You are currently browsing the monthly archive for March 2010.
Dennis sporting his 70's attire at our 30th Birthday Bash this Sept.
If you have visited our Adoption Center on a Tuesday or Saturday afternoon in the past eight months, then you have probably been greeted with a warm smile and kind words by this month’s featured volunteer, Dennis Price.
Dennis transferred to Lakeland from Denver in 2001. As an IT manager, he opened up a call center for what used to be MCI/ Worlcom and is now Verizon. He had been with the company for 15 years when he “got caught in a Management Reduction in Force in December 2008…. that ended that,” Dennis states. He’s currently still looking for work but there’s not much out there he’s finding, as I’m sure many individuals can relate.
After spending some time at home getting tired with the job hunt, Dennis decided that he needed to do something meaningful with his free time. Since attending our volunteer orientation in August of 2009, Dennis has donated over 200 hours to our organization. In his life outside of the SPCA, Dennis keeps busy by slowly restoring a red 1974 Corvette Convertible and caring for his own pets. He has two dogs (a Golden Retriever and a Mini Schnauzer), one bird (a mini Macaw) and a saltwater reef tank.
Dennis has been an amazing asset to our organization since he started. He excels at customer service. He has our staff singing praises about him for his positive attitude and sense of humor. Our staff describes Dennis as nothing short of “phenomenal”. He is “happy-go-lucky and always has a great attitude,” staff member Kim Grassano stated. They all concur that Dennis repeatedly “makes the customers SO happy.” He never points which way to go, he actually takes the time to make them feel welcome, and more importantly, leads the way and escorts them into the catteries, puppy room or kennel.
Dennis also has a wonderful sense of humor, and makes us laugh. Who doesn’t want to be around someone who makes them smile and feel GREAT?!? He knows just what to say as a greeter and tour guide.
On our busy Saturdays, he finds the time to make each guest’s visit very special; including the dozens of Girl Scout Troops he has provided tours for the last several months. In these instances, he is a humane educator and shares with them what we do and how they can help homeless pets.
Our greeters, including fellow volunteer Stephanie Principato, are the first impression of our facility when they are here. They both know how to spread that great feeling and make each individual that walks into our doors feel extremely welcome, and for that we are very grateful.
Dennis says he loves being around our staff and, of course, the animals. He is honored that he was chosen as this month’s recipient and says “volunteering at the SPCA is probably the best idea I’ve had in a long time.”
I asked Dennis to share some of his most memorable experiences while volunteering with us during these past eight months. He fondly remembers the couple with the 19 year-old blind dog. They brought him in to find him a friend and moments like these “really touch my heart,” he says.
Meeting such a diverse group of people that walk through our doors, and hearing their stories about their pets have all had a profound effect on Dennis. “I think I’m a better person having met all of them.” He also adds, “I love it when the dogs or cats that I’ve become attached to finally get good homes. Now that’s rewarding. When that happens, if I could…. I would do a happy dance.”
Dennis stated that it is nice to work with such dedicated people. “I can’t say enough good about the staff; they are a true joy to be around”. He says that we do more good for him than he does for us.
Well, Dennis, this last comment alone shows us even further why you so deserve this recognition. You are such a generous, inspirational and kind-hearted individual. We are so appreciative that you keep coming back to us each week!
THANK YOU Dennis, and all of our amazing volunteers, for what you give to this organization. We couldn’t possibly find all of the happy homes we do without you being here.
To spread good cheer like Dennis and our other volunteer team members, please apply online at www.lovemyspca.com or call Alane at 863.646.7722 x 112.
Walker Information
Step 1: Recruit Your “Pack.” Ask your friends, relatives & co-workers to join your team. Walk together (or alone), bring your pets (welcome, but not quired), & enjoy the fun!
Step 2: Start Collecting for the Animals! Make your own donation first. Sponsors contribute one amount, not for the number of miles walked. Double your donations by asking your personnel office for a Matching Gifts application. Use the Donation Form in this brochure for donations made by cash or check. Log on to http://www.firstgiving.com/spcainc to set up your own Web page with a personal message & photos of your pet to e-mail to your friends for Credit Card donations. Online donations made by April 14 will count toward your total for determining prize winners.
Step 3: Register, Turn in Donations & Get Great Prizes! Register Friday, April 16 from 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. at the SPCA’s Education Center at 5850 Brannen Rd. South. Final registration is at the event on Saturday, April 17 at 8:00 a.m.
Step 4: Walk & Wag — Rain or Shine! The parade follows the 2.7 mile sidewalk around Lake Hollingsworth. Walk the full route, part way, or just observe — whatever is comfortable for you & your pet. Come early for the free Bow Wow Breakfast and stay for all the doggone grrr-eat activities.
