PE T GA ZETTE
SUMMER 2024
Tugboat’s Triumph
by DR. NATALIE WEEKES, VMD • Shelter Medical Director
At animal shelters, infectious diseases can be catastrophic to daily operations. There are so many animals living in close quarters that diseases can spread rapidly. Shelter medicine is a constant balance of treating every animal as an individual but also considering the overall population’s health. One story showing the importance of vigilance in our shelter and serving as a reminder of our furry friends' resilience is Tugboat, a brave dog who recently won a tough battle against canine parvovirus or “parvo,” as it is often referred to.
Tugboat, a lovable mixed-breed dog, arrived at the York County SPCA as a stray in early June. Unfortunately, with stray animals we do not know any information about their medical background or what they have been exposed to prior to entering our care. Very shortly after arriving, he started showing signs of parvovirus. This highly contagious disease affects dogs, especially puppies and unvaccinated adult dogs. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow, leading to severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, sepsis, and in some cases, death.
When Tugboat was diagnosed, our team sprang into action due to the severity of this disease. The risk of an outbreak was high, and immediate measures were needed to treat him and protect the other dogs in our care. Our veterinary team isolated Tugboat and initiated his treatment plan.
To prevent an outbreak, our shelter follows stringent biosecurity measures. These include regularly cleaning and disinfecting all areas, ensuring all animals are vaccinated, and quickly isolating sick animals. Despite these precautions, the threat of infectious diseases remains ever-present, highlighting the need for ongoing awareness and support from our community. Our shelter lacks adequate and appropriate quarantine and isolation space, which means we often must get creative with where to put animals to keep them away from the general population. This is not ideal for the animals or our care teams.
After weeks of treatment, Tugboat is healthy, happy, and was recently adopted into his forever home on July 25. His journey to full recovery is a testament to the importance of prompt medical intervention, the effectiveness of our shelter's protocols, and the indomitable spirit of rescue animals.
Your continued support enables us to provide the best care possible and ensure that every animal gets the chance to find their happily ever after. Thank you for being a part of our mission. Together, we can make a difference, one life at a time.
ADMINISTRATION
Executive Director: Steven Martinez
Communications Director: Kristen Dempwolf
Shelter Operations Director: Kari Herchelroth, CVT
Finance & HR Director: Elizabeth Loucks, CPA
Clinic Medical Director: Dr. Kimberly Mann, VMD
Director of Philanthropy: Chad Myers
Shelter Medical Director: Dr. Natalie Weekes, VMD
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Katie Mahoney
Vice President: Sue DeStephano
Secretary: Brett Marcy
Treasurer: Tyler Lerman
Immediate Past President: Holly Gumke
Nancy Brougher (Emeritus), Michelle Frye, Vicki Glatfelter, Kelly Kelch, Kathy King (Emeritus), Christian Miller, Valerie Miller DVM (Emeritus), Keith Noll, John Porter, Teresa Shultz-Fogelman, Kevin Schmidt, DVM, Tricia Slagel
A Season of
by STEVEN MARTINEZ • Executive Director
This year, Give Local York (GLY) was a record-setting day for the York County SPCA and the York community! On May 2 and 3, our community rallied as nearly 13,000 donors raised over $5.2 million in support of 323 local nonprofit organizations! While the total number of dollars raised is impressive, the true goal of GLY is to help organizations like the YCSPCA acquire new and unique donors so that we can continue to further our missions.
Heading into Give Local York, we aimed to secure 600 unique donors and raise $100,000 to support our lifesaving work. We are very proud to report that 1,000 unique donors contributed $130,000 to the YCSPCA on Give Day—a new GLY record for the most unique donors to one organization in one day! In fact, roughly 7% of all donations made on GLY supported the YCSPCA!
We can’t thank the York community enough for this tremendous support of our lifesaving work. The highlight of our GLY Day was our first-ever Community PAW’ty, where we had family-friendly activities, including face painting, touring the kennels and cattery, painting canvases with our adoptable cats, and the ultimate—a Doggy Fashion Show, emceed by our very own Board Chair, Katie Mahoney!
