Friday June 12, 2020
Dear Friend of the Animals
I hope this note finds you, our donors and supporters, healthy, safe and optimistic in these ever- changing Times of COVID-19. Communities across Ontario are slowly opening up. “Bubbles” will be expanded. Some people will return to work and volunteering as businesses and activities ramp up.
Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA) service to community will continue much as it has been for the near future – closed to the visiting public and open for service, including adoptions, pet surrenders, spay/neuter, telehealth support, and emergency response for animals at risk. Curb side deliveries, conversations and pet carrier exchanges are complying with all physical distancing requirements. Like you, we are learning that indeed we can be nimble.
It was a gold star day at the shelter yesterday. Our Companion Animal Hospital received a Hamilton Community News Readers’ Choice Award – Gold. The recognition of service to community by our peers and clients is special. And we could not be more humbled and pleased to be in the good company of Dr. Liz O’Brien’s Cat Clinic, also a Gold Readers’ Choice Award recipient. Dr. Liz, as she is affectionately known, has been a partner with the HBSPCA in the development of innovative approaches to supporting cat health and their pet families, and a mentor to all Staff.
Our Companion Animal Hospital, Making a Difference
Every day, the Animal Hospital Team is improving the lives of pet companions. The range of veterinary intervention for animals in care at the shelter or in foster homes includes spay/neuter surgeries, and where required for alleviating pain, distress and disease – limb surgeries, dental surgeries, lump removals, eye enucleations, and, heartworm treatment. Owned pets too access affordable spay neuter services and vaccinations; last year our Animal Hospital helped keep more than 3,500 pets healthy and safe in loving homes.
Donors and supporters make the work of the Animal Hospital possible. The Hospital is equipped and guided by standard operating procedures much the same as any “people’s” hospital to support scheduling, intake, triage, surgery prep, surgery, recovery and discharge, and end of life support. On a special note, the Team is very grateful for the donor supported purchase of a digital x-ray machine, so important for just in time assessment of “what’s’ wrong” for treatment planning. This week, the time and talent of the Team helped Blackberry.
Blackberry’s Story
Staff received a call regarding a young cat that had been injured and required care. Discussion with the caregiver uncovered disturbing details; Blackberry had been injured way back in February, her leg was badly broken, and the bone had come through the skin. As the caregiver was not in position to provide care for Blackberry, she was surrendered into our care.
Blackberry was assessed by our Veterinarian on intake. X-rays taken in the Hospital revealed the leg was beyond repair. Blackberry was prescribed pain management, and scheduled for leg amputation. Her heart arrested twice in the operating room and our incredible Team got her back. She’s recovering. On Monday, Blackberry will move to a foster home for recovery for one month; she is being treated as well for a blood parasite.
Blackberry’s “voice” was heard. Despite obvious pain and discomfort, all signs pointed to her resilience and chutzpah! The Team went to work, and Blackberry will have a quality life in a new home. Donors make this possible.
To help keep these programs accessible and available please consider a donation. For the entire month of June, every $1 you donate to the HBSPCA through www.canadahelps.org qualifies us to win $20,000! The more you give, the more chances for the animals.
Donate here https://www.canadahelps.org/en/gcgc/31674
On behalf of the animals and their families you support, I wish you health and safety.
Sincerely,
Marion Emo
President and CEO
Keeping Distance Staying Connected.