Runner Information
Runner registration costs $25. Click here to register, register at the SPCA on April 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. or register at the event. Registration the day of the event is $30. Registration includes a T-shirt, breakfast and prizes for the fastest runners in each age group. Two-legged runners only; dogs welcome to walk at 9 a.m. Download a brochure here.
Name: Missy aka Charcoal
Gender: Female
Age: 1 year, 6 months
Species: Cat
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Orphaned Since: 3/23/2010
Missy is ready to find her forever home. The colors on her coat are unique and make her stand out in the crowds. Come visit her today!
Name: Max
Gender: Male
Age: 4 mth old
Species: Dog
Breed: Shepherd mix
Orphaned Since: 3/11/2010
Max is the friendliest dog with the cutest personality. He wants to find a family that will take as much love as he can give. Be sure to make a date with Max today!
Visit us at the SPCA
Adoption Center open Mon – Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5850 Brannen Rd S in Lakeland
Call 646-7722
www.lovemyspca.com
All pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped and vaccinations are up to date through our full-service medical center which is also open to the public.
- Protect our water scoop the poop!
- Scooping your pooch’s poop isn’t just a courtesy; it’s the healthy and environmentally sound thing to do.
- A day’s waste from one large dog can contain 7.8 billion fecal coliform bacteria.
- BRING IT!
- Always bring a plastic bag when you walk your dog.
- BAG IT!
- Use the bag as a glove to pick up the pet waste. Scoop up the waste and trun the bag inside out around the waste.
- DISPOSE IT!
- Properly dispose the waste by placing it in a trash can, flushing it unbagged down the toilet.
- NEVER throw the waste in a storm drain!
Why Get Rid of Dog Poop?
- Fecal Coliforms- such as E. Coli. These microorganisms can make the water that we rely on for fishing, swimming, and drinking unsafe. This can make a person very sick!
- Roundworms- Roundworm eggs can be found in dog poop and can be easily transferred to other hosts through ingestion. If a dog eats that poop that has roundworm eggs it can be transferred to that dog.
- Giardia- This is another parasite that can be found in dog poop and can be transferred to dogs and humans. Giardia can cause diarrhea, cramping, and abdominal pain. Most commonly contracted through the drinking of water that has been tainted by feces.
- Salmonella- This could also be found in dog poop and can be spread from dog to dog or dog to human. Avoid feeding your dog any uncooked meats or eggs.
If we ALL picked up our dog’s poop we will keep our air fresh and water clean!
Let’s keep our parks and sidewalks poop free!
Be a responsible pet owner!
Name: Westin
Gender: Male
Age: 1 year, 6 months
Species: Dog
Breed: Terrier/ Pit bull/ Retriever
Orphaned Since: 2/27/2010
Westin is a friendly dog who is very active. He would love a family with a large yard to run around in. He has a lovely, long tongue to give you lots of kisses! Don’t forget to pick Westin up today!
Name: Neddie Spaghetti
Gender: Female
Age: 8 months
Species: Cat
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Orphaned Since: 3/10/2010
Neddie Spaghetti is playful and ready. Her beautiful coat distinguishes her among the others and her playful attitude is sure to make her stand out. Come visit her today.
Visit us at the SPCA
Adoption Center open Mon – Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5850 Brannen Rd S in Lakeland
Call 646-7722
www.lovemyspca.com
All pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped and vaccinations are up to date through our full-service medical center which is also open to the public.
Name: Otis
Gender: Male
Age: 1 years
Species: Cat
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Orphaned Since: 2/27/2010
Otis is one laid back cat looking for a wonderful family to spend his 9 lives with. He is a fun-loving guy that has high hopes of being your number one. Meet Otis today.
Name: Millie
Gender: Female
Age: 1 year, 1 month
Species: Dog
Breed: Akita Mix
Orphaned Since: 1/26/2010
Millie is a fun-loving gal that loves to run and play. She’s housetrained and can sit on demand! She’s always “smiling” and ready to have a good time. What more could you ask for?
Visit us at the SPCA
Adoption Center open Mon – Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5850 Brannen Rd S in Lakeland
Call 646-7722
www.lovemyspca.com
All pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped and vaccinations are up to date through our full-service medical center which is also open to the public.
Critter Camp 2010
**15 spaces available each week.
Grades: 3-5 Grades: 6-8
July 12-16 July 19-23
Critter Camp invites students to startmaking a difference in the world. This camp
provides a meaningful opportunity for 3rd
- 8th grade students to discover the world
of animals. Campers will be mentored by
staff and volunteers from the SPCA.
