Coyote Found on I-290 Removed by Amherst Police, Taken to SPCA

February 21, 2017
By: Gina Browning, SPCA Chief Communications Officer

This morning, traffic on the Youngmann Memorial Highway (I-290) was slowed due to the presence of a coyote lying in the road. The coyote was removed by Amherst Police and taken to the SPCA Serving Erie County in Tonawanda.

Upon arrival, the coyote was anesthetized and X-rayed. Sadly, both of the coyote’s femurs were shattered beyond repair, an injury which indicated to SPCA Wildlife Department staff that the coyote was hit very hard by a vehicle. There was also blood in the coyote’s urine. The difficult decision to euthanize the coyote was made.

The SPCA cautions drivers and pet owners to be aware of coyotes especially at this time of year. Coyotes are reclusive animals that will generally avoid human beings. However, February is part of mating season for coyotes, so they may be more active and visible at this time. Typically, coyote pups are born beginning mid-March, so the coyotes’ search for den space may also make them more visible.

To minimize potential conflict with a coyote, the SPCA urges community members to remove food sources from yards. Trash, compost, seed or food for other types of wild and domestic animals should be removed, and dog feces should be cleaned regularly. Rodents are a coyote’s prime diet source, so anything in a yard that can attract a rodent can ultimately attract a coyote. Cats, small dogs, and other small animals should not be left outdoors unattended. Check properties, both outdoors and inside sheds, garages, under porches, etc. for areas that may make appealing coyote dens.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) offers information on discouraging coyotes from remaining in yards and neighborhoods. See the HSUS’ article on “coyote hazing” here.

The SPCA Serving Erie County Wildlife Department offers presentations to groups of all ages regarding living with wildlife. Learn more about these presentations here, or call the Wildlife Department with concerns about wildlife or questions about presentations: 716-629-3528.

 

 

 

 

 

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19:

In all, the SPCA received 20 dogs during yesterday’s transport. At this time, the dogs are being examined, evaluated, some are being treated for various issues and are being given time to relax after their long flight. Some will require spay/neuter surgery. We’re hoping to have some of the dogs available for adoption before the end of the week. SPCA animal transport information can be found here.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18:

Later this afternoon, SPCA President and CEO Gary Willoughby, along with other representatives from the SPCA Serving Erie County, will be at Prior Aviation to meet Wings of Rescue (https://www.wingsofrescue.org/), flying approximately 180 adoptable dogs from Lakeland, FL to receiving animal shelters in Pennsylvania and New York.

The SPCA Serving Erie County, one of the two shelters in New York State receiving dogs, will be accepting approximately 21 dogs of a variety of ages and breeds. ALL DOGS WERE AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION PRIOR TO HURRICANE IRMA AFFECTING THE FLORIDA AREA, and are being transported out of Florida to give the hurricane’s canine and feline victims a safe place to live until they can be reunited with evacuated families.

The flight is expected to arrive in Buffalo, NY today between 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm. As always, these times are subject to change.

Most of the animals have already been spayed/neutered, and those who can be will gradually be placed for adoption at the SPCA’s 300 Harlem Rd., West Seneca shelter sometime this week. More specific information on what dogs the SPCA will be receiving, and when these dogs will be available for adoption, is unavailable at this time. SPCA animal transport information can be found at https://www.yourspca.org/transport.  

The transport, sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States, is generously funded by GreaterGood.org. The other New York State shelter receiving dogs is the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8:

With Hurricane Irma on the scene impacting Florida, Wings of Rescue reps are experiencing a change of plans as they work out their response to a second catastrophic situation. The September 12 animal transport to Buffalo has been postponed. Animal Rescue Corps (https://www.facebook.com/AnimalRescueCorps/), another transport partner of our SPCA, is now involved with rescue efforts in TX and contacted SPCA Animal Transport Coordinator Barbara Frazier to ask whether our organization will accept animals as early as next week. More information on this possible transport will be available soon. The ASPCA continues to ask the SPCA Serving Erie County for available space to receive potential transports as well as available staff to assist in rescue efforts, but no firm numbers or dates have been made available at this time.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6:

San Antonio dog #2 was made available for adoption yesterday and within just a couple hours was adopted! Aramis, just 1-year-old, will be living in Eden later this week (after he’s neutered) and shows every sign of being ready to become a northern dog!

