August 7, 2023

From The Buffalo News:

Letter: Governor should sign wildlife bill into law
As a proud Eagle Scout and Buffalo native, I’ve been following national coverage of Sen. Tim Kennedy’s bill to end wildlife for cash competitions (“New York considers ban on cash prize contests for hunting coyotes, squirrels, some other wildlife” July 20).

The Outdoor Code is an integral part of every scout’s commitment to treat our land with respect and follow principled outdoor ethics. “I will learn about and practice good conservation of soil, waters, forests, minerals, grasslands, wildlife and energy. I will urge others to do the same.”

More on ending wildlife kill contests >>

Therefore, I respectfully ask Gov. Kathy Hochul to protect our natural resources by signing S.4099 into law. Doing so will ensure proper stewardship and care of our state’s precious wildlife.

Nicholas Hassett
Buffalo

See this letter at BuffaloNews.com >>

FIND TRUE LOVE AND YOUR
ADOPTION FEE MAY BE *WAIVED!*

WE’RE BRINGING IT BACK!
Get ready for a furry love connection like no other! The SPCA is bringing the excitement of speed dating back to our shelter on Friday and Saturday, August 18 and 19, from noon to 8 p.m., removing the need for guest passes and hoping you fall in love at first sight! 💘✨

During these special days, we’re waiving adoption fees for all animals one year and older, making it easier than ever to find your perfect match! We guarantee sparks will fly! 😘💕

And that’s not all! Adopters will not only leave with their new furry friend but also some fantastic fun favors to kickstart their journey together! 🎁🎉

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to find love and bring home a lifelong companion. Mark your calendars and join us for this unforgettable event at the SPCA.  🐶🐱🐓❤️ #GetYourFlirtOn

#GetYourFlirtOn at the SPCA all summer >>>

SPCA SERVING ERIE COUNTY NEARING CRISIS SITUATION: HIGH NUMBER OF ANIMAL CRUELTY RESCUES AND LOW ADOPTIONS MAY FORCE SPCA TO TEMPORARILY CLOSE ANIMAL ADMISSIONS

SPCA animal cruelty investigators say they are on track with the rising number of animal cruelty arrests this year as compared to last year’s exorbitant increase. October 1, 2020 – September 30, 2021, there were 13 animal cruelty arrests amidst hundreds of animal cruelty cases, nearly double the year prior, and this year’s numbers remain high. October 1, 2022, to July 17, 2023, there have already been seven animal cruelty arrests by the SPCA in Erie County. This year is different, however, in that more of these cases are felony cases. That means the circumstances are more severe and more complicated, with animals requiring much more care and attention with longer lengths of stay.

Types of cruelty cases include beating, abandonment, animals left outdoors in extreme heat without water or shelter, and animals living in unsanitary conditions.

The SPCA is seeing an increase in the number of cruelty cases due to the following situations: cost of living increases, uncared for mental health conditions, increases in substance abuse, and post-COVID-19 conditions including the expiration of the eviction moratorium and the return to in-person work. In addition, access to spay/neuter surgeries was extremely limited during the pandemic resulting in a severe overpopulation of dogs.

Reports of an increase in animal cruelty are not just coming from the United States. A January 2023 article from the World Animal Foundation states that in the United Kingdom, the rate of abuse of just dogs has risen by 16% since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that, worldwide, animal cruelty complaints have increased by 55% in the past 10 years.

Care and housing for these animals most in-need and at-risk must be prioritized by our organization in terms of space, veterinary care, and resources. This, combined with adoptable dogs and cats who have been with the SPCA a prolonged period of time, means that kennels and cages are filled and the SPCA is close to reaching maximum capacity. We must continue animal cruelty investigations and rescues while continuing to provide the best care possible to the animals awaiting adoption, especially the longer-stay residents who require more time and attention to keep them mentally and emotionally stable despite extended stays in kennels and cages.

As we provide care for animals most in-need and at-risk, we may be forced to close animal admissions for an extended time. We can, however, still offer assistance to those seeking ways to keep their pets or provide community resources to those looking to surrender pets, to those who require veterinary care, and more.

How you can help with these emergency needs:

Bill to Ban Brutal Wildlife Killing Contests in NYS Passes Both Houses, Now Heads to Gov. Hochul

July 13, 2023
By: SPCA Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca

The SPCA and other animal welfare organizations across the nation have been diligent in efforts to end barbaric wildlife killing contests (see original story and accompanying articles here >>) and the New York State bill that would outlaw these cruel acts passed both the state Senate and Assembly last month. The bill is now headed to Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk, and the SPCA Serving Erie County is working hard to spread the message about the realities of such barbaric activities, asking people to contact Governor Hochul to urge her to sign the bill outlawing these brutal acts once and for all.