On Friday, June 28, the YCSPCA hosted the 9th Annual Putting Fore Paws Golf Outing, presented by the W. Dale Brougher Foundation, at the beautiful Heritage Hills Golf Resort. It was a gorgeous day for our 100 participants, and it was clear that everyone had a blast! A special thank you goes out to our presenting sponsor Smith Wealth Advisory Group of Janney Montgomery Scott and our Lunch, Dinner, Eagle, Green, Cart, and Competition Sponsors who all made this event a big success. We’d also like to thank our pro for the day, Martin Fedorko of White Rose Ventures, for challenging all the teams on the treacherous downhill chip on Hole 5.
We want to thank the York community for stepping up to support the YCSPCA in a big way during these events! Our team loves to connect with members of the York community and continue to spread the word of our great work. Every dollar directly impacts the lives of animals we care for, bringing them one step closer to a happy outcome.
On May 2 and 3, York County celebrated the nonprofit community by stepping up big Annual Give Local York! It was a record-breaking day for the YCSPCA as we received donations from 1,000 and raised $130,000 in support of our lifesaving work. We can’t thank you enough, and we are already GLY next year!
Fore! The sun was shining, the greens were lush, and the golf carts were revved up for a day of swings and smiles. On June 28, 2024, the York County SPCA hosted the 9th Annual Putting Fore Paws Golf Outing at the picturesque Heritage Hills Golf Resort. But this event was more than just a golf tournament—it was a celebration of compassion, community, and our four-legged companions.
Thanks to our generous sponsors and participants, we raised funds that will make tails wag for years to come. Medical care, shelter, and love—all wrapped up in a golf swing. It’s like a hole-in-one for our furry friends!
To our golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and staff: You’re our MVPs! Your support means more than an eagle on the 18th hole. Thank you for putting for paws!
In memory of W. Dale Brougher’s love for animals. Professional photos courtesy of Stephanie Benamor Photography.
our final stats:
Community Cats and Summer Weather Tips
by KIMBERLY MANN, VMD • Clinic Medical Director
Community cats, also called free-roaming or feral cats, are well-suited to living outdoors, usually near humans who provide food, water, and shelter. They are resilient and able to live and thrive in many varieties of locations, weather conditions, and climates. However, you can still take action to help make life outdoors more comfortable for these cats.
We recommend the following tips to help keep cats cool:
Food and Water: How to Feed Feral Cats in the Summer
• Try to feed cats consistently each day so that they will learn to anticipate mealtimes. Then, do not leave food out for more than 30-45 minutes to prevent insects from getting into the cats’ food.
• If feeding wet food, add extra water to keep it from drying out and to help keep cats hydrated.
• Build a feeding station. It will shield food, water, and the cats from the hot sun and precipitation.
• Ensure plenty of fresh, clean water is always available – cats are susceptible to dehydration and heat stroke. Using deep, narrow bowls for water minimizes evaporation, as does keeping the water in shaded areas rather than in the sun.
Providing Shelter: Keeping Outdoor Cats Cool
• Cats can typically find their own shelter, but you can also provide additional options where they can sleep, relax, cool down, and stay safe.
• Allow easy access to shaded areas, like under a shed or deck.
TNR: Trapping Safely During the Summer Heat
TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) can be done safely year-round, but there are some extra precautions to take in the case of extreme heat.
• Never set a trap for a cat without a plan – ensure you have enough scheduled TNR appointments for all cats you plan on trapping and a plan on what to do in an emergency if you trap an injured or ill cat.
• Trap cats at dawn or dusk, when it’s less likely to be extremely hot and humid.
• After a cat is trapped, it should immediately be moved to a temperature-controlled staging area. Leaving a cat exposed to the sun while in a trap can quickly lead to life-threatening heat stroke.
• Never put cats into transport vehicles without air conditioning during extreme heat.
For more information regarding the TNR program at the York County SPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic, please visit our website at www.ycspca.org.
