we just need 3 million of those 17 million prospective pet owners to adopt.

According to Executive Director Rosalie Ault, “These PSAs tell our story. By and far, the problems lie not with the animals, but with their owners. Many people hold the inaccurate perception that shelter pets are ‘damaged goods.’ By changing the way shelter pets are viewed, this program will be invaluable to our efforts to rehome more wonderful companions.”

The humorous TV spots, which feature characters from Disney’s “Santa Buddies,” aim to dispel the stereotypes associated with shelter pets. The ads feature stories of how pets come into shelters through no fault of their own, but to due issues such as divorce, financial difficulty and ill-prepared owners.

The PSAs will run in advertising time that is donated by the media. The APF is encouraging local media outlets to support the campaign over the next year.

Ad Council Launches Pet Adoption Campaign

INSIDE THIS ISSUE…

> Santa is Coming!

> Holiday Gifts with Heart

> Introducing “Furry Thursdays”

> Upcoming Events

FALL 2009

The Ad Council, in partnership with The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Maddie’s Fund, have launched The Shelter Pet Project, a national public service advertising campaign designed to encourage people to make shelters their first choice for acquiring companion animals.

Consider these numbers:8 million number of pets entering shelters and rescue groups every year

3 million number of healthy and treatable pets euthanized due to lack of adoption

17 million estimated number of people who will acquire a pet within the next year

Presently, only 21 percent of people obtain their pets from shelters and rescue groups. The rest come from pet stores, Internet sellers, friends, breeders or other sources. To save all the healthy and treatable pets that are euthanized,

OUR MISSION The purpose of the APF is to address pet overpopulation and animal suffering through education and appropriate action, to enhance human/animal relationships, and to provide care to animals in need.

Flower is enjoying her golden years, thanks to SAMA.

Flower Blossoms with SAMA’s Loving CareWhen a 12-year-old golden retriever mix came to the APF this summer as a stray, we thought for sure someone would come looking for her. Sadly, this was not the case. After providing some dental work and removing a few lumps and bumps, we named her Betty and hoped that there would be an adopter out there for her.

Michele Newman-Gehrum, founder of Senior Animal Medical Aid Fund, Inc. (SAMA), has quite a soft spot for “old ladies” like Betty. After a successful meeting with Hooch, another senior rescue, they all headed home together.

Hooch and Betty, renamed Flower, quickly became inseparable. On walks, Hooch would slow his pace so that Flower could keep up. Yet it was only a short time before her stamina built up to the point where the other seniors in her pack could not keep up with her lively trot.

According to Michele, Flower has blossomed beyond words. It was obvious when they brought her home that she yearned to have a canine companion to retire with, as she immediately bonded with Hooch, following his lead in all she does.

At the time of publication, Hooch is facing a life-threatening illness. Flower shows a deep understanding of this and comforts him. She lays by his side, providing him with a calming energy that we as humans cannot provide or understand.

We are most grateful to Michele for her dedication to senior pets. Likewise, we are thankful to all adopters who open their hearts to

these gentle souls. Those adopters often express that the bonds they form with older companions are among their most treasured.

For updates on Flower, Hooch and other pets that SAMA has helped, please visit www.samafund.org.

Thanks to Michele and SAMA, these two special seniors will live out the rest of their days with the love, dignity and respect they deserve.

DID YOU KNOW?Black cats (and dogs) take longer to be adopted than more colorful pets. Learn why inside.

53 Maple Avenue, Scotia, NY 12302 • 518.374.3944 • www.animalprotective.org Volume 27 No. 3

MOvINg? DON’T LEAvE PETS BEHINDYou don’t need to give up your pets when you move. Our Pet-Friendly Rental List includes information on over 300 rental properties of various types throughout the Capital Region with new listings added regularly. Visit www.animalprotective.org to download this document, or call 374-3944, ext. 113 to have it sent to you. We also welcome contact from landlords who wish to be added to the list.

APF SPAY/NEUTER PROgRAMThe APF offers reduced-cost spay/neuter services for cats and kittens. We now have five partner organizations. Contact one of them for further information and to schedule an appointment. Testing for FIV/FeLV and rabies vaccination are also included in the $70 fee*.> Robin’s Nest (518) 868.9935

> Love Me Spay Me (Guilderhaven) (518) 861.6861

> HOPE (518) 248-0355 or (518) 365-6516

> Cat Tales (518) 248-9682

> Montgomery County SPCA (518) 842.8050 *plus $5 transport fee

SENIORS FOR SENIORS ADOPTION PROgRAMThe APF provides the opportunity for seniors (age 60 and older) to adopt a cat or dog that is at least 5 years old at a $50 discount. All we ask is to take a photo of the adopter and their new pet at the time of adoption. Senior adoptions are supported in part by a grant from the Pets for the Elderly Foundation.