More on wildlife killing contests >>

SPCA President/CEO Cait Daly and Director of Wildlife Barbara Haney have written the following emotional message regarding the importance of outlawing this immoral activity, further encouraging community members to contact the Governor asking for her support. Governor Hochul’s contact information is included below the message. 


THERE IS NO PLACE IN NYS FOR BRUTAL WILDLIFE KILL CONTESTS

The SPCA Serving Erie County has continually been a leader in rallying the moral fiber of our community on issues of animal cruelty. For 156 years we have been there for our animals to champion them and to mature with the community in our efforts to protect them. We must cry out once more, this time for our wildlife.

Over the last few years, we have watched some of our local communities and counties participating in wildlife kill contests, encouraging participants to compete for cash and other prizes for killing the most, the largest, or even the smallest foxes, bobcats, coyotes, squirrels, crows, and other species over a weekend.

We were horrified at the documentation and photos that the Humane Society of the United States acquired that showed dumpsters filled with discarded carcasses of animals. What makes this especially sad is that there is no logical, scientific reason that we can find that may justify dumpsters of dead animals.

Indeed, science unequivocally refutes the claims that this is population control. The evidence goes back for over a century that indiscriminate killing in some species only causes population numbers to grow. This is clearly shown in coyote population biology and cited in numerous studies and recognized by several wildlife agencies across the country, including the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.

Indiscriminate, wanton killing does not manage the population. In fact, quite the opposite. The indiscriminate killing of coyotes can cause a population spike, disrupting the family units, wreaking havoc on the environment. Reason and science alone beg one to find these contests immoral, but it goes further when we consider that wildlife is sovereign and should be a resource held in the public trust for ALL New Yorkers.

A2917/
S4099 is the legislation that would finally end the wildlife kill contests. Nothing in the proposed legislation changes hunting seasons, bag limits, or any other regulations. Deer, turkey, and bear are exempt from the bill as the state already tightly regulates the seasonal hunting of these species. This bill focuses solely on one thing, ending the use of killing wildlife for cash profits.

In June, this bill passed both chambers with bipartisan support. It now sits in the hands of our very own Governor Kathy Hochul. We implore Governor Hochul to eradicate this practice for the public good.

The SPCA Serving Erie County, one of only a handful of humane societies in the country with a fully-outfitted Wildlife Department, sets the standards for ethics and best practices in caring for and living with wildlife. Let us become the ninth state* to ban these contests. Let us finally put an end to this antiquated practice of killing contests that have no scientific or moral foundation.

Supporters and WNY residents, please contact Governor Hochul using the contact information below and voice your support for this important bill. We respectfully urge Governor Hochul, a Buffalo native, to sign this bill into law. We would be proud to become the ninth state to prohibit these selfish and unnecessary competitions!

SPCA Serving Erie County President/CEO Caitlin Daly
(716) 875-7360, ext. 250
CaitD@yourspca.org

SPCA Director of Wildlife Barbara Haney
(716) 875-7360, ext. 220
BarbH@yourspca.org



Contact Governor Hochul by phone:
1-518-474-8390 | Office hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Contact Governor Hochul by website contact form:
bit.ly/SendMessagetoGovHochul

Contact Governor Hochul by mail:
The Honorable Kathy Hochul
Governor of New York State
NYS State Capitol Building
Albany, NY 12224


*Wildlife killing contests are banned in Arizona, California, Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Vermont, and Washington.

FIND TRUE LOVE AND YOUR
ADOPTION FEE MAY BE *WAIVED!*


WE’RE BRINGING IT BACK!

Get ready for a furry love connection like no other! The SPCA is bringing the excitement of speed dating back to our shelter on Thursday and Friday, July 20 and 21, from noon to 8 p.m., removing the need for guest passes and hoping you fall in love at first sight! 💘✨

During these special days, we’re waiving adoption fees for all animals one year and older, making it easier than ever to find your perfect match! We guarantee sparks will fly! 😘💕

And that’s not all! Adopters will not only leave with their new furry friend but also some fantastic fun favors to kickstart their journey together! 🎁🎉

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to find love and bring home a lifelong companion. Mark your calendars and join us for this unforgettable event at the SPCA. Spread the word and tag your friends who might be looking for their new pet! 🐶🐱🐓❤️ #GetYourFlirtOn

#GetYourFlirtOn at the SPCA all summer >>>


Located inside Thin Man Brewery Chandler at 166 Chandler Street

END WILDLIFE KILLING CONTESTS


A coyote in the woods.

