dilated. Maybe we should have named her Boris. Frankie never breaks eye contact and seems to be saying “Who’s your Master?” If you stop by the ACC, be sure to stop and see Frankie. You may never be the same.

STJACC@Islands.VI

Creature Feature Calabash Today After Just Two Weeks at the ACC

Calabash... The most important work we do at the St. John Animal Care Center is rescue. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inconscionable that some individuals can be so completely uncaring and thoughtless about animals. Fortunately, caring people help out and contact us and we are able to intervene. Calabash came to us weighing 34 pounds. Today, two weeks later, Calabash weighs 44 pounds. Calabash gets her name from the area we found him. She is a wonderful, happy thriving dog today and exceptionally thankful for every ounce of love and kindness we show her.

Calabash the Day We Found Her

“Life is Like a Box of Puppies” You Never Know What You're Gonna Get

STJACC@Islands.VI

How You Can Be a Volunteer

HUGE part of what we do wouldn’t be possible without our Volunteers. We appreciate them every day. Some come and walk dogs, some help with cleaning the cat cages, and we have behind the scenes volunteers who help with so many things (posters, internet communications, donation box collection, general office assistance, fund-raisers, painting, etc). The list is endless on what our amazing volunteers assist us with. We are ALWAYS seeking people to help. Whether you live on island or just vacationing for a week, we love when people show up to help and show their support. If coming into the Shelter isn’t possible, but you want to help, the following is a list of opportunities you can complete outside of the shelter to benefit the animals in our care by raising funds or collecting supplies. We encourage both children and adults to get involved in these projects.

THROW A PRIVATE PARTY TO BENEFIT THE ACC of STJ Have a birthday coming up? Looking for a reason to get your friends and family together? Want to celebrate a special occasion? You can throw a party to benefit the St John Animal Care Center for any reason! Here’s how: 1. Decide on a theme and reason for your party. 2. Send invitations to your guest list (friends, family, classmates etc.) 3. If it’s a birthday party for you, ask for a donation to ACC of St John or for items off of our Wish List instead of presents. 4. If the party is just for fun, let the attendees know that you’re having the party to benefit the ACC and invite them to bring a donation or items off of our Wish List. Depending on party, the ACC can supply you with information about our shelter and stickers. Please contact us for more information.

ANIMAL CARE CENTER SCAVENGER HUNT AID WISH LIST You are encouraged to collect the items below from friends, family members, and neighbors in order to increase the community’s awareness of The St John Animal Care Center. Do not feel limited by the quantities listed. This is a great activity for school groups, youth groups, or girl/boy scout troops to participate in. Keep in mind that this activity is not intended to be a shopping list but rather a challenge for you to reach out to others and ask them to contribute these items to help you complete your scavenger hunt.

Scavenger Hunt Items • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

12 rolls of paper towels (on island only) 5 bags/packages of moist dog treats 5 bags/packages of cat treats 2 boxes of steel wool sponges 5 used bath/beach towels 3 Bath Mats (no rubber backing) 10 used hand/kitchen towels 5 used blankets, no fitted bed sheets 10 “like new” cat toys 10 “like new” dog toys 1 or more Dog Beds – any size 1 $25 gift certificate to a pet supply, grocery, or home improvement store 5 bottles of bleach (on island only) 1 new Gentle Leader® Easy Walk Harness, any size 1 roll of stamps (100 stamps/ per roll) 5 new or “like new” nylon dog collars, any size 5 new or “like new” nylon dog leashes, any length, No retractable leashes 5 packages of white printing paper (500 sheets per package)

BECOME a FAN on FACEBOOK We use facebook.com to help spread the word about the animals in our care. Feel free to recruit more fans for our page! Please note that children should ask their parents before using the Internet and logging on to... Facebook .

Calendar of Events

he ACC conducts three major fund-raisers each year; ‘Wagapalooza’ in May, a ‘“No Fleas Please” Flea Market’ in October and ‘Christmas for the Animals’ a gala for the animals in December / January.

WAGAPALOOZA Wagapalooza was a huge success this year despite the weather giving us difficulties and a resulting last minute postponement. Pet owners of all ages came out with their furry friends to take part in the Islands Biggest Dog Show and have a lot of fun. We enjoy categories to compete in like; Best Puppy Love, Best Look Alike, Best Lap Dog (the bigger the better) and lots more. The event raised close to $25,000, nearly reaching the ACC’s fund-raising goal. To view all of the photos from this year’s event visit:

Wagapalooza Photos

Our “No Fleas Please” Flea Market is scheduled for October 22nd at the Winston Wells ball field from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Island residents donate items all year long and the flea market items are collected and stored in a trailer at Gifft Hill School. One of our directors makes arrangements to meet the contributor at the school to help with drop-offs. It is a huge event that last year raised $7,000. We will keep our fingers and claws crossed for a successful event again this year.

Photography by Tropical Focus Photography

‘NO FLEAS PLEASE’ FLEA MARKET

STJACC@Islands.VI

Calendar of Events

CHRISTMAS FOR THE ANIMALS Our biggest annual fund-raiser is our ‘Christmas for the Animals’ event. Every year a generous St. Johnian graciously donates the use of their fabulous home and many on-island caterers and restaurateurs come together serving up amazing delights. Each year ‘Christmas for the Animals’ has a new and different theme and St. Johnians seem to go all out when it comes to dressing up. Most show up in their Island Fancy outfits, but some push the night to a whole new level, celebrating with lavishly themed costumes and make-up.

This year’s goal is $18,000. We do not have a definite date or Villa selected as of yet, but would love to hear your suggestions. Stay tuned for the January 2012 date and theme. We look forward to another wonderful night. Much hard work goes into this event and volunteers work tirelessly to make sure that everyone in attendance has the best time ever. We can’t thank everyone involved enough for the generous gift of their time and effort. To view all of the photos from this year’s event visit:

Christmas for the Animals Photos

Photography by Tropical Focus Photography

This event is one of the most fun nights of the year. The wide array of mostly donated raffle prizes never disappoint and we were able to raise $14,000 during this fabulous event.

Send Us Your Photos

A Dogs Day Afternoon

The Animal Care Center of St. John, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being and care of homeless. abandoned and abused animals on our island For more information about the St. John ACC or to make a donation, check out www.stjohnanimalcarecenter.com or call 774-1625

How to Become a Member of the ACC Find us on Facebook under Animal Care Center of St. John

To Donate Now http://www.STJACC.org/help.html