At one time or another we have all purchased a piece of clothing on a whim, only to get home and discover that it just isn’t the right fit. No problem; just return it for a refund. But when the impulse buy is an irresistible puppy from a pet store, all bets are off.

This was recently the topic of a Times Union article. An 18-year-old student brought home a puppy that she had purchased at a pet store for $800. Her mother was irate. Not only did the store do nothing to ensure the girl had the means to care for a pet, there was no guidance in selecting a pet that was compatible with her lifestyle. They tried unsuccessfully to return the pet, as the store’s “no return” policy was clearly stated in the contract she had signed.

It comes as no surprise that they would provide no counseling on the purchase of the animal. To do so would only impede sales. The bottom line is that pet stores sell pets for profit and there is no lack of inventory for anyone who has the cash. I encourage you to visit www.stoppuppymills.org for an eye-opening view of the relationship between puppy mills and pet stores.

When I think of the contrast between buying a pet and what our adopters experience, I’m stunned that a mere 21% of pets come from shelters. Here’s just one example of how the APF and our humane partners work to ensure forever homes …

In August, a stray husky was brought to us. While many are drawn to this breed for their beauty, few are truly prepared for the challenges they present. They are intelligent, curious, energetic, and prone to wander. Many also have a strong prey drive, which can make placement with cats tricky. When “Peppy” arrived, we

contacted Ron McEckron, President of Tundra Spirits Siberian Husky Rescue. He knew just the family.

Rick and Kathy of Valatie spent months looking for a dog, but were having a tough time finding a match for their family, which included two dogs and two cats. Ron and our shelter manager, Barb Spillane, spent several hours counseling them on husky behavior and how to introduce Peppy to the other pets. Rick and Kathy report that Peppy, now Cobalt, has blended well with his new siblings and they are grateful for all the support they received.

Unlike pet stores, our motivation is the desire for loving, lifelong relationships between people and their companions. Thankfully, we have dedicated allies who share these goals, like Tundra Spirits and SAMA from our cover story.

Of course there are times when, despite our best efforts, an adoption just isn’t the right fit. Unlike the pet store’s “no return” policy, animals can always come back to us so that we can try again for the right placement for both animals and adopters.

Rosalie R. AultEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

From the Executive Director

PetGazette is a publication of the APF, a nonprofit corporation in Schenectady County, New York. It is published three times a year for more than 6,000 readers. We welcome your comments.

Please contact: Marguerite Pearson, LVT Director of Communications

Animal Protective Foundation 53 Maple Avenue Scotia, New York 12302-4613

(518) 374-3944, ext. 113 pearson@animalprotective.org

Board of Directors Lisa DiCocco, President Rebecca Pauley, Vice-President Diane Houck, Secretary Jo Freedman, Treasurer George Belev Anne Hartranft Steve Malinowski Martha Meskutovecz Kris McConville Judy McCullough Sara Veeder

Visit www.animalprotective.org for a complete list of activities and programs. If you’re not online, please contact Marguerite Pearson, Director of Communications, at 374-3944, ext. 113 for information.

Patience and collaboration brought Cobalt to his new home.

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The APF is participating in a program offered by National Grid to upgrade all lighting throughout the shelter. By switching to more energy efficient bulbs and fixtures, we will save over $3,000 per year on electricity costs.

Smile! It’s time for Pet Pictures with Santa ...

Saturday, December 511 am to 3 pmOur “new and improved” event features more space, quicker photos, free coffee and cocoa, plus Beasley’s Boutique and great photo gifts from Rocket Life!

Digital photo in a holiday frame $6 each Bring a camera and take your own pictures $3 per sitting

Holiday photo frames $1 each

... and Our Christmas Cookie Extravaganza!

Interested in volunteering? Attending an Orientation is Your First Step

Our Volunteer Orientation is an informational meeting where you will meet some of our staff, discuss the mission and philosophy of the APF, and learn more about our volunteer program and the needs within the shelter. You’ll also take a behind-the-scenes tour of the shelter facility. Call our Volunteer Coordinator, Jody Sitors, at 374-3944, ext. 118 to reserve your spot.

