Nova Scotia SPCA announces new Board of Directors for Yarmouth Branch
Yarmouth (September 12, 2011) –– The Nova Scotia SPCA is proud to announce the newly appointed
Board of Directors for the Yarmouth Branch. The Board has been in place officially since August 18, 2011. The new members
include: Jason Curtis (President), Catherine Hole-Smith (Vice President), Natalie Landry (Secretary) and Wayne Hamilton (Director
at Large).
“Each member brings
a wealth of experience and skills to the table coupled with great enthusiasm and dedication to the mission of the Nova Scotia
SPCA. We are so fortunate to have this team at the Yarmouth Branch,” said Nova Scotia SPCA Provincial Board of Directors’
President, Andrea Carew.
“When the Yarmouth Branch of the Nova Scotia SPCA needed support at a critical time, I and three others, volunteered
to form a Board of Directors”, said Yarmouth Branch President, Jason Curtis. He added “we believe, above all else,
that the Shelter needed to survive. Annually, hundreds of abandoned, ailing and/or abused pets find care and compassion from
the SPCA staff and volunteers until a loving home can be found. Our new Board of Directors has no affiliation with any other
animal care group nor the previous board; however, we do say thank you to them for their past and continued support for animal
welfare in our community and we applaud you. Our community is a caring community that will hopefully continue supporting the
Nova Scotia SPCA Yarmouth Branch both financially and with their valuable volunteer time. Our four legged friends certainly
need and appreciate it.”
The newly
formed Board of Directors will be focused on fundraising, community outreach and humane education. Working closely with
the Provincial Society, the Board of Directors will support the local Branch and help the shelter fulfill its obligations
to the community. At this time, the Board is holding off on additional recruitment as they undertake a number of priority
projects for the Branch. Of particular importance is fundraising, as the Branch remains in a difficult financial situation.
The Nova Scotia SPCA Provincial Society is funding a current operational deficit until the Branch can regain is financial
footing.
“I am very proud of our
staff and volunteers who have remained strong under difficult circumstances,” said Executive Director of the Nova Scotia
SPCA, Kristin Williams. She added “The shelter is doing extremely well. In the last weeks, the shelter has embraced
new protocols and procedures; identified priorities for infrastructure renewal, and maintained a meticulous commitment to
elevated standards of care in all aspects of its operations. The Society as a whole has embraced a commitment to standardized
policies based on industry best practices and all Branches are working diligently to not only meet, but exceed expectations
in the provision of services.”
The Branch
has closed the job competition for a new shelter manager and will be beginning interviews shortly. The Branch has also
withdrawn pick up and enforcement duties related to animal control due to a lack of adequate funding and the risks posed to
staff and volunteers in encountering dangerous animals and circumstances. The Branch remains committed to providing pound
services and has been engaged with the municipalities to consider options and opportunities moving forward. Williams stated
that “we have offered our unwavering support to the communities of this province and will always offer a high standard
of care, the support and oversight of our Provincial Society, the strength of our provincial network of Branches and a professional
level of service.”
Volunteers needed to support struggling Yarmouth Branch
Nova Scotia (July 11) –– It is no secret that
the Yarmouth Branch of the SPCA has had a challenging year. Following recent resignations of 9 of 11 regional board members,
the Provincial Society has taken up direct operational control of the struggling Branch. The resignations were said to be
with respect to models of governance being explored by the Provincial Society, which is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors
comprised of elected members and Branch representatives, with operations managed by an Executive Director.
“Governance discussions are ongoing and remain focused on achieving
greater alignment and consistency in operations between Branches, along with compliance with elevated standards of care and
policy, and greater participation and engagement with our communities,” says Executive Director, Kristin Williams. Williams
added that “the Branch is strained financially. The Branch is operating with a projected deficit of $24,000 which presumes
the success of fundraising events that have not been planned and in which the Branch may not have the resources to carry out.
The Provincial Society is currently funding Yarmouth’s deficit in the short term until it can reestablish itself and
become sustainable. As a result, we are appealing to interested community members who want to help the animals of Yarmouth
and the surrounding communities to come forward and apply for the new Board of Directors.”
Reports earlier this month suggested that the Provincial Society, as a result of governance reform, was entertaining
proposals to transfer funds from its Branches to the Provincial Society. Management at the SPCA confirmed that no such proposals
were ever proposed or entertained. “Funds that are raised in our communities, stay within those communities and are
put towards initiatives that support our mission and mandate. The Provincial Society has and would continue to ensure compliance
and support to its network of Branches in that endeavour,” said Williams.
Williams added that the operations of the Branch also received a thorough audit. There were several concerns
regarding quality of care that have been addressed, including training deficiencies, cleanliness, disease control, and improper
accommodation and environmental management. The Branch is being visited bi-monthly to ensure and support the maintenance of
increased standards of care and to ensure that flow and capacity challenges are addressed. Williams noted that the staff are
responding well the changes and are happy to be focused on animal care.
“The Society is looking forward to getting back on track in Yarmouth. The dramatic and surprising resignations
have resulted in an opportunity for new leadership of the Yarmouth Branch with a returned focus on improved standards of care.”
Williams concluded.
The Society is currently recruiting
for new Board members and a shelter manager. Profiles are posted on www.spcans.ca and www.yarmouthspca.com.
Atlantic Canada comes together to save more animals
Nova Scotia (Wednesday, March 28, 2011) ––The
Nova Scotia SPCA, the SPCA Newfoundland & Labrador, the PEI Humane Society, the New Brunswick SPCA and the Fredericton
SPCA have announced a collaborative initiative in support of animal welfare in the Atlantic region. The Atlantic Network is
the first such provincial and regional collaboration of this scale in the country.
The network will be focusing on sharing ideas, growing membership and exploring efficiencies and cost sharing. Two
specific commitments for 2011 include an Atlantic transfer system, enabling the participating animal welfare groups to assist
one another in alleviating intake pressures and addressing capacity concerns. The second commitment is to work towards a reciprocal
adoption program, whereby individuals approved for adoption at one of the participating Societies is automatically approved
at another. While a formal program is in development, requests will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
The network meets and corresponds regularly and have already facilitated successful
transfers of animals in need of adoption or assistance. Those interested in speaking with the network about opportunities
within animal welfare are welcome to contact one of the participating Societies.
QUOTES
“The Nova Scotia SPCA is very excited to be partnering with other animal welfare organizations across the Atlantic
region. Each of us has an important role to play in the protection of animals and animal welfare. By working together, we
can create a more compassionate society. Collaboration is essential and this network has incredible potential.”
~
Executive Director of the Nova Scotia SPCA, Kristin Williams
“The SPCA Newfoundland & Labrador is very pleased that Atlantic Canada SPCA’s and humane societies
have come together to form valuable working relationships. Information sharing and collaboration will strengthen the animal
welfare sector in our region. This is definitely a step forward.”
~ Financial Director of the SPCA of Newfoundland
& Labrador, Lynn Cadigan
“As the
only animal shelter operating on Prince Edward Island it sometimes feels like we’re working in isolation. Our involvement
with the Atlantic network provides opportunities for us to share experiences and to gather ideas and inspiration from our
counterparts in the region.”
~ Executive Director of the PEI Humane Society, Kelly Mullaly
“The New Brunswick SPCA is pleased to play a part in this very important
Atlantic initiative. This group represents the beginning of a collaborative effort for the welfare of animals in our region.
To be a part of this will no doubt make the mandate of the NB SPCA easier to fulfill and save many more animals across Atlantic
Canada.”
~ Executive Director of the New Brunswick SPCA, Mike Murphy
“When we work together, we know how much more we can achieve and this is just the beginning. Our collaboration
will make this region a national leader in dealing with animal welfare issues. The Fredericton SPCA is committed to working
with our Atlantic partners to strengthen our message, to curb pet overpopulation and to positively change the lives of neglected,
abused and homeless animals.”
~ President of the Board of Directors for the Fredericton SPCA, Susan Morell
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Former President of Yarmouth SPCA under investigation
Nova Scotia (February 10, 2011) –A complaint was received early February 8, 2011 regarding Neil Hackett
alleging cruelty and neglect of the animals in his care and custody. The Department of Agriculture was immediately informed
and the SPCA’s side of the investigation is being carried out by the RCMP to avoid any perception of a conflict of interest.
The Executive of the Provincial Board of Directors met on the
evening of February 8, 2011 regarding the status of Neil's position with the Society. They passed a motion to suspend him
from his duties as a board member of the SPCA pending the outcome of the investigation and Mr. Hackett was advised. Late the
same evening, Mr. Hackett's resignation was received and accepted.
The
investigation is ongoing.
MEDIA CONTACT
media@spcans.ca
902-835-4798
Share
ABOUT THE NOVA SCOTIA SPCA
Protecting animals from cruelty since 1877, the Nova Scotia SPCA is a registered
charity, comprised of 11 Branches, which relies primarily on volunteers and donations to fund animal protection; care and
rehabilitation; advocacy; and humane education. The Animal Cruelty Prevention Act mandates the Society to enforce animal cruelty
laws, making the Nova Scotia SPCA unique among animal welfare organizations in the province. To learn more, visit www.spcans.ca.
****************************************
MEDIA RELEASE Nova Scotia SPCA wishes to see more animals home
for the holidays Halifax,
Nova Scotia, (Monday, December 13, 2010)
The Nova Scotia SPCA is encouraging
the public to embrace the season and give a loving home to a companion animal during the holidays.
In the past, animal welfare
groups have discouraged adoptions at this time of year. Executive Director, Kristin Williams of the Nova Scotia SPCA feels
differently. “We feel confident that regardless of the time of year, we can place animals responsibly. Bringing a pet
into your home should always be an informed decision and never a surprise, but there are so many animals in need of loving
forever homes and we need to start actively removing barriers to their successful adoption.” Williams added “I
know that all of us would feel better if more animals were enjoying this time of year with loved ones.” The Nova Scotia SPCA and its network of Branches are all
participating in Iams Home 4 the Holidays campaign. This campaign has placed over 4.6 million pets, including dogs,
cats, rabbits, reptiles and birds. It is a world-wide initiative that began in 1999 and it is dedicated to helping orphaned
animals find happiness over the holidays. Last year alone, over 1 million pets found their way into homes for the holidays
Many of the
Nova Scotia SPCA Branches are offering public friendly operating hours, gift certificates or the opportunity to sponsor an
adoption. The Nova Scotia SPCA is also appealing to the public for donations to support animal care or
cruelty investigations and many have posted wish list items for donations in kind.
Please click below to read an important
new position statement from the Nova Scotia SPCA
CATS & KITTENS WHITE PAPER, SEPTEMBER 2010
Willing adoptive homes needed
Yarmouth SPCA urges
you to make adoption your first choice
Yarmouth (July 15, 2010)
The Yarmouth SPCA is in urgent need of willing adoptive homes for dozens of cats and kittens that have
come into care as stray, abandoned or surrendered animals in recent weeks. Many are surprise litters from unaltered pets or
pets purchased through online classifieds or non-traditional retailers that are found to be pregnant.
"Every animal deserves
a safe and loving home. The Nova Scotia SPCA and it’s Yarmouth Branch is committed to being a no-kill animal welfare
organization, which means that we need to be very proactive about promoting the importance of adoption and we need the support
of every community to open their hearts and their homes to the thousands of animals that come into our care every year,”
said Executive Director Kristin Williams of the Nova Scotia SPCA Provincial Office. She added that “adoption saves two
lives; the animal currently in our care and the next animal waiting to be saved.”
This time of year is especially taxing on already limited volunteer and donated resources
as dozens of litters are flooding in and challenging the capacity of the shelter and our volunteer foster homes. To
view animals available for adoption visit http://www.petfinder.com/index.html or contact our Branch by visiting http://www.yarmouthspca.com To report
animal cruelty call 1-888-703-7722. To make a donation to support the Yarmouth SPCA’s lifesaving work or to learn more
about how to get involved, please visit http://www.yarmouthspca.com | “Free
to Good Home” | Veterinary examination, 2 vaccinations, Feline Leukemia and FIV Test, deworming,
microchipping and spay/neuter surgery | Male cat: $275-$300*Female Cat: $325-$350
* |
| Adopted from Yarmouth SPCA | First vaccination, Feline Leukemia and FIV test,
deworming, flea treatment, microchipping and spay/neuter surgery | Adoption Fee: $100(Prices may vary
by Branch) |
*Prices provided by local veterinarians working in the Yarmouth area. Price range only;
specifics not available.
