Q&A with the Cattaraugus County SPCA | News

ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CATS AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION?

Yes, Willie is a sweet and wonderful senior cat who was released to the SPCA in early December. He is diabetic, so he has his blood sugar and insulin checked daily if necessary. Likes comfy beds and needs someone who is comfortable around a slightly special needs cat with a gentle disposition.

WHAT IMPROVEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE?

The Cattaraugus County SPCA is blessed with a generous and very supportive community. From the County Legislature, to pet lovers, area businesses and donors, to the hard-working volunteers for off-site events. This allowed the SPCA to upgrade the medical area and add new doors and windows as needed.

Over the past few years, with grant funding, the SPCA was able to complete a new heating and air conditioning system and replace the roof. They have just applied for a grant to upgrade the security system to improve the safety of staff and animals. The SPCA is looking for help with grant writing. If you are interested, please email [email protected].

As donations come in and funds are raised, pet space renovations are on the agenda to make life more comfortable for dogs and cats.

DOES THE SPCA WORK IN COLLABORATION WITH OTHER ANIMAL SHELTERS?

All animal shelters have the same goal, to protect animals from harm and help them find loving homes. Working with other shelters is therefore rewarding and useful. Allegany County was fortunate to have a million dollar donor who loved animals, and the Cattaraugus County SPCA is using their new S/N clinic for cats and dogs.

In disasters such as hurricanes and tornadoes, everyone helps each other through difficult times, whether it’s taking in animals when shelter has been damaged or destroyed, or going to the scene to help put things in order. Sometimes high-mortality shelters donate dogs to other shelters, which helps save dog lives and helps the overcrowded shelter. Everyone benefits, most importantly, the dogs. Readers may recall the “hoarding” situation on a farm in Farmersville a few years ago, with over 200 animals.

All shelters near and far offered their help however they could. Horses, birds, cats, dogs and others have been successfully accommodated. Local rescues in Buffalo have introduced some of the SPCA’s longer-term resident dogs in hopes of helping them find homes.

YES, the SPCA needs volunteers. And they’d love to hear ideas for a signature fundraising event. In addition, the SPCA is looking for a volunteer coordinator to help coordinate events. Events help bring in much-needed funds for critical things like vet bills and more. Energetic, creative and hardworking animal lovers are encouraged to contact the SPCA if you wish to help. Email: [email protected]

CAN I ADOPT A DOG FROM YOUR SPCA AND HAVE IT SENT TO ME?

There have been mentions in the news of adopted animals being delivered to the new owner, much like people can order a car online and have it delivered to their doorstep. The SPCA does not currently offer this service, but strives to meet the needs of adopters. They have no geographic requirements, so you don’t need to live in the area to adopt.

WHAT IS THE SEASON FOR KITTENS AND PUPPIES?

It’s coming now. In fact, two sets of 15 cats were recently seized in hoarding situations. Pregnant mothers, and new kittens have already arrived at the shelter, as well as puppies. What a surprise to open a door in the hall last summer to find 12 darling puppies and their mother running around the room. If you are looking for a specific pet, visit the SPCA to see who is available or check the website or petfinder.com to see who is looking for a loving home.

The Cattaraugus County SPCA, 2944 Route 16, Olean, NY 14760. 716) 372-8492. Open Tuesday to Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Monday. spcacattco.org or petfinder.com to see who is ready to be adopted.

About Chuck Keeton

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