At this time, the next animal transport is scheduled for September 12, when we’re set to receive dogs from the amazing Wings of Rescue organization, heavily involved with rescue efforts in TX. As always, this information is subject to change. If things proceed as planned, or if another animal transport is scheduled prior to September 12, we’ll notify the community on this page and on our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SPCAErieCounty/, as well as via our Twitter account, https://twitter.com/YourSPCA .

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5:

VIDEO: See Jeanine, now Bambi, in her new home here! 


Jeanine was adopted in record time; she was available for adoption Friday at 11:00 am, and by 11:21 am, arrangements were being made for her to be the newest resident of Elma, NY! She’s pictured here with new brother, Cole, waiting for her adoption to be finalized….and check out this video of Jeanine, now named Bambi, arriving home and meeting Bandit! The video captures just a tiny, little bit of her enthusiasm for her new, loving family!

Another dog from San Antonio, TX has become available for adoption. Aramis is a 1-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix waiting at our West Seneca shelter to meet a new family!

As of today there are no reports that our SPCA will be receiving animals from affected areas in Texas this week, but information is changing by the minute. If we receive requests to accept animal transports this week, we’ll release that information on this page and on our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SPCAErieCounty/, as well as via our Twitter account, https://twitter.com/YourSPCA .

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1:

AUDIO: Hear this morning’s radio segment on Jeanine & Hurricane Harvey efforts here .

One of the dogs brought to the SPCA from San Antonio via St. Hubert’s transport yesterday is already up for adoption!


Jeanine (pictured here) was our Newsradio 930 WBEN Newshound during our weekly morning segment with Susan Rose and Brian Mazurowski! Hear more about Jeanine and yesterday’s tranport by listening to that segment here. The Field Investigations and Response Team of the ASPCA has contacted the SPCA about possible personnel assistance in their on-site rescue and about accepting dogs rescued by their organization, and these possibilities are currently being discussed. At this time, the next transport of animals from St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center are expected to arrive September 8, and a Wings of Rescue transport is expected September 12; there’s a possibility that both transports will include Houston animals. As always, these dates are tentative and subject to change.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 31:

VIDEO: See today’s transport video here.

Today, the SPCA received 13 dogs from one of our transport partner shelters.

Prior to Hurricane Harvey, these dogs were residing at St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center in NJ. They were moved to our shelter so St. Hubert’s can accept dogs from the Texas vicinity. In addition to the 13 dogs from New Jersey, two additional dogs arrived. These two originated from the City of San Antonio Animal Care Services shelter. They, too, were already surrendered to that shelter before the storm hit, but San Antonio is trying to make room as well to accept additional dogs from the Texas region.

All 15 dogs we’re receiving today are being indirectly affected by the storm and are not directly from Houston. PLEASE NOTE: NONE OF THESE DOGS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION TODAY! For information on these animals and others being transported to the SPCA, please visit this page!

VOLUNTEER NEEDS: We have received so many calls from community members wishing to volunteer to help these animals coming to the SPCA. You’re all wonderful! At this time, there is no need for additional volunteers. That need can change in the future, and if the status changes it will be reported in updates on this page.

DONATION NEEDS: Currently, the primary donations being sought are financial ones. If you wish to be a part of the SPCA Serving Erie County’s Hurricane Harvey efforts with a financial gift, please know it is so appreciated. Gifts can be made at here. Because we are in the beginning phases of this project, we do not know what donation needs there will be concerning animal food, equipment, blankets, newspapers, litter, toys and other items, etc. This need may change in the near future; any needs that may arise will be posted on this update page. In the meantime, thank you for even taking the time to read this section of our update and for considering making a donation of any kind to the SPCA!

Farm Pig Cared For by SPCA After Alleged Stabbing; Officers Seeking Information

January 17, 2017
By: Gina Browning, Chief Communications Officer

February 22 Update: This little piggy was ADOPTED! Tabitha is in her new home! Dr. Timothy O’Leary of Little Valley fell in love with our little girl, all healed up and now a happy and healthy 77 pounds! She headed home yesterday and is enthusiastically adjusting to her new farm life!

January 31 Update: Check out Tabitha’s latest news story detailing her progress right here!

January 27 Update: Based on Tabitha’s swift healing from her alleged stabbed wounds, her stitches and staples were removed by SPCA veterinarian Dr. Karen Moran this week (see photo, right)! Tabitha’s swelling at the various stabbing sites is tremendously reduced and she continues to respond well to her treatment measures. It’s possible she will be placed on the farm of a local veterinarian, but she currently remains at the SPCA Serving Erie County’s Educational Farm for continued care. At this time, no information shared with SPCA animal cruelty investigators has led to a suspect; the SPCA continues to encourage those with information on who may be responsible for the act of animal cruelty to call our humane society at 716-629-3520. Keep watching YourSPCA.org for additional news on Tabitha’s potential adoption! 

January 20 Update: After a rough start to her recovery, Tabitha, the farm pig found stabbed in Sloan one week ago, seems to be feeling much better and is responding beautifully to her treatment. In a video posted this afternoon on the SPCA’s Facebook page, SPCA Assistant Farm Manager Patti Burg explained that if all continues to progress as expected, Tabitha’s staples and stitches may be removed as early as next week. No leads have led to furthering the investigation into this act of animal cruelty. Anyone with information on who may be responsible for committing this barbarous act is encouraged to contact the SPCA at 716-629-3520. Information from anonymous sources will be considered.

 
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SPCA animal cruelty investigators are seeking information from residents who may have information on those responsible for the alleged stabbing of a farm pig in the Sloan area.
Mid-afternoon on Thursday, January 12, Cheektowaga Animal Control officers received a call from Rutland Avenue, Sloan residents reporting a farm pig in a yard alive and walking but bleeding profusely. The residents were able to put a cable tie-out around the pig’s neck to confine it until help could arrive.
Lead SPCA Animal Cruelty Investigator and Cheektowaga Animal Control Officer Aaron Kandefer and Cheektowaga Animal Control Officer Scott Thurn arrived at the property within minutes and found the pig to be fully mobile but steadily weakening. They rushed the pig to the SPCA’s on-site infirmary located at the 205 Ensminger Rd., Tonawanda shelter, where the animal was X-rayed and anesthetized for emergency surgery peformed by SPCA Veterinarian Dr. Karen Moran.
The pig is in guarded condition, recovering in the SPCA’s Educational Farm also located at the Ensminger Rd. property.
Kandefer suggests the pig was intentionally stabbed due to the appearance and depth of the wounds. Officers spoke with residents of the neighborhood, but obtained no tips that could further an investigation into the barbarous act.
Anyone with information on who may be responsible for committing this act of animal cruelty is encouraged to contact the SPCA at 716-629-3520. Information from anonymous sources will be considered.

To make a donation for the pig’s care, and to help other animals who require extensive veterinary care, please visit the Yelp for Help page.

 

SPCA SERVING ERIE COUNTY KICKS OFF 150TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR WITH NEW LOGO

January 4, 2017
By: Gina Browning, Director of Public Relations

The year 2017 marks the SPCA Serving Erie County’s 150th year of serving the people and animals of Erie County, NY, and the humane society is kicking off an exciting year of change by premiering a new logo created pro bono by Riveter Design in Orchard Park, NY!

Symbolic of the different kinds of animals assisted and/or treated in some way by the SPCA, the new four-color logo depicts a dog, cat, owl, and horse, representative of the SPCA’s care of domestic animals, farm animals, and wildlife.

Throughout the new year, the new logo will be replacing the former heart-shaped logo online, on uniforms, on printed pieces, and more.

While the premiere of a new logo is no small feat, the announcement comes second to a larger event taking place in 2017: the humane society’s move from Ensminger Rd. in Tonawanda to an all-new shelter on Harlem Rd. in West Seneca. The Raise The Roof Campaign has been featured by the SPCA for several years and, thanks to compassionate and generous donors, has raised the $12.6 million (approximate total to-date) necessary to make new shelter construction a reality. The campaign goal is set at $14,700,000 and the SPCA is currently in the middle of a $1 Million Challenge to help meet that goal. The SPCA is tentatively scheduled to move into its West Seneca location in the spring.

Take a peek at new shelter construction in Photo Album 1 and Photo Album 2.

Formed in 1867, this SPCA is the second-oldest humane society in the country. In addition to the new shelter and new logo, the SPCA will be celebrating 150 years with a 150th Anniversary Gala January 28 at Buffalo’s Hotel Lafayette, and with a special 150th Anniversary Club for donors. Other happenings will take place throughout the year, including a 150th anniversary party, a shelter grand opening, and more.

Special thanks to Riveter Design‘s Jordan Hegyi, creative director, and Lauren Molenda, project manager, along with Inkwell Studios Founder and Illustrator Michael Gelen, for this exciting, new SPCA look.

According to the logo team, “The design of the new mark maintains some of the appeal of the original logo— the friendly illustration style and a similar puzzle-piece structure harken back to the original mark (you can even find the SPCA heart within one of the animal faces!). The new mark now includes two additional animals—a horse and an owl—to provide a more comprehensive indication of all of the animal groups served by the SPCA. While the dog and cat are a good basis to help the public understand that the SPCA serves animals of various types, the addition of the horse and owl now represent the SPCA’s farm and wildlife services, and therefore illustrate more of the full spectrum of species served.

“The earthy color palette selected for the new mark is reflective of the SPCA’s dedication and connection to nature and all its creatures. It is down to earth, warm, and extensive to allow for more variety within the brand. Texta—the font family chosen for the new logo—is simple, clean, and open, making it feel approachable, easy to read, and timeless.

“The refreshed identity for the SPCA was created by local design firm Riveter Design— which has been working with the SPCA for a number of years, and provided strategy, concept and creative direction for the project—in collaboration with renowned illustrator Michael Gelen of Inkwell Studios, who was engaged to bring to life the unique characteristics of each animal, perfecting the mark for its long life ahead.”

Designing and providing an entirely new logo for a well-known organization is no small undertaking, and the SPCA is infinitely thankful to Hegyi, Molenda, Gelen, and the staff at Riveter Design and Inkwell Studios, for helping to establish a new identity that will hopefully take us into another successful 150 years!

Keep watching YourSPCA.org, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter, for continuing information on 150th anniversary events and other SPCA news.

December 11, 2017

Thank you to everyone who supported our 14th annual Radiothon! We are excited to announce that it raised more than $101,000 for animals in need.

The Radiothon is the most vital fundraiser of the year for the SPCA Serving Erie County. Through the community’s donations, we are able to continue providing hope and happiness for the animals, and people, in Western New York. Since the Radiothon began 14 years ago, more than $2.5 million has been raised. Just think of all of the lives saved!

Become an Angel for the Animals with a pledge of $15 or more a month for 12 months, or make a one-time donation of any amount. Call 873-SPCA (on December 11 only) or use one of the links above NOW!

Visit our Facebook page to see photos of the big day!  Radiothon Photo Album

Grosso Door & Hardware Inc.

Hyde Foundation

NO BONES ABOUT IT…KEEP PETS SAFE THIS THANKSGIVING

November 1, 2017
By: Gina Browning, SPCA Chief Communications Officer

People aren’t the only ones looking forward to upcoming holiday dinners…the smell of Thanksgiving dinner is enough to drive any four-legged critter into a food frenzy.  The SPCA Serving Erie County has issued these holiday reminders to keep your pets safe, slim, and trim:

HUNGRY PETS: Too many holiday treats won’t only pack the pounds on us…they’ll pack them on our pets. Many pets are on standard, limited diets; feeding them large quantities of food they don’t normally receive could cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, none of which are welcome during this festive holiday…or at any other time, for that matter. Use discretion. Turkey bones are also dangerous for pets. A brittle, spiky bone could cause irritation of the stomach or intestines, or could lodge in your pet’s esophagus. 
NOTE: Dogs eating foods to which they’re not accustomed may experience BLOAT, a life-threatening condition. Dogs experiencing bloat may have difficulty breathing, may appear weak and/or depressed, may attempt to vomit but cannot, and/or may appear to be extremely uncomfortable for no apparent reason. If your pet exhibits signs of bloat, bring him to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Speak with your veterinarian for more information on this condition.

NO BREAD FOR BARNEY:  Think twice before leaving that homemade bread dough atop the oven to rise. According to the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center, when bread dough is ingested, an animal’s body heat causes the dough to rise in the stomach. As alcohol is produced during the rising process, the dough expands. Pets who have eaten bread dough may experience abdominal pain, vomiting, disorientation and depression.

PEANUT BUTTER WARNING: Using peanut butter as a holiday treat for your pet? Remember to check the label! Xylitol is a sugar substitute now added to some peanut butters. It’s safe for most humans, but deadly to pets, even in small quantities! Find more information here! It’s also a bad idea to give any animal caffeine-laced peanut butter; serious health problems could ensue.

GARBAGE PICKERS?  Some animals patiently wait for the chance to pick through the garbage when you’re not around. Aluminum foils with juices, plastic wraps with frostings, even tasty strings from tying turkeys…well, the temptation can just be too much for your deprived pets. Keep your garbage bags away from where pets can chew through them to get to the goods. Ingestion of these items can be life-threatening.

SWEET TEMPTATIONS: CHOCOLATE CAN BE FATAL TO PETS!  Chocolate contains a substance called Theobromine, a compound very similar to caffeine in structure. Theobromine can be toxic to dogs and cats in small quantities, causing vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures, rapid and irregular heartbeats, muscle tremors, coma, even death. Keep chocolate safely away from all animals.

POTPOURRI PROBLEMS: Thanks to Debbie from Sherwin-Williams on Sheridan Dr., Tonawanda for this pet safety tip. Of course we want our homes to smell nice when guests arrive…but be mindful that liquid and other types of potpourri, especially sprinkled into rugs, along with many scented essential oils are toxic to dogs and cats. Read more about the overall effect on pets, the dangers to cats, and the dangers to dogs.

For additional holiday reminders, speak with your veterinarian, or call the SPCA: 716-875-7360.

Courtesy of SPCA Paws for Love Facebook page

Courtesy of SPCA Paws for Love Facebook page

MORE THAN 80 SPCA PAWS FOR LOVE THERAPY DOGS SCHEDULED TO BE AT FALLEN BUFFALO K-9 OFFICER CRAIG LEHNER’S WAKE MONDAY, TUESDAY

October 23, 2017
By: Gina Browning, SPCA Chief Communications Officer

Thousands of people from the surrounding area and throughout the country are expected to visit Lakeside Memorial Funeral Home over the next two days to pay their respects to fallen Buffalo K-9 Officer Craig Lehner.

Also on hand will be more than 80 SPCA Paws for Love therapy dogs, hoping to bring comfort to those mourning this tragic loss. Most of the 80 volunteered their services within 15 minutes of the original request late last week.

