making tracks spring 2011

Newsletter of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay Spring 2011

Acupuncture at HSTB Page 3Bark in the Park & Rescue Ink Page 4-5Critter Camp Returns Page 9

Inside This Issue

Abandoned and forgotten...

Courtesy of Krista Sparkman at Krista Sparkman Photography

Making Tracks • Newsletter of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay

I wanted to share with you one of the many stories that highlight the good work that we do every day at the shelter. Right before Christmas, a landlord evicted a young woman for lack of payment. When she went to check on the property, she discovered the woman had left behind a nursing mother pit bull terrier along with seven four week old puppies. The condition was horrible for the dogs. There was no heat and no food or water. The mother was quite thin and very frightened. Had this landlord decided not to go over, all 8 dogs may have perished. She brought all of the animals to us because she wanted the dogs to have a chance. This is what HSTB does….we provide homeless animals with another chance at a new life. Since her puppies were so young, we took care of them until we could find them a foster home. Then they were placed with a foster home and spent the holidays with a warm bed, good food, and lots of attention and love. Soon, they will be brought back to the shelter where they will all be adopted. We are told by the foster mom that the puppies are getting very active and fat! When abandoned or unwanted animals end up at the HSTB, we will do what it takes to heal their bodies and their spirit so that we can give them another chance at the life that they so deserve. I couldn’t think of a nicer story to start the new year with and how we are focused on saving as many lives as we can.

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! Sincerely,Sherry SilkExecutive Director

HSTB continues to break our own record for the number of adoptions that we complete each year. In 2010 we did 5,768 adoptions and completed 10,675 spays and neuters in our clinic. Our overall save rate for all animals is 87%. We took in over 7,500 unwanted dogs and cats from the public or from high risk shelters. This is nearly 1000 more animals than in 2009! Our Trap Neuter Return program also broke records by sterilizing 4,999 feral cats. Our Wellness clinic saw over 8,200 animals for affordable veterinary care. And to keep animals in their homes during these difficult economic times, we gave away over 450,000 pounds of dry dog and cat food. We will continue living our mission as we move forward this year……we are dedicated to ending animal homelessness and providing care and comfort for companion animals in need.

Sherry SilkExecutive Director

[email protected](813) 774-4309

Board of DirectorsPresident:

Connie JohnsonTreasurer:

Michael NeffSecretary:

Mary BirrellTara Hood

Justin KlatskyMorris Massey

Bob ReinaLinda Reitz

Allison RobertsCynthia Sarff

Patti Sutherland

Advisory Board:Victoria J. Alvarez, P.A.

John DingfelderRose Ferlita

Richard GonzmartCallum Hay, D.V.M.Dennis McCulloughDominique Mellow

David RiethSusan Rieth

Karyn RinghaverCathy Smith

Bill Zingalie, D.V.M.

Editor:Lisa Knight

[email protected](813) 367-2078

Contributors:Sherry Silk

Cathy BellatinLisa Knight

Danyelle HoLayout & Design:

Debra Roberts Bellanti

Making Tracks is a newsletter published quarterly

free of charge to our donors by the Humane Society of Tampa Bay located at 3607 N Armenia Ave,

Tampa FL 33607. For further information

please contact the Editor: Lisa Knight 813-367-2078

Letter from the Executive Director

2010 - A Record Breaking Year

5,768 Adoptions

10,675 Spay/Neuters

8,200 Utilized

Wellness Clinic

450,000 pounds Dry Dog & Cat Food

Given Away

4,999 Feral Cats Sterilized


In December Dr. Yeruva graduated from acupuncture training at the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, FL. He trained with nearly 3000 veterinarians from all over the world. Acupuncture is a procedure that inserts tiny needles at very specific locations to stimulate energy flow in the body to relieve discomfort. Acupuncture can be used for any disease, but is mostly used for chronic conditions. Acupuncture for pets is most commonly used for hip dysplasia, arthritis, skin conditions, chronic lung problems, vomiting and diarrhea, urinary problems, anxiety, ear problems, and endocrine diseases. There are no known side effects with acupuncture.

To discuss your pet’s acupuncture needs, please call the Wellness Clinic at 813-870-3304 to schedule an appointment. Dr Yeruva will assess if this ancient art can benefit your pet.

