Animal Planet: Animal Cops

Helping in Tough Times

Heather Redfern — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:03:41 -0500

If facing an economic hardship, would you be able surrender your beloved animal companion? Across the country, animal guardians are facing this difficult decision. They've loved their furry friends for years and can't bear to live without them--if only there was a way to get through a tough stretch without taking a pet to the shelter.

To help those loving animal guardians that are facing temporary economic setbacks, the PSPCA has opened a food bank at its Philadelphia Adoption Center. We receive donations of food from generous individuals and companies across our region and want to pass that food on to those families who are able to keep their pets but are facing some financial difficulties.

The PSPCA food bank opened March 1 and will be open every other Sunday from noon-3 p.m. Food will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. At the first distribution, we helped 10 very appreciative families.

We also received numerous inquiries from individuals and groups who want to help out by donating food. All who offered to help have said the same thing--they couldn't imagine having to give up a pet. Now, thanks to their gifts, others won't have to consider that option, either.

Jeffrey's New Life

Heather Redfern — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:00:52 -0500

In a previous post, you were introduced to Jeffrey, a approximately three-year old poodle-mix, that was left for dead in a North Philadelphia yard.

After months of rehab, Jeffrey was finally ready for his forever home. He is now known as Tucker and lives in New Jersey. Thank you to the PSPCA staff , volunteers and especially, Tucker's new family for giving him the second chance he deserves.

A Wild Week in Philadelphia

Heather Redfern — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:56:42 -0500

The PSPCA Law Enforcement Team is always busy, but within a few hours on one day just a few weeks ago, our officers responded to emergencies regarding dilapidated stables, a cockfight in progress and an alleged dog fighting ring. In all, the PSPCA removed seven dogs, two horses and 58 birds from potentially dangerous situations.

PSPCA officers obtained two warrants for a vacant lot and a house. Two emaciated horses with overgrown hooves and one pit bull were surrendered to the PSPCA. The owner will be cited for lack of veterinary care and unsanitary confinement. Three horses from the vacant lot were removed by their owner. The surrendered horses and dog are currently under medical evaluation at the PSPCA’s Philadelphia headquarters.

Philadelphia Police responded to a call of a cockfight in progress. PSPCA officers responding to the scene removed 58 birds, including roosters dressed for fighting, hens, parakeets and cockatiels. The birds are being held in protective custody at the PSPCA’s Philadelphia headquarters. The PSPCA also removed cockfighting paraphernalia, including cockfighting DVDs. Philadelphia Police arrested 15 people.

Six dogs, several with scars consistent with dog fighting were surrendered to the PSPCA where they are currently under medical evaluation.

These cases, which occurred in just a matter of hours, demonstrate the extent of animal cruelty in Philadelphia. Our agents have to be prepared to handle a variety of animals across the city.

Fighting Dogs Case Update

Heather Redfern — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:13:48 -0500

For those who watched Animal Cops: Philadelphia on January 26, you saw the case of the dogs chained in a yard with almost 60-pound anchor chains. That case was recently heard in court and the defendant was found guilty of one count of animal cruelty and ordered to pay a $500 fine, serve 75 hours of community service and not own animals for 90 days.

While the PSPCA is happy that the woman is being held responsible for her actions, the sentence does not sufficiently address the abuse that was committed. Most of the dogs in the yard weighed 40-50 pounds--far less than the chains to which they were held. PSPCA officers also removed dog fighting paraphernalia from the scene. These dogs were used for fighting.

The sentence proves how much harder we still need to work to find justice for abused animals.

Bring your pets inside!

Heather Redfern — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 12:31:36 -0500

Like most of the country, Philadelphia is in the deep freeze. Temperatures over the past two days have hovered near 20 degrees--the coldest it's been in our area in several years. The PSPCA's humane officers are working around the clock--taking dozens of calls every hour regarding dogs left outside with no shelter.

PSPCA officers are rescuing many dogs from almost certain death, but sadly, sometimes the calls to our cruelty hotline come when it is too late for the dog. Just yesterday, PSPCA Humane Society Police Officers Darlene Sosa and Greg Jordan responded to a call of a dog left in a yard. The dog's owner had abandoned him a few weeks ago and in the frigid temperature, the dog froze to the back step. A few days before Christmas, PSPCA humane officers were investigating the case of a dog left outside overnight when the temperature was 14 degrees--the dog froze to the fence to which he was tied.

