ARIZONA HUMANE SOCIETY®
SPRING 2022
ADDRESSING OUR STATE’S VETERINARY SHORTAGE PAGE 3
VETS AND PETS PAGE 4
PAPAGO PARK CAMPUS CONSTRUCTION BEGINS PAGE 7
ASK EDISON Edison is one of our animal teachers who interacts with children at camps, birthday parties, and in classrooms. In
Our Mission We save the most vulnerable animals and enrich the lives of pets and people.
Our Values Innovation. Compassion. Excellence.
each issue of Paw Prints, Edison will answer a question we receive from animal lovers like you.
Q: What is your Healthy Tails Mobile Veterinary Clinic? I’m glad you asked! Our Healthy Tails Mobile Veterinary Clinic is designed to help low-income pet parents across the Valley get their fur-friends the comprehensive medical care they need and was made possible by a generous donation from the Banfield Foundation.
Dr. Steven R. Hansen President & CEO
2022 AHS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee
Over the past year, our mobile service has vaccinated over 2,000 pets at locations across our state. From the San Carlos Apache Reservation to local business and city partnerships like the Maryvale Community Center, our clinic has been on the move. Just recently, Healthy Tails participated in Arizona’s StandDown Alliance, an annual event that provides various services for veterans, funded by the Timothy T. Day Foundation LuLu’s Fund. Thanks to our supporters, Tim and Sandy Day, we could lend a helping paw to our community’s most deserving and in-need vets and their pets. Healthy Tails brings affordable and accessible veterinary services such as vaccines, microchips, wellness exams, tick/flea, and other preventative treatments to pets who might otherwise go without prevention and ensures vaccination against deadly diseases. Through our veterinary clinics and our Pet Resource Center, we can connect pet owners with affordable medical, behavior and support services to keep pets and people together.
Dr. Craig Thatcher, Vice Chair
Matthew Waller, Treasurer
Bryan Albue, Vice Chair
Andrea Marconi, Past Chair
Julie Johnson, Secretary
Dr. Karla Fisher, Governance Chair
Board Members Anthony Alfonso
Susie Ingold
Courtney Beller
Ann-Marie Lee
Yvonne A Betts
Tracey Lyons
Andrea L. Claus
Kimberlee R. Padilla
Ann Damiano
Suzanne Pearl
Dyan Getz
Ann Siner
Lisa Grayson
Patricia Tate
Dr. Linda Groomes Suzanne Hensing
AZHUMANE .ORG
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REUNITED!
BUDDY GOES HOME AFTER GETTING HEAD STUCK IN BLOCK WALL AHS’ Emergency Dispatch received a call from a Good Samaritan who noticed a dog’s head stuck in the cement block wall of a complex being built in Phoenix. Our amazing Emergency Animal Medical Technicians™ immediately got to work. They carefully chiseled at the wall around the poor pup’s head and created a hole large enough for him to slide out of. Once freed, the 2-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier mix had a bit of swelling and some minor wounds on his head and neck. Our team also learned that he was not a stray, and in fact, his name was Buddy, and he had a loving home that was missing him terribly. Buddy was transferred to AHS’ trauma hospital for medical care while our Animal Assistance Department found his family. And, after a few short days in our care, Buddy was successfully reunited with his family. Last year, thanks to your support, our Emergency Animal Medical Technicians responded to almost 10,200 rescues and investigations – saving the lives of more than 5,800 sick, injured, and abused pets just like Buddy. For more information on how you can help save even more vulnerable pets in our community, visit azhumane.org/give.