Upcoming Orientations, 6 to 7:30 pm > January 13 > March 24 > May 19

RABBIT FOSTERS NEEDEDT.H.E. Rabbit Resource, the New York State Chapter of the House Rabbit Society, is looking for foster homes to care for rescue bunnies in the Capital Region.For more information visit www.therabbitresource.com.

T.H.E. Rabbit Resource is one of the APF’s rescue partners.

What’s Rocket Life? It’s similar to Snapfish or Shutterfly, only better! Put your digital memories to good use by creating books, mugs, T-shirts and a variety of other great products to keep

or share as unique gifts. Best of all, when you use the Rocket Life link at www.animalprotective.org, a portion of your purchase price will benefit our shelter pets! Learn all about Rocket Life at Pet Pictures with Santa, or log on today and learn how to get a free photo book.

Bright Idea!“If we are together

nothing is impossible.

If we are divided all

will fail. “

Winston Churchill

Our deepest thanks to all

who have worked with us to

accomplish so many good

things for the animals this

year, even under very

difficult circumstances.

To our donors, sponsors,

volunteers, adopters, humane

partners, advocates and friends,

we wish you a bountiful and

joyous Thanksgiving holiday!

www.animalprotective.org 3

In Honor of PeopleJUDI ANTOKOL’S BIRTHDAY Lorraine WesterveltJOHN ARTICOLO’S BIRTHDAY Dolly Lee SimmonsANITA BENSON EvANS Bonita JoslinJASON & LAURA BOgg’S WEDDINgWedding Guests, Comet & StarbuckDONALD & PATRICIA BONK’S 50TH WEDDINg ANNIvERSARY Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence McSwainPAULA BOURgEOIS’ RETIREMENT Co-workers at Social Security AdministrationJO FREEDMAN Mary-Joan MillerMAXINE gEORgE & BRUCE FELDMAN’S WEDDINg Eleanor FriedmanDONALD & MARgARET LAUNER’S 60TH BIRTHDAYS Carole & Joseph HouriganED MESKUTOvECZ’S RETIREMENT Bob & Elaine KennedyMARTHA & ED MESKUTOvECZ’S WEDDINg ANNIvERSARY Judith and Ralph BostonPATTY MONTONE’S BIRTHDAY Terry D’Attilio Craig & Colleen Doherty Martha & Ed MeskutoveczDOREEN OATHOUT’S BIRTHDAY Sue & Dell OathoutMELISSA PATNAUDE’S BIRTHDAY Theresa Ferri-CarpenterPAM PEDINOTTI’S BIRTHDAY Deborah CarpenterLUKAS & SOFIA PELLETIER’S BIRTHDAY Laura Achcet Matthew & Susan Behar Stephanie Pelletier Vincent & Tina VersaciHANNAH REALE’S BIRTHDAY Jay & Mary Fiet Jack & Sheila Herbst Danielle & James McCormick Paul & Lisa Pazienza Jonathon & Anne Slepski Cheryl & Kenneth Wise Colleen ZerbaTERRI REESE Martha LongoLU & ROD ROWLEDgE’S 50TH WEDDINg ANNIvERSARY Lois & John SauterKATHY SNOWDEN Joan Shepard JANE STERN’S BIRTHDAY Marjorie AssiniIRENE TRUDELL’S RETIREMENT Linda Adamczyk Susan Adkins Mr. & Mrs. Rich Balch Jessica Deeb Mr. & Mrs. Terry Fortna Lynne Fuchs Lorraine Henry-Roth Patricia Hyland Deborah Kitchen-Sears Rosemary Lawless Marjorie Marmuscak Kelly Millington Marie Montone Patricia Morales Melissa & Terry Peterson Mark & Marcia Powers Maureen Sauter Barbara Swiecicki Heather Swiecicki Marv & Vera Weiss

JULIE vARLEY & DAvID BATHRICK’S WEDDINg Colleen & Skip Carlson Mary & Bill Gorham Katherine Graham John & Pam Hart Nancy & Lawrence Hart Patricia Hart John & Helen Hayes George Charles Kahnle R.E. LaBarge Maureen & Tom James & E. Carol McGovern Robert & Barbara Viviano HELENE vINCENT Martