Tag: SPCA Serving Erie County

SPCA Serving Erie County Offers Free Adoptions to Current and Past Military Members During Vets & Pets

August 6, 2026
By: SPCA Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca

Man in military service fatigues lays on couch with dog on his lap that he adopted through SPCA Vets & Pets, offering free animal adoptions for past and current service people at the SPCA Serving Erie County NYTo thank the members of the armed services this Veterans Day, the SPCA Serving Erie County once again offers Vets & Pets, waiving adoption fees on most animals for individuals and immediate families of individuals on active duty, reserves, and honorable discharge, along with service-disabled veterans and those retired from military service! This program, a longtime SPCA tradition, is proudly presented by Moog!

Vets & Pets begins Saturday, Nov. 7 and runs through Saturday, Nov. 14* at the SPCA’s 300 Harlem Rd., West Seneca location (off-site locations are not included in this campaign).

Photos of adoptable animals can be found here >>.

Adoption hours can be found here >>.

Female in military service fatigues playing with dog on her lap in front of American flag, and she adopted through SPCA Vets & Pets, offering free animal adoptions for past and current service people at the SPCA Serving Erie County NYMilitary ID or DD214 will need to be presented. If an individual is currently serving outside of New York State, that individual’s spouse can adopt during Vets & Pets if a military spouse identification card is presented. Adopters can apply the Vets & Pets waived adoption fee promotion toward a total of two animals.

Please contact SPCA Adoptions Supervisor Julia Kiblin with any questions: (716) 875-7360, ext. 235.

The SPCA extends a patriotic thank you to Moog for allowing veterans and current service members the opportunity to adopt a beloved animal companion at no cost, creating life-changing bonds built on healing, hope, and unconditional love!

*Adoption hours are 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The SPCA will be closed Sunday, Nov. 8. Potential adoptions must be started by 5 p.m., at least one hour prior to closing. Some exceptions to the program will apply concerning If The Fur Fits trial adoptions; see an Adoptions counselor or contact Kiblin with questions.

Person in military service fatigues in front of American flag holds dog he adopted through SPCA Vets & Pets, offering free animal adoptions for past and current service people at the SPCA Serving Erie County NY

#SPCACompassionInAction

Remembering the SPCA’s George May

August 3, 2026
By: Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca

SPCA Superintendent George May, who worked at the organization 46 years before his retirement in June, 2000There are people who leave a mark on an organization, and then there are those who become part of its very foundation. George May was one of those rare individuals. Although he retired from the SPCA Serving Erie County in June 2000 after an extraordinary 46-year career, his presence has never truly left us. With the passing of George on July 16, 2026 at the age of 92, we mourn not only a beloved former superintendent, but a man whose character, compassion, and unwavering commitment helped shape generations of people—and changed the lives of countless animals.

George May and "new-found friend" in the Courier Express October 23, 1962
George May and his “new-found friend” in Buffalo’s Courier Express, October 23, 1962

George often said that caring for animals was never just a job. It was a responsibility. Throughout his career, he led by example, showing us that kindness, integrity, and respect should guide every decision we make. Those of us who were fortunate enough to work alongside him learned far more than animal care—we learned what it means to serve a community with humility, to treat every life with dignity, and to always do what is right, even when no one is watching. Many of us still hear his lessons in our minds every day, because they became the values that define this organization.

George May and his beloved office cat, Tinsel
George May with beloved office cat, Tinsel

In the June 2000 special tribute issue of SPCA newsletter Animals at Heart, published to honor his retirement, George reflected on the incredible changes he witnessed during his four decades with the SPCA. Because he was so deeply compassionate and the organization was so much a part of him, I remember thinking at the time that he might be too emotional to fully answer my interview questions. Suffice it to say I needn’t have worried. George answered every question thoroughly, and from his heart. He recalled rescuing animals from rivers, climbing to save cats from trees, caring for abandoned wildlife, and responding to thousands of calls with little more than determination, a leash, and a homemade snare. Through every challenge, he remained steadfast in his belief that every animal deserved compassion and every person deserved respect. His leadership helped build the SPCA Serving Erie County into one of the most respected humane societies in the region—a reputation that continues today.