THE
MAKERS OF PEDIGREE® AND THE YARMOUTH SPCA JOIN FORCES
TO HELP FIND HOMES FOR OVER 36,000 SHLETER DOGS ACROSS CANADA
The Yarmouth SPCA joins the PEDIGREE ADOPTION DRIVETM campaign
for the third consecutive year
July 5, 2010, (Bolton, ON) – The makers of Pedigree® and the Yarmouth SPCA have teamed up as part of the
third annual PEDIGREE ADOPTION DRIVETM campaign to raise awareness for shelter dogs in Yarmouth and surrounding
regions.
As a partner shelter of the PEDIGREE ADOPTION DRIVETM campaign, the Yarmouth SPCA will receive a minimum
donation of $5,000 CDN in 2010 to help care for the animals admitted to the shelter. Last year the Yarmouth SPCA provided
food, medical care and, most importantly, a second chance at finding a loving family for the 253 dogs that were brought into
their care.
“The
makers of PEDIGREE® are extremely happy to partner for the third year in a row with the Yarmouth SPCA in the PEDIGREE
ADOPTION DRIVETM campaign,” said Jenni Gunn, band leader, PEDIGREE®. “Shelters
like Yarmouth SPCA not only provide a tremendous service to local communities, they also give animals in their care a second
chance to live a happy and full life.”
A recent national survey commissioned by the makers of PEDIGREE®
and conducted by Harris/Decima revealed many misconceptions surrounding shelter dogs. The majority of Canadians - 62 per cent
- believe dogs end up in shelters because families do not understand the responsibility associated with owning a dog.
But according to the PEDIGREE ADOPTION DRIVETM campaign’s 30 partner shelters across Canada, the leading
reason for their dog population is from rescuing stray dogs.
The survey also found that
24 per cent of Atlantic Canadian dog owners surveyed adopted their current pet from an animal shelter – the highest
regional results in the country. In addition, 22 per cent of Atlantic Canadians who stated they support shelters do
so by volunteering, versus the national average of only five per cent.
"We are delighted to once again be affiliated
with the Pedigree Adoption Drive campaign," said Neil Hackett, president, Yarmouth SPCA. "Together we can
drive forward with the mission to give ‘forever homes’ to the many dogs we have the privilege to care for on a
daily basis.
The care and commitment Pedigree make to their product matches the care and commitment we give to
our furry friends on a daily basis.”This
past June, the PEDIGREE ADOPTION DRIVETM campaign travelled across Canada to raise awareness of the plight of shelter
dogs creating a larger-than life chalk art display that appeared in Halifax, Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary and Vancouver.
For more information on the PEDIGREE ADOPTION DRIVETM campaign or to learn more about the campaigns
local partner shelters in Nova Scotia, please visit www.mypedigree.ca.
NSSPCA PRESENTS FIRST-EVER GOLDEN PAW AWARDS
Yarmouth SPCA outgoing President, Frieda Perry, presents the Golden
Paw award for outstanding Media Partnering to Hartley Reede of Radio CJLS. Hartley is the host of Furry Friday's each
week, where a needy shelter animal is showcased in the radio studio and on his show.
Yarmouth SPCA outgoing President, Frieda Perry, presents the Golden Paw award for outstanding Media Partnering
to Carla Allen of The Vanguard. The Vanguard showcases our pets for adoption each week and are always available to bring
the plight of our animals to the public's attention.
SPCA warns public to be cautious about puppy brokers (April 2010) – The SPCA has been busy over the last several
weeks attending to complaints and concerns regarding puppies sold to unsuspecting owners who learn after the fact that they
have acquired an animal that is sick, has not been screened or tested for illness or disease, or received any vaccinations.
In some cases, the animals are less than 6-8 weeks old.The SPCA is appealing to the public to both report cases that involve suspected activity whereby an animal may be in
distress or a transaction appears questionable. Puppy brokers often set up in parking lots, market places or will even use
on-line classifieds.The SPCA further reminds the public to always ask for vaccination records, health
history, breeding history and registration information. Reputable breeders will often want to meet the potential owner
in person and will always furnish a prospective buyer with background and health information and will welcome you to their
home or breeding facility.To report about questionable puppy broker activities or animal cruelty call 1-888-703-7722.
To make a donation to support the Society’s lifesaving work or to learn more, please visit www.spcans.ca.
