tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46444465867852832972024-02-19T05:42:31.168-05:00The Society PageA blog for the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane SocietyDakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-73932586378819072402011-10-25T13:17:00.004-04:002011-10-25T13:51:24.087-04:00Join Me at the First Annual Dakin Humane Awards!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZ-A12WQWLukC6kybnH4spqwADQEAGCyrSt1zSLCEB2psjDJoRrsUa6vpROoMDLIcvVlefeBRMQ-s3O21nFNl4nmrz4l8YxgZvoqXjvYZSi4q2PWF-i55OcBogm1iITPQmUUtpMmQSK8/s1600/Dakin+Awards+logo.color.lr.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZ-A12WQWLukC6kybnH4spqwADQEAGCyrSt1zSLCEB2psjDJoRrsUa6vpROoMDLIcvVlefeBRMQ-s3O21nFNl4nmrz4l8YxgZvoqXjvYZSi4q2PWF-i55OcBogm1iITPQmUUtpMmQSK8/s320/Dakin+Awards+logo.color.lr.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667488766919955026" /></a><br />Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society will honor four extraordinary animal advocates and one superstar animal at the first annual <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/events/humane_awards_2011.php">Dakin Humane Awards</a> celebration on Friday, November 4, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. at the <a href="http://www.wyckoffcountryclub.com/">Wyckoff Country Club in Holyoke</a>.<div><br /></div><div>We will present three community-based awards along with a philanthropy and a lifetime achievement award in recognition of these individuals who make the Pioneer Valley a better place for animals and people:</div><div><br /></div><div>*State Representative Cheryl Coakley Rivera is the recipient of the Dakin Champion Award for her tireless advocacy as a public servant on behalf of those most in need of a strong voice in Boston, including the animals. Rep. Coakley Rivera passionately and convincingly led the fight to prevent the unnecessary devocalization of dogs and cats, has argued against legislation that attempts to ban specific breeds, and has been recognized for her exemplary efforts to help end greyhound racing in Massachusetts.</div><div><br /></div><div>*Eleven year old Colin Scully will be presented with the Dakin Youth Award for his commitment to helping animals at a local cat sanctuary. Along with his dad, Colin spends hours every Sunday caring for the cats and helping out with special projects, which include providing extra attention to cats nearing the end of their lives. This selfless young man rises above the heartbreak he sometimes faces and returns each week to help "his cats" enjoy his love and gentle touch.</div><div><br /></div><div>*Hawley resident, Rarie Dye, will be honored with the Richard and Nathalie Woodbury Award, named after the couple whose vision and legacy secured Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society's future. From the time she relocated from Texas to Franklin County in the 1980's, Ms. Dye believed it was "important to support your local animal shelter." Through a merger and its recent expansion into Hampden County, Ms. Dye has played a major role in the success of the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society. Rarie Dye's generosity, while quietly given, has largely helped Dakin become the organization it is today.</div><div><br /></div><div>*The Janet Wilder Dakin Lifetime Achievement Award will honor Judy Smith, who has been with Dain from its roots as Friends of Amherst's Stray Animals in the 1980's. She worked alongside Janet Dakin to improve the lives of homeless animals in the northern counties. Ms. Smith long served as the organization's treasurer, continuing her commitment as a member of the board of directors through Dakin's expansion into Hampden County. According to Executive Director, Leslie Harris, "From Dakin's earliest days, Judy has done and amazing amount of daily, hands-on volunteer work, all the while maintaining a complete and detailed understanding of the organization's increasingly complex financial position. Judy's retirement from the board in 2011 marked the end of a long volunteer career that helped position Dakin as the pre-eminent animal charity in the Pioneer Valley."</div><div><br /></div><div>*The Dakin Animal Hero Award will be presented to K-9 Dakota, the first and only accelerant-detecting canine with Springfield's Arson & Bomb Squad. Dakota recently retired after 12 yars of service, making him one of the oldest working dogs in the country. Near the end of his career, Dakota was involved in the investigation of a church fire that drew national attention. His distinguished career began following his adoption from an animal shelter. A children's book, <i>Pound Puppy to Fire Dog,</i> has been written in his honor.</div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to the award recipients, special guest Cherry Garcia, one of 22 dogs taken from the home of notorious dog fighter, Michael Vick, will be joined by his family, including companion dog Madison and humans Paul and Melissa. They will share the story of Cherry's journey from a life of abuse as a bait dog who was completely shut down emotionally when rescued to a happy, charismatic dog and much-loved family member. Cherry now makes many public appearances to raise awareness about his breed.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are grateful to our sponsors for the Dakin Humane Awards: <a href="http://www.fivestarcorp.net/">Five Star Building Corp</a>., <a href="http://www.berkshirebank.com/">Berkshire Bank</a>, <a href="http://baystatehealth.com/Baystate">Baystate Health</a>, <a href="http://www.whiterosepet.com/">White Rose Memorial Services</a>, <a href="http://www.hartpatterson.com/">Hart & Patterson Financial Services</a>, and <a href="http://www.berterasubaru.com/index.htm">Bertera Subaru</a>. Our generous media sponsors are <a href="http://www.wwlp.com/">WWLP-22News</a>, <a href="http://www.wamc.org/">WAMC Northeast Public Radio,</a> and the <i><a href="http://www.valleyadvocate.com/">Valley Advocate</a>.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>You are cordially invited to come celebrate these remarkable individuals and support Dakin's work on behalf of animals. With Master of Ceremonies WAMC's Paul Tuthill and your host, WWLP-22News meterologist Brian Lapis, this promises to be a memorable and fun evening. Dinner will be followed by dancing to the <a href="http://floydpattersonband.com/">Floyd Patterson Band</a>. Find more information, including tickets, online at <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org">www.dpvhs.org</a> or by calling 413-781-4000 x DOG (364).</div><div><br /></div><div>See you there!</div>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-82392182191229376972011-04-06T13:33:00.004-04:002011-04-06T14:25:30.714-04:00Opening Day...of the Kitten Season<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyqFYsJBJB8IIYFK1rc5zMwysWcWmXgXFQCDXyEpLWlXjsGYsOVcZ22N7x6rC7WlsQEVEqAu_nBEwegDZoyGVJ01Hfyk7Q69JTXNRrrclQCR0Xk37b20hvyBmAl3TirApkwz5Y0i9VZY/s1600/photo.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyqFYsJBJB8IIYFK1rc5zMwysWcWmXgXFQCDXyEpLWlXjsGYsOVcZ22N7x6rC7WlsQEVEqAu_nBEwegDZoyGVJ01Hfyk7Q69JTXNRrrclQCR0Xk37b20hvyBmAl3TirApkwz5Y0i9VZY/s320/photo.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592528108536467746" border="0" /></a><br />Dakin's adoption center veterinary team is scrambling to save a cat and kittens who arrived on our doorstep just moments ago.<br /><br />Some helpful Springfield residents found the beautiful tabby mother cat giving birth in their garage this morning. After hours of labor, though, the cat appeared to be suffering. The staff at the local emergency veterinary hospital determined that, although two kittens had been born, another kitten remained inside. Fearing that the remaining kitten was dead and that this poor stray cat might require surgery, the emergency clinic sent the people and the foundlings to Dakin for help.<br /><br />As of this moment, Dr. Spaulding, along with technicians Chrissy and Brittany, are working to spay the mother cat. While they hope to find the remaining kitten alive, they are prepared for the worst. Their expertise will at least save the mother cat's life and, thanks to Dakin's heroic foster parents and the adoption center staff, those two brand new kittens have begun their journey to a better life with a new family.<br /><br />Dakin's <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/support/buddy.php">Buddy Fund</a> makes it possible to bring aid to animals like this mom and her babies. Please <a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html">give generously</a> to make sure this assistance continues.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-57139643243678107812011-04-05T10:15:00.006-04:002011-04-05T12:30:36.186-04:00Dakin is on the Road to Help Cats<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIpvsMgl6UIo-eAl1xI7nAVPtteEKirS2hxpLLsIR0vNVsjVXYEuYSpFY0idYjCOBZo1MhpaqvKYvATq2VtPS5OvOJPbcUWl85Su1NkcUPUI2cJ81Xyl3lMDBF2QWmgKJ1BdKqtbFHGM/s1600/N+pick-up3%2540Leyden+Wooods+4-5-11.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 237px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIpvsMgl6UIo-eAl1xI7nAVPtteEKirS2hxpLLsIR0vNVsjVXYEuYSpFY0idYjCOBZo1MhpaqvKYvATq2VtPS5OvOJPbcUWl85Su1NkcUPUI2cJ81Xyl3lMDBF2QWmgKJ1BdKqtbFHGM/s320/N+pick-up3%2540Leyden+Wooods+4-5-11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592106361065329250" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9GHC4A0F_dWcgaOzxguJ8kvoUkXW3vTkS2SLVjCb0RLk8mRHBpiJ0LEVYPf1UIDLTGNwdwPAH5TOqGOmWd6QwfrOnMKhlIjOawiU_0ArZ5Fj24AivVfiLhkAjRjNt7e1cJtZytzINUc/s1600/N+pick-up2%2540Leyden+Wooods+4-5-11.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9GHC4A0F_dWcgaOzxguJ8kvoUkXW3vTkS2SLVjCb0RLk8mRHBpiJ0LEVYPf1UIDLTGNwdwPAH5TOqGOmWd6QwfrOnMKhlIjOawiU_0ArZ5Fj24AivVfiLhkAjRjNt7e1cJtZytzINUc/s320/N+pick-up2%2540Leyden+Wooods+4-5-11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592106278418234482" border="0" /></a><br />What do Stripes MacNeil and Dominobama Washington have in common? They were traveling companions on the ride down from Greenfield this morning.<br /><br />Dakin staff came to the Leyden Woods community in Greenfield's west end to pick up cats needing to be fixed at Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic. With a pro-active management willing to partner with Dakin, Leyden Woods has been able to avoid the pitfalls many apartment communities face when they allow cats but don't regulate their care.<br /><br />Thanks to the partnership between Leyden Woods management and Dakin, we transported 19 cats to Springfield for their spay/neuter surgery and shots. None of these cats has ever seen a veterinarian before. But that doesn't change the affection their families have for them. Bailey Gardner's "mom" cooed at his crate door as he was loaded into the van. She was, she said, practicing for the day she sends her son to college.<br /><br />Tomorrow morning, the Dakin transport will leave Springfield bright and early, delivering the cats back to their families in Greenfield.<br /><br />To learn more about Dakin's free spay/neuter program and other services, please visit <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">www.dpvhs.org/snap/</a>.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-38096083839507716362011-04-04T16:03:00.002-04:002011-04-04T16:13:32.294-04:00Help Dakin Win $100,000 in the ASPCA Challenge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMvtMWkMT5R2pzFGlFpIZ349jsT_fqOMWpdoW-M1v91fhhKKpQw7Kr0QXaDo7vlSlznPmZFGhKaCbEJGDiCoTh3BjxmXf3jesRCwXGbZ4k-1kA_Ibeh3Y0c_1b5jfrI3LVLacZUzXSIo/s1600/new_voting_button.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 126px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMvtMWkMT5R2pzFGlFpIZ349jsT_fqOMWpdoW-M1v91fhhKKpQw7Kr0QXaDo7vlSlznPmZFGhKaCbEJGDiCoTh3BjxmXf3jesRCwXGbZ4k-1kA_Ibeh3Y0c_1b5jfrI3LVLacZUzXSIo/s320/new_voting_button.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591824086385550178" border="0" /></a><br />Dakin animals need your help.<br /><br />We are entered in the qualifying heat of the <a href="http://challenge.aspcapro.org/">ASPCA $100,000 Challenge</a>. In order to participate in the challenge, we need to be one of the top 50 vote-getters nationwide.<br /><br />What will being entered in this challenge do for Dakin and the animals and people we help?<br /><br />*We will be eligible for up to $100,000 in prize money that will help us help animals.<br /><br />*We will have opportunities to promote Dakin in our community and beyond--helping us help even more animals than ever before.<br /><br />*Most of all, though, we will have the pride of knowing that <span style="font-style: italic;">our community</span> was among the best in the nation at saving animals' lives.<br /><br />How can you help? VOTE!<br /><br />Vote every day, once a day between now and April 15th. Just go to <a href="http://www.votetosavelives.org/">www.VoteToSaveLives.org</a>, look up Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society (we're under "MA") and vote. You'll need to have a working email address so you can receive a confirmation email (you'll only get one when you vote the first time--after that, you'll be remembered). Confirm that email and vote every day, once a day, until April 15th.<br /><br />Let your friends know! Post it on Facebook, Tweet about it, forward this blog entry, email all your buddies!<br /><br />To learn more, visit www.aspcapro.org.<br /><br />On behalf of Dakin's animals, thank you!Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-50009929647925328492011-03-10T15:20:00.003-05:002011-03-10T15:43:35.134-05:00Dakin to Offer Free Spay/Neuter to Select Communities<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2ypm2MmbLVT2mRUo7x-R5j01UL6SLDioR63_p3IsafEF7WbUWOf9KOKy8jdJctY5boYlQRhFSBdFL7ZSipe-qR36STbZNuYDX2KTjFmhpmKTZPLrcJopBVQjWpZcKaAcSFqBzvvLzuQ/s1600/Dakin_Clinic_25.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2ypm2MmbLVT2mRUo7x-R5j01UL6SLDioR63_p3IsafEF7WbUWOf9KOKy8jdJctY5boYlQRhFSBdFL7ZSipe-qR36STbZNuYDX2KTjFmhpmKTZPLrcJopBVQjWpZcKaAcSFqBzvvLzuQ/s320/Dakin_Clinic_25.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582553422931643458" border="0" /></a><br />Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society has received a $199,400 grant from <a href="http://www.petsmartcharities.org/">PetSmart Charities</a> to be used by the <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Dakin Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a>. This grant will provide free sterilization for pet cats of low income residents living in the following communities or zip codes:<br /><br />Franklin County: Greenfield, Orange, and Turners Falls<br />Hampshire County: Belchertown, Ware, and South Hadley<br />Hampden County: Holyoke, Chicopee, and Springfield (01104, 01105, and 01108 zip codes only)<br /><br />Across the Pioneer Valley, more than three-quarters of the animals entering area animal shelters are cats. In 2010, of the nearly 6,000 homeless animals served by Dakin, more than 4,000 were cats. As part of <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/three_year.php">Dakin's Three Year Plan to Adoption Guarantee</a>, we must reduce the number of litters born to cats. This grant will help us assist those community members who want to neuter their cat but have no financial resources to do so.<br /><br />Why <span style="font-style: italic;">these</span> communities? Of the 75 towns Dakin served in 2010, nearly 50% the kittens came from only these 11 communities! Our plan is to strategically reach the people whose cats are most likely to have kittens that end up homeless. And our statistics tell us to start in these towns.<br /><br />All qualified cats will receive spay/neuter surgery, a rabies and FVRCP (distemper) vaccinations.<br /><br />Clients just need to call the Clinic to schedule an appointment at 413-781-4019. You'll need to provide proof of residency and of financial need. Assistance with transportation may be available.<br /><br />Don't live in one of the "target communities" or need help with your dog? No problem! We can still help. Give us a call and let's talk about options!Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-6208304368133346142011-03-09T13:25:00.005-05:002011-03-09T13:36:11.906-05:00Dakin Cat Colony Rooms Open!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtK3Cv2RtZIFAgAuiyTeANn8TpviudXZkJzgVBNi8ATbyi6X_1XpEyNxiA32wVd3z5XHp8FXvnqpdIzZIHxqXSzSUL1gs6UL7bHqDayBQ9YRCUgkUuIiOIpDymeoQwHmZVRijH_V4mGc/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtK3Cv2RtZIFAgAuiyTeANn8TpviudXZkJzgVBNi8ATbyi6X_1XpEyNxiA32wVd3z5XHp8FXvnqpdIzZIHxqXSzSUL1gs6UL7bHqDayBQ9YRCUgkUuIiOIpDymeoQwHmZVRijH_V4mGc/s320/DSC_0017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582149423547229314" border="0" /></a><br />Ever wonder what has been going on in the spacious, sunny lobby area at our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/directions.php">Springfield Adoption & Education Center</a>? The space used to be the lobby of the animal hospital that closed in 2007. When Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society purchased the building in 2009, we made it an immediate goal to convert this lobby space into cat colony rooms as part of <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/three_year.php">Dakin's Three Year Plan to Adoption Guarantee</a>.<br /><br />Thanks to the generosity of the late Barbara Sullivan and the good folks at <a href="http://www.fivestarcorp.net/">Five Star Building Corp</a>., the new cat colony rooms are a colorful, sun-lit space with three multi-level living spaces for cats. This week, we moved the cats in and welcomed our clients to visit with them.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGrzQThAcWw-_Zz4yq45ZJXCD4ebpeaziljygSTBkwkX7NbU8Jgb98TGXhJmUuksy1uwkaiDxBQEV7XB-4HdUoWACFLffc6KnNmZBhPnVXNcjLlF_4J-_j18Ja8qCv_jpthbzejJekj0/s1600/DSC_0019.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGrzQThAcWw-_Zz4yq45ZJXCD4ebpeaziljygSTBkwkX7NbU8Jgb98TGXhJmUuksy1uwkaiDxBQEV7XB-4HdUoWACFLffc6KnNmZBhPnVXNcjLlF_4J-_j18Ja8qCv_jpthbzejJekj0/s320/DSC_0019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582149611544338866" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Not only does the space give our cats room to stretch, climb, and bask in the sun, it also gives our clients more room to sit and chat with our adoption counselors. <br /><br />Come on down and visit!Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-80561083883644085062011-02-01T10:08:00.006-05:002011-02-04T12:37:39.359-05:002010 Year in Review: Community Spay/Neuter Clinic<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh3Y0m_TdZU5v45DdaG-DAotjCOrukPKEUYoUsAof07qSnLfWsYgGIXE-c-qiaBmacf780Nnw73QTd1QtsD_6NAX_C-gmSrvvT5dC5PwJ8YS2GgXNFGq6cTPSIfHIcfRvb5VAj4G74O4/s1600/Dakin_Clinic_17.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 235px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh3Y0m_TdZU5v45DdaG-DAotjCOrukPKEUYoUsAof07qSnLfWsYgGIXE-c-qiaBmacf780Nnw73QTd1QtsD_6NAX_C-gmSrvvT5dC5PwJ8YS2GgXNFGq6cTPSIfHIcfRvb5VAj4G74O4/s320/Dakin_Clinic_17.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568764148671240162" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Statistics from Dakin's first year of full-service operations in the Pi</span><span style="font-style: italic;">oneer Valley are now available. To celebrate the successes of </span><span style="font-style: italic;">our first year, I'll spend the next few blog entries walking through individual programs and their achievements in 2010.</span><br /><br />If there is one thing we do to save lives in our community, it is to provide high-volume, high-quality, low-cost spay/neuter services. More than any other service we provide, <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a> will most effectively help us reach <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/three_year.php">our goal of saving the life of every adoptable homeless animal by August 2012</a>.<br /><br />Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic opened its doors in October 2009, and since then Clinic staff have sterilized more than 11,000 cats and dogs!<br /><br />In 2010, the Clinic served 9,498 animals. Of those animals, 75% were cats and kittens, while 25% were dogs and puppies. The Clinic has identified "target" clients: animals already homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. This means animals in the custody of humane societies and animal control agencies or the types of animals most likely to be in custody--namely cats of low income people, feral cats, or pit bull dogs. Of the 9,498 animals served in 2010, 89% were "target" clients.<br /><br />Pit bulls are disproportionately represented in our region's animal shelters. While they may be only 3% of the overall pet dog population, they can account for as many as 50% of the dogs surrendered to humane organizations or picked up by animal control. That's why Dakin's Clinic will spay/neuter any pit bull or pit mix for $50. In 2010, we helped 424 pit bulls, or 27% of all dogs brought to the Clinic by the public.<br /><br />Cats belonging to people with few financial resources are not only at risk of becoming homeless, but they also produce unwanted litters of kittens. Thanks in part to a grant from the Massachusetts Animal Coalition's <a href="http://www.petplate.org/">Animal Friendly License plate program</a>, we are able to provide $25 cat spays and $50 cat neuters for people who are on some type of state or federal assistance.<br /><br />We provided <a href="http://www.tjoconnoradoptioncenter.com/tjo/index.php">Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center's </a>animal control officers with coupons for $10 cat surgeries (including vaccines). The officers identified people in need in the course of their daily work. Together, we helped 28 cats and kittens in 2010.<br /><br />Through our <a href="http://dpvhs.blogspot.com/2011/01/2010-year-in-review-pet-food-aid.html">Pet Food Aid </a>partnerships with the Amherst and Franklin Area Survival Centers, we sterilized and vaccinated 6 pit bulls and 54 cats at no charge to families who were struggling to put food on the table.<br /><br />For female pets old enough to have had babies, a quarter of the dogs and half the cats have already had at least one litter. And many have had more than one litter--a lot more! Our record holder so far is Orea, a beautiful black and white longhaired cat who, at 7 1/2 years of age, had 13 litters of kittens before we spayed her. Although Orea is an "indoor only" cat, her powerful hormones led her to escape, find a male cat, and get pregnant...13 times!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNwxRQa8n8tZDGOfgOXjUxhD42H9VWlysbaP5flmmJ1Ot4fmxJjDjuho3BID3JoxmAFWrxXEkLGrw83b4IZy7bnPzjNj9nRXThMYJ6BWI7JLlvTx2_E4XTkYM1XGKdJ1VHQpsmDXXr3o/s1600/image002.png"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 208px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNwxRQa8n8tZDGOfgOXjUxhD42H9VWlysbaP5flmmJ1Ot4fmxJjDjuho3BID3JoxmAFWrxXEkLGrw83b4IZy7bnPzjNj9nRXThMYJ6BWI7JLlvTx2_E4XTkYM1XGKdJ1VHQpsmDXXr3o/s320/image002.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569888495061482066" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Older animals who have had multiple litters are common at the Community Spay/Neuter Clinic. We have spayed cats around Orea's age whose people report that the cat has 2 to 3 litters every year--they just haven't kept track of exactly how many litters that was.<br /><br />Says Clinic Director, Karina King: "The Clinic's work ties in with Dakin's Adoption Center work in many ways. Adoption Center staff often walk clients over to the Community Spay/Neuter Clinic's desk once they learn that the clients want to surrender their male cats for spraying or because they can't deal with anymore litters but can't afford surgery. We are able to provide them with spay/neuter they can fit into their budget. It's win-win-win: the pet gets to stay at home instead of being surrendered; the client gets to keep her beloved pet (we get lots of tears of joy!), and the Adoption Center has one less animal they need to care for and re-home. Adoption Counselors also bring over clients who are surrendering litters of kittens. When we spay a kitten's mother, we know that the Adoption Center will have fewer kittens arriving next year."<br /><br />Although the Community Spay/Neuter Clinic does not screen for income for non-subsidized services, most of the animals we see have either never seen a veterinarian or have not seen one in the past year. Only 22% of animals brought in by members of the public had seen a veterinarian in the past year and were current for a rabies vaccine (as required by law). Of those who have been seen by a veterinarian, low-cost vaccine clinics (i.e., PetCo, LuvMyPet) are the most popular veterinarian for our clients.<br /><br />Only 4% of our patients are non-pit bull dogs whose people are not receiving state or federal assistance; 18% of our cat patients are not receiving state or federal assistance and can afford our already low price of $80. Most of these people have indicated that they called their veterinarian and could not afford the fees.<br /><br />I make these last points, not because I think veterinarians charge too much for their services. In fact, I have a long relationship with a local animal hospital, love their staff, and happily pay for the excellent care my animals receive. But I also know that many of my neighbors are not so fortunate. For these folks Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic offers a real and accessible alternative for spay/neuter surgery. In fact, many local veterinarians refer clients to us who could not otherwise afford spay/neuter services.<br /><br />We are grateful to <a href="http://www.petsmartcharities.org/">PetSmart Charities</a>, the Massachusetts <a href="http://www.petplate.org/">Animal Friendly License Plate program</a>, and many individual donors for their support of Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic. Without their generosity, the Clinic would not be the life-saving force it is. Please consider making an <a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html">online gift</a> to support the Clinic's work, today.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-7531292112895097972011-01-24T14:21:00.002-05:002011-01-24T15:02:46.817-05:002010 Year in Review: Pet Food Aid Programs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRyb7sTKfeZ65Rgpi9i38Z9G79ubjZxO7lsYHPj31icKinPmj6tEVULT7EqXB1Jqb_pv3rIJSP3b0FMYv3kfCcg0gKS34gjGa9mR_gutSHjM938vpvy9k5umMSdvvHWFwYgtDjllMiaq0/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRyb7sTKfeZ65Rgpi9i38Z9G79ubjZxO7lsYHPj31icKinPmj6tEVULT7EqXB1Jqb_pv3rIJSP3b0FMYv3kfCcg0gKS34gjGa9mR_gutSHjM938vpvy9k5umMSdvvHWFwYgtDjllMiaq0/s320/DSC_0032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565845346239482514" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Statistics from Dakin's first full year of full-service operations in the entire Pioneer Valley are now available. To celebrate the successes of our first year, I'll spend the next few blog entries walking you through individual programs and their achievements in 2010.<br /><br /></span><span>Dakin's <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/help/petfood.php">Pet Food Aid programs</a> began in March 2007 with an arrangement with the <a href="http://www.amherstma.gov/index.aspx?NID=269">Amherst Senior Center</a> to deliver pet food along with Meals on Wheels. In that first year, we distributed approximately 500 pounds of food. As recently as 2009, Pet Food Aid delivered a little more than 3,500 pounds of food, thanks to new collaborative efforts with other senior and survival center agencies.<br /><br />But last year's food distribution blew the doors off our previous records: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dakin delivered more than 20,000 pounds of pet food to people in need in 2010! </span><br /><br />We helped a broad range of folks--housebound elders, individuals with disabilities, low-income families, and people facing emergencies like house fires--through collaborative arrangements with more than half a dozen human service agencies. Both of our Leverett and Springfield adoption centers served as pet food banks, helping keep animals at risk of being surrendered safe at home with their families.<br /><br />Here's how it all breaks down:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amherstma.gov/index.aspx?NID=269">Amherst Senior Center </a>Meals on Wheels: 2,263 pounds; <a href="http://amherstsurvival.org/">Amherst Survival Center</a> Senior Grocery Box Delivery: 617 pounds; Amherst Survival Center Pet Food Bank: 3,120 pounds; <a href="http://www.belchertown.org/departments/coa/coahome.htm">Belchertown Senior Center</a>: 485 pounds; <a href="http://www.highlandvalley.org/">Highland Valley Elder Services</a> Meals on Wheels (Northampton only): 2,781 pounds; <a href="http://www.franklinareasurvivalcenter.org/">Franklin Area Survival Center</a>: 3,153 pounds; Northfield Food Pantry: 4,858 pounds; Leyden Woods Community (Greenfield): 652 pounds; <a href="http://www.thensc.org/">Northampton Survival Center </a>(started December 28, 2010): 140 pounds; <a href="http://www.redcrosscwm.org/general.asp?SN=6466&OP=8195&IDCapitulo=B55LB113WJ">Pioneer Valley Red Cross</a>: 200 pounds; Leverett and Springfield Adoption Center walk-ins: 2,300 pounds.<br /><br />Without safety net programs like Dakin's Pet Food Aid, many more animals--and people--in our community would be at risk of homelessness. Allowing an individual or a family to re-allocate money they would have spent on pet food to pay for groceries, medical bills, or heating oil helps keep families safe and together.<br /><br />What's coming up in 2011? You'll notice that our partnership with the Northampton Survival Center didn't begin until the last week of 2010. We estimate the Center will distribute as much as 1,000 pounds of pet food each month, leading to an additional 12,000 pounds of food in 2011.<br /><br />Where does the food come from? Most of it comes from people like you. You can <a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html">make a gift</a> to the Pet Food Aid programs securely online. You may also donate sealed bags of pet food (we are unable to use opened bags) to either of <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/directions.php">our adoption centers</a>. We thank you for your generosity!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">A special thank you to <a href="http://www.amherstclub.org/">The Amherst Club</a> for making a gift that helps us purchase much of the food for the Amherst-area programs. If you want to help the Club keep making this gift, be sure to attend their fabulous <a href="http://www.amherstclub.org/love-notes-fundraiser">"Love Notes" concert</a> on Sunday, February 13th. Proceeds from this event help fund projects like Dakin's Pet Food Aid programs.</span><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-68560254899969366842010-12-13T15:04:00.014-05:002010-12-13T16:47:21.046-05:00Home for the Holidays<span style=";font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3NXt-IafBGZHkHobTAskUzw-P5SKnoUi8CJVThjutYMC9IVoPn-aZnm-MNRtbqklA2frMntSwL0uTVQJdo_fhb2wQ6A4mxiyG-c4YZ2gjac0uarCBZjzTSXYm7APImSOJZqhrfBCYPc/s1600/VG1M5540.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3NXt-IafBGZHkHobTAskUzw-P5SKnoUi8CJVThjutYMC9IVoPn-aZnm-MNRtbqklA2frMntSwL0uTVQJdo_fhb2wQ6A4mxiyG-c4YZ2gjac0uarCBZjzTSXYm7APImSOJZqhrfBCYPc/s320/VG1M5540.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550265568574337314" border="0" /></a><br /></span><style>@font-face { font-family: "verdana"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 78%; font-family: "verdana"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">It used to be that animal shelters closed for the week preceding the Christmas holiday.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Not so we could all go on vacation but so we could prevent people from adopting animals around the holidays.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The prevailing notion was that gift adoptions are bad things—impulse decisions that could ruin the life of an animal.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">We had this notion that people would be irresponsible in their gift-giving, adopting a six-month-old Rottweiler puppy for great aunt Madge or springing a kitten on allergy-ridden little Timmy.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">We thought people would just be too busy over the holidays to trouble with having a new animal in the house.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">But we at the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society have re-examined these old myths.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"> </p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Myth:</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Gift adoptions will result in the dumping of incompatible animals on animal shelters.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Reality:</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">The statistics show that animals received as gifts are actually less likely than animals acquired by other means to be relinquished by their caretakers.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">In fact, it is unusual for the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society to receive an animal as the result of a gift gone awry.</span></p><span style=";font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Myth:</span></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" >The Christmas holiday is stressful and hectic in everyone’s life.</span><span style=";font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span><p face="verdana" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p face="verdana" class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p face="verdana" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Reality:</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Not everyone celebrates Christmas.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">And not everyone’s household is Grand Central Station during this time of year.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Many people stay home with only their immediate family or one or two other guests.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Lots of people have a great deal of time off during the holidays (especially people on an academic schedule).</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">This may actually be the perfect time to introduce a new animal!</span></p><p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"> </p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Myth:</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Gift adoptions are based on impulse buying.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Reality:</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Many people put a great deal of thought into the gifts they give (remember, the thought <i style="">does</i> count!).</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Besides, people acquire animals for themselves on impulse all the time.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Good adoption counseling should help to identify and prevent impulse buying.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Myth:</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">The gift recipient needs to be involved in the adoption process.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" face="verdana"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" face="verdana"><span style="font-size:100%;">Reality:</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">This is true…to a point.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Certainly matching many dogs may rely on pre-adoption introductions to all family members (and the family dog) to ensure everyone’s safety.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">But some cats and kittens may be successfully adopted as a surprise for other family members who want a feline companion.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">Gift adoptions can go wrong if the giver does not take precautions to be sure the recipient of his generosity wants the animal and can care for the animal properly.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">After all, an animal isn’t a Billy Bass Singing Fish or a necktie.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">He is a sentient creature with a personality and needs.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Think of giving an animal as being more like offering an engagement ring—you are offering your loved one a lifetime commitment.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">And such things should not be offered lightly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Giving the gift recipient the opportunity to pick out her own pet may be a better idea than doing it for her. To this end, Dakin offers gift certificates. Dakin gift certificates are redeemable for adoptions or for any purchase from one of our adoption centers, our retail selection, our Diamonds in the Ruff thrift shop, dog training classes, or our Community Spay/Neuter Clinic. Just visit our Leverett or Springfield locations to purchase your certificate.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size:100%;">If you are considering adding a four-legged family member to your household this holiday season, please visit your local animal adoption agency first.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">You can talk to knowledgeable counselors who are committed not just to making a great match, but also to supporting your relationship with your new animal for years to come.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" face="verdana"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" face="verdana"><span style="font-size:100%;">Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society adoption centers in Leverett and Springfield are open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 5:30 (we’re open Thursday nights until 7:30) and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4:30.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">We will be closed on Christmas day to allow our staff to spend time with their own families.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Before that, we’d like to spend time with yours.</span></p>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-5621663334502832822010-11-29T15:35:00.002-05:002010-11-29T15:53:42.567-05:00Pedigree Foundation Helps Dakin Dogs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayzMIAFvr1CY7jjLSom9q9Un4YtrBTpHIqDojoxl0zVlfHN7MHH9m9LKZy2Yalx9a_J7Enie3r1sZWUfwYM7-PsDjrWghRvO-tsLlzfJyQ3UDiprN2QnBa60ayA0eTyVlQYjV-tW6v_I/s1600/Dakin_102207_12.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 281px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayzMIAFvr1CY7jjLSom9q9Un4YtrBTpHIqDojoxl0zVlfHN7MHH9m9LKZy2Yalx9a_J7Enie3r1sZWUfwYM7-PsDjrWghRvO-tsLlzfJyQ3UDiprN2QnBa60ayA0eTyVlQYjV-tW6v_I/s320/Dakin_102207_12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545077724116287186" border="0" /></a><br />On my first day back from a long holiday weekend, I was pleased to find an award from the <a href="http://www.pedigreefoundation.org/">Pedigree Foundation</a> as part of their "Dogs Rule" grant program. Pedigree donated $653.87 to the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society to help us get dogs adopted. You know what we're going to do with the money? We're going to use it to spay and neuter some of our adoption center dogs.<br /><br />"But you already have your own spay/neuter clinic!" you say. Indeed, we do. <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a>--which just completed its <a href="http://dpvhs.blogspot.com/2010/11/super-spayneuter.html">10,000th surgery</a> in a little more than a year--provides high quality, low-cost sterilization surgery for animals living in our community as well as animals in our adoption centers. But sterilizing adoption center animals costs money, and while we charge an <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adopt/">adoption fee</a> for our animals, it doesn't begin to cover the true costs of saving lives. There are the vaccines, the de-wormers, the flea and tick treatments, the antibiotics, x-rays, wound care, disinfectants, equipment, staff, electricity, heat, ....I could go on. Suffice it to say that<a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html"> every gift goes a long way around here</a>!<br /><br />So we'll gratefully take this generous grant from the good folks at the Pedigree Foundation and use it to help some great dogs find new homes. In the meantime, you might consider making one of <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptadog/">these dogs</a> your new best friend.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-18694885889088639542010-11-24T11:20:00.008-05:002010-11-29T15:54:47.483-05:00Super Spay/Neuter!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTg8pBBzGTBCaMywss1GdD7cqmTfSmlnCD-_FPfK6MK8QWMq5j_0UXoAR1rIiJIS9zWUL2inaZz7qefE0ruRr4jplKF6SHpOaTZAo8gIHjCBO9Hs2TGjOcUKBc5amWeB_IjU7zyw-lAI/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTg8pBBzGTBCaMywss1GdD7cqmTfSmlnCD-_FPfK6MK8QWMq5j_0UXoAR1rIiJIS9zWUL2inaZz7qefE0ruRr4jplKF6SHpOaTZAo8gIHjCBO9Hs2TGjOcUKBc5amWeB_IjU7zyw-lAI/s320/DSC_0020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543176858987164354" border="0" /></a><br />It seems like a superhuman feat, doesn't it, neutering 10,000 cats and dogs in just over a year? Well, the team of professionals at <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a> made it happen! Wearing colorful scrubs instead of blue tights and a cape, the clinic folks today celebrated their 10,000th surgery.<br /><br />Cat 10,000 is Victoria, a demure brown tabby who, at only 2 years of age, has already had several litters of kittens. Although she has lived the hard life of a free-roaming cat, a kind person has taken her in and, after spaying her, will find Victoria a new home. Most importantly, Victoria will never again bring kittens into a world where there are already far too many.<br /><br />Here are some quick facts about Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic:<br /><br />*75% of the animals we serve are cats; 25% are dogs.<br /><br />*Of the dogs we serve, 1 in 4 is a pit bull or pit bull mix. Pit bulls also comprise 30-50% of the dogs entering animal shelters or animal control agencies in our<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCipzd9l2vf0NFlBfL3g3xC0zYPyQ5ikTQ8GhOGmuea6p1E_TW2jP8B5a_G3bTDhIWP1ryUfkaPqGutsYrWE7kIaspYv-TvYRFJR_2EOsfiiXWHPcxuXHi5kVpT5DWDuIsNcNd-XR7XFk/s1600/STH71704.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCipzd9l2vf0NFlBfL3g3xC0zYPyQ5ikTQ8GhOGmuea6p1E_TW2jP8B5a_G3bTDhIWP1ryUfkaPqGutsYrWE7kIaspYv-TvYRFJR_2EOsfiiXWHPcxuXHi5kVpT5DWDuIsNcNd-XR7XFk/s320/STH71704.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543177063826371874" border="0" /></a> region so even though they are only 3%of the overall dog population, pit bulls are the dogs most at risk of becoming homeless in our community. The Community Spay/Neuter Clinic will neuter any pit bull or pit mix for only $50.<br /><br />*Of the cats we serve, more than 70% have never received veterinary care. Of those few cats who have received veterinary care, most of them received that care at a low-cost vaccine clinic.<br /><br />*Many of the female cats we see have already had more than one litter of kittens....which is why we will spay any cat who is at least 8 weeks old and weighs at least 2 pounds. Cats can come into heat and become pregnant as early as 4-5 months of age. Waiting until 6 months or a year to spay a female cat may lead to unwanted kittens.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_TGzu2r1utHxgNDObnzkxZyAC02JCLPmIoX7T75Yr3aqYlIIeCo9UVzyNfRm10_xciubo0HVQSxeoQYRO2clgKMkWuTL8moGtJuqD6Vx7BgF2Ak9GMnBbCXovFxOsjmiivwSuepKjxk/s1600/DSC_0024.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_TGzu2r1utHxgNDObnzkxZyAC02JCLPmIoX7T75Yr3aqYlIIeCo9UVzyNfRm10_xciubo0HVQSxeoQYRO2clgKMkWuTL8moGtJuqD6Vx7BgF2Ak9GMnBbCXovFxOsjmiivwSuepKjxk/s320/DSC_0024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543177408526878546" border="0" /></a><br /><br />*Although our prices are already very low, we have additional assistance programs for people who may not be able to afford surgery. If you or someone you know receives state or federal aid, we will spay or neuter your cat for only $25. Feed feral cats in Holyoke? We'll neuter your Holyoke ferals for only 10 bucks. Call us at 413-781-4019 or email spay@dpvhs.org for more information.<br /><br />How can we afford to do this? Some of the fees we charge for services help to off-set some of our expenses. But the truth is that we do it with some small grants and through the generosity of individual donors like you. <a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html">Please consider giving generously</a> to Dakin's Community Spay/Neuter Clinic.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-16631481099838319042010-11-05T11:11:00.003-04:002010-11-05T11:18:12.005-04:00Dogs Deserve Better<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJdDKlUeud-y5c4mEJdPjgLY2Nj5LfJlg7DuQ-x3s2rwCCtgNPeduyXkfFRK1J26WxRkMMOI2qQVyiPH1FHxmP3Vf9cSYfqfxItpNUTfTkFX1zp4kNknFOBKnoKWkKwzgkP7xePekl0Y/s1600/images.jpeg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 119px; height: 103px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJdDKlUeud-y5c4mEJdPjgLY2Nj5LfJlg7DuQ-x3s2rwCCtgNPeduyXkfFRK1J26WxRkMMOI2qQVyiPH1FHxmP3Vf9cSYfqfxItpNUTfTkFX1zp4kNknFOBKnoKWkKwzgkP7xePekl0Y/s320/images.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536084795456997202" border="0" /></a><br /><style>@font-face { font-family: "Times"; }@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }@font-face { font-family: "Gill Sans"; }@font-face { font-family: "Gill Sans MT"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoBodyTextIndent, li.MsoBodyTextIndent, div.MsoBodyTextIndent { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.25in; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }span.BodyTextIndentChar { font-family: Times; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">When I was growing up in Ohio, it was commonplace to chain our dogs to doghouses.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Most of them had no more than three or four feet of chain.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Buck, my dad’s Brittany spaniel, lived his entire life at the end of that chain, within four feet of his doghouse.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">It was my job to feed and water Buck every day after school.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">I dreaded this chore.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Because Buck was so desperate for any type of warmth or contact, he lunged against his chain and jumped on me.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">His paws were inevitably muddied with the feces and filth that surrounded his little wooden doghouse.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">After shoving him off me, sometimes pulling him off by his thick leather collar, I righted his bowls and filled them.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Then I walked away.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">The whole process couldn’t have given Buck more than thirty seconds of human contact.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Once a day.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">For sixteen years.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">While my childhood was longer ago than I care to admit, and dog care practices have come a long way since then, many dogs in our community continue to live their lives on the end of chains.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Such an existence is bleak beyond compare.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Like Buck, most chained dogs have little room to move.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Their once grassy area turns quickly to beaten dirt or mud.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Their chain frequently becomes tangled or tips over food and water bowls.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Their doghouses are often inadequate against the elements.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">And perhaps worst of all, they are socially isolated.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Like humans, dogs are social creatures.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Even in their domesticated state, dogs crave the companionship of other pack members.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">When dogs don’t have other dogs to hang out with, they create pack members wherever they can find them—more often than not with us humans.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Keeping a dog alone on the end of a chain frustrates this intense need for companionship.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">When a dog lives his life on the end of a chain or in a small pen, he is often neglected in many other important ways.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Chained dogs are less likely to receive adequate nourishment, shelter, or veterinary care.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">In fact, it is hard for many dog lovers to understand why people who chain their dogs have a dog at all.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">If you know a dog who lives chained or penned, it is possible to help.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Visit <a href="http://www.dogsdeservebetter.org/">Dogs Deserve Better</a> for ideas on how to compassionately approach people who chain their dogs.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">You can also learn how to work for legislation in your community that will prohibit or restrict this cruel practice.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">In fact, residents of the Town of Amherst will debate a proposed bylaw at their fall town meeting this week.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">The bylaw would place limits on the ways outdoor dogs can be confined, including banning the use of heavy, short chains.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">The bylaw also prohibits any but working dogs from being confined outdoors at night.</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Based on similar ordinances in Greenfield and East Longmeadow, the Amherst proposal was initiated by citizens who care about dogs.</span></p><p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoBodyTextIndent"> </p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="text-indent: 0in; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:78%;">As I write this entry, my dogs are curled up next to me on the couch or snoring away on soft beds near the woodstove. Though it is a cold November evening, many dogs in our community are not so fortunate.</span></p>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-141976520174491132010-10-28T09:14:00.004-04:002010-10-28T09:25:47.673-04:00New Dakinmobile Hits the Road!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHz9NoHHlAWGAkksA6oCBJbzUi10-10kTN06nGhcmRpnZ4Yx7-EqdhYj-UshovSjA9rK41Bqs7o4Jj104qAeqGIQpXOcBpb_rB_MJ4xHHzLleo35FoaYa7DjoSUJUXRrGLvdd-U92X5xU/s1600/DSC_0119.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHz9NoHHlAWGAkksA6oCBJbzUi10-10kTN06nGhcmRpnZ4Yx7-EqdhYj-UshovSjA9rK41Bqs7o4Jj104qAeqGIQpXOcBpb_rB_MJ4xHHzLleo35FoaYa7DjoSUJUXRrGLvdd-U92X5xU/s320/DSC_0119.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533086316266111858" border="0" /></a><br />In late September, our friends at <a href="http://www.fivestarcorp.net/">Five Star Building Corp.</a> put on the third annual Dakin Five Star Charity Golf Tournament at <a href="http://www.orchardsgolf.com/">The Orchards</a> in South Hadley. Golfing teams showed up bright and early on a clear, cool autumn day to have fun and help animals.<br /><br />Thanks to Dakin board member, Kevin Perrier, and his team at Five Star, the tournament's sponsors, and the golfers, Dakin now has a shiny new van!<br /><br />A spacious Ford Econoline 350, the new van is an integral part of the second year of <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/three_year.php">Dakin's Three Year Plan to Adoption Guarantee.</a> This is the year our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Community Spay/Neuter Clinic </a>begins transporting animals from outlying areas to Springfield for surgery.<br /><br />We are grateful to everyone who made this year's golf tournament a success!Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-24807180852623484002010-10-04T10:06:00.005-04:002010-10-04T10:31:07.418-04:00Every Buddy Needs Somebody<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6iNRjTuVpOzt0gbjlXLX0PNSpvcBETA4hMXrAqTCyx07fM-g1E2H_iw2gEw2n0eWQayL8l_sUWq4NgtyjW_-ZJdSH33Av2XFk1Ssc2Ru9qdXtQB-BnB-reZZMKyaUcfIJY0JuLTSfkw/s1600/6e95fdb6-edb9-4a79-bb69-1d9c96432195.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6iNRjTuVpOzt0gbjlXLX0PNSpvcBETA4hMXrAqTCyx07fM-g1E2H_iw2gEw2n0eWQayL8l_sUWq4NgtyjW_-ZJdSH33Av2XFk1Ssc2Ru9qdXtQB-BnB-reZZMKyaUcfIJY0JuLTSfkw/s320/6e95fdb6-edb9-4a79-bb69-1d9c96432195.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524196070272027170" border="0" /></a><br />The theme of this year's <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/support/summerfd10.php">Dakin summer fund drive</a> was "Every buddy needs somebody." Our goal? Raise $15,000 for the Buddy Fund--the emergency medical fund that provides extraordinary care to the sick or injured homeless animals who enter our adoption centers.<br /><br />Named after Buddy, a young shepherd mix who needed the special attention of a veterinary cardiologist, the Buddy Fund provides care for animals like Big Raul, a Chihuahua mix whose car accident led to the amputation of one of his rear legs. Visitors to Northampton have probably seen little black and tan Raul (now named Cheese Wagstaff) happily hopping around the city streets with his new family.<br /><br />The Buddy Fund is an essential element to achieving Dakin's goal of <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/three_year.php">Adoption Guarantee</a> by August 2012. As the Pioneer Valley's only non-profit humane society, we rely on the generosity of our supporters to help animals in need. In fact, Dakin's Springfield Adoption & Education Center is currently playing host to Buddy Fund recipient, Bailey.<br /><br />While big, red Doberman mix <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptadog/springfielddogs.php">Bailey</a> may appear to have little in common with tiny Raul, they both took on traffic and lived to tell about it. Bailey's front leg was broken in an encounter with a car. Thanks to Buddy Fund donors and Dakin adoption center veterinary staff, Bailey is on the mend....and in search of his new family.<br /><br />Speaking of families...we recently heard from Buddy's people. Adopted in 2007, Buddy, now named Monty, is a star of another kind. His new guardians, Hayley and Adam, are actors with Ashfield's <a href="http://doubleedgetheatre.org/index.php">Double Edge Theatre</a>. Monty even had a cameo in this summer's production of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/doubleedgetheatre/sets/72157624858516270"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Firebird</span>.</a><br /><br />To date, the summer fund drive has raised more than $23,000 to help sick and injured homeless animals. It's never too late to help save a life. <a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html">Please consider making your gift today.</a>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-60531220343881924712010-06-21T11:18:00.007-04:002010-06-21T14:21:14.668-04:00When the Internet Bites Back<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg255r6_7cn2FFzWDuc1GwpwjYqfbx8wnuJpUsLSvigNVCP2BSox5JGB2pMXSisOD-6A8Wl5jKKdiJY0c-5HWhBmUishk1utEyFhLqE0N-0EezqKec0pReshyphenhyphenI7h3ZHQBw-knjIVe5DKXg/s1600/IMG_0432.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg255r6_7cn2FFzWDuc1GwpwjYqfbx8wnuJpUsLSvigNVCP2BSox5JGB2pMXSisOD-6A8Wl5jKKdiJY0c-5HWhBmUishk1utEyFhLqE0N-0EezqKec0pReshyphenhyphenI7h3ZHQBw-knjIVe5DKXg/s320/IMG_0432.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485292571165602706" border="0" /></a><br />A member of our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/dpvhs.bod.php">Dakin Board of Directors</a> just forwarded me one of those standard African nation phishing scam emails (you know, they need you to wire money to the Nigerian prime minister's account to help him out of a bad spot). But this one had a new and interesting twist: the scammer, George, is talking about pets. He writes:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Hello Seller,</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">I got your contact as i was searching for a lovely pet to buy for our interested buyer is there i saw your advertisement that you have this particular one available under your possession to sell out.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />I need puppy and breeds with a lovely bull dog or cat, please let me know the one that you have available to sell out, send me your list and the prices so i can select, or let me know if you have only this one you advertise.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I am the sales representatives of my company we have store in both UK and Ghana west Africa, my financial manager is ready to apy you through Money order and once you confirm your money in your bank in your hands i will give you the shipping information, but please let me know if you will handle the shipment , or i will handle it.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Send down your full information with the price of your pet , your full names with your full address and your phone number for communications.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />George </span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />DEVTRACO</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></span></span></span></span>My first thought was that no one would fall for someone who needs puppies to breed with bulldogs or cats (!). But what if you had an ad in the paper or online trying to find a new home for an animal and you received this message? What if you weren't terribly computer literate? Certainly no animal would come to harm, but your bank account would be cleaned out in no time.<br /><br />The Internet has been an incredible resource for the animal welfare movement. Not only can we showcase <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptadog/">our adoptable animals</a>, but we can <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dakin-Pioneer-Valley-Humane-Society/34196597334">communicate inexpensively with our constituents</a>, mobilize them quickly to action, and <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/support/index.php">raise much-needed funds</a> to help animals.<br /><br />But the Internet has a darker side, too. Not only is it a place where scam artists like "George" can prey on naive users, it's a place where animal hoarders, puppy millers, and abusers can present themselves as rescuers, responsible breeders, and law-abiding animal lovers.<br /><br />In 2007, Maine animal welfare officials served a search warrant on J'aime Kennels of Buxton, ME, <a href="http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/puppy_mill_perils_250_dogs_and_puppies_rescued_from_filthy_kennel.html">seizing more than 250 dogs found in horrifying conditions</a>. I witnessed this tragedy first hand when I joined a small Dakin team that helped care for the dogs on site as the case began its long path through the court system. What was as nearly as disturbing as the herding breed dogs driven to insanity by constant confinement, the lapdogs living in their own excrement, and the puppies so covered with flies they did not, at first, appear to be white dogs, was that J'aime Kennels had a wonderful website. An unsuspecting dog lover looking for a particular breed of dog could search, for example, for French bulldog breeders and discover that J'aime would ship "hand-raised puppies" anywhere in the United States (while their website is now disabled, they still appear on other websites as "reputable" breeders).<br /><br />At a Dakin event not long ago, I met a woman with two adorable Shih Tzus. She told me she bought them over the Internet from a breeder in "the Midwest." She never saw their parents, she never saw where they were raised, and she trusted the website and the person on the other end of the phone completely. She now has two lovely young dogs. I can almost guarantee you that the parents of those two lovely dogs live in squalor and loneliness somewhere in the Midwest.<br /><br />People who would no sooner support such<a href="http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/puppy_mills/"> puppy mills</a> by shopping at a pet store for their new dog often think nothing of buying a puppy over the Internet...from often the very puppy mills supplying the pet store trade. The <a href="http://www.berkshireeagle.com/ci_13991321?IADID=Search-www.berkshireeagle.com-www.berkshireeagle.com">growth in Internet puppy sales from breeding mills has increased as retail store sales have declined</a>. Why? Puppy millers can avoid middle men--and often state and federal regulations--by selling directly to consumers.<br /><br />So what are you to do when you can't find the puppy of your dreams at your local animal adoption center?<br /><br />First, consider talking to the adoption center staff about breed specific rescue agencies. They can also help you negotiate adoption websites like <a href="http://www.petango.com/">Petango.com</a> or <a href="http://www.petfinder.com/">Petfinder.com</a>.<br /><br />If you have your heart set on a puppy, be sure to research reputable and humane breeders. In our region, <a href="http://www.pioneervalleykennelclub.com/">the Pioneer Valley Kennel Club</a> could be a terrific resource. A reputable breeder can be identified as someone who does the following:<br /><br />*Specializes in one breed of dog. Any website or advertisement that advertises "Yorkies! Poodles! Frenchies!" will likely lead you to a puppy miller, breeding dogs with little regard for their health or well-being.<br /><br />*Considers the health and well-being of their dogs by breeding infrequently and performing all necessary screening to be sure they are not passing on poor genetic characteristics.<br /><br />*Requires the surgical sterilization of the pet you adopt.<br /><br />*Will allow you to see where the puppies and the parents are being raised. If you cannot see the kennels, don't buy the dog. Do not accept photographs as an alternative.<br /><br />Remember that AKC paperwork is not a stamp of sound health or temperament. The AKC does little to regulate unscrupulous breeders and will sell registration papers to anyone who can prove the consistency of their dog's bloodlines--for good or ill.<br /><br />Of course, because this is a humane society blog, I'm going to make one more plug for adopting a rescued dog. My life is enriched immeasurably by the four dogs and two cats with whom I share my home. They are funny, clever, heartwarming, loud, messy, and lovable. Above all else, we found each other at the adoption center. You can, too.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-90705777208142797722010-06-02T15:27:00.004-04:002010-06-02T15:48:04.171-04:00It's Raining Cats and...Cats!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfrTbQG1_xI5Ir6xjlodKFsGx9ybF7wl5XijZkBhIRHuB47ridSNsKFyclEGaIHbYWvA7_wZqEk7ZsDKoXpREMhYGEj3t9dMyl0NJvJblJG8T8wbyHPSVDuZU7u7_kOMcLW4oAU7K5N0/s1600/VG1M5573.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRfrTbQG1_xI5Ir6xjlodKFsGx9ybF7wl5XijZkBhIRHuB47ridSNsKFyclEGaIHbYWvA7_wZqEk7ZsDKoXpREMhYGEj3t9dMyl0NJvJblJG8T8wbyHPSVDuZU7u7_kOMcLW4oAU7K5N0/s320/VG1M5573.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478265469529300082" border="0" /></a><br />In June we celebrate Adopt a Shelter Cat Month...and none too soon! Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society currently has nearly 300 animals in its care--most of them<a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptacat/"> cats and kittens</a>.<br /><br />More than 100 kittens and their mothers are frolicking in the spare bedrooms of our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/volunteer/what.php">foster volunteers,</a> while still others await sterilization surgery at the <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Dakin Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a> prior to going up for adoption.<br /><br />And, oh the cats and kittens in our adoption areas! Longhairs, shorthairs, calicos, Siamese mixes, giant Maine coon-types, and classic tabbies. We have ginger cats and black panthers, stunning blue-eyed beauties and Holstein-spotted troublemakers. Fat cats, svelte cats, polydactyl cats and cats with no claws at all. If you can't find a cat at our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/directions.php">Springfield or Leverett adoption centers</a>, my friend, you aren't looking for a cat.<br /><br />We have cats who have never met a stranger and cats who will spend the first week hiding under your bed (before deciding you're okay). We have cats who want to live alone and cats who love a party. We even have cats with special needs, like <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptacat/springfieldcats.php">Annie Oakley</a>, who is living with feline immunodeficiency virus.<br /><br />In our Springfield Adoption Center, we have office cats: cats too stressed by the hustle and bustle of the busy adoption center to remain in a cage, but who have blossomed in the offices of our administrative staff. These lucky cats "help" our staff get their work done (if your own cat insists on sitting on your computer keyboard, you know what I mean), until they find their new homes.<br /><br />We have so many great cats needing homes, that we are <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/events/cpc2009.php">waiving the adoption fee </a>on cats one year or older for a limited time.<br /><br />What are you waiting for?Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-91032237970596997232010-04-21T20:50:00.003-04:002010-04-21T22:22:16.544-04:00Holyoke Ferals Receive Reprieve...For Now<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWtM0p4EdUqdp9h5jE4yU2QJBZcIitWlJbxd4bMIeEa_scPHbuQELuaNta9oPfVUq3qFli1J6hWzeFzB-tKE-qXS7lMKE1m4hk4V09UEcOz52Zn9ZriW1nP52j5GajP_lmISZ19shUd8/s1600/photo-7.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWtM0p4EdUqdp9h5jE4yU2QJBZcIitWlJbxd4bMIeEa_scPHbuQELuaNta9oPfVUq3qFli1J6hWzeFzB-tKE-qXS7lMKE1m4hk4V09UEcOz52Zn9ZriW1nP52j5GajP_lmISZ19shUd8/s320/photo-7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462766714373751826" border="0" /></a><br />At last night's Holyoke City Council meeting, the council voted by a narrow margin (8-7) to send the proposed ordinance prohibiting the feeding and sheltering of any animals outdoors back to committee for public hearing. This was a good and important step, not just because I think the ordinance, as written, should be defeated, but because it gives us a chance to work collaboratively to come up with a solution that can work for people <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> for cats.<br /><br />And if last night's meeting taught me one thing, it's this: we have our work cut out for us in helping people understand the plight of feral and free-roaming cats. And it's not just our government officials who need more information...sometimes it's the cat advocates, themselves.<br /><br />The Holyoke ordinance came about because one individual, in opposition to pleas from his neighbors, orders from the Board of Health, and, finally, a determination from a judge, refused to stop feeding cats on his property in a residential neighborhood.<br /><br />Unfortunately, despite this gentleman's best intentions, he was not responsibly feeding his feral cats. A responsibly managed colony is fed only at specific times. This prevents wildlife from approaching and helps to control colony size. It also helps the feeder identify new cats immediately so they can be trapped, neutered, vaccinated, and returned (or placed, if social). When feeding time is over, all dishes (except water bowls) should be removed. <br /><br />Other elements of responsible colony management include: neutering and eartipping all cats, removing and re-homing socialized cats, keeping rabies vaccinations current, and working with neighbors to avoid creating a nuisance.<br /><br />As animal advocates, we do ourselves no favors by not being willing to look at both sides of an issue and look for common ground. While I'm the first to agree that Trap-Neuter-Return plays an important--even vital--role in reducing the population of feral cats, protecting the public health, and making cats a more welcome presence in a neighborhood, it may not be the right approach every time. In instances where the owner of the property does not welcome the cats or the cats are threatening protected wildlife, we need to look at trap-and-relocate (much more difficult than it sounds) or fencing the colony to protect other animals (a solution that is working in other parts of the country). <a href="http://www.neighborhoodcats.org/RESOURCES_OTHER_LAWS">Check out these communities</a> where feral cat and wildlife advocates are drafting mutually-beneficial legislation designed to protect all animals--feline, wild, and human.<br /><br />Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society is committed to working with trapping experts, community cat lovers, animal control, and government officials in the City of Holyoke to come up with reasonable, long-term, humane solutions that benefit both cats and humans. Dakin can help by providing low-cost sterilization surgery for feral cats at our <a href="http://http//www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a>. We can collaborate with experts like <a href="http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/hcp.html">Homeless Cat Project</a> to provide training sessions in the community on how to manage a colony--including trapping, feeding, sheltering, vaccinating, and working with neighbors.<br /><br />If we choose not to work together to find a creative solution for feral and free-roaming cats, we don't have anything to lose. But the cats do.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-34353104004580453282010-04-16T14:54:00.001-04:002010-04-16T14:56:20.345-04:00Holyoke Homeless and Feral Cat Ordinance is Pending<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMdZCaZ93qV4t6FkUlncV75gBtYeL_ffFocizy_1UzNqGvPfABdyUQZLUjgPXLDFDXbMy8s7CC_nvlUpcMY0c3YCJJrKHJS8A_mq7e6o865j2tjSERURVZdph_sIUyEMyQKmd-Hs20yk/s1600/37315.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMdZCaZ93qV4t6FkUlncV75gBtYeL_ffFocizy_1UzNqGvPfABdyUQZLUjgPXLDFDXbMy8s7CC_nvlUpcMY0c3YCJJrKHJS8A_mq7e6o865j2tjSERURVZdph_sIUyEMyQKmd-Hs20yk/s320/37315.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460811094949037922" /></a><br />Because I could not possibly say this better myself, I'm asking you to click on this link to the MSPCA's advocacy page to learn more about how you can help cats in Holyoke.<br /><a href="http://www.mspca.org/programs/animal-protection-legislation/government-affairs/holyoke-cat-ordinance.html">Holyoke Homeless and Feral Cat Ordinance is Pending</a>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-79279594143013205122010-03-26T16:27:00.005-04:002010-03-26T17:09:39.347-04:00Rescue Waggin' Comes to Town!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPxM-U8aAKvVoyU4MFrlyJXBoCocQ_zpd87Gs-swa3BtYbqWbvNaS8QZELsIUznKCv4Wl8_9_1Y_uo7OkuZDkxocLVZ8qDpMUpeqFdTnXj82j-i-bGQSFlYrSeEykw8egmi-x6YQQsEQ/s1600/2nd+Rescue+Waggin+001.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPxM-U8aAKvVoyU4MFrlyJXBoCocQ_zpd87Gs-swa3BtYbqWbvNaS8QZELsIUznKCv4Wl8_9_1Y_uo7OkuZDkxocLVZ8qDpMUpeqFdTnXj82j-i-bGQSFlYrSeEykw8egmi-x6YQQsEQ/s320/2nd+Rescue+Waggin+001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453051648732260178" border="0" /></a><br />At 5:00 Thursday morning, two guys in a truck filled with 20 dogs set out from the <a href="http://www.augustaregionalspca.org/">Augusta Regional SPCA</a> in Staunton, Virginia and began driving north. The guys are drivers for <a href="http://www.petsmartcharities.org/rescue-waggin/">PetSmart Charities Rescue Waggin</a><a href="http://www.petsmartcharities.org/rescue-waggin/">'</a>. Rescue Waggin' saves the lives of dogs and puppies by transporting them from areas of high pet population (where they face almost certain euthanasia) to areas like the Pioneer Valley where adoptable dogs are in high demand.<br /><br />While Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society has operated its popular <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adopt/dixie_dogs.php">"Dixie Dogs" program</a> since 2003, our relationship with Rescue Waggin' is a new one. In fact, Dakin is the first New England animal welfare organization to become a part of the Rescue Waggin' program.<br /><br />Rescue Waggin' partnership offers several advantages. In the past, Dakin staff have had to negotiate the arrangements with our partner agencies in the South. We had to help them understand our disease control standards, quarantine requirements, and behavior evaluations. With Rescue Waggin', PetSmart Charities assumes the task of training the sending and receiving agencies to work together. Not only do we have a standardized behavior evaluation, but we also have standardized paperwork and health certificates.<br /><br />Best of all, PetSmart Charities works with the sending community to put programs in place to end overpopulation (spay/neuter!) while covering the transport costs for the receiving <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPdstaX13O5btMggt0KwX5-ifw1ATMnnFC7D8Pxkr64sIY5Buv2pemgOAziGOPmg5ckkZJljuvsrAJHX4QoYhB-06gHRprh_vwBXEOM1aZBNyZgdwVWjMFmPYn8JsiSZmSTrfAp9KPSk/s1600/2nd+Rescue+Waggin+017.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPdstaX13O5btMggt0KwX5-ifw1ATMnnFC7D8Pxkr64sIY5Buv2pemgOAziGOPmg5ckkZJljuvsrAJHX4QoYhB-06gHRprh_vwBXEOM1aZBNyZgdwVWjMFmPYn8JsiSZmSTrfAp9KPSk/s320/2nd+Rescue+Waggin+017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453052021677121634" border="0" /></a>organization so that we can invest our hard-earned money in programs in our community that help animals in need (cats! pitbulls! rabbits!). Participation in the Rescue Waggin' program could save Dakin as much as $20,000 a year--no small sum when it comes to saving animals' lives!<br /><br />The latest load of 14 dogs (6 of the 20 were dropped off at the ASPCA in New York City) will go through their state-mandated 48-hour quarantine period here at Dakin's Springfield Adoption & Education Center. At the end of that quarantine, we'll have our veterinary staff examine them, provide them with any necessary medical treatment or vaccinations, send them over to the <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">Dakin Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a> for a quick snip, and then we'll split them between our Leverett and Springfield adoption centers. In only a few short days, this latest round of lucky Dixie Dogs will be living the good life in their new Yankee homes.<br /><br />Whenever we talk about Dixie Dogs, we want to remind people of two important points: First, Dakin staff work very hard to make sure that we help every <span style="font-style: italic;">local</span> homeless dog we can, including those housed at animal control agencies in our own communities and around Massachusetts. Second, wonderful dogs die every day in this country for lack of a home. It is our obligation to do everything we can to put an end to that tragedy.<br /><br />As I write this, my Dixie dog, Howard, and my Yankee dog, Grampy, are snoring next to me. Who says the North and the South can't get along?Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-27278739659731708432010-03-04T09:57:00.005-05:002010-03-04T10:00:08.319-05:00De-Vocalization Bill Passes Massachusetts House!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptGjsEon1cD7M7oP90ol6XDu5nVNUHfqlZL5CSPw8JqtIEgy192y-mk_rqobLe1RQRqPzZ435_8LYuqAskI8O6DPuGYVYCRF4NRLay22XGC2UJ6LheGcoLs1iwwhh5wM0aqq0VrzsfDw/s1600-h/Dakin0709_025.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 173px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptGjsEon1cD7M7oP90ol6XDu5nVNUHfqlZL5CSPw8JqtIEgy192y-mk_rqobLe1RQRqPzZ435_8LYuqAskI8O6DPuGYVYCRF4NRLay22XGC2UJ6LheGcoLs1iwwhh5wM0aqq0VrzsfDw/s320/Dakin0709_025.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444793238622011218" border="0" /></a><br />Thanks to the hard work and support of a grassroots movement of dog lovers, the Massachusetts House just moved forward on HB 344, An Act Prohibiting De-vocalization, as written! In an overwhelming 150-1 vote, the House moved the bill forward where it will now be heard by the state Senate (the lone dissenting vote was Rep. George Peterson, R-Seventh Worcester).<br /><br />What to do today? Hug a legislator!<br /><br />Call, email or most appreciated of all, send a hard-copy note. It doesn't have to be long. Thank- you notes are important, and not just because your mom said so; they help cement relationships with legislators, encouraging them to embrace future humane bills.<br /><br />If you choose to email, put “Thank you for supporting H344!” in the subject line. Then write a short message, with your name and address. Constituents rule.<br /><br />Please also thank the heroes of the day, who saved the bill, even if they're not your representatives.<br /><br />They fended off amendments proposed by the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association, which would have effectively killed the bill. If the following are not your Reps, don't bombard them with calls. Send an email (with "thank you for supporting H344" in the subject line) or, the gold standard, a note that you put a stamp on and mail:<br /><br />Rep. Cheryl Coakley-Rivera, Rep.CherylCoakley-Rivera@hou.state.ma.us<br />Rep. Bill Bowles, Rep.BillBowles@hou.state.ma.us<br />Rep. Will Brownsberger, Rep.WilliamBrownsberger@hou.state.ma.us<br />Rep. Jennifer Callahan, Rep.JenniferCallahan@hou.state.ma.us<br />Rep. Gene O’Flaherty, Rep.GeneOFlaherty@hou.state.ma.us<br />Snail mail: State House, Boston 02133<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMB2kNnch8jGOayvs5GzYOvWpRbkxtYozXmQXTVNK_cDhvqLra0Lo74LTjswK7HHqIdtgxU3jliIqIaxquqInK37oPA-QVLeTq-5fTLios-wsKh8Do6Mw4bWycG6VhshEGV-aaY1uc_yw/s1600-h/car1.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 156px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMB2kNnch8jGOayvs5GzYOvWpRbkxtYozXmQXTVNK_cDhvqLra0Lo74LTjswK7HHqIdtgxU3jliIqIaxquqInK37oPA-QVLeTq-5fTLios-wsKh8Do6Mw4bWycG6VhshEGV-aaY1uc_yw/s320/car1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444793383600391378" border="0" /></a><br />Rep. Coakley-Rivera, from Springfield, made an impassioned plea for passage of the bill without amendment. She said, "(My dogs) are members of my family. They may not be search dogs who find people…or assistance dogs working with children. But they are special to me. (De-vocalization) involves monetary profit, not love of animals. (It) is inhumane and must be stopped. Most people who de-vocalize their dogs don't take the time and training. Little dogs have a tendency to yelp, it's their only defense. I brought my friend who has sat here for the last 40 minutes and not said a word. He gets love and humane treatment from my family. Please accept this bill as written."<br /><br />Thank you, Rep. Coakley-Rivera! And thank you all the legislators who moved this bill forward!<br /><br />What's next? The Massachusetts Senate! Stay tuned for updates on this measure as we continue to work to get it passed without amendment. Keep an eye on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dakin-Pioneer-Valley-Humane-Society/34196597334">Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society's Facebook page </a>for up-to-the minute news.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-28728624457041623562010-03-01T15:50:00.006-05:002010-03-01T16:14:07.365-05:00Dakin's Buddy Fund Saves Lives<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1-mgVcTGM3Z9GZdGH2hziPsxmNHQ_WY7dL2s0VuifFlXt5MIiVc3-ZLkrNMHiYx5o1F2Ba_L7XXVQ7QsdD1X5Rk9D0ipCouZA0K68G0E1No1leEvfzlYsvr_fVn9wq1w0y-N7sODnP0/s1600-h/photo.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1-mgVcTGM3Z9GZdGH2hziPsxmNHQ_WY7dL2s0VuifFlXt5MIiVc3-ZLkrNMHiYx5o1F2Ba_L7XXVQ7QsdD1X5Rk9D0ipCouZA0K68G0E1No1leEvfzlYsvr_fVn9wq1w0y-N7sODnP0/s320/photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443775617399191666" border="0" /></a>Bol has all the outrageous enthusiasm of any 6-month-old pit bull--he jumps, he romps, he loves to chase a ball. And he also has complete fractures to both bones in his right front leg. After being hit by a car in Springfield, Bol ended up at the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society when his person realized he didn't have the money to treat Bol's injuries.<br /><br />The adoption center veterinary staff have splinted Bol's leg to help it heal. While he's not out of the woods yet, and surgery or a cast may still be needed, Bol is already putting weight on his bum paw and starting to enjoy life again. This afternoon, the veterinary staff were re-wrapping Bol's leg, fashioning a "pee-proof" glove for the splint to keep it from getting soaked every time the rambunctious guy goes for his daily constitutional.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OnK4SIWQREpCMP2fl5fs-JAn7zSPSveJ-SDAma2k_gEBcBXip9AOwKekpXitutj7N1Y2cv-ceAYM1LN-_VJkUIgtd3VvtC4vtCTZAhpFAGKPIX6fKtYtcTIDPf8Z9uu9e8eTbbZZISo/s1600-h/photo-1.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OnK4SIWQREpCMP2fl5fs-JAn7zSPSveJ-SDAma2k_gEBcBXip9AOwKekpXitutj7N1Y2cv-ceAYM1LN-_VJkUIgtd3VvtC4vtCTZAhpFAGKPIX6fKtYtcTIDPf8Z9uu9e8eTbbZZISo/s320/photo-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443775711890248066" border="0" /></a><br /><br />From broken legs to dental extractions, from enucleations to ear infections, Dakin's adoption center veterinary team goes the extra mile to help homeless animals who need to recover from injury, neglect, or abuse before finding their second chance. We're grateful to have talented staff capable of helping animals in need. And we're also grateful that donors to the <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/support/buddy.php">Dakin Buddy Fund</a> make such treatment possible.<br /><br />Named for a young shepherd mix with a cardiomyopathy, the Buddy Fund is the special account we use to provide treatment beyond the standard spay/neuter surgery or vaccinations. When an animal comes to us sick or injured, but with good prospects for recovery and a full life in a new home, we call on the Buddy Fund to help him out.<br /><br />Please consider a <a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html">donation</a> to the Buddy Fund today. Your gift is a lifesaver.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-49428873305787028602010-02-11T12:17:00.004-05:002010-02-11T12:43:27.170-05:00Things are Hopping at the Humane Society!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ezwbdXpSSJrLw8zEsdRHFsdEt-A6sWRBV70RnCpYVZSs-KU5RIeLhLqjWNBGXkSGxKTQji_rje-2ki0_A61_2KScysVjp1NbKlbl-etIjp_BGNHtdkndAdySCMDkVSRJMAPcjB8ILXA/s1600-h/DSC_0008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ezwbdXpSSJrLw8zEsdRHFsdEt-A6sWRBV70RnCpYVZSs-KU5RIeLhLqjWNBGXkSGxKTQji_rje-2ki0_A61_2KScysVjp1NbKlbl-etIjp_BGNHtdkndAdySCMDkVSRJMAPcjB8ILXA/s320/DSC_0008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437042281247977778" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Construction Zone!</span><br />We are a few short weeks away from unveiling our remodeled adoption center lobby in Springfield! Formerly the waiting room for the animal hospital that was here when the MSPCA owned the building, our bright new lobby will include two large, glass, multi-level colony rooms where our adoption cats will be allowed to roam and interact with people; a smaller colony room for cats who have been diagnosed with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV); a waiting <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lDTHwNWaxTBAmQM_T9_ZmPhpPx64UpivplJzZWrQApghUWGPSWZenlsq5IIGmYLgPwvybwWnSm14jYOvks8yQ43XZIqU9Ud16fA_VWHDhI33DQEp20_eDbAEJBbqsLnsZfU5pykEpKE/s1600-h/DSC_0011.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lDTHwNWaxTBAmQM_T9_ZmPhpPx64UpivplJzZWrQApghUWGPSWZenlsq5IIGmYLgPwvybwWnSm14jYOvks8yQ43XZIqU9Ud16fA_VWHDhI33DQEp20_eDbAEJBbqsLnsZfU5pykEpKE/s320/DSC_0011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437042550164206690" border="0" /></a>room filled with toys and activities for children; and adoption counseling stations that will allow our clients to sit and talk with DPVHS staff, rather than crowding around a small counter area.<br /><br />The remodeling of the lobby is part of the DPVHS <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/three_year.php">Three Year Plan to Adoption Guarantee</a>. It was funded through the generosity of Barbara Sullivan, a cat lover who passed away in 2009 and left a <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/support/bequest.php">bequest</a> that was designated for improvements to our Union Street building. We are grateful for Barbara's forethought and compassion for animals.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Celebrate Valentine's Day by Loving Some<span style="font-style: italic;">bunny!</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARcBmPDD3HBWQBAVFiKAMLaMLZhjC850H40ILPTdVWRonNDcC52_26PIHBqc0y6J6n88YNJrwHFD0Xi03zJI-5j-Ou7GxzXQubHAWXVKJ9-8_5I-6VV4sPW0SKn0wkh8hG_fawcdYzrY/s1600-h/DSC_0015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARcBmPDD3HBWQBAVFiKAMLaMLZhjC850H40ILPTdVWRonNDcC52_26PIHBqc0y6J6n88YNJrwHFD0Xi03zJI-5j-Ou7GxzXQubHAWXVKJ9-8_5I-6VV4sPW0SKn0wkh8hG_fawcdYzrY/s320/DSC_0015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437042761533077490" border="0" /></a><br />In honor of Valentine's Day--and in celebration of Adopt a Rabbit Month--we invite you to come to one of our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/directions.php">adoption centers</a> and <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/events/love_somebunny_10.php">Love Somebunny</a> this weekend. While the cost of all rabbit adoptions will be reduced for the celebration, your new rabbit will still receive the same great services, including a veterinary exam, spay or neuter surgery, a rabbit care handbook, and, this weekend only, a special Love Somebunny adoption gift pack! Visit our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptasmallanimal/">adoptable rabbits</a> online. Our good friends from the <a href="http://hopline.org/">House Rabbit Connection</a> will be on hand in Springfield on Saturday and Sunday to help adopters learn more about living with rabbits.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Taylor's Tavern Bartender Shoot Out Benefits DPVHS!<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>What could be more romantic than watching people try to slide a mug of beer the length of a bar in competition to see who can hit the target? I submit that nothing is more romantic. That's why I'll be spending Valentine's Day with the cool kids down at <a href="http://www.taylorstavernandrestaurant.com/">Taylor's Tavern </a>in Greenfield for the <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/events/bartender_10.php">13th Annual Bartender's Shoot-Out.</a> All proceeds from the contest will benefit DPVHS. Festivities kick off at 1:00 p.m. Your $20 entry fee gets you a <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/events/bartender_10.php">very cool t-shirt</a>, a Magic Hat glass, a couple of beers, and a shot at greatness.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-39274160810571325642010-02-02T11:23:00.005-05:002010-02-02T14:10:45.995-05:00DPVHS: 2009 Year in Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu-6ueaQNKjklGSi82Dl9JFympxErazz7a-zs2sfLxlZwplHM4noMZ-LXHfAVUDxljtvGCxs0An25SKNbDzKpnmGbGn4CQO3nYtwbQ0tjrFkFUNMPayihcOx6USaByDaFVn7ww_kl7O4/s1600-h/Dakin0709_009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu-6ueaQNKjklGSi82Dl9JFympxErazz7a-zs2sfLxlZwplHM4noMZ-LXHfAVUDxljtvGCxs0An25SKNbDzKpnmGbGn4CQO3nYtwbQ0tjrFkFUNMPayihcOx6USaByDaFVn7ww_kl7O4/s320/Dakin0709_009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433724810703854706" border="0" /></a><br />2009 was a wild year for Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society. We started the year off normally enough--setting our budget, applying for grant funding, dreaming of a new building...and then, at the end of February 2009, we received word that the MSPCA would be closing their Western New England Animal Care and Adoption Center by the end of March.<br /><br />Those of you who follow DPVHS closely know that we worked with the MSPCA to negotiate the purchase of their adoption center at <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/directions.php">171 Union Street in Springfield</a>, closed on the purchase in mid-July and re-opened the busy adoption center on August 1st. For the first time in its history, DPVHS had become an open admission humane society. But we did so with one goal in mind: to end the euthanasia of adoptable animals in the Pioneer Valley by 2012.<br /><br />With our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/three_year.php">Three Year Plan to Adoption Guarantee</a> in place, we held on tight and plunged forward. Here are some statistics for the year 2009:<br /><br />*Our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/directions.php">Leverett Adoption Center</a> admitted 14% of the animals arriving at DPVHS...but that tiny facility adopted out more than 40%!<br /><br />*<a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptacat/">Adult cat adoptions</a> in Leverett are the big news this year. For the past 3 years we've tried to increase our adult cat adoptions there with no success. The number of adult cat adoptions remained static...until 2009! This was the first year we were able to significantly increase the number of adult cat adoptions performed, from 375 adults in 2008 to 489 adult cats in 2009!<br /><br />*We ended the year with an 83% live release rate! What's a live release rate? You better catch up on your reading <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/asilomar_standards.php">here</a>.<br /><br />*Despite operating as an open admission adoption center for the last five months of 2009, DPVHS euthanized no <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/about/asilomar_standards.php">healthy</a> cats or dogs in 2009.