As the second-oldest humane society in the United States, we owe much of our success to the foundation George helped build. He understood that an organization’s reputation is earned one act of compassion at a time. The ethics he lived by, the standards he expected, and the example he set continue to influence every member of our team. His legacy is woven into our culture, our mission, and the countless lives we touch every day.

SPCA Animals at Heart June 2000, special tribute edition for retiring superintendent George MayWhile our hearts are heavy, we also celebrate a life of extraordinary purpose. The community has lost a true legend, but perhaps no one feels that loss more deeply than the animals whose lives he devoted himself to protecting. Over 46 years, George helped hundreds of thousands—probably millions—of animals through his tireless work and his lasting influence on those who followed in his footsteps. His legacy lives on every time an animal is rescued, every time compassion triumphs over cruelty, and every time one of us chooses to do things the way George taught us.

I invite you to read that special June 2000 edition of Animals at Heart, published in honor of George’s retirement, and remember the remarkable man whose legacy will forever be part of the SPCA Serving Erie County. He may be gone, but his example—and the kindness he inspired—will never be forgotten.

Read the June, 2000 George May tribute edition of SPCA newsletter Animals at Heart >>

Recent SPCA Animal Cruelty Investigations Lead to Guilty Pleas, an Indictment, and Sentencing

July 24, 2026 — The Erie County District Attorney’s Office has released details regarding developments in three animal cruelty investigations by SPCA Serving Erie County officers. In the documents, Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane repeatedly commends the work of SPCA Chief Investigations Officer Lindsey Wood, Officer Meghan Giles, the SPCA Animal Cruelty Investigations Department, and the staff of the SPCA Serving Erie County.

Click on the appropriate headline for the full story.

June 2026: Hamburg Man Arraigned for Shooting HIs Dog

July 2026: Defendant Sentenced for Killing Dog

July2026: Lackawanna Couple Pleads Guilty to Animal Cruelty

 

 

 

FOURTH OF JULY, OUTDOOR FESTIVALS: No Party for Pets

June 29, 2026
By: SPCA Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca

The days immediately following July 4 can result in increased numbers of stray animals admitted to animal control facilities and humane societies, and often the explosive sound of fireworks is to blame. Fireworks cause many pets to panic, resulting in extreme and sometimes dangerous escape measures from homes or yards. Without identification, it is nearly impossible to reunite pet with owner.  Please keep the following tips in mind this holiday:

* ENSURE ALL ANIMALS ARE WEARING CURRENT IDENTIFICATION! Even if the animal has microchip identification, place a collar with an ID tag on your pet. If a neighbor or passer-by finds your animal, an ID collar that includes your phone number can lead to a faster reunion. Remember, don’t limit a search for a lost pet to your geographical location! A frightened animal that bolts can travel long distances, and well-meaning community members trying to help may also transport the animal to an animal control facility or veterinary clinic in a different neighborhood. Find local animal control facilities here >>. 

* DON’T TAKE ANIMALS TO FIREWORKS DISPLAYS. The sounds and sights of fireworks often have the ability to turn the most calm, quiet, and non-aggressive pet into a stressed, frightened animal. A startled animal may not only break free and run away, but may also bite.

If you bring your dog to these events and realize it’s becoming too overwhelming for him or her, DO NOT KEEP YOUR DOG IN YOUR CAR FOR ANY AMOUNT OF TIME! The effects of heatstroke on even slightly warm days begin within mere minutes. and the results could be fatal.  Stressed animals confined to cars can not only die or suffer severe brain damage, but can also experience an overwhelming stress level that can cause physical harm to the pet, and/or damage to the vehicle’s interior. Home is the safest place for pets this holiday.