NEW BILL
TO HELP ALLEVIATE VETERINARY SHORTAGE PRESSES FORWARD For years now, healthcare for animals has been in crisis due to a severe shortage of veterinarians. But a new state bill, initiated by AHS, in partnership with the Humane Society of Southern Arizona, and sponsored by Senator T.J. Shope, has passed through both the state House and Senate chambers and now awaits state budget negotiations. SB 1271 would establish an Arizona Veterinary Loan Assistance Program, offering significant incentives – including a student loan reimbursement of up to $100,000 for veterinarians who work in Arizona for at least four years – to those who obtain a veterinary degree after Jan. 1, 2023. As part of the agreement, vets must work at least two years at a municipal, county, or nonprofit shelter, like AHS, or in an agricultural practice designated by the USDA as having a shortage. AHS SUPPORTING EFFORTS TO ELIMINATE PAINFUL CAT DECLAWING You may not be aware that cat declawing is not simply nail removal – it’s an extremely painful surgery involving amputation of the cat’s last bone of each toe. If this surgery were performed on a person, it would be like cutting off each finger at the last knuckle. AHS is supporting HB 2014, which would protect cats by prohibiting this unnecessary practice, unless necessary for the health of the cat. PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM DOG, COCK FIGHTING The Arizona Senate recently passed HB 2324, which protects children by making it a crime to bring a minor to a dog fight or a cockfight. The bill will now go to the Governor for his signature. NEW FIREWORKS LAW SB 1275, which makes it illegal to use consumer fireworks between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. daily, except on the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve has been signed into law – a big win for pets! AHS will continue to lead efforts to advance legislation to protect pets and advocate to fight cruelty and neglect. For more information on our advocacy efforts, visit azhumane.org/advocacy. SPRING 2022 | 3
VETS AND PETS The Arizona Humane Society is committed to giving back to those who have given so much to protect our country. We are honored to provide innovative programs and services that make a difference in the lives of the brave men and women of our military and the pets they love.
PROJECT ACTIVE DUTY PROVIDES RELIEF TO SOLDIERS IN NEED On February 23, 2022, Sergeant First Class Sabrina Ruckes said goodbye to her best friend, a Maltipoo pup named Puma. Sabrina and Puma have been the best of friends for the last five years, but as a member of the United States Army, Sabrina is being deployed for the next 12 months. This will be the longest the pair has ever been apart. Fortunately for Sabrina and Puma, through AHS’ Project Active Duty, this farewell isn’t a permanent one; it’s more like a “See you later.” In partnership with PetSmart Charities ®, Project Active Duty provides those pet owners leaving for a tour of active duty the peace of mind and the comforting knowledge that their pet will be waiting for them when they return just like Puma. Sergeant First Class Ruckes didn’t know what she would do with her sweet fur-baby when she got her orders. Then, she learned about our program when shopping at PetSmart®. During their goodbye, Sabrina commented, “This program is such a blessing, such a stress reliever. I know he’ll be safe.” Project Active Duty came about during the aftermath of the September 11 attacks as a way to give back to the men and women who so bravely risk their lives for our country. When an active service member enrolls in this program, their animal is paired with one of our Foster Heroes during their deployment, who care and love the pet as their own.
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AHS’ Senior Systems Administrator, Jason Mitchell, is a veteran of the Marine Corps. During his deployment in 2002, he had to leave his childhood best friend, Max, behind. In Jason’s case, his parents could step in and care for Max. “I think the Project Active Duty program is another shining example of AHS providing support for owners and pets,” Jason said. “AHS is paving an avenue allowing civilians to support military personnel through the care of their best friends, which allows the service member to focus on the tasks ahead of them knowing their pets are in a safe place.” Like Jason, HR Generalist Damian Carrillo is a veteran of the Marines. He believes this program is a “very helpful program, as those that need to deploy or mobilize often get little notice.” And eight-year Marine Corps reserve Animal Assistance Manager Francisco Cabello states, “I think it’s amazing that this is something we offer. If you have no one else available to care for your pet, knowing your pet is being taken care of by AHS while you’re away would be a huge relief.” When duty calls, we are there to protect and care for the pets of our military men and women who protect and serve around the world with Project Active Duty. Interested in becoming a Foster Hero to assist the men and women who keep us safe? Visit azhumane.org/foster to learn more. From left to right: Jason Mitchell, Damian Carrillo, Francisco Cabello