When a disabled gentleman contacted our clinic for help, we knew we had to help his dog “Lucky” or he was at risk of being euthanized since the owner did not have any money for treatment. The owner had tried another clinic, but didn’t have the funds that were necessary to do the life saving surgery. This little dog was the only companion that this family had. They had had the dog sterilized with a voucher as both he and his mom were disabled and live on a very limited disability income. Dr. Bard discovered that there were two very large bladder stones, in fact, as large as 2 golf balls inside this little dog! Dr. Bard operated on Lucky and our volunteer Jack Talman is seen here picking Lucky up and returning

him to his grateful family. We love happy endings for people and their pets!

“Lady” was another dog that our clinic helped. She got out and came back with an injured eye. Due to lack of money, the owner couldn’t afford veterinary care. When the eye became so swollen and red that it nearly protruded out of her head, she called our clinic. Lady’s owner had been unemployed for over a year so we removed the eye. One-eyed Lady is now resting comfortably at home and is doing fine.

Acupuncture Now Available at HSTB!

Lucky’s so Lucky…

Lady’s story…

Lady with her owner, Adam Lamb, Director of Clinic Operations and Dr.

Karla Bard.The purpose of our Wellness Clinic is to provide affordable veterinary care for people so that they can provide the basic medical needs for their pets. Sometimes people have no funds but their animals are suffering due to an illness or injury. In 2010 we saw 454 animals at no charge or reduced fees so that the animals would not suffer. Our humanitarian work for animals and the people that love them will continue thanks to our loyal donors and supporters. Thank you for caring about the animals!


The Humane Society of Tampa Bay presentsThe 24th Annual Walk for the Animals

Collect donations as a “pack” or individual walker to help the Humane Society of Tampa Bay provide shelter, food, spay/ neuter services & medical care for the thousands of animals that are relinquished to our shelter each year. The goal is for

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Contests & ActivitiesContests & Activities• Meet the guys from Rescue Ink Unleashed • Pet Costume Contest , judged by Rescue Ink

• “H N D ” (Bik /d l k lik )

each walker to raise a minimum of $50 each.

• “Hogs ‐N‐ Dogs” (Biker owner/dog look‐a‐like)• Most Talented Pooch• Best Overall

• Watch the Pet Friendly Demonstrations• Take part in the Dog Treat Hunt & Doggie Wash• Enjoy Arts & Crafts, like the Paw Print Tiles• Test Fido’s Luck in the “K9 Powerball Plunge”

Special Guests:Rescue Ink Unleashed was a reality TV show on the National Geographic Channel focused on ending animal cruelty and

Bark in the Park Schedule Bark in the Park Schedule 8:30am Meet Rescue Ink

Autograph sessions, meet & greet, lk i t ti d t ti

Form Your “Pack” or Register Form Your “Pack” or Register as an Individual TODAY!as an Individual TODAY!

For more information log on to create your own FREE WEBSITE to collect donations for HSTB at:

g• Visit the many vendor & sponsor booths

Geographic Channel focused on ending animal cruelty and helping animals in need. For more information

about them please go to: www.rescueink.com/media

walk registration, demonstrations, sponsor/vendor booths open.

10:00am Walk for the Animals BeginsOne mile walk around Al Lopez

10:30am Pet Contests & ActivitiesActivities will continue until noon

www.FirstGiving.com/HSTB

For questions or concerns please contact Cathy Bellatin,

Director of Special Events(813)876‐4150

www.humanesocietytampa.org

Saturday, March 5th; 8:30am – 12pmAl Lopez Park (4810 North Himes Avenue)

y p g


Saturday, May 16, 20116:00 pm-11:00 pmTampa Convention Center333 S. Franklin Street in Downtown Tampa

Join us for a star studded fashion show featuring local celebrities and their pets, adorable adoptables from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, a silent and live auction, live music, cigar bar along the water in beautiful downtown Tampa and complimentary wine and bubbly!

Tickets are $125.00 Per Person. Sponsorship and corporate table opportunities are available.For more information, please contact the Special Events Department at (813) 876-4150 or email [email protected].

Save the Date


Our Board of Directors determines the organization’s mission and purpose and ensures that the organization has adequate resources and uses those resources effectively. We wanted our

supporters to know a little bit about them.

Meet Your HSTB Board of Directors...

Mary BirrellI became a volunteer with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay in 1998 and became a board member in 2006. I am a certified Dog trainer and owner of Bark Busters Home Dog Training - Greater Tampa Bay. I’m the proud mom of 4 rescue dogs Sydney, Casey, Cooper and Max. Three of which were adopted from HSTB!