* HAVE SOMEONE HOME WITH NERVOUS PETS DURING FIREWORKS. If the animal is with someone he or she knows, the pet’s stress level will be greatly reduced. Keep the volume on a television or radio turned up to block some of the noise. ThunderShirts®  reportedly work to calm the anxiety felt by some dogs and cats when they can hear fireworks, thunder, even when they experience separation anxiety, and can be found in many local pet supply shops and online. 

* NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES FOR HOUNDS. The headphones, which must be ordered in advance based on each dog’s specific measurements, contain Bluetooth technology which allows owners to stream their dogs’ most calming musical selections (decibal reduction for the dogs provide a “whisper volume”) directly into their ears.  A simple online search will direct pet owners to the various companies offering these headphones.

Very hot weather paired with immense crowds of people and loud, strange noises heighten the stress level for many animals.  Your pet’s body is closer to the asphalt and can heat up quickly. The hot pavement can also burn unprotected, sensitive paw pads. Home is the safest place for pets on extremely hot days and during arts festivals, food festivals, other crowded outdoor events, and especially fireworks displays.

If you witness animal cruelty or see any animal in need of rescue or emergency assistance this summer, the SPCA Serving Erie County may be able to help. Please call the SPCA Monday through Saturday,
8 a.m. – 4:30  p.m., at (716) 875-7360, ext. 214.

See the SPCA’s additional, important reminders for keeping pets safe in the summer heat here >>

 

SPCA Issues Summer Reminders Designed to Keep Pets Safe

June 12, 2026
By: SPCA Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca

Temperatures are often in the high 80s and sometimes even low 90s in Buffalo and the surrounding area each summer. While many are happy with the warm weather, it’s important to remember pets don’t fare as well as some of their owners on these warm days. Please keep the following hot weather pets tips in mind and share with pet owners you know:

IT IS AGAINST THE LAW IN NEW YORK STATE TO LEAVE ANIMALS IN A VEHICLE IN EXTREME TEMPERATURES, HOT OR COLD >>

HEATSTROKE CAN KILL, AND FAST. Most pet owners realize that keeping pets in hot cars can kill them…but not many realize just how quickly the effects of heatstroke can set in for a dog or cat. And we’re not only referring to 80-degree days; animals suffer heatstroke even on much cooler days.

Heatstroke is a condition animals begin to suffer gradually, but it accelerates quickly. It’s easy for early signs of heatstroke to go unrecognized, and for the pet to be in an emergency situation within mere minutes. The image below is provided courtesy of VeterinaryClinic.com; please click on the image for a downloadable copy of this chart:

On warm days, a vehicle acts like an oven.  It holds the heat inside, and that heat becomes very intense even on days that don’t seem too warm. On an 85-degree day, even parked in the shade with the windows open, the temperature inside a car will climb to 104 degrees in 10 minutes, and to 119 degrees in 30 minutes.  With the humidity we experience here in Buffalo, it may go even higher.  Because a dog’s normal body temperature is 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, he can withstand a body temperature of 107-108 degrees for only a very short time before suffering irreparable brain damage…or death.

The typical signs of heatstroke are:
– Panting – High body temperature
– Dehydration – Red mouth/eye membranes
– Rapid, irregular heart rate – Diarrhea and/or vomiting
– Weakness, looking dazed, confusion – Comatose state

If your pet begins exhibiting any of these signs, contact a veterinarian immediately.

CAN I LEGALLY BREAK INTO A CAR TO SAVE A SUFFERING ANIMAL? Currently, while a handful of states allow good Samaritans to legally break car windows in an effort to save a suffering animal, New York is, unfortunately, NOT one of those states.

If you see an animal alone in a vehicle in extreme temperatures:

-Immediately record the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number, and record the time you first noticed the animal(s) alone in the vehicle.