Love for Lobo
by RACHEL RITCHEY • Content Creator
In 2023, our Humane Society Police Officer, Otto Cruz completed 312 cruelty/neglect investigations. This number has increased with each passing year, which means more animals are being rescued from some of the most heartbreaking situations and then seeking refuge and care at our shelter. Each of these numbers represents a story with at least one animal involved—this is Lobo’s journey.
Lobo is a one-year-old male German shepherd. However, when he arrived in May, his breed was undistinguishable due to the severe amount of hair loss and scabbing he had all over his frail body. His extreme itchiness and discomfort made him miserable when he first arrived at the York County SPCA. After performing a skin scraping, he was diagnosed with sarcoptic mange (also known as scabies). This is a contagious disease caused by microscopic mites. He also had severe skin and ear infections. Our Shelter Medical Director, Dr. Natalie Weekes, says, “He is one of the worst scabies cases we have seen here at the shelter.” Lobo immediately started treatment and was placed in quarantine to ensure his condition did not spread to our canine population.
As weeks passed, our staff witnessed Lobo’s physical and mental healing. Initially curled up in a tiny ball on his bed in the corner of his kennel for most of the day, Lobo was now letting is personality shine through as he began to trust that we were there to help him.
Our medical and canine teams knew that Lobo would thrive in a foster home, and we worked tirelessly to find one where he could decompress and continue healing. Within a few days, Kendra contacted us to foster him; she said, “I had originally put in an application to foster cats, and then something just kept telling me to put in to foster dogs. Not long after that, I saw the post that Lobo was looking for a foster. I picked him up right away, and honestly, he was a ‘foster fail’ from the second I saw him.”
In only a week, Kendra decided it was time to make it official and welcome Lobo as a permanent family member. You would not believe his transformation in only two months from first arriving at the shelter – his hair is growing beautifully. You can tell he is a German shepherd now!
Thank you, Kendra and family, for taking a chance on Lobo, and thank you to our community for never wavering in supporting the most vulnerable animals. We couldn’t do it without you!
*The dogs pictured have all been humanely trapped and brought to the YCSPCA with the help of Find Toby volunteers.
Find Toby in PA An
Invaluable Community Resource
by MEAGAN SHENBERGER • Canine Behavior Specialist
What started as a Facebook page in 2012 to help one owner reunite with his lost dog has now turned into one of the largest, volunteer-run, non-profit resources for reuniting lost pets with their families. With 119,000 followers on Facebook, Find Toby in PA has reunited over 4,900 dogs and 2,100 cats with their families between July 2023 and June 2024. Find Toby in PA helps animals all around Pennsylvania and the surrounding states.
Between 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. every day, the Find Toby in PA Facebook page is run by dedicated volunteers checking messages from families about their lost pets, finders about animals they’ve found, sighted animals in our area, and making posts about all the animals for others to view. Each message provides resources on what to do if you have found yourself in one of those situations. Somehow, in between all this work, they find time to post stray animals brought to the York County SPCA for more eyes to see in hopes that we can return more pets to their owners.
While reuniting lost pets is what they’re known for, Find Toby in PA does much more than that. They have a very small team in the field to help humanely trap dogs on the run. This is no small feat. I had the privilege to help with two trappings myself. It’s tiring and stressful, yet one of the most rewarding experiences I have participated in. It’s nothing I imagined: setting up in the most accurate location while still needing it to be secluded for the dog, bringing out the bait and trail cams, and then waiting. These volunteers must then check the cameras to ensure the dog is never left in the trap for longer than necessary. No trapping is the same; it can take days, weeks, or maybe longer. As the saying goes, it’s not easy, but someone has to do it!
Find Toby in PA is truly a lifesaving organization. They go above and beyond daily for the animals and those who love them. They need more selfless people to volunteer and have different opportunities to fit into their volunteers’ schedules. If you have a heart for animal welfare and reuniting lost pets, please go to their website www.findtobyinpa.com to learn more about the organization and how to apply to make a difference in your community!