Cosmetic Surgery
The Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association has amended their Code of Ethics to include a section relating
to Cosmetic Surgery. Effective April 1, 2010 (with a 6 month implementation period), no member of the NSVMA is permitted
to perform cosmetic surgery on an animal for the purpose of having the animal's appearance conform to a breed standard or
tradition. Some examples include:
• Tail docking
on horses, cattle and dogs (including newborn puppies) •
Tail alteration (nicking/setting) on horses
• Dewclaw
removal on puppies
• Ear cropping
• Dewclaw removal in species other than domestic cats Surgeries due to injury or for reasons of animal health are not considered cosmetic
surgery.
Nova Scotia SPCA warns the public to be mindful of where their donor dollars go
Nova Scotia (March 30,
2010) – The Nova Scotia SPCA is
aware of organizations not located in Nova Scotia that currently solicit for funds to help animals and do not necessarily
spend those funds in the province. The Society is concerned that the public may not be aware of these organizations
or their activities and would ask that the public exercise caution and ask questions when making a donation.
These organizations include:
The Canadian SPCA, The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, The Humane Society of Canada, The International SPCA and the
World Society for the Protection of Animals. There is no formal link between these organizations and the Nova Scotia SPCA;
however, all of these organizations may solicit for a donation locally or even on line, but these dollars are not spent on
animal care, sheltering or cruelty investigations in Nova Scotia.
The Nova Scotia SPCA is the only provincial animal welfare organization within
the province of Nova Scotia with a legislated mandate to protect animals from cruelty. The Nova Scotia SPCA is a registered
charity with 11 Branches across the province that are funded by donor dollars and provide shelter and adoption services.
Ninety-four percent of the funds required to perform cruelty investigations and rescue animals from harm are from donor support.
Every dollar raised by the Society is spent to benefit the animals of Nova Scotia.
To report animal cruelty call 1-888-703-7722. To make a donation
to support the Society’s lifesaving work or to learn more, please visit www.spcans.ca. or www.yarmouthspca.com
MEDIA RELEASE
Nova Scotia SPCA issues update on current active
animal cruelty cases
Nova Scotia (Thursday, February 4,
2010)
Today,
the Nova Scotia SPCA announced a number of animal cruelty provincial and federal charges served in ongoing cases throughout
Nova Scotia:
1.
Darren Gumbley, Annapolis County:
1 Criminal Code count 446 (1) b - failure to provide suitable food, water, shelter and care; one provincial offence 11 (2)
- causing or permitting an animal to be or continue to be in distress. Plea date is March 1, 2010 in Annapolis Co. The case
involves one dog and three cats. The owner allegedly did not provide proper care and medical attention for the animals.
2. Yassine Bekkour, Halifax (HRM): 1 Criminal Code count 445
(1) a - wilful neglect causing damage or injury to animals; two provincial offenses 11 (1) - wilfully causing an animal pain,
suffering or injury; and 11 (2) causing or permitting an animal to be or continue to be in distress. Plea date is February
15, 2010 in Halifax. The case involves one cat. The owner allegedly struck the cat, resulting in severe trauma and a fracture.
3. Tom Jeffery, Yarmouth County: 1 Criminal Code count 446 (1)
b - failure to provide suitable food, water, shelter and care; one provincial offence 11 (2) - causing or permitting an animal
to be or continue to be in distress. Plea date is March 2, 2010 in Yarmouth Co. The case involves one dog. The owner allegedly
did not provide proper care and medical attention for the animal.
4. Janice Bingley, Pictou County: 1 provincial offence 11 (2) - causing or permitting an animal
to be or continue to be in distress. Plea date is February 22, 2010 in New Glasgow. The case involves 8 dogs and 14 puppies.
The owner allegedly did not provide proper care and medical attention for the animals.
These cases will be prosecuted in provincial courts by the respective Crown Attorney in the county where
the charges have been filed and served. To report animal cruelty call 1-888-703-7722. To make a donation
to support the Society’s lifesaving work or to learn more about how to get involved, please visit www.spcans.ca.
MEDIA CONTACTmedia@spcans.ca 902-832-4798
ABOUT THE NOVA SCOTIA SPCAThe
Nova Scotia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty (Nova Scotia SPCA): Protecting animals from cruelty since 1877, the Nova Scotia SPCA is a registered charity, comprised of 11 Branches,
which relies primarily on volunteers and donations to fund animal protection; care and rehabilitation; advocacy; and humane
education. The Animal Cruelty Prevention Act mandates the Society to enforce animal cruelty laws, making the Nova Scotia SPCA
unique among animal welfare organizations in the province. To learn more, visit www.spcans.ca.