-Next, immediately call 911 to report the incident. If the vehicle is located in Erie County, NY and the time is between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., contact the SPCA Serving Erie County as well: (716) 875-7360, ext. 214.

-If you are at a location with a public announcement system (a retail establishment, office, public event, etc.), provide managers, directors, employees, or event coordinators with the details of the situation, and ask for a public announcement that the animal in the vehicle is in severe distress.

-If possible, stay at the scene until help arrives.

PORCHES AND YARDS: Short stays ONLY!

Use caution during warm weather months when allowing animals outside for short sessions in yards or on porches. Never leave them outside extended periods of time. Ensure appropriate shade and water are always available. Keep close supervision of your pet when outdoors on hot, humid, sunny summer days, and around inground pools. If you see an animal left on a porch or in a yard with no access to shelter or water, or with inadequate shelter or water, the SPCA may be able to intervene in accordance with New York State’s Animal Shelter Law.

Contact the SPCA immediately if the location is within Erie County Monday – Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at (716) 875-7360, ext. 214.

Read more about the Animal Shelter Law here.

And remember…pets can get sunburned too. Speak with your veterinarian about applying animal-safe sunblock to your pet’s sun-sensitive areas, such as nose and ears, even when the animal is only outdoors for short sessions.

ADMINISTER FLEA PREVENTION PRODUCTS CORRECTLY! It wasn’t long ago that the SPCA received two cats on death’s door after cheap, incorrect flea products purchased from deep discount stores were applied. The SPCA has already received several phone calls this season from people who misapplied flea products to their pets.   DO NOT APPLY PRODUCTS MEANT FOR DOGS ON CATS, AND DO NOT APPLY CAT FLEA PRODUCTS TO DOGS, AND FOLLOW DIRECTIONS CONCERNING THE VOLUME AND MANNER OF APPLICATION!  Read the directions carefully PRIOR to application, not during application. The application of improper flea products, low-quality flea products, or products applied incorrectly, can cause internal damage or death to your pet. Always consult a veterinarian before purchasing and applying flea products.

This tip and photo came to us in the summer of 2019 from Patrick in South Dayton, NY

USE CAUTION WHEN PURCHASING SUMMER PET TOYS.  Low-quality flea products are not the only items that shouldn’t be purchased at deep discount stores and other locations. Some pet toys are not durable enough to withstand a pet’s play, such as this disc dog toy purchased in 2019, which, according to the pet owner who purchased the toy, “…shattered like a mirror” the first time his dogs caught the toy. Be sure the toys you purchase for your pets are safe and sturdy.

KEEP PETS HOME DURING OUTDOOR FESTIVALS.  Art festivals, food festivals, summer fireworks displays, and other crowded outdoor events are no places for dogs.  Extremely hot weather, paired with immense crowds of people and strange noises and scents, heightens the stress level for many animals; the repetitive, exploding sound of fireworks is enough to make even the calmest animal frantic and sometimes aggressive. Your pet’s body is closer to the asphalt and can heat up much more quickly.

The hot pavement can also burn unprotected, sensitive paw pads when dogs are on pavement for any period of time. Test the pavement! Place your hand on the pavement for ten seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Check out this photo from a June, 2019 post on WGRZ-TV and click on the photo for the full story:

DON’T FORCE EXERCISE, primarily after a meal or in hot, humid weather. Instead, exercise pets in the cool of the early morning or evening. Be extra-sensitive to older and overweight animals, or those prone to heart or respiratory problems. Bring an ample supply of water along on the walk. For cool, indoor walks, bring pets to shop at the SPCA’s Petique or other pet-friendly stores.

BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU WALK! Avoid walking your dog in areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals (see below), or have puddles or spots of auto coolant. The sweet taste of poisonous liquids attracts animals and can sicken or kill them if ingested. Clean any spills immediately or consider using animal-friendly products to help minimize risks.