Tara HoodI am President of American Traditions by Tara, a construction Owner’s Representative company. I’m also the President of Mission MEOW which helps feral cats in Hillsborough County. I’m the proud mother of many rescue cats; 7 at home and 3 in my office. And, to offset all the cats in the house I adopted a 105 lb long haired German shepherd, Kaiser, from HSTB 3 years ago.

Connie JohnsonI’m a realtor and was also recently selected by Best Friends in Utah to be the Program Coordinator for Hillsborough County for “Saving American’s Dog” (Pit Bull Terrier). I am an internationally certified dog trainer and have many dogs, cats, as well as other animals. I currently serve as the President of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay Board of Directors.

Justin KlatskyI am an attorney with the Owens Law Group, P.A., and practice in the areas of taxation, estates and trusts, and business succession planning. On my nights and weekends, I can be found with my wife training our pack of German Shepherds. My introduction to the breed came from my first adopted dog: a White Shepherd that was heartworm positive and needed someone to adopt her and pay for her treatment.

Morris MasseyI am a shareholder with the law firm of Hill Ward Henderson, PA and specialize in land use, zoning and real estate transactions. I’m the proud owner of two large, very friendly orange tabby cats named Castor and Pollux, who now are in control of my entire house! My long-time pet beagle named Scout recently passed away.

Michael NeffI’ve been a dog person my whole life. My wife Rene` started Downtown Dogs in 2005 (our corgimix Lucky can often be spotted behind the counter there) and we have been involved in Humane Society events ever since. I joined the board of directors in January 2010. I am a financial consultant at RBC Wealth Management.


Bob Reina & Allison RobertsBob Reina is the Founder and CEO of Talk Fusion, and Allison Roberts is Talk Fusion’s VP of Training & Development. Bob and Allison are committed advocates to the animals of our community. They have made countless strides to better serve and assist those who cannot speak for themselves. Recently, on a trip to The Humane Society they rescued a mixed-breed puppy, later naming this new love in their life, Bernie. They joined the Board of Directors in 2010.

Linda ReitzI am “owned” by two collies and three cats, all rescues. I have been volunteering at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay since 1983 and was asked to join the Board of Directors 10 years ago. I have a career in the Mortgage/Finance business for 30 years, but my true passion is the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

Cindy SarffDuring the work week you will find me at Old City Hall where, for the past 8 years, I’ve been a Legislative Aide for Tampa City Council. In addition to serving on the Board for HSTB, I have been a “Big” for 5 years in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay program. My furry children include Ellie, an adorable Calico cat with an attitude, and my two awesome Alaskan Malamutes, Tahoe and Teton.

Patti SutherlandI’m a Florida Registered Paralegal, and have worked at Trenam Kemker for over 25 years. I volunteered during HSTB’s telethon for several years and have been Pack Leader for Team Barkin for Bark in the Park for the past three years. After volunteering on the Development Committee for a year, I joined the board of directors in 2010. I am a “fur mom” to Morgan, Sophie and Jack.

Humane Society of Tampa Bay Advisory BoardOur Advisory Board are members of the community who share their expertise and

counsel on a variety of issues affecting The Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

Victoria AlvarezJohn Dingfelder

Rose FerlitaRichard GonzmartCallum Hay, DVM

Dennis McCulloughDominique Mellow

David RiethSusan Rieth

Karyn RinghaverCathy Smith

Bill Zingalie, DVM


Successful Adoptions…

Oh How They’ve Grown...

In January, 2010 I saw Ian’s picture on the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s website. I immediately left work and went to meet him. I knew instantly he was our dog. Later that day my husband and daughters met Ian, and we adopted him that day. Ian is now known as Dodger. Dodger is the perfect dog for our family. He is well-behaved and wonderful with our daughters and cats. He also does well with each rescue dog that we foster and absolutely loves to play with them in our backyard. We feel so fortunate to have found him. Karen Morris

I adopted Foxy, my Pomeranian-Chihuahua mix, two months ago. As soon as I saw her, I knew she was special. The short visit with Foxy and the adoption counselor sealed the deal. She was going to be my baby girl. Even at 9 years old, she can outrun me at the dog park. She loves to play and run. She even does a little tap dance when she’s excited. I’m so happy I found Foxy. She’s brought so much happiness into my life in the two months I’ve had her. I think she saved me as much as I saved her. Thank you Humane Society Tampa Bay! Foxy and Cecily

