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Everyone remembers their first pet. Be it a curly cock-a-poo with a sweet disposition or a parrot with a knack for imitation, the memories are unforgettable. And for all the love and enjoyment our pets add to our lives, it’s hard to imagine that over 3,500 animals a year are left abandoned, abused or lost. And that’s justin Bucks County alone.
Luckily, there’s an organization fighting for the animals. Founded in 1912, The Bucks County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has sheltered, nursed and placed thousands of animals into homes that would otherwise have no hope. “We are all trying to save these animals,” says Sarah Hart, executive assistant at the BCSPCA. “Our aim is to ensure they have a happy life.”
For Hart, her work is the fulfillment of a childhood dream – even if a typical day can get pretty hectic. “Our day starts no later than 8 a.m.” she explains “The entire shelter gets a scrub down, our volunteers arrive about an hour later and we open to the public at 10 a.m.” From then on, it’s a virtual animal kingdom: walking, feeding, behavior classes, testing for disease and of course, lots of playing.
But the BCSPCA provides more than just a temporary home. “We spay and neuter all cats and dogs that come into our care,” says Hart. The organization also offers a permanent form of identification called micro chipping. “It’s administered just like a vaccine,” she continues. “It’s a small chip that’s delicately placed near the shoulder blades. When an animal is found and brought to us, we can tell exactly who the adopted parents are and return their animal safely.” In addition, all animals are tested for a variety of diseases and administered the necessary care.
But for all their efforts, sometimes harboring the unwanted, lost and infirmed takes a somber turn. According to Hart, the BCSPCA only euthanizes an animal if a terminal illness is detected or if the animal is a threat to humans or other animals. “We do everything possible for the sake of the animal,” says Hart. It’s always the last resort for an organization dedicated to enriching the quality of the lives of the animals that come into their care.
As an “open-door” facility, the BCSPCA accepts any animal brought to them for care. While some local shelters remain more selective about which animals they accept or face greater limitations due to physical or cage space, the BCSPCA works extensively with the animals under their protection by providing veterinary care, behavioral modification, socialization, training and other services until an animal can be placed into a home. The shelter rejects deadlines or timeframes; an animal can remain for as long as it takes to be adopted.
The BCSPCA also accepts animals whose reputation may be considered undesirable. “We are one of the few shelters in the county that accepts pit bulls,” explains Hart. “I think they get a bad wrap. They’ve been some of the nicest dogs I’ve known.”
The BCSPCA welcomes all volunteers, and every little bit helps. Walking dogs, aiding in daily chores, maintaining the grounds and providing simple companionship to the animals are but a few of the much-needed services. Still, no matter if you have the time or inclination to actually volunteer, Hart invites the public to come and take a look around.
“I would like to encourage anyone to come down and visit,” she says. “If you’re in Lahaska, we are only a mile up the road. Even if you aren’t looking for a pet, maybe someone that you know is.”
Go Online at www.bcspca.org