The SPCA Paws for Love two- and four-footed volunteers who will be at Lakeside Memorial Funeral Home will be working one-hour shifts, and volunteers are trained to look for signs of fear, disinterest, or discomfort on the part of those present; they also are trained to not approach other working dogs or K-9s that will undoubtedly be present.

The SPCA Serving Erie County Paws for Love program includes therapy pet visitation to hospitals, nursing homes, Hospice organizations, courts, colleges and schools, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, and more. Most recently, the Family Justice Center of Erie County has been added to the program as a visitation site, along with one local funeral parlor, FE Brown Sons Funeral Home in Orchard Park; this funeral home has taken advantage of therapy dog visitation when families would like a healing, canine presence when it’s time to make very difficult service arrangements, then later at at wakes, funerals, and support group meetings.

Scientifically, petting a therapy animal has been proven to lower blood pressure and release a person’s dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin levels which can boost mood, while reducing high cortisol levels that create stress. Emotionally, the effects of therapy animals on hand during sad or anxiety-producing occasions are proving to be much more far-reaching (see “Therapy Dogs in Funeral Homes” from Animal Wellness Magazine, and “When Humans Grieve, More Funeral Homes Are Offering Therapy Dogs to Help” from Today).

Funeral parlor representatives interested in therapy dog visits from SPCA volunteers or those interested in learning more about becoming a Paws for Love volunteer can contact program coordinator Deborah Braun at pawsforlove@yourspca.org . Learn more about Paws for Love on YourSPCA.org’s page, or by finding Paws for Love on Facebook.

Below are comments from SPCA Paws for Love volunteers when asked why they chose to participate in this week’s services:

BETH DUNCAN, with Deuce
Animals have an amazing way of providing comfort at a time when there are no words to make it better. Officer Lehner shared an incredible bond with a dog, and I think it is only fitting that dogs are present to spend time with people as they grieve.

KRISTEN FRY, with Rusty
Anyone who hears about the tragic loss of Officer Lehner feels connected to him in some way-even those of us like me, who never personally met him. He seemed like the type of guy who was dedicated to whatever it was that he took on-including his dog Shield.

JIM KOZLOWSKI, with Sonny
As a Paws for Love volunteer, it is rewarding to take my dog into the community to brighten the spirit of those who are going through difficult times. By just petting an animal, it brings a sense of peace to those who need it. I’m honored to bring my dog.

SHARON DAVIS, with Tony
Black lab Tony was my husband’s Guide Dog for the Blind. In 6 years they were NEVER separated until my husband’s death. I witnessed the bond between a service dog & owner. The dog was grieving too. I signed up for Paws for Love so Tony has a new purpose as a therapy dog. 

ANNE HART, with Carma
Carma is really good at calming people down and giving them peace. She has a special gift for that and loves working at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Her demeanor is amazing!! I felt that we could make a difference.   

LISA MURPHY, with Cosmo
Cosmo loves to make people feel happy and put a smile on their faces, but Cosmo also knows when people just need comfort and love from him. Just petting Cosmo and giving him belly rubs takes a lot of stress and sadness away.  

MARILYN FEUERSTEIN, with Elsa
Craig Lehner’s tragic death must have some meaning. Craig’s relationship with his K-9 Officer Shield makes the presence of our Paws for Love dogs especially fitting. I am proud that Craig’s family wants our dogs there and I hope Elsa can provide some comfort.

PAULA MACRIDES, with Chase
Even though I didn’t know Officer Lehner, I’ve learned he is a fellow dog-lover. It felt right having the therapy dogs present to offer support to his fellow officers, family, and friends.

DANIELLE BIEKERT, with Gander
Gander and I are honored to recognize the brave men and women who protect our country and community. Although I do not have a personal connection to Officer Lehner, I’m deeply touched by the story of the bond between Officer Lehner and his partner Shield.