Unfortunately, the use of wild rat poisons also increases during warm-weather months, which poses potential hazards for your pets. Be mindful of any poisons your pet(s) can reach on your property and other properties. Read the Humane Society of the United States’ recommendations on alternatives to rodent poisons here >>

WATCH WHAT THEY EAT & DRINK! It wasn’t long ago that two family dogs in North Buffalo died after eating poisonous mushrooms (amanita) growing right in the backyard. Check yards and any areas pets frequent. If something looks suspicious, don’t take a chance….GET RID OF IT. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through the urine of contaminated animals. The bacteria can get into water (puddles, ponds, pools, etc.) or soil and survive there for months. Humans AND animals can be infected. Use caution when letting your pet drink, walk through, or swim in water that may have been exposed to infected animals (rodents, wildlife, infected domestic animals, and others).

KEEP YOUR PET WELL-GROOMED AND CLEAN to combat summer skin problems. If your dog’s coat is appropriate, cutting his hair to a one-inch length will help prevent overheating and will also allow you to watch for fleas and ticks. Don’t shave down to the skin, though; your pet can get sunburned (see below)! A cat should be brushed frequently to keep a tangle-free coat. Long-haired cats will be more comfortable with a stylish, summer clip.

WEED OUT TOXIC SUMMER LAWN/GARDEN PURCHASES! When purchasing lawn and garden products, always read the labels for ingredients toxic to dogs, cats, and other animals, and check that flowers and shrubs are safe too. Fertilizers, weed killers, herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals can be fatal to your pets. Weed out the toxic products from your garage, and learn more about non-toxic, pet-friendly seasonal items. Snail, slug, and rat/mouse baits, and ant/roach baits and traps are also hazardous. Metaldehyde, one of the poisonous ingredients in many baits, is often very appealing to pets, and metaldehyde poisoning can cause increased heart rate, breathing complications, seizures, liver complications, and death. Considering cocoa shell mulch? Remember, the ingredients in chocolate that are toxic to pets are often present in the mulch. If insect and nuisance animal control items must be purchased, keep them in locations impossible for pets to reach.

KEEP CORN COBS AWAY FROM DOGS! In August of 2013, SPCA veterinarians removed corn cobs from the intestines of not one but TWO dogs! Both survived, but without veterinary treatment the results could have been fatal. Read this article from VetsNow.com  discussing the dangers of corn cobs and corn to dogs.

DO NOT USE HUMAN INSECT REPELLENTS ON PETS! These items are toxic when ingested at high doses, and dogs and cats may lick it off and ingest it, potentially resulting in a toxicity. Read more about what you can use here.

BUNNIES NEED TO KEEP COOL TOO! Pet rabbits who live indoors with no air conditioning can benefit from an easy cooling technique. Rabbit owners can freeze a filled water bottle. Once the water bottle is frozen, it can be wrapped in a cloth and placed on the rabbit’s cage floor. If the rabbit becomes too warm, she’ll instinctively know to lie next to the bottle. Fans can also be pointed in the general direction of a rabbit cage, and rabbits will raise their ears (their natural cooling system) to catch the breeze and cool off. On hot days, pet owners with rabbits living in outdoor pens will want to ensure their pets are cool enough in outdoor locations; if not, rabbits and pens should come indoors.

If you witness animal cruelty this summer, including animals left outdoors extended periods of time with inappropriate shelter in yards or on porches, the SPCA Serving Erie County may be able to help. If the location is in Erie County, contact the SPCA  Monday – Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., at (716) 875-7360, ext. 214. Other times, please contact your local animal control agency, police department, or your local after-hours emergency clinic.

SPCA Serving Erie County Launches Pet Loss Support Group June 18

May 12, 2026
By: Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca, (716) 875-7360, ext. 244

SPCA Serving Erie County Pet Loss Support Group, held the first and third Thursday of every month at the SPCA.