DONOR SPOTLIGHT:
DAVID AND TANA BLACK AHS friend, supporter, and veteran David Black is a former Staff Sergeant in the Air Force who served in Vietnam. While there, a rescue dog named PHC lived with his unit. She was their guard dog, early warning system, and a bit of a mother hen. So, David recognizes first-hand the value a loving animal can bring to the lives of those in and returning from combat. David and his wife, Tana, currently have three amazing pets: a 3-yearold dog named IdaRose, recent addition Noelle – a lovely Siamese cat who’s also an AHS Alum the couple first fostered and later adopted – and MissTique, a 12-year-old Shih Tzu, Chihuahua, and Brussels Griffon mix. David wasn’t looking for a pet when he and his wife went to the annual Arizona Home and Garden Show years ago, but he ended up meeting his perfect match. Having suffered heartbreak from the loss of a pet in the past, David was reluctant to adopt a new dog. But Tana knew better. She wandered over to the adoption area, and there she was: MissTique, who instantly connected with David, “She’s such an empathetic and understanding, sensitive and responsive little dog.” He knew they had to take this sweet rescue home because, as he put it, “We really rescued each other.” Over the past decade together, MissTique has become David’s shadow. She’s been his alarm clock to rouse him from sleep and his reminder to get up and get moving when he has been stationary for too long. Besides being his constant companion and fur-ball full of comfort, she regularly saves the family from the threat of UPS workers, too! MissTique, IdaRose, and Noelle give the Blacks unconditional love. That’s why supporting them and all animals at AHS – whether through their charitable donations or being Foster Heroes (turned adopters!) – is so important to them. Pets make us better humans, and that’s why AHS is so dedicated to enriching the lives of pets and people, including our vets. If you’d like to help bring more pets and people together, make a lifesaving gift today at azhumane.org, so we can continue to help not only our veterans but our entire community find their MissTique.
EVERYONE NEEDS
A BEST FRIEND It’s official and just in time for Memorial Day! AHS is proud to announce the reaffirmation of its partnership with Soldier’s Best Friend. This unique program is an Arizona-based nonprofit organization that provides U.S. military veterans living with combat-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with Service or Therapeutic Companion Dogs. Most of the animals selected for Soldier’s Best Friend are rescued from local shelters like AHS. We work with Soldier’s Best Friend to find potential dogs on our adoption floor for their program. AHS is committed to partner collaboration. Through programs like Soldier’s Best Friend and other community relationships, we can place pets in rescue, foster, and permanent homes, reduce overcapacity in other shelters, and reunite lost pets with their owners. SPRING 2022 | 5
OUR VOLUNTEERS ARE IN IT
FOR THE LONG HAUL In October, AHS’ longtime volunteer Gloria Bartelt was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement President’s Volunteer Service Award. Gloria has been a dedicated friend to AHS over the past 23 years, helping save the sick, injured, and abused animals who come to us, filling a necessary role in just about every facet of our organization. Gloria has been a pillar of strength and compassion from dog walking to media segments, special events, and adoptions. Her passion for saving our community’s most vulnerable animals shone through her work with AHS’ Adoptions department by finding pets with special needs their furever homes. With volunteers like Gloria, it’s no wonder that AHS was voted the Best Place to Volunteer by PHOENIX Magazine. On behalf of the Arizona Humane Society, our pets, and the people Gloria has served, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for all her tireless efforts. Want to join Gloria in making a difference for homeless pets by volunteering your time? AHS is now offering both ongoing and single-shift volunteer opportunities. Learn more at azhumane.org/volunteer.
WHEELS FOR WAGS IS DOUBLE THE WIN
SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER,
FOR PEOPLE AND PETS
SPEND IT WITH AHS!
In December, AHS’ newly revamped Wheels for Wags Vehicle Sales Program won the coveted Bob & Diane Hoover Annual Innovation Award from the Association of Animal Welfare Advancement!
Our Summer Camp program is hot, hot, hot! AHS recently received the Eleanor P. Eells Award for Program Excellence! This nationally-recognized award honors camps that develop effective and creative responses to the needs of people and issues in our society, while encouraging positive change that makes the world a better place.
