Tag: Erie County NY

BISSELL Pet Foundation Launches New York Intrastate Transport Program to Help Long-Stay Shelter Pets Find Homes
NY shelters and rescues join lifesaving effort to increase adoptions

FEB. 20, 2025 – BISSELL Pet Foundation, in collaboration with animal shelters and rescues across New York, is proud to announce the launch of a new intrastate transport program aimed at increasing adoption opportunities for long-stay shelter pets.

A recent report from Shelter Animals Count reveals that dogs of all sizes are staying in the care of shelters and rescues longer than they have in previous years. Nationwide, dog adoptions have declined by 1% from 2023 to 2024, with medium-sized dogs averaging 18 days in shelters and larger dogs averaging 20 days. Many New York shelters are caring for healthy, adoptable dogs who have been waiting for more than 30 days for a second chance at a loving home. To address this challenge, BISSELL Pet Foundation’s New York Intrastate Transport Program – Long-Stay Pet Initiative offers a collaborative platform for animal welfare organizations throughout the state to increase adoptions by coordinating the transfer of long-stay pets to locations where they may have a better chance of being adopted.

Beginning Wednesday, Feb. 19, participating shelters, including the SPCA Serving Erie County, and rescues in New York will list their long-stay pets on BISSELL Pet Foundation’s platform. Once selected, these pets will be transported to new organizations increasing their chances of finding families. Community members are encouraged to visit their local shelters regularly, as new pets will continually be transferred in as part of the program.

“At BISSELL Pet Foundation, we know transport saves lives because we have seen it firsthand. Too many shelter pets are overlooked simply because they are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Transport offers a second chance by introducing them to new adopters,” said Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. “We spent three years developing a platform to make intrastate transport easier for shelters, helping them diversify their populations to increase adoptions. Every pet deserves a chance, and we’re proud to provide a solution that helps shelters save more lives. If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, please visit your local shelter to adopt or foster.”

This initiative is part of BISSELL Pet Foundation’s mission to alleviate shelter overcrowding and increase adoptions. New York animal welfare organizations not yet part of the program are encouraged to join by contacting info@bissellpetfoundation.org.

For more information about BISSELL Pet Foundation, visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org.

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SPCA Serving Erie County Issues Warning About Cold Weather and Pet Safety

With cold temperatures expected to hit our area this week, the SPCA Serving Erie County urges pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their pets safe.

“Just like us, our pets are susceptible to the dangers of extreme cold,” said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allison Kean. “We encourage all pet owners to take the necessary steps to protect their pets from the elements.”

The SPCA Serving Erie County offers the following tips to keep pets safe during the bitter cold weather:

– If you’re feeling the chill, remember that your pets also feel it! Keep your furry friends cozy indoors and make bathroom breaks quick.

– Wipe their belly and feet as soon as they come indoors, and ensure they have a warm place to lie down.

– Protect your pet’s paw pads from ice. Consider using vet-approved paw protectants, booties, and pet-friendly ice melts.

– If your pet has short hair, consider dressing them in a coat or sweater to protect them from the elements.

– Do not let your pet off-leash on snow and ice. Pets can easily lose their scent and sense of direction in these conditions. Also, make sure your pet’s ID tags have your current information!

– Inspect your parking space for antifreeze spills. Antifreeze is toxic to animals and can be lethal if ingested.

If residents see dogs left outdoors for extended periods in inclement weather and are concerned about the state of the animal’s shelter, and if the location is in Erie County, please contact the SPCA: (716) 875-7360, ext. 214.


(And remember…when you visit to find your true love…we’d LOVE it if you’d
also consider making a donation at our Welcome Desk when you’re adopting!)

SPCA foster Hattie Cattie with one of her kittens in a foster home.

Join the SPCA’s Foster Care Department at our Foster Care Open House on Saturday, June 25 from noon to 3 p.m.!

It’s National Foster-A-Pet Month, and it’s no exaggeration when we say that members of our SPCA’s foster team are directly responsible for saving the lives of animals we wouldn’t be able to help otherwise. Join us during our Summer of Love and together, let’s show more love and save more lives!

Animals that routinely need foster care include cats, kittens, dogs, puppies, rabbits, reptiles, rodents, birds, guinea pigs, and more! If you have a spare bedroom, extra love in your heart, and a working vehicle, you’re a prime candidate to be an SPCA foster parent!

Stop by our Foster Care Open House on Saturday, June 25 from noon to 3 p.m. and talk with SPCA Foster Care Employees and one of the SPCA’s most committed Foster Care Volunteers, Judy. Together, they’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have about opening your home to foster animals. They will have applications available so if you decide this is something you’re interested in, you can sign up right away!

Want a head start? Read all about the SPCA’s Foster Care Department here!

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