These cases are most frustrating, as the deaths can easily be prevented by bringing animals inside, especially in extreme weather. A dog's fur coat does not mean he or she can survive for hours or days on end in the cold.

The public can help save animals left outside in the severe cold (or in summer's excessive heat) by contacting local humane societies.

Houston SPCA Rescues Chimpanzee

Stacy Fox — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:09:34 -0500

The Houston SPCA recently seized a 23-year old malnourished Chimpanzee from a home in Crosby, Texas. "Henry" was found living in a filthy cage littered with soda cans, cigarettes and trash. Investigators sadly discovered that he had been living in these deplorable conditions for the past 15 years. At an incredibly low weight of 60 pounds, Henry was so weak he could barely stand up. Upon his emergency medical evaluation at the Houston SPCA, it was discovered Henry was suffering from many medical conditions including a viral infection. Vice President of Animal Welfare, Dr. Teri Schweiss has been closely monitoring Henry's progress and is hopeful that he is on the road to recovery. "Due to his lack of exposure to sunlight and malnutrition, Henry is suffering from spinal deformity. When we confiscated him, he had severe vomiting and constipation. We are thankful to the veterinary staff at the Houston Zoo who incorporated medical dietary therapy to resolve these issues. Since Henry has lived in this type of environment for a substantial length of time, he will never be 100% medically and physically sound. However, we hope with proper diet and care, he can live out the remainder of his life in comfort." The Houston SPCA continues to care for Henry and is making sure he receives the proper veterinary care, nutritional support and environmental enrichment needed for his recovery. Henry will not be placed for adoption. Instead, the Houston SPCA is securing sanctuary placement where he will be able to live out the remainder of his life with other chimpanzees and under the care of individuals who can meet his special needs.

Have a Safe Holiday Season!

Heather Redfern — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:56:07 -0500

The winter holiday season, while one of the most festive times of the year, is also one of the most hectic. Don't forget about your pet's safety. Simple precautions can help all members of your family have a happy holiday.

When decking the halls, remember that, while decorations are beautiful, they can also be dangerous and even deadly for your pets. For example, an improperly secured Christmas tree could be sent crashing to the ground by a climbing cat or tail-wagging dog. Secure the tree to the nearest wall with a hidden rope to keep a curious kitty or pup from tipping it over.

When choosing ornaments for the tree, select large, non-breakable trinkets that cannot be swallowed by your pets. If you must use small glass or other fragile items, place them out of your dog’s or cat’s reach. Pieces of broken ornaments can lead to intestinal damage or cut paws if swallowed or stepped on by Fido or Fluffy.

Tree and window lights are great ways to show the holiday spirit, but exposed electrical cords can attract puppy and cat teeth, resulting in electric shock or electrocution. Use pet-proof extension cords or treat cords with a chewing deterrent.

Be sure to clean up pine needles that have fallen from the tree. These can be toxic when eaten by dogs and cats. And keep pets away from tree water. Preservatives added to the water can contain poisonous chemicals. Untreated water is stagnant and contains bacteria that can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Keep ribbon, tinsel and string away from pets, especially cats. Cats can get tangled in the strands and choke. Cats might also try to eat string or tinsel, which can cause a severe, and often fatal, intestinal damage. If your cat has ingested string, tinsel or ribbon, do not attempt to pull it out of the mouth or rectum. Contact your veterinarian immediately, as the string will have to be surgically removed.

The flickering flames of lit Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christmas candles can appear to be toys for cats and dogs. To avoid a fire, use electric candles. If you must use real candles, place them out of your pet’s reach so they cannot be knocked over.

When decorating your home with live plants, keep in mind that some traditional holiday favorites can cause severe health problems when eaten by dogs and cats. For example, poinsettias and holly can upset the digestive system. Mistletoe is toxic and, in addition to causing upset stomachs, can lead to fatal heart ailments.

