Lollypop News Fall 2013 by Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester

Lollypop News

A Publication of the Humane Society of Greater Rochester

Fall 2013

Not Just One Day— A Lifelong Commitment

n June 11, 2013, Lollypop Farm participated in the nationwide pledge known as “Just One Day.” Established by the No Kill Advocacy Center, Animal Ark, and Animal Wise Radio, the pledge asked animal organizations to not euthanize any adoptable animals that day.

While we fulfilled our commitment, a oneday pledge just pushes the problem to the next day. As of July 1, 2013, 4,235 animals had been surrendered, seized, or admitted as strays to Lollypop Farm, while just 2,670 pets had been adopted, transferred to shelter or rescue partners, or returned to their owners. With nearly 7,000 cats and kittens coming through the shelter each year and not enough homes to adopt them all, Lollypop Farm relies on the community to be responsible with and committed to their pets.

To reduce the gap between adoptions and admissions, Lollypop Farm is asking for help in making more and more days like June 11 possible—because we can’t do it alone. With a life-long commitment from everyone in the community, we can reduce admissions, increase adoptions, and reduce euthanasia. Lollypop Farm has implemented progressive programs to adopt more pets, use foster care homes, and transfer animals to rescue organizations, but there just aren’t enough homes or other rescue organizations to care for the daily influx of animals. That is why we’ve

implemented programs to address the reasons animals are coming to the shelter and increased our outreach about how the community can help reduce pet overpopulation. Our two-month long campaign preceding Just One Day focused on our services and what people in the community can do to save the lives of more animals. The message is threefold: be a responsible pet owner, use the resources offered by Lollypop Farm or others in the community, or donate (financially or your time) to help keep such vital resources available. Responsible Pet Owners Save Lives Being responsible means spaying and neutering a pet, choosing adoption, visiting the veterinarian regularly, including pets in family plans, or waiting to bring a pet into the home until a family can afford the expense and time. Spaying and neutering is one of the most important actions in addressing the issue of homeless pets in shelters across the country. Lollypop Farm is committed to addressing the overwhelming problem of pet overpopulation and reducing the number of unwanted animals entering the shelter. We are working to make spay/neuter services affordable and accessible to income-qualified pet owners, feral cat caregivers, rescue and adoption organizations, and others through a variety of programs and services. Our SNIP (Spay/Neuter Incentive Program) program provides financial assistance to help low-income families by covering a portion Continued on page 7

P resident ’ s M essage

Help Us Build a Better Lollypop

”Tconstant is change,”

he only thing that is

Photo by TheAnimalPortrait.com

said the Greek philosopher Heraclitus (although for years I’ve attributed that quote to my Uncle Bob). As the needs of our community and the needs of the animals in it change, so too does Lollypop Farm. I’m truly excited about what’s in store for our visitors and adopters this fall. Interior renovations to the shelter in Fairport are nearing completion and the changes will vastly improve life for the animals in the shelter and will make visiting a great experience for our human guests, too! There are SO many improvements to be excited about, but what I’m most thrilled about is our new Day Lily Cat Adoption Center. Thanks to a gift from Don Robins, what was once our auditorium is being transformed into an entire center just for cats and kittens. Over the years we’ve found first-hand—and research has also proven— that cats are healthier and happier in open group housing. Almost all of the new housing will accommodate several to many cats. We’ve also heard from guests that you’d

Asilomar Animal Statistics

A BEGINNING SHELTER COUNT 1/1/2013

like to be able to meet and pet the cats and not just to observe them through a glass partition, as is now the case. Our new catteries will be open for visitors to co-mingle with the cats. The very best feature is a screened outdoor porch accessible via a cat door for the cats and a peoplesize door for our visitors. You’ll be able to grab a seat on a porch glider and a cat to cuddle on your lap. We think our feline guests will be adopted in no time! And that will make room for even more cats who are in need of a second chance. We have many other changes in store for both people and pets. I hope you’ll visit soon to experience them for yourself. There’s still time to help us Build a Better Lollypop. Give me a call if you can help!