DARLENE VOGEL, with Gibbs
Gibbs and I want to give back to a man who gave so much to help others in our city. Gibbs loves people and does amazing things for people by being there when they need him. We are honored to be able to be there for Officer Lehner and his family.

PAMELA WREN, with Sebastian
It’s why I do this… to help people…and it’s a small token of appreciation thanking Officer Lehner for his service.

CYNTHIA BRATEK, with Archie
I am the mother of 2 daughters who are Officer Lehner’s age. I am heartbroken for his mother & family & grieve for the successful, dedicated young man who died tragically before his time. I just want to help any way I can.  

AL MONACO, with Jake
I feel it is a privilege and an honor to help support the family of Officer Lehner at this most difficult time.    

CINDY BRADLEY, with Lily
I feel it is an honor to be able to assist with consoling all the people that will be attending his wake. This is truly a tragic thing that has happened. If Lily and I can make someone feel better for even a moment, that’s all that I ask.    

TERESA STARK, with Gemma
I feel it’s an honor to provide any comfort to the grieving friends, family and comrades of Officer Lehner. He did so much for our country and community it’s the least I can do to volunteer a few hours of my time. I have been heartbroken over this loss.

MARY ST. MARY, with Abner
I have been so touched by the loss of Officer Lehner for many reasons, but primarily because he was a K9 officer. I knew he was a fellow dog lover and every time the bond between him and Shield is described — how they were inseparable — tears immediately spring into my eyes. I only wish that somehow Shield could understand that his best friend did not desert him and did not leave him voluntarily. 

LISA ABBOTT, with Bella
I have seen, firsthand, how dogs can help people during stressful times. I want to be at the service to help those who are mourning because mourning is stressful. By having the dogs there, it also honors Craig Lehner’s work with his K-9 dog.

MOLLY RUBENSTEIN, with Ty
I have some good friends who are police officers and knew Officer Lehner. Ty and I just want to be able to help as much as we can.

CINDY STEMPNIAK, with Riley
I want to embrace the love & dedication Officer Lehner had for his dog by bringing my dog to his wake. I hope people understand that our dogs are there as special volunteers and will be a celebration of his life.   

CRAIG KILGORE, with Yogi
I was touched by this Officer Craig Lehner’s story and could see through these stories the love he had for his K9 – Shield. Very heartwarming. I have two sons in law enforcement so I personally chose to volunteer out of respect for Officer Craig Lehner.

LINDA SOLTIS, with Miss Scarlet
In the case of K9 officer Lehner, he gave and received unconditional love and support from Shield. This is my chance to share my dog’s boundless love and support with those who are mourning this fallen policeman.

BERNADETTE MacLEOD, with Maple
In times of grief we are touched by so many. Animals help us as we grieve. You can hug them and cry and they patiently provide love and support. During difficult times they give us the chance to smile and provide a much-needed break from the sorrow.

LORAINE QUIRK, with Cena
It is an extreme honor to be asked to bring my therapy dog to Officer Lehner’s wake. Providing comfort is what our dogs do best. The Buffalo community has the best support system. Thank you to the Lehner family for sharing Craig’s love for K9 Shield.

KATHLEEN DOHERTY, with Bosco
It is hard to lose a loved one. It will be a trying few days for people giving their respect at the wake and funeral. Having Bosco there as well as other dogs will give people a smile and [provide] comfort during this tough time.  

KELSIE RINGO, with Duke
It is the least that Duke and I can do. Many people can relate in that “The best therapist has fur and four legs.” I know Duke can provide people with a smile even if it is temporary. On a day like today, temporary is better than nothing at all. 

SUSAN ALEXANDER, with JJ
It seems fitting to honor and offer support with my dog at the services of a man who went into the community every day with his dog. It seems a small gesture for someone who put his life on the line so many times, but I think he would like that.   