<br /><br />*We increased our volunteer <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/volunteer/what.php">foster</a> program from serving 393 animals in 2008 to serving 557 animals in 2009, an increase of 42%!<br /><br />*Thanks to our <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/events/cpc2009.php">"Certified Pre-Owned Cats"</a> program, launched in September 2009 as a way to save lives and encourage the adoption of adult cats, we saw a 37% increase in the average monthly adult cat placements. The average jumped from 67 adult cats to 106 adult cats per month finding qualified homes. That equals about 156 <span style="font-style: italic;">extra</span> adult cat adoptions during the promotion.<br /><br />*Even though it opened on October 12, 2009, the <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/snap/">DPVHS Community Spay/Neuter Clinic</a> served 1,358 animals by the end of December 2009!<br /><br />*Of the animals served by the Community Spay/Neuter Clinic, 80% are cats and 20% are dogs.<br /><br />*Of the animals brought to the Community Spay/Neuter Clinic by their own families, only 37% have ever seen a veterinarian prior to coming to us. The difference is most marked in cats: only 17% of cats coming to the clinic have ever seen a veterinarian (compared to 77% of dogs). But of those animals who had been to see a vet, PETCO or Luv My Pet low-cost vaccine clinics are the single most popular provider of services. Still, 83% of felines and 30% of canines did not have a current rabies vaccine, as required by law.<br /><br />*The Community Spay/Neuter Clinic served 201 animals from other rescues, shelters, or animal control agencies, including the <a href="http://www.tjoconnoradoptioncenter.com/tjo/index.php">Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center</a> in Springfield.<br /><br />*DPVHS employed more than 400 <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/volunteer/">volunteers</a> by the end of 2009. The service they provide is the equivalent of having 4 additional paid staff members for each day of 2009!<br /><br />*DPVHS was featured in the media 98 times, an average of 3 times per week, not including regularly-scheduled segments or advertising.<br /><br />*DPVHS conducted regular <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/education/">humane education</a> programming in 2009 at: Childrens Study Home (Springfield), Maple Valley School (Wendell), Victory House (Greenfield), Brightside (West Springfield), Behavioral Health Network (Springfield), Morgan Elementary School (Holyoke), Leverett Elementary School, Greenfield High School, Leeds Elementary School, Orange School District, and Deerfield Elementary School. Additional programs were delivered to schools and scouts throughout the Valley.<br /><br />Thank you to all of you who <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/volunteer/">volunteered</a> your time, <a href="https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/DakinPioneerValleyHumaneSo/OnlineDonation.html">donated</a> your hard earned money, or cheered DPVHS on from the sidelines to make 2009 a banner year! It is only with <span style="font-style: italic;">your</span> help that we can create a community where every animal lives a full and peaceful life.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-12238460300817255012010-01-14T15:37:00.005-05:002010-01-14T17:04:24.275-05:00Birds of a Feather<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKfQrVwL3EpE6_bCi2bWXMvaXULqUqFj7magqTg8-hcbk-5Pb8MWyNvpHtHbdPVWYIc6oeQ2vZkfGvUHXfZN74qTFEV85FkOpr-HHB1aLsfqNFsoBxliRPgCyoJSGExMPsKEBCE1p-_yU/s1600-h/DSC_0041.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKfQrVwL3EpE6_bCi2bWXMvaXULqUqFj7magqTg8-hcbk-5Pb8MWyNvpHtHbdPVWYIc6oeQ2vZkfGvUHXfZN74qTFEV85FkOpr-HHB1aLsfqNFsoBxliRPgCyoJSGExMPsKEBCE1p-_yU/s320/DSC_0041.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426717522837341602" border="0" /></a><br />When most people think about humane societies, they think about cats and dogs. Maybe rabbits. But birds?<br /><br />In fact, DPVHS provides shelter and <a href="http://www.dpvhs.org/adoptasmallanimal/">adoption</a> for more than 50 homeless birds each year. From tiny finches to parakeets and doves; from lovebirds and cockatiels to large parrots…birds of all shapes and sizes find refuge and new homes through Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society’s adoption centers. Many birds come to us because their people did not realize how much work caring for a bird can be.<br /><br />Here are a few things to consider before adopting a bird:<br /><br />Even though many people keep birds in their home, birds are not domesticated animals. They are the wild native species of other countries (which raises some real issues about the <a href="http://www.birdlife.org/action/change/cites/index.html">international bird trade</a> and the inherent cruelty of removing animals from the wild and forcing them to live in cages).<br /><br />Parrots, including lovebirds, parakeets, and cockatiels can be destructive, noisy, and quite messy. Not only that, but some species can live 20 to 50 years or longer. A commitment to a bird is a long one that may have to include provisions for the bird's care in your will!<br /><br />Despite their chewing, squawking, seed-tossing way, birds are also beautiful and elegant. If you're thinking about acquiring a bird, consider adopting one from a rescue agency. Just as adopting a dog from the humane society instead of purchasing him from a pet store or online breeder helps end the <a href="http://www.stoppuppymills.org/">cruelty of puppy mills</a>, adopting your next bird from a rescue helps stop the perpetuation of the international bird trade.<br /><br />But before you adopt, make sure you do your research. You want to be sure to adopt the kind of bird that will fit your lifestyle and also that you can provide a home that is healthy and fun for you <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> the bird.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMuEKt90e2HJ8PQ1QqfuNHX3a6InWB6ehzSgY4zb6iGXSxaqC-rthYZQkRiP9URiAqegQ1n-J_3J2ACv_eVcvg8iAXQn7tmeQGDlOHTdFs8tQkOK34MvBM1wytOTzDskBOHxocIonaSI/s1600-h/Falcons.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 310px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMuEKt90e2HJ8PQ1QqfuNHX3a6InWB6ehzSgY4zb6iGXSxaqC-rthYZQkRiP9URiAqegQ1n-J_3J2ACv_eVcvg8iAXQn7tmeQGDlOHTdFs8tQkOK34MvBM1wytOTzDskBOHxocIonaSI/s320/Falcons.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426718035808903426" border="0" /></a><br />In celebration of National Bird Month, DPVHS, the <a href="http://falconsahl.com/">Springfield Falcons</a>, and <a href="http://www.redrobin.com/">Red Robin</a> are joining forces to celebrate our feathered friends and help homeless animals.<br /><br />This month, you can have fun at the Springfield Falcons while helping DPVHS. On January 30, the Springfield Falcons will play against the Providence Bruins at the <a href="http://www.massmutualcenter.com/">MassMutual Center</a>. Tickets are on sale for $10 (regularly $17). $2 from each ticket sold will benefit DPVHS. Purchase two tickets and receive a free appetizer at Red Robin in Holyoke and a chance to win dinner for four!<br /><br />Falcon ticket order forms are available at DPVHS, 171 Union Street, Springfield, or by calling or e-mailing Julia Kincade at (413) 739-3344 x105 <a href="mailto:jkincade@falconsahl.com?subject=Birds%20Of%20A%20Feather">jkincade@falconsahl.com</a>.<br /><br />And wait…there’s more! Along with catering to the winning entry, Red Robin will host a 10% night on February 8, 2010 to benefit DPVHS. With presentation of a coupon available through Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society and the Springfield Falcons, 10% of your party’s tab will benefit DPVHS!Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4644446586785283297.post-86602178673159624872010-01-05T14:38:00.005-05:002010-01-05T15:33:13.187-05:00Secondhand Dogs at your Service<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7DfSuyBX0CVMAX3ip_dn9MKBnjwCcafghzQOm-JW4cETRf2XlwngHFbWOpCY07GGNP7CWYL7NvwutbntUjzqFEH8IFNJYZR_AKVuGSUbQJRmNMh51TqsyLZ1uHu26EU1z2LXED_Zyr9I/s1600-h/Snickers+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7DfSuyBX0CVMAX3ip_dn9MKBnjwCcafghzQOm-JW4cETRf2XlwngHFbWOpCY07GGNP7CWYL7NvwutbntUjzqFEH8IFNJYZR_AKVuGSUbQJRmNMh51TqsyLZ1uHu26EU1z2LXED_Zyr9I/s320/Snickers+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423354929000459458" border="0" /></a><br />They say you only get once chance to make a first impression. When Snickers, a chocolate Pomeranian mix, and Milo, a cream poodle mix, first arrived at DPVHS, they didn't do a good job of endearing themselves. Marni Edelhart, DPVHS's Behavior & Training Coordinator says of Snickers, "When Snickers first walked into the adoption center he was not selling himself very well. He darted hither and thither on his leash barking at everything that moved, humping me, and peeing on stuff." Doesn't sound like a dog people would line up to take home.<br /><br />"Milo, on the other hand," states Marni, "came in very subdued and quiet until he got into a kennel where he let his voice be heard, barking whenever anyone entered the room. Like Snickers, he had a history of bad behavior with other dogs when on leash. In our evaluation here he did a lot of barking when he met another dog, but seemed more anxious than threatening."<br /><br />Enter the good folks at New England Assistance Dog Services, or <a href="http://www.neads.org/">NEADS</a>. NEADS provides trained dogs to assist people who are deaf or who have disabilities. They are the oldest hearing assistance dog provider in the country and the only organization of their type in New England. With headquarters in Princeton, Massachusetts, NEADS reaches out to animal adoption centers to find sheltered dogs with the qualities to make a great service dog. Diamonds in the ruff, so to speak.<br /><br />Marni worked with NEADS evaluators to help Snickers and Milo get a second chance. She says, "NEADS has very high behavioral standards for their service dogs; th<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioOWNmdlgDjlA44YlJ6HXgIBOYo06j-oRzv_hOKHZG3ePCbZLy94Ab7OSeYCKZiuO5ze8Z3G6ZNtKYagsmvuD64hc-Keyrt3o_XfNaeVRT4VPg72C0VCmwb6-_l1EasCSgPv59uWZbgU0/s1600-h/Milo+3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioOWNmdlgDjlA44YlJ6HXgIBOYo06j-oRzv_hOKHZG3ePCbZLy94Ab7OSeYCKZiuO5ze8Z3G6ZNtKYagsmvuD64hc-Keyrt3o_XfNaeVRT4VPg72C0VCmwb6-_l1EasCSgPv59uWZbgU0/s320/Milo+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423355530448544562" border="0" /></a>ere can be no evidence or history of aggression, and the dog has to be friendly with people of all ages and other animals. Additionally, hearing dogs (which is what both Snickers and Milo are training to become) should be highly energetic, motivated by both play and treats, and sound-sensitive. The more interest they show in novel sounds the better. Both Snickers and Milo had a physical appeal that sparked interest from adopters who wanted fluffy cuddlebugs. Their personalities, however, are much better suited to work than to snuggling. Although they are both social they prefer chasing a ball or following a scent to sitting quietly to be petted."<br /><br />Snickers, the dog who paced frantically and loudly on the end of a leash, did great during his NEADS evaluation. "Once in a quiet room," Marni said, "some of his sweeter qualities became apparent and after a couple of days in a regular routine here he was a much more pleasant companion. The one concern in placing him with NEADS was his loudmouth behavior on leash when he saw other dogs. Fortunately he was barking out of love and interacted very nicely with dogs once he was close enough to smell them." Snickers won a recruitment slot. He began training as a hearing assistance dog with NEADS on December 21st.<br /><br />Milo, although only about 25lbs, was surrendered because he was too much for his guardian to keep up with. According to Marni, "Unlike Snickers, when NEADS came to meet him he showed off as though he had prepped for the exam. With each new sound he calmly looked up and went over to investigate. He walked nicely on a leash for them and when he met the Labrador that they brought along he was a little over-eager, but perfectly friendly. NEADS was very happy to get such a promising assistance dog candidate and after watching him in their evaluation I felt even more sure that life as an assistance dog (always having a job to do) would suit Milo perfectly." Milo began his training on January 4th.<br /><br />We are proud to send two DPVHS "alumni" to NEADS for their "graduate work." And even prouder that these two dogs will help a person with a disability navigate the world while providing them companionship. Congratulations, Snickers and Milo!<br /><br />For more information about NEADS, visit www.neads.org.Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07787606056334286477noreply@blogger.com1