Alice L. Calabrese, CAWA President and CEO

Dogs Cats Total 99

206

305 3408

INTAKE (Live Dogs & Cats Only)

B From the Public

945

2463

C Incoming Transfers from Organizations within Community/Coalition

D Incoming Transfers from Organizations outside Community/Coalition

213

287

E From Owners/Guardians Requesting Euthanasia

131

169

300

1289

2706

3995

F Total Intake [B + C + D + E] G Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia (Unhealthy & Untreatable Only) H ADJUSTED TOTAL INTAKE [F minus G] I ADOPTIONS

127

160

287

1162

2546

3708 2037

508

1529

OUTGOING TRANSFERS to Organizations within Community/Coalition

K OUTGOING TRANSFERS to Organizations outside Community/Coalition

107

L RETURN TO OWNER/GUARDIAN

107

DOGS & CATS EUTHANIZED

M Healthy (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia)

N Treatable—Rehabilitatable (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia)

314

328

O Treatable—Manageable (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia)

103

P Unhealthy & Untreatable (Includes Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia)

567

453

1020

Q Total Euthanasia [M + N + O + P]

591

872

1463

R Owner/Guardian Requested Euthanasia (Unhealthy & Untreatable Only)

127

161

288

S ADJUSTED TOTAL EUTHANASIA [Q minus R]

464

711

1175

1133

2293

3426

1135

2314

3449

124

429

553

T SUBTOTAL OUTCOMES [I + J + K + L + S] U DIED OR LOST IN SHELTER/CARE V TOTAL OUTCOMES [T + U] W ENDING SHELTER COUNT 6/30/2013

NOTE: Our live release rate for dogs and cat for this period is 65.7%. Regarding animals other that dogs and cats in the shelter, 496 animals were admitted to the shelter and 398 were adopted, transferred, or returned to owners.

www.lollypop.org

Mission—Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, is committed to building lifelong bonds between people and animals through education, community outreach programs and the prevention of cruelty. Main Shelter— 99 Victor Road, Fairport, NY 14450 Satellite Adoption Centers PetSmart, 790 Jefferson Road, Henrietta, NY The Mall at Greece Ridge, 271 Greece Ridge Center Drive, Greece, NY Pet$aver Healthy Pet Superstore, 1596 Ridge Road West, Greece, NY Pet$aver Healthy Pet Superstore, 2947 Monroe Avenue Rochester, NY 14618 General Information: (585) 223-1330 Animal Cruelty Hotline: (585) 223-6500 Pet Peeves Behavior Helpline: (585) 295-2999 info@lollypop.org • www.lollypop.org Lollypop News is published twice a year by Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester. Issue No. 2013-2, Fall 2013. Editor: Adrienne McHargue Contributing Writer: Laura Seymour Design: Victoria Brzustowicz, www.victoriabcreative.com © 2013 Lollypop Farm. Lollypop Farm is a registered trademark of the Humane Society of Rochester and Monroe County for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Inc. All rights reserved. Get Social with Lollypop Farm!

H a pp y T a i l s

Read more successful adoption stories at www.lollypop.org/happytails

Stories of Lollypop Farm pets and their adopters

Arlo

 We adopted Arlo (previously called Leroy) at the end of February. He is a wonderful addition to our family. He gets lots and lots of exercise, and as a result so do I (never a bad thing). He is working hard on regaining good manners, both inside and out. For an older dog (almost 8 years) he has an amazing puppy-like exuberance, curiosity and stamina. We go to obedience school, more for me than him. We are both learning the correct way to walk on a leash, sit, stay and recall. He knew basic skills, but going to class has helped. He will do almost anything for dog treats. Thank you so much to the entire Lollypop Farm family for the wonderful services you provide to the greater Rochester community. I so very much appreciate the ability to provide a forever home to my forever dog. ~Anne D.

 Two years ago I spotted this little guy on your website and knew I had to meet him. The next morning I drove out to Lollypop Farm just as you were opening. As I walked across the parking lot, I spotted an employee walking a Chihuahua that looked just like one I was coming to see. I said, “Is this Bruiser?” and she replied, “why, yes it is, we are taking him to be on TV as our pet of the week!” When I told her he was the reason I had come, she arranged to take another dog and brought me inside to spend some more time with Bruiser. It was only a matter of minutes before I knew I couldn’t leave without him. Sometimes I think about how different my life would be if I had gotten there even a minute later! I truly believe it was fate. Bruiser has been such a great addition to our family and I couldn’t imagine a day without him and his unique personality. I can’t thank Lollypop Farm enough for what they do each and every day. Thank you! ~Jessica C.

 We are the family who adopted Willy from you in December 2012 after our beloved cat died suddenly. I just thought I should drop you a line and say how well he’s settled in, we all totally adore him! He’s made good friends with our little dog and is always looking for someone to give him a cuddle. I am so happy we chose him and could not imagine being without him. ~The B. Family

Send us your Happy Tails!

Email pictures and stories about your Lollypop Farm alumni to happytails@lollypop.org.