Submit form urging Gov. Hochul to sign bill banning wildlife killing contests >>

A message from the SPCA’s Cait Daly & Barbara Haney >>

Words from HSUS NYS Director Brian Shapiro >>

Update, July 2023 — Last month the New York State Senate and Assembly passed the bill to end brutal wildlife killing contests. It now heads to the desk of Governor Kathy Hochul, whose approval would make New York State the ninth state in the nation to outlaw such kills. Those interested in encouraging Governor Hochul to sign S. 4099 into law can call (518) 474-8390, or contact her using an on-line contact form here >>


Credit NYSHA & WGRZ-TV

In wildlife killing contests, participants compete to kill coyotes, foxes, bobcats, and other ecologically vital species for cash and prizes. Hundreds of animals may be killed at a single event and countless others may be injured. During springtime contests, dependent young may be orphaned and left to die from starvation, predation or exposure. After the killing is over, the animals are often dumped like trash, away from the public eye.

“It is not a sport, it is not hunting, it is the killing of wildlife.” –NYS Senator Timothy Kennedy told WGRZ-TV in February.

Stopping these contests would not reduce opportunities to hunt coyotes or other wildlife, prohibit big buck competitions or fishing tournaments, prevent the lethal control of wildlife to protect livestock or outlaw field dog trials. It would simply prohibit the competitive killing of wildlife for frivolous prizes. All wildlife species play an important role in healthy ecosystems. It’s time for New York to join Massachusetts, Vermont, Maryland and the five other states that have already outlawed these cruel, unsporting and ecologically destructive events.

TAKE ACTION

Please send a message to your state legislators urging them to support A.2917/S.4099 to end wildlife killing contests, using the form found here >>> . You can also take action using the Wolf Conservation Center form here >>>. Be sure to personalize it so your message stands out.

Send a message to legislators here >>

Additional action through Wolf Conservation Center >>

FAQs on wildlife killing contests >>

See this story on WGRZ-TV >>

Editorial in The Buffalo News >>

Editorial in The Daily Gazette >>

June article by ESPN Radio >>

August letter by local Eagle Scout to Buffalo News Editor >>

Cait Daly & Barb Haney letter in Buffalo News Aug. 30 >>

#SPCACompassionInAction

–SPCA Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca

 


#GetYourFlirtOn This Summer at the SPCA!

Bring your best lines to the SPCA’s 300 Harlem Rd.,
West Seneca shelter to pick up th
e love of your life!

June 22 through Labor Day, mingle with the singles at the SPCA, and if you fall for an animal 1 year or older, we’ll get your relationship off to a great start by taking half off your adoption fee!

Not sure if you’re ready for a commitment? Remember, the SPCA offers trial adoptions through the new If The Fur Fits program >> ! And if you’re just looking to spend your days on long walks gettin’ caught in the rain, consider taking a dog out for the day with our Doggie Entourage program >> !

Plus, stay tuned for details on our extra-special Speed Dating events coming up in July and August!

You belong with them >>>

Speed Dating in July >>>

Speed Dating in August >>>

#GetYourFlirtOn

From Surrender to Serendipity: Emily’s Heartwarming Reunion with Ranger

In February, Emily faced a difficult decision and surrendered her beloved dog, Ranger, to the SPCA, knowing that it was the best course of action. Recent hardships, including the loss of a job and an apartment, made caring for Ranger difficult for Emily as he was undergoing costly skin issues that were becoming unmanageable. Emily knew the SPCA would give him the best possible veterinary care and find him a loving new home.

One day last week, Emily was at a park in the West Seneca/Buffalo area with her friends. As they strolled through the park, Emily was struck by a familiar bark that caught her attention right away. Intrigued, Emily quickened her group’s pace, wondering whether the source of the bark could possibly be Ranger. Tears welled up in Emily’s eyes as she drew nearer, and to her astonishment, it was indeed him! Overwhelmed with emotions, Emily couldn’t believe her eyes. Emily asked if the dog was Ranger and the new owners confirmed that it was him! The serendipitous reunion left everyone amazed by the remarkable coincidence.

Perhaps the most astonishing aspect was that this park was always a favorite spot for Emily and Ranger, because he loves the creek there!

Since the moment Ranger was surrendered, thoughts of him had frequently occupied Emily’s mind. However, seeing him in person once again was a deeply moving experience. Ranger was happy and he was larger, fluffier, and remarkably healthy! Emily expressed profound gratitude to the SPCA saying, “I want to thank the Erie County SPCA for taking the time to care for him and help place him into a good home.” She also extended a heartfelt thank you to Ranger’s new owners, acknowledging their commitment to providing him with a wonderful life. Ranger is an extraordinary dog, and although Emily misses him dearly, she wishes him and his new family all the best! #SPCACompassionInAction

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