My name was Puddin when my family adopted me two months ago. Now my name is Comet because I run through the house and leave a trail of destruction behind me. I purr so loudly that my people can find me in the dark. Thank you for taking care of my until my family could realize how much they need me.Comet Sheets

We adopted Bashful in August, 2010 when she was about 2 months old. We re-named Bashful - Darcy. She is growing by leaps and bounds and is happily terrorizing our 6 year old male Bassett Hound Toby. We all love her SO much!! She is SO smart, cute, playful and sweet and loveable! Please enjoy our photos! You can see how Darcy has grown! She has been a blessing to our family.Jo Ann, Dino, Stephanie & Jessica Lucarelli, & Toby & Darcy (woof!)

Maddox, Max and Matteo in April, 2010. Maddox, Max and Matteo in December, 2010.


One Amazing Foster Mom...

Connie Johnson Awarded

Critter Camp is Back!

Can you imagine taking care of 48 dogs and puppies?? That’s exactly what our incredible foster mom Herma Stucke did in 2010! Herma fosters litters of up to 8 or 9 puppies at a time! Foster parents are vital to our shelter! They give time to animals that we may not have space for, are too young, injured, or need socialization. By becoming a foster parent you will actually save lives until the animals are healthy or old enough to be put up for adoption. If you would like information on becoming a foster parent at HSTB, please contact Karin Smith at [email protected] or 813-774-4346.

Connie Johnson, HSTB President of the Board, is seen here accepting a commendation by Commissioner Sandy Murman on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners. Connie received the 2010 Florida Realtors Humanitarian of the Year Award for her outstanding work and dedication for human as well as animal causes.

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay will be having three 1 week sessions of summer camp for children ages 8 – 12 on June 20 – 24, July 11 – 15, and July 18 – 22. The cost will be $150/per week.

We will have guest speakers, make crafts, learn about careers with animals and play with lots of dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens. Hours for the camps will be 9am – 3pm at the shelter (3607 N. Armenia Avenue).

To sign up or for more information, please go to our website at www.humanesocietytampa.org/service/crittercamp or stop by the shelter to pick up a registration form or call Danyelle Ho at 813-774-4344. There are a limited number of spots each week, so sign up early!


SCRATCHERS NEEDED!

Please consider purchasing some scratchers for your feline friends at HSTB! The cats at HSTB love these little scratching posts! They attach right on the cage and are also great for the cats to rub against. For ordering information please visit: http://stretchandscratch.com

Also, HSTB is always in need of new toys for our cats and dogs!

Volunteer of the QuarterOur volunteer of the quarter is Charles Jones. His warm personality and willingness to help are just a couple of reasons why he is the Volunteer of the Quarter. Charles is dedicated and always goes above and beyond what is asked of him. Charles has worked in the kennel, helped at the Pet Expo and most recently, assists us with our Food Assistance program. Charles goes out of his way to talk to potential adopters and to answer any questions they may have. If he notices a large crowd forming at the adoption counter, he will assist these guests by showing them where to go and explaining the process. Charles is truly an extension of our staff and a treasured volunteer. Thank you Charles for all that you do!

Have you visited the Humane Society of Tampa Bay

In the last year?Stop by after work and join us for Pause for Pets,

a behind-the-scenes tour of the shelter withSherry Silk, Executive Director of HSTB.

Wednesday, February 16th @ 5:30pmWednesday, March 16th @ 5:30pmWednesday, April 20th @ 5:30pmWednesday, May 18th @ 5:30pm

Wine, soft drinks and snacks are provided while you learn about HSTB during the hour long presentation.

RSVP to Nancy McCall 813-774-4311 or [email protected]

If you want to help people who are struggling to feed their pets, we can always use donations of cat and dog food for our Food Assistance Program! We are especially in need of dry cat food.


Special Thanks...

Sophia Bittle, seen here with Nancy McCall Director

of Development, raised over $1,000 in food and pet

supply donations!

The AT&T Pioneers Golf Tournament helped raise over $900 for the Humane Society

of Tampa Bay. Seen here AT&T Pioneers Tish Bruckner and Sherry Perry with HSTB

Executive Director Sherry Silk.