Overcrowded Shelters
Deb Byloff and Cathy Hivner have trained dogs for two decades and have partnered with the York County SPCA for the last 16 years, helping to teach our community to understand their pups better. Both work and train their dogs at Papillonia Dog Training Academy.
by DEB BYLOFF & CATHY HIVNER • Papillonia Dog Training Academy
Many animal shelters, locally and across the U.S., are overcrowded. How can the number of homeless animals be reduced?
Having a pet is a lifetime commitment, both emotionally and financially. It is wise for pet owners to plan for the future should poor health or death in the family leave pets homeless. Some end up in shelters when families can no longer afford to feed them or pay for their health care. There are many resources for those in need of pet food. One is the Pet Food Pantry at the York County SPCA. If you would like to help support this human service program, you can donate pet food that is either new or in its original packaging and within the expiration date. All donations can be dropped off in the donation bins outside the shelter's front entrance, seven days a week, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Sometimes, low-cost preventive veterinary care can help keep a pet out of a shelter. One resource is a program such as PetVet Wellness Centers through Tractor Supply store locations and clinics held at some local pet stores. These centers provide affordable vaccines, medical testing, physical exams, and microchipping.
Spaying or neutering pets can help reduce shelter overcrowding by preventing future litters. If cost is an issue, the YCSPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic offers reduced prices to spay or neuter owned cats and dogs and community cats.
A change in living situations is one of the primary reasons pets are surrendered to shelters. If pet owners are put in this position, they can choose to rehome the pet through a website like www.adopt-a-pet.com. Services like these can ensure the pet never ends up in a stressful shelter environment and gives the pet owner control over where their pet ends up, helping ensure that the transition is successful. Often, the new owners can continue to provide updates to the previous owners, so their bond is not broken.
At times, pets end up homeless because families do not know how to resolve behavioral problems, such as anxiety or lack of self-control. The website www.sniffspot.com maintains a list of trainers with bio information listed by location that could help. The issue of overcrowded shelters is complex, but taking positive action can bring some relief and save animal lives.
Dogs’ Day Out!
Ever wanted to take one of our shelter dogs on a hike in the park? Maybe grabbing coffee for yourself and a pup cup for your favorite shelter pal? Well, now you can take one of our adoptable dogs on a fun adventure outside of the shelter for the day with our Dogs’ Day Out Program!
Ever since the success of our very first Doggy Date Day in February, we’ve had community members asking how they can participate in the next one! We’ve decided to make our Dogs’ Day Out a monthly event.
How to Sign Up
Ready to join the fun?
Here’s how you can sign up:
• Follow us on Facebook and/or Instagram and opt to receive notifications when we post. Events fill up fast and we post sign ups the week of each event.
• Submit our Dogs' Day Out Questionnaire
• A member of our team will review your submission and find a perfect match for your grand adventure!
Visit our website at www.ycspca.org to learn more about our Dogs' Day Out program and upcoming events!
We hope to see you at our next one!
Plan for the Future and
by CHAD MYERS • Director of Philanthropy
As we step into August, we recognize National Make a Will Month, a time dedicated to planning for the future and ensuring that our loved ones and cherished causes are cared for. Creating a will is vital in securing your legacy and providing peace of mind for you and your family. This month, we encourage you to consider including the York County SPCA in your estate plans, ensuring that your love for animals will make a difference for years to come.
Why Make a Will?
A will is more than just a legal document; it’s a way to express your values and priorities. By making a will, you:
• Ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
• Provide for your loved ones and dependents.
• Support the causes and organizations that matter most to you.
Why Include the York County SPCA?
The York County SPCA is a pillar of compassion and care in our community, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding permanent homes for pets in need. By naming the York County SPCA in your will, you can:
• Help provide ongoing care and shelter for homeless animals.
• Support vital programs such as spay/neuter services, medical care, and adoption initiatives.
• Leave a lasting legacy of kindness and compassion.
How to Include the York County SPCA in Your Will
Including the York County SPCA in your will is a straightforward process.