By becoming the first non-profit organization in Arizona with a licensed and insured used car dealership, the Wheels for Wags program utilizes car donations to help those pets most in need. Unlike typical car donation programs, we sell directly to the public, allowing for stress-free donations and a larger tax write-off. Plus, our community’s most vulnerable pets get 100% of the proceeds. Do you have a vehicle you no longer need? Don’t trade it, donate it and help save lives! Visit azhumane.org/wheelsforwags to learn how.
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And that starts with the future of our community! Each summer, AHS offers a wide variety of opportunities to nurture our younger animal lovers while providing fun learning experiences for ages 6-17. We have something for everyone. For registration and information visit azhumane.org/camp.
BONNIE AND BILL:
A FRIENDSHIP FOR THE AGES Bonnie, a beautiful but severely anxious pup, struggled in the kennel, and it was clear shelter life did not agree with her. That’s when one of our Animal Care team members asked an employee to give Bonnie office time so she could have a break. After six weeks of daily office play with plenty of belly rubs, car rides, and lots of rest, Bonnie was ready for her furever home. Then, longtime AHS supporter and animal advocate Bill Martell came along looking for a birthday present for his wife. Bonnie and Bill met, and it was love at first sight. Today, Bonnie and Bill are thick as thieves, and she has become her best self with Bill by her side. Over the last five years, they’ve had an active friendship filled with everything from hiking and hunting to camping and swimming in the lake. Every day at AHS, we work to save the most vulnerable animals and enrich the lives of pets and people. And thanks to your ongoing support, we are able to make success stories like Bill’s and Bonnie’s possible. Searching for your own four-legged adventure buddy? Visit azhumane.org/adopt.
PAPAGO PARK CAMPUS UPDATE:
CONSTRUCTION BEGINS We’re getting a new leash on life! In our last issue, we were thrilled to announce the groundbreaking of our Rob & Melani Walton Papago Park Campus. As you know, we’ve been chomping at the bit to create a state-of-the-art facility to better meet the needs of our growing community for some time. We broke ground on November 4, 2021, and today construction is well underway. The excavation process is nearly complete, much to the chagrin of some of our pups who wanted to help dig, and AHS’ new foundation is ready to be laid. We can hardly contain our excitement as this location will allow us to be a leader in comprehensive rescue, medical, and behavioral care for pets by drastically increasing the number of animals we can treat and save. Our transition plan is in place, and we are wagging our tails in anticipation of our grand opening come Spring of 2023. For more information on how our new Papago Park Campus will transform animal welfare in our community, visit azhumane.org/transform. SPRING 2022 | 7
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Phoenix, AZ Permit No. 456
1521 W. Dobbins Road Phoenix, AZ 85041 azhumane.org
DON’T KIT-NAP KITTENS When we find a litter of kittens, our good-hearted instincts tell us to rush to the aid of these fragile felines. Thankfully, human intervention is typically not required. In fact, the best thing we can do is leave the kittens alone. Mom will likely return shortly, and it’s critical that the kittens remain in her care as she offers the best
SHOP WITH US
PETIQUE IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS We’re open. AHS’ Petique Online store is your source for quality pet supplies, where all proceeds go to providing lifesaving treatment for the sick, abused, and homeless
chance for survival. If you find kittens and are extremely
pets we care for at the Arizona Humane Society!
certain that they are orphaned, you can then step in and
We offer a variety of merchandise for pets and people.
help by caring for the kittens until they’re old enough to
Whether tee-shirts for hoo-mans, cat-care for our feline
find homes. Learn more at azhumane.org/foundkittens.
friends, toys for Fido, or our specialty supplies for other critters, we’ve got you covered. So, check us out online at azhumane.org/petique or in-person located at the Nina Mason Pulliam South Mountain Campus.
YOU HELPED MAKE SO MUCH POSSIBLE THIS PAST YEAR The future is bright for Arizona’s pets. Thanks to you, we’ve transformed Maricopa County from one of the worst places to be a pet to one of the best. A new dawn is upon us. View our 2021 Impact Report at azhumane.org/impactreport to learn how your support is helping create a bright, new era for Arizona’s pets.