Daisy Troop 739 made and hung stockings for each

of our dogs kennels (44!). Thanks girls!

Ameriprise advisor Lance Becatti and board member Mary Birrell each donated 800 pounds of pet food to HSTB.

Thank you so much!

A SPECIAl THAnKS TO THE FOllOWIng COMPAnIES FOr HElPIng HSTB!Barefoot Wine and BubblyBarnaclesBobby Harris of Blue Grace Logistics Downtown DogsHill, Ward & HendersonHyde Park VillageJJ TaylorMacDinton’s Irish Pub and RestaurantMerial

Pet Finder.com FoundationPour HouseSapphire Technologies Work Day – in memory of Alexis SaundersTailored Pet SittingTrenam KemkerWag Natural Pet BoutiqueUSAAYard of Ale

Bank of America sponsored a Pet Food Drive and donated

lots of supplies for the animals!

FEBruAry 2011FrEE Shot Clinic for your cats and dogsSaturday, February 26th; 9am - 1pmInternational Independent Showmen’s Association6915 riverview Dr., riverview, Fl 33578 Hillsborough County residents are invited to bring their dogs/cats for a free DA2PP/FVRCP vaccine (must be 8 wks or older) and free Rabies vaccine (must be 3 months or older). Cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be on a leash. For more information please call 813-367-2078.

MArCH 2011 24th Annual BArK in the PArK Fundraising Walk for the AnimalsSaturday, March 5th; 8:30am - 12 noon At Al lopez Park Meet and greet with Special guests: rescue Ink - The Army for the Animals You can make a difference! Collect donations as a “pack” or individual walker to help the Humane Society of Tampa Bay provide shelter, food, spay/neuter services and medical care for the thousands of animals that are relinquished to our shelter each year! For more information, log on to www.firstgiving.com/HSTB where you can create your own FREE website to collect donations for HSTB!!!

yard of Ale hosts “Ales for Tails” The First Saturday of Every Month Join us on Saturday, March 5th from 5pm-7pm at Yard of Ale located at 406 South Howard Avenue. Enjoy drink specials and raffles with your four legged friends, all for a $5.00 donation that will benefit the animals at The Humane Society of Tampa Bay. We hope you and your four legged friends can join us for a yapping good time!

APrIl 2011yard of Ale hosts “Ales for Tails” The First Saturday of Every Month Join us on Saturday, April 2nd from 5pm-7pm at Yard of Ale located at 406 South Howard Avenue. Enjoy drink specials and raffles with your four legged friends, all for a $5.00 donation that will benefit the animals at The Humane Society of Tampa Bay. We hope you and your four legged friends can join us for a yapping good time!

6th Annual Taste of South TampaSunday, April 17th; 1pm - 5pmHyde Park VillageTickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door (per person). Enjoy food and beverages from 40 local restaurants and live music. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Please visit www.tasteofsouthtampa.com to purchase your tickets ahead of time. We will be accepting dog and cat food donations at our Mobile Adoption Center at this event.

MAy 20119th Annual TuXES & TAIlS Saturday, May 14th ; 6pm – 11pmTampa Convention Center$125.00 per person Please join us for a high-end silent and live auction, sumptuous dinner, complimentary wine & bubbly, live music, cigar bar and a fashion show of celebrity models teamed with their pets or with an adorable adoptable from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

15th Annual Scratch My Back Concert Sunday, May 29th; Time: TBDSkipper’s Smokehouse910 Skipper road in Tampa Join us for live music and drawings for great prizes. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

Dedicated to ending animal homelessness and providing

care and comfort for companion animals in need.

Humane Society of Tampa Bay

3607 n Armenia Ave.Tampa, Fl 33607

(813) 876-7138www.humanesocietytampa.org

Adoption Hours:Sunday

Noon - 5:00 p.m.MondayClosed

Tuesday & WednesdayNoon - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Friday, SaturdayNoon - 5:00 p.m.

Spay/Neuter ClinicMonday - Friday

7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.(813) 870-3304Wellness Clinic

Thursday-Sunday9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

(813) 870-3304

Call for an appointment.Walk-ins also accepted until 1:30pm.

Calendar of Events

For more information on upcoming events and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Special Events at 813-876-4150 or [email protected]

making tracks spring 2011

Documents

unwanted animals

companion animals

homeless animals

hstb page

unwanted dogs

good food

foster home

cat food