Here are a few steps to get you started:
• Consult with an Attorney: A legal professional can help draft or update your will to include charitable bequests.
• Specify Your Bequest: Decide on the type of gift you’d like to leave, whether it’s a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or a particular asset.
• Use Our Legal Name and Information: Ensure your bequest is directed correctly using our full legal name, York County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and our tax identification number: 23-1399588.
Join Us in Making a Difference
This August, take the opportunity to create or update your will and consider the impact you can have on the lives of countless animals. Your thoughtful planning today can ensure a brighter future for the animals that most need us. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the York County SPCA. Together, we can create a legacy of compassion and care.
For more information on legacy giving opportunities, please contact Chad Myers, Director of Philanthropy, via email: cmyers@ycspca.org or phone: 717-764-6109 ext. 205.
“Dogs have always been an important part of my life. Living alone for so many years, I see dogs and their companionship as equal to that of humans. Being a member of the Constant Companions club is my way of giving back to the loyal friends who have given me so much joy.” - Major Ben Newton
Become a hero for animals in need by joining the York County SPCA’s monthly donor club, Constant Companions.
Just as our pets are our constant companions, you can provide this same comfort to the animals in our care. Your support ensures every animal receives the care, love, and second chance they deserve. As a member, you’ll receive exclusive updates, heartwarming stories, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a lasting impact. Join us today and be a constant companion to those who need it most!
Ready to make a difference?
Join now by scanning the QR code or visiting www.ycspca.org
ADOPTION SNAPS HOTS
Hopper - "Hopper is doing amazing in his forever home. He loves lying in my bay window, playing with his red ball, and running in the yard. He is a gentle giant” - Sandy
Princess - "Princess (now Juni) is very vocal, playful, and cuddly. She loves the laser pointer and chasing spring toys and will even fetch them. She
with a neurological disorder called cerebellar hypoplasia (CH). “Beetle is amazing! She has to be greeted before I leave for work. If I don’t greet her as soon as I get home from work, she will meow until I greet her. She is my son’s best friend. She also has to lay next to my daughter’s crib every night.” - Lacie
Carver - “Carver (now Gunner) has definitely been my favorite dog I've owned. His personality is unlike any other's. My favorite part is taking him swimming. He loves the water and has adapted well with other dogs. Thank you, YCSPCA, for sending Gunner my way!” - Trevor
Clover - "When we met Clover at the shelter, we just all fell in love with him. He came home and just fell right into what he needs to do, and my son loves him. It took a little bit for Clover to open up to us, but now he has the zoomies and loves running around and playing with his toys. My son just adores Clover, and we love him so much!” - Tammy
Brougher Companion Animal Shelter
3159 Susquehanna Trail N. York, PA 17406
www.ycspca.org
IN M E M O R Y O F
Be lle
"Belle was surrendered to the York County SPCA during the summer of 2023. My husband and I agreed to foster Belle, but she fit in with our existing pack so well that we decided to give Belle her furever home. Belle was a vivacious and joyful dog that loved to play in the yard, cuddle at bedtime, and turned into a literal ‘ankle-biter’ at mealtime because of how excited she became. Belle passed over the Rainbow Bridge unexpectedly in June 2024, but even in her short time in the Szuch household, she left a lasting impression, and her energetic smile will be remembered forever.”
- Ivy, Our Volunteer Supervisor Dog Walker and Trainer
PET GAZETTE
Published by the York County SPCA Brougher Companion Animal Shelter
3159 Susquehanna Trail North, York, PA 17406 (717) 764-6109 • www.ycspca.org
Printing by Ream Printing Co
Layout and Design by Honeybee Studios
Professional Photos by Dawn J. Sagert/ The York Dispatch and Tetra Design Co.
The Pet Gazette is published quarterly by The York County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
In order to receive the Pet Gazette, you must make an annual contribution of $25 to the York County SPCA. The York County SPCA does not endorse or guarantee any oducts, services, or vendors mentioned in the Pet Gazette, nor can it be held responsible for problems with vendors or their products or services.