The bond between a person and a pet is often woven into the quietest moments of daily life — the gentle nudge of a nose at the end of a difficult day, the familiar sound of paws crossing the floor, the unwavering companionship that asks for nothing more than love in return. When that bond is broken through loss or even surrender, the grief can feel profound and isolating. Recognizing the deep emotional impact that comes with saying goodbye to a beloved animal companion, the SPCA Serving Erie County is launching a new Pet Loss Support Group designed to help grieving pet owners find comfort, understanding, and connection.

Beginning Thursday, June 18, the support group will meet on the first and third Thursday of each month at the SPCA’s 300 Harlem Rd., West Seneca location. Scheduled from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., the sessions are open to anyone 18 years of age or older coping with the loss of a pet or with the need to rehome a pet. There is no fee to attend, and registration is not required. Participants are welcome to simply arrive and take part in a safe, compassionate environment created specifically for those navigating grief. (While child care will not be available, the SPCA can provide resources for families seeking guidance to help younger children process the loss of a pet.)

The group will be facilitated by Jackie Lentz*, who holds a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and understands how deeply the loss of an animal companion can affect a person’s emotional well-being. The SPCA Serving Erie County holds Pet Loss Support Groups the first and third Thursday of every month at its 300 Harlem Rd., West Seneca location; for more information contact the SPCA's Jackie Lentz, 716-875-7360, ext. 204.“Losing a pet can be deeply painful,” said Lentz. “For many people, pets are family members… companions… sources of comfort and support. When they’re gone, the loss can feel overwhelming… and it’s not always something others fully understand or know how to support. This is designed to be a welcoming group, providing a judgment-free environment for anyone coping with the loss of a pet for any reason.”

Lentz emphasizes that every grief journey is unique and deserving of The SPCA Serving Erie County holds Pet Loss Support Groups the first and third Thursday of every month at its 300 Harlem Rd., West Seneca location; for more information contact the SPCA's Jackie Lentz, 716-875-7360, ext. 204.compassion. “Whether the loss is recent, or happened years ago, whether the loss was sudden or expected, all experiences of grief are valid here. Participants will be invited to share their stories, talk about their pets, and express emotions openly.”

At the heart of the new program is a simple but meaningful mission: helping people feel less alone in their grief. There will be no pressure for participants to speak, with listening valued just as much as sharing. “Our goal is not to help people ‘move on.’ We aren’t here to rush healing,” Lentz said. “We are here to help pet owners process loss at their own pace while feeling understood. We hope to normalize all levels of the grieving process… the intense feelings, the feelings of isolation… we want our participants to feel less alone.”

Those seeking additional information about the support group can contact Lentz directly at (716) 875-7360, ext. 204 | JackieL@yourspca.org .

*The SPCA’s Jackie Lentz is a compassionate group facilitator and former Crisis Counselor with a heart for helping people navigate grief and loss. She holds a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. As a devoted animal lover and pet parent herself, she understands the deep bond between people and their pets and the pain that comes with saying goodbye. Through this support group, Jackie offers a safe, supportive space where people can process their grief and feel less alone in their healing journey. 

Click the image below to download the
Pet Loss Support Group PDF:

SPCA Serving Erie County Pet Loss Support Group, held the first and third Thursday of every month at the SPCA. Download the Pet Loss Support Group flier here.

The SPCA Serving Erie County has partnered with DocuPet to bring the National Pet Registry to our community!

Registering your pet with DocuPet takes just minutes! It is completely free, and includes an ID tag, plus our HomeSafe® service at no cost. All of your pet’s most important information, such as contact information, microchip number, photos, plus more, is safely stored in one user-friendly platform. Keeping your pet’s tag on, and profile up to date helps ensure they’ll be reunited with you quickly, if they ever go missing.

Register your pet for free, and enjoy all the benefits:

– A unique ID tag linked to your pet’s secure online profile

– HomeSafe® – 24/7 lost pet service with live support

– Fast, easy reunions if your pet ever gets lost

Join the movement to keep pets safe, because together with DocuPet, we believe every stray pet deserves a way home. Register your pet today!