TERRY JOHNSON, with Lilly
Lilly & I will be at the funeral home Monday afternoon to provide as much comfort and support as we can. My thoughts & prayers go out to Officer Lehner’s family & friends, and especially his partner Shield.

MARSHA WAGNER, with Lucy
Lucy wanted to participate out of respect for Shield. I am doing this out of respect not only for the fallen officer and his family but also to also provide comfort to all those who attend wake. I have seen what these dogs can do when there is mourning.   

CAROLINE STURMER, with Charlie
My brother is a state trooper and knew the officer. I support all law enforcement officers and always pray for them.

CHRISTINA BROWN, with Mia
My car mechanic is Mike Lehner, Craig’s half-brother. Mike is the best mechanic and a wonderful, kind man. I wanted to do something to show my support for Mike and his family.

PAULETTE HENRY, with Bear
My dog Bear and I want to pay respect and honor Officer Lehner’s memory and support his family and Shield. My son is a Marine and a police officer in Marietta, GA so I have a personal understanding of the desire to serve.

JOAL MILLER, with Clooney
My dog, Clooney, and I are honored to be able to give a bit of comfort to those who will be paying their respects to Officer Lehner. During times of stress and sadness, dogs are a wonderful comfort and we are pleased to help.   

JACKIE GALLAGHER, with Mikko
My son is a probation/parole officer in NC; every day that he goes to work, he does so with the thought of keeping his community safe. Many times he is in dangerous situations and I know as a mom how I feel. My heart goes out to the family.

THOMAS SZWED, with Nitro
Nitro and I enjoy sharing our unique service with everyone. It gives us a great feeling being able to serve and give back to the public as all police and emergency responders do!

KATHY WELLER, with Riley
Officer Lehner gave his life in the name of duty. The very least we can do is offer some peace and comfort for those grieving.

JIM KOWALSKI, with Sedona
Sedona is both a therapy and service dog. I’m a disabled vet. Paying my respect to the family for Officer Lehner’s service to country and community is a must for me.   

JOSEPH RUSZALA, with Jay Jay
Showing support for fallen veteran and police officer.

MARLENE CLAWSON, with Sophie
Sophie & I volunteer to bring happiness and comfort to those in need, just as Office Lehner did with his partner, Shield. It is heartwarming to know Sophie may help others smile during this difficult time.

RONENE ANDO, with Ruby
The death of officer Lehner is tragic and so many of us have been emotionally touched. He clearly had a love and passion for both his profession and his loyal companion Shield. I believe he’s resting better knowing all our fur babies are here.

AMY HOFFMAN, with Willow
The goal of our work is to bring comfort and compassion to those who need it, in all types of situations. Officer Lehner gave everything for our community, so we are all coming together to give a little back.

JENNIFER JOYNER, with Bruno
The moment I saw the invite for officer Lehner’s calling hours I knew I wanted to be there. This is about coming together as a community to mourn the tragic loss of a wonderful person. To have all the dogs present will give amazing comfort to all.

MARGARET SULLIVAN, with Willow
There are few opportunities to give back to police officers… first responders… firefighters…and their families…. there was no consideration not to be there. Giving back is what we do with our four-legged family members.   

MARGOT WAGNER, with Bella Rose
There is a bond that dog handlers have when it comes to working dogs. It does not matter if the dog is a police or a therapy dog. The time, training, and commands are similar. Our ultimate goal is to make the community a better place.   

COLIN MIDDAUGH, with Cooper and Lola
To honor the memory of someone willing to dedicate his life to public service.

JILL MORAN, with Dublin
To say “Thank you for your service” to Officer Lehner and to offer support to his friends and families: blood, police, and military families.

HEIDI KELEHER, with Coco
We want to show this dedicated man’s family our gratitude and respect for the job he did. We also want to let ALL our first responders know that we are grateful for the job they all do every day. Also, the partnership he had with Shield touches our hearts.