Lollypop Farm Voted Favorite Destination for Kids

Bruiser

Gracie

Willy

 My husband and I adopted Gracie on 9/24/12. She is a sweet, affectionate, people-loving cat and has brought so much joy and fun to us. Thank you all so much! Here is a picture of her looking up from her bed, which we keep in the living room so she is never far from the action. ~Ellen K.

hank you to everyone who voted for us in the 2013 Kids Out and About survey of the Top 20 Places to Take Kids in Greater Rochester. Lollypop Farm was voted #7 in the top 20, AND chosen as the favorite in the “Favorite Farm” category! We’re thrilled at the honor. View all of the winners at http://rochester. kidsoutandabout.com/. Lollypop News—Fall 2013

Community Rallies to Surpass Goal at Telethon 2013

Luminaria Photography

hanks to a huge outpouring of support from the Rochester community and beyond, Telethon 2013 on March 2 raised $236,654, surpassing our original goal of $234,000. In order to raise funds to care for homeless and abused pets in the community, our 17th annual fundraising event was broadcast live from Eastview Mall on 13WHAM-TV, Rochester’s CW, and 13wham.com, and hosted by popular local television and radio personalities from 13-WHAM TV, Rochester’s CW, Fickle 93.3, WARM 101.3, and The Zone @ 94.1. l President and CEO Alice Calabrese, CAWA, is joined by Sean Carroll of 13WHAM-TV and other local tv and radio personalities at Telethon 2013 to showcase adoptable animals and critical services for people and pets in the community.

Luminaria Photography

A Night of Whimsy at Our Annual Gala

Guests with a Golden Ticket were treated to a fantasy-filled evening while supporting pets in need through silent and live auctions.

Tat our annual gala presented by LeChase Construction.

he evening of May 4 was a world of “Purrr Imagination”

A whimsical scene at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center greeted over 300 guests in fanciful attire to enjoy delectable eats while bidding on silent and live auction items. Live entertainment by the Skycoasters led to a fun night on the dance floor. Many thanks to all who attended the event and bid on our auction items! Over $145,500 was raised to benefit Rochester’s animals in need! Pictures from the event can be viewed at www.lollypop.org/purrr. l

www.lollypop.org

Lollypop Farm Volunteer Spotlights

his year we held our volunteer appreciation picnic on June 30th with over 180 volunteers and friends in attendance. The food was delicious, the company fantastic, and the weather was perfect. The following people were recognized for their volunteer achievements this year:

Jill & Don Gress

Jill & Don Gress by Aubrey Donovan, Humane Education and Outreach Manager “Within the span of just a few months Jill and Don have completed training to help with Humane Education Programs, Community Outreach, and Walking the Dogs. They often stop in just to visit the animals and have even completed American Red Cross Pet First Aid training. We look forward to keeping them busy.” Bob Brinster by Rick Murtha, Web Specialist “Bob should be recognized for his outstanding attitude and willingness to go the extra mile. He works in adoptions, pet peeves, and photographs pets for the website. He is always willing to learn and apply new photo techniques. We are lucky to have him!”

Edie also volunteers to run humane education programs. Edie is always a positive and patient host for groups of all ages. For the past two years, Edie and her dog Cristo have visited School No. 30 as guest readers to celebrate the students having completed a literacy program. Her commitment has touched the lives of many.” Ann Marie Fite by Vicky Pape, Database Entry Specialist, and Lynsey Reed, Community Outreach Coordinator “Ann Marie has put in over 65 hours this year alone coming to the shelter almost every day working in various positions. She can be found driving the Lollypop van for spay and neuter services, or raising money with the Lollypop Farm Young Professionals, educating the community about Lollypop Farm programs and services or anywhere else she happens to be called into action. She is an invaluable representative of Lollypop Farm and our mission.” Jan Aldridge by Aubrey Donovan, Humane Education and Outreach Manager “For the past 11 years Jan Aldridge has worked behind the scenes, checking our SNIP hotline and mailing out applications. Jan has seen a number of changes and transitions but

Ann Marie Fite

continues to plug away and has helped thousands of pet owners in need.” Other volunteers recognized during the picnic were: • Karen Atkins by Rachelle Ingutti, Farm Camp Manager • Liz DiMartino by Lindsay Lavell, Shelter Supervisor • Michelle Benton by Jessica Cornwell, Kennel Staff • Helen Newman by Alyssa Boyea, Behavior and Training Instructor • All Cat Room Volunteers by Julie Dilulio, Cat Room Staff • All Gift Shop & Front Desk Volunteers by Laura Burton, Customer Service Coordinator. l

Learn how you can help farm animals at www.lollypop.org/farmsponsor

Edie Jordan by Aubrey Donovan, Humane Education and Outreach Manager “On top of volunteering for Pet Assisted Therapy and Pet of the Week, Lollypop News—Fall 2013

Building a Better Lollypop Nears Completion

The new reception and adoption desk will be moved to the space opened up by removing the old cattery in the lobby.