Campers will have a chance to see the
daily routine of Polk County’s only openadmission
animal shelter complete with a
full-service animal medical center. Each day,
campers will have the chance to interact
with kennel attendants, veterinary staff
and many four-legged residents.
Cost: $120 for members,
$150 for non-members
Attendants will also have the chance to register
one-month earlier
than anyone else next summer!SPCA, Inc. • 863/646-7722 • 5850 Brannen Rd. South, Lakeland, FL 33813 • www.lovemyspca.com
Name: Little Bit
Gender: Female
Age: 2 years, 1 month
Species: Cat
Breed: Domestic Longhair
Orphaned Since: 1/28/2010
Little Bit has been waiting for her home for quite sometime! She’s not so little though. She’s a big girl with a big heart. She would love to be your one and only!
Name: Dilly
Gender: Female
Age: 2 years, 7 months
Species: Dog
Breed: Pit Bull Mix
Orphaned Since: 1/26/2010
Dilly is a gorgeous gal that hates being called a pit bull! It tends to make people shy away but she’s a ball full of kindness. She’s energetic and smart, too. She can sit and shake on command. Treats help, too! She’s already housetrained and ready to be your only doggie. Give her a chance today!
Visit us at the SPCA
Adoption Center open Mon – Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5850 Brannen Rd S in Lakeland
Call 646-7722
www.lovemyspca.com
All pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped and vaccinations are up to date through our full-service medical center which is also open to the public.
From our Volunteer Coordinator, Alane:
This month’s featured volunteer is one of our hardest workers here. John Gotthardt (Jack as we know him) moved to Florida from Texas in January of 2009. He started working part-time at Home Depot and was looking to give back and volunteer his time working with animals. He decided to check out our facility. He was amazed and truly enjoyed his visit. He applied to volunteer, and the rest was history! Since attending last July’s orientation, Jack has donated close to 300 hours to our organization. Besides working diligently in the puppy room a few days a week, Jack also helps out with off-site adoption events such as PetSmart Davenport and special events in his area. He assists with some of our pet therapy events, driving to Manor at Carpenters and also delivers Ani-meals food. It’s crucial to have volunteers that we can trust to drive our pets safely to their off-site event or location. He always says “yes” to our last minute requests when he is able, and always shows a great attitude, no matter how mundane the task.
Jack drives from Winter Haven twice a week, arriving sometimes as early as 7:30 a.m. some mornings to get his start walking the small dogs and scrubbing the puppy room cages. He does this knowing that he will be working by himself until most of the staff arrive at 9 a.m., but happy that he can help them out and have them start their days with less of a mess and less of a “to do” list. He then stays almost 7 hours, working with the customers and facilitating adoptions once we open to the public at 11 a.m. It’s no surprise that the staff is blown away by him. Not many people thank US when they are the ones volunteering their time, but Jack is one of those very special people. He always has a smile and gives 110%. I hope he does not mind my mentioning that he is 79 years of age…. and doesn’t look or act a day over 50!
In his life outside the SPCA, Jack has two daughters who live in Pennsylvania and Texas, and four grandchildren. He had been looking for a dog, and he fell in love with his perfect match a few months ago when he adopted Hilde, a four year old min-pin from the SPCA. He is a dedicated dad. He takes her to obiedence classes with Debbi Snyder and is also helping her get healthy (she was quite overweight when he took her home!).
Jack, words cannot express our appreciation for being such a great team player and ambassador for the animals. We have ALL noticed your hard work and dedication these past 8 months and are so thankful that you stepped onto our campus. It’s individuals like you that render it the “Campus of Kindness.”
To become a member of our volunteer team, please apply online at www.lovemyspca.com or call 863.646.7722 x 112.
Name: Tangi
Gender: Female
Age: 6 years
Species: Cat
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Orphaned Since: 1/19/2009
Tangi has been waiting for her purr-fect mate since January. She’s been patient and has sharpened her love skills! Open your home and heart to this lucky lady today, and we promise you won’t regret it. She’s loving, sweet and gorgeous. What more could you want?
Name: Henrietta
Gender: Female
Age: 4 years, 2 months
Species: Dog
Breed: Basset Hound/Retriever Mix
Orphaned Since: 12/15/2009
Henrietta is a gorgeous canine, and she’s been waiting for her home since DECEMBER! No one understands why a gorgeous dog like her is still waiting for forever. She’s playful, mellow and ready to go home. Can you open your home to Henny today?
Visit us at the SPCA
Adoption Center open Mon – Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5850 Brannen Rd S in Lakeland
Call 646-7722
www.lovemyspca.com
All pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped and vaccinations are up to date through our full-service medical center which is also open to the public.