There's never been a better time to join our pack!

SPCA EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Our goal at the SPCA Serving Erie County is to be a diverse and inclusive workforce that is representative of the community we serve in the most effective way possible. All employment decisions are decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

Adoptions Counselor

Licensed Veterinary Technician, Lipsey Clinic

NYS Peace Officer

The opportunity to spend your days working around beautiful animals and people who love them seems like it would be enough of a benefit, right? But when you join our pack as a full or part-time staff member we offer you even more! Check out our benefits:
Benefits >>

OTHER SPCA OPPORTUNITIES 

College Internships

Volunteer Opportunities

 

How ZoomPaws Mobile Pet Gym is Giving SPCA Dogs a Leg Up

ZoomPaws van. SPCA Serving Erie County, Buffalo NY, WNY, exercise for dogs
ZoomPaws Laslov and Jenni are excited to help adoptable SPCA dog receive additional enrichment, stimulation, and a good workout!

Scroll down for FAQs on this form of dog exercise!

In the bustling environment of an animal shelter, high energy can sometimes be a hurdle to adoption. And for some dogs, the stress of kennel life can make it hard for potential adopters to see the calm, loyal pup underneath the excitement.

That’s where Jennifer Ortiz and Laslov Tomashevsky, owners of ZoomPaws Mobile Pet Gym, come in! Driven by a pure passion for animal welfare, the duo recently partnered with the SPCA Serving Erie County to provide free weekly “gym sessions” for adoptable dogs who need an extra outlet for their energy.

inside ZoomPaws van, dogs exercising, SPCA Serving Erie County, Buffalo NYThe ZoomPaws van is a climate-controlled, mobile fitness suite designed specifically for dogs. Using specialized non-motorized “slatmills,” dogs can run at their own pace, with the speed entirely controlled by them.

“We want them to look at it as their playtime activity,” Laslov explained. “It’s not just physical; it’s mental enrichment. Once they figure out they can stop whenever they want, or sprint as fast as they can, you can’t stop them! They’re just focused and happy.”

For the SPCA’s high-energy residents, these 30-minute sessions are game changers! As the SPCA’s Director of Capacity and Outcomes, Leigh Ann Abbey said, “the goal is to help dogs decompress. When a dog has a safe place to run it out, they return to their kennels calmer and more relaxed.”

The impact of this exercise was proven almost immediately with a dog named Nuke, a one-eyed Cane Corso who was available for adoption at the SPCA.

“He was definitely nervous in the beginning,” Jennifer recalled. “It took maybe five minutes for him to realize he was safe. Then he started trotting, his tail was wagging, and his tongue was out. He was just focused on that one job.”

The shift in Nuke’s demeanor was palpable. After finishing his workout, he proudly showcased his newfound confidence to visitors, and, later that day, he found his new home!

Jennifer and Laslov’s commitment to the SPCA is deep-rooted. “Our goal is to work with the dogs so people see that ‘Hey, this is a good dog,” Laslov said. “We want to help them find homes where they stay for good.”

To ensure that progress continues after adoption, ZoomPaws is offering a special gift to the community: all SPCA dog adopters receive $25 off an Introductory Package when booked within the first two months of adoption! Whether it’s a snowy Buffalo morning, a rainy Buffalo afternoon, or a humid Buffalo evening, ZoomPaws provides a consistent, safe way for new owners to keep their pets healthy and happy.

“We want all dogs to live long, healthy lives,” Jennifer added. “If we can help even one dog feel more confident and find a home, it’s all worth it.”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Dog treadmills? Are these designed to take the place of walking a dog the regular way?
NO! The intention is not to replace dog walking with treadmill (or in this case, “slatmill”) walking! However, at the SPCA we see many high-energy breeds each year; we recognize their physical and emotional states often require more exercise than standard walks provide if we are to keep them thriving in a kennel setting (no matter how nice the kennels are). When their excess, pent-up energy can be worked off, the dogs behave more calmly and more relaxed at other times…especially when in their kennels.