enovations in the lobby of the shelter are now in full swing! The $5.7 million expansion and renovation project that began in May 2012 aims to increase the scope of services for animals in our community. Phase I of the project saw the completion of two wings to the building: the Klingenstein Veterinary Clinic and the Terrence B. McIntee Training and Education Center. Phase II is underway with LeChase Construction completing the new Day Lily Cat Adoption Center, a 3,500 sq. ft. enhanced cat space with

Calendar of Events September 21 Barktober Fest 2013

The new Day Lily Cat Adoption Center will feature colony housing, condos, and porches where visitors may directly interact with adoptable cats.

colony housing, condos, and porches where the public will be able to enter and directly interact with adoptable cats. Our Small Animal Adoption Center will greet customers near the front entrance, renovations on a combination reception and adoption desk are underway, and the entrance to The Halle Polisseni Dog Adoption Center is in the works. petsaversuperstore.com

Despite the busy work, we remain open for adoptions and visitors! We appreciate your patience while we work to Build a Better Lollypop for the animals and people in our community. With $4.8 million already pledged to the project, learn more about our plans and how you can still support the project at www.buildabetterlollypop.org. l

facebook.com/petsaver

youtube.com/petsaversuperstore

r’s Rocheste r fo #1 Store t e Healthy P ! s d o o F

October 5 Benefit Concert with Joanne Shenandoah October 14 Young Professionals Social October 26 Trick or Treating on the Farm November – December Holiday Pet Photos Ongoing Animal Tales Drop-In Story Time (Every Friday) Dog Training Classes Pets on the Road (Check the online calendar for dates.) Visit www.lollypop.org/calendar for updates on all Lollypop Farm events.

1596 Ridge Road West Stoneridge Plaza Greece 621-0890

2947 Monroe Avenue Monroe Clover Plaza Brighton/Pittsford 242-0808

Store Hours: Mon - Sat, 9am - 9pm; Sun, 10am - 6pm

For great oﬀers and coupons, visit petsaversuperstore.com and click on “Deals and Savings”

Not Just One Day … continued from page 1

of the cost to spay or neuter their household pets. We also recently received a grant from PetSmart Charities® to run a targeted impact program in the 14613 zip code. Dog and cat owners residing in this zip code can receive free spay/neuter services. Our Feral Cat Program offers affordable spay/neuter services to caretakers of feral cats to help control cat populations as part of our endorsement of Trap-Neuter-Release, or TNR. Knowing these programs are in place, and having pet owners in our community take advantage of them, helps control the unwanted pet population and ultimately the number of pets surrendered to the shelter. Programs That Help Pets in Need Many of the resources Lollypop Farm offers are specifically designed to address the problems people cite when surrendering their pets to a shelter. Letting the community know about the options and encouraging them to commit to taking advantage of all available resources before surrendering their pet is a critical step in our effort to reduce admissions. 37% of pets in our shelter are surrendered due to behavior issues. If these problems can be addressed while pets are still in the home, we have a chance to keep pets out of the shelter and ultimately save lives. Our Pet Peeves Behavior Help

Getting pets spayed or neutered is one of the most important steps to reducing the number of animals surrendered to the shelter. Photo by WalterColley.com & TheAnimalPortrait.com

Line offers free advice to any petowner in the community. Trained counselors answer pet-related questions about litter box issues, excessive barking, introducing a new animal into the home, and so much more. Counselors answer nearly 500 calls a year and with their guidance prevent pet owners from unnecessarily surrendering their animals. We also offer a robust schedule of dog training classes to address manners and behavior concerns, along with private in-home consultations for dogs and cats who need more one-on-one attention. Your Support Makes a Difference Finally, do not underestimate the power of your donation or volunteer

time. No tax dollars support Lollypop Farm so the only way our organization is able to provide these resources is through support from individuals and businesses. Volunteers impact the animals in the shelter with their daily care and attention, and are also vital to our outreach and education programs for the community. Make a donation, volunteer your time, participate in our events, and connect with us on social media to share our message—every contribution is a step closer to making change for the pets in our community. Visit www.lollypop.org for more information—because together, we can save more lives! l

434 Cats in New Homes During June

Dincludes the 108 cats that were adopted on June 11 during a free adopt-auring June’s Adopt-a-Cat Month we placed 434 cats in new homes! That

thon event. We send a huge thank you to everyone who adopted a cat during the month and we also have to thank those who helped by sharing our promotions, adoptable kitty posts, or donating! While we’re thrilled with how many cats found homes, there are still so many kitties waiting for their chance too. Meet our adoptable cats online at www.lollypop.org and come adopt if you can! l Greg adopts Jackson during a free adopt-a-thon event on June 11th.

Lollypop News—Fall 2013