What would the holidays be without wonderful culinary treats? But not only do turkey, ham, candies, cookies and fatty foods cause us to pack on extra weight during the holiday season; they can also lead to intestinal distress and death in cats and dogs. Chocolate, especially dark and semi-sweet, is fatal for dogs and will make most cats sick. It is safe to give pets turkey and chicken, but beware of bones, which will splinter when eaten, causing possible throat, stomach and intestinal damage. Keep people food for your human guests and have extra pet treats on hand for your four-legged friends.

Parties, family gatherings and shopping wreak havoc with our schedules this time of year. But don’t let a packed calendar affect your dog or cat. When pets feel neglected, they become mischievous and can act out by chewing things or having accidents in the house. Remember to take time out for extra walks and play time. If you are going to be away from home longer than usual, ask a friend or relative to visit with your pet.

Don’t be a Grinch with your pets this year. Reward your dog or cat with an extra special toy or treat for being a good boy or girl. The unconditional love they will give you in return is the best gift you will receive.

Dog Fighting

Stacy Fox — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:37:15 -0500

The Houston SPCA was honored to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety's Criminal Intelligence Service and other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in Friday's takedown of a major dog fighting operation. The Houston SPCA received a warrant early Friday morning to seize more than 61 fighting dogs from a property in Tyler County, Texas. On the scene, Houston SPCA Cruelty Investigators found the dogs suffering from old battle wounds and tied individually by heavy chains; dog fighting paraphernalia including a treadmill and video cases identifying different fighting matches; and the charred skeletal remains of a dog. The Harris County District Attorney's Office said in a news release that there were more than 40 Felony charges filed for engaging in dog fighting, which can result in a punishment of up to two years in a state jail and about 40 other charges filed for the Class A Misdemeanor of being a spectator at a dog fight, an offense punishable by up to one year in the county jail and a $4,000 fine. Fifty-five defendants were charged and nearly 200 dogs seized in what is believed to be one of the largest dog fighting operations in the United States.

Give a Senior a Second Chance

Heather Redfern — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 11:56:19 -0500

November is Adopt a Senior Pet month. The PSPCA, like organizations across the country, has seen a rise is the number of older animals coming in to our shelters. Many of these companion animals are being surrendered by guardians who, due to the country's current economic status, are no longer able to care for their beloved pets. Some owners have had to move and can't take their canine or feline family members with them. No matter how they arrived at the shelter, all are deserving of another opportunity to be a part of a loving family once again.

Senior pets make wonderful additions to any home. They know what it like to be a part of a family and seem to be even more appreciative of the love they receive in their new forever homes. Many have also already been trained and have outgrown the puppy chewing or kitten climbing phases.They just want a soft lap to curl up on for a nap or someone to take them for a long walk in the park.

When considering opening your heart and home to an animal in need,think about a senior pet. You won't be disappointed.

PSPCA Opens Permanent Feral Cat Clinic in Philadelphia

Heather Redfern — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:02:30 -0400

PSPCA Opens Permanent Feral Cat Clinic in Philadelphia

It is estimated that there are tens of thousands of feral and abandoned cats living in the Philadelphia region. These cats, if not spayed or neutered, could produce an incredible number of offspring in just a few years. To help keep Philadelphia’s feral and abandoned cat population under control, the PSPCA opened The Cube at the Philadelphia Adoption Center. The Cube, a partnership with the Philadelphia Community Cats Council (PCCC), is one of the nation’s first permanent clinics devoted to providing basic veterinary care and spay/neuter surgeries for feral cats. The Cube opened on October 16—National Feral Cat Day. Becky Robinson, president and co-founder of Alley Cat Allies, joined the PSPCA for the grand opening celebration.

PCCC works with a dedicated group of feral cat trappers and colony caretakers to address the medical needs of these cats and keep the region’s feral and stray cat population from spiraling out of control. One Sunday a month, PCCC partner trappers and colony caretakers, brought cats to the PSPCA for spaying and neutering, vaccinations and feline leukemia and FIV testing. In just nine months, the PSPCA and PCCC cared for 1,380 cats through the TNRM program.

In addition to a dedicated exam/surgery space, the PSPCA provides veterinary expertise with its vets and vet techs, medical supplies and equipment. The facility will be open five days a week. In the first year, we expect to perform 10 spay/neuter surgeries a day—approximately 2,600. In the second and third years, that total will increase to an average of 20 and 30 procedures per day, respectively, or 5,200 and 7,800 procedures per year.