This exercise not only helps dogs already at the SPCA; it can help keep dogs from coming to the SPCA! A frustrated dog can engage in negative behaviors (destructive chewing, excessive barking, digging, hyperactivity, etc.), and some of these behaviors cause owners to consider surrender. When dogs can release their energy in a positive, practical, and safe manner, negative behaviors can be reduced or, in some cases, eliminated.

Are these types of “gyms” safe for the dogs?
YES! They provide what we call “structured mental stimulation” in a safe and controlled environment. The dogs are supervised, encouraged, rewarded…and because at the SPCA the dogs receive an independent experience, it’s perfect for high-energy dogs that show signs of being more reactive or anxious. They can socialize and exercise without the risk of over-stimulation. The slatmills are motorless (complete with brakes, of course!), so the dog determines the speed. The gym transforms a high-energy dog’s restlessness into focused, productive activity. The result? For many, the extra independent exercise leads to better manners, lowered anxiety, and a more balanced temperament.

Does it take some time for the dogs to get used to the treadmill?
Here’s how ZoomPaws owners themselves respond to that question:
“Most dogs catch on quickly—usually within about five minutes, we can teach them how to balance and move comfortably on the treadmill. From there, every session helps build their confidence and coordination as they become more familiar with the equipment. Each workout is carefully supervised to ensure safety at all times. Because our treadmills are non-motorized, your dog is always in control—they set the pace, speeding up or slowing down whenever they choose, and the treadmill naturally adjusts with them. We pay close attention to their movement and comfort level throughout the process to make sure every experience is safe, positive, and fun. We also tailor the training to fit dogs with special needs, sensitivities, or unique quirks.”

Who is the perfect four-footed client for this type of structured activity?
-High-energy, anxious, and/or reactive animal shelter occupants.
-Dogs owned by an immobile pet owner.
-Dogs owned by pet owners with limited mobility.
-Dogs with obesity issues that are affecting other aspects of their health.
-Dogs who are highly reactive to other dogs or other stimuli on walks or at parks, making standard walks stressful and anxiety-inducing for both the dog owners and their dogs.
-Dogs who either physically or emotionally require more vigorous exercise than their owners can Provide.
-Any dog owned by any pet owner when there is a long stretch of excessively hot, cold, or stormy Buffalo weather! Exercise is in a private, sheltered, climate-controlled environment!

This is not a traditional form of pet exercise or enrichment…and the SPCA has staff and volunteers dedicated to dog wellness, exercise, and stimulation. Why did the SPCA decide to add this to the experience of certain dogs at the SPCA?
The SPCA Serving Erie County is no stranger to researching innovative approaches to animal care, and bringing non-traditional animal welfare concepts to the community. In the 90s, amidst tremendous criticism, the SPCA was the first organization to offer a structured off-site adoption program based on national and international data that confirmed its benefits. A mobile adoption unit was introduced to Erie County. New shelter animal housing concepts that proved successful in other parts of the country were adapted, despite public, negative critiques from those who maintained outdated beliefs of what animal housing should be. The list goes on. When data shows the positive impact of what these types of mobile gym units can do to improve the well-being of high-energy dogs in a kennel environment, we have a responsibility to our animals and to our community to trial such a concept and see if the results are the same for our dogs. As the SPCA works with the caring representatives at ZoomPaws, we will also work to observe the behavior, displayed anxiety levels, and emotional well-being of the dogs who participate in the gym activity and make note of both positive and, if displayed, negative impacts.

There’s so much more I want to know about this form of canine exercise! It’s legal, right?
We assure you, this activity, when handled in this careful, structured, supervised manner, is 100% legal! 

To learn more about ZoomPaws or to book a session for your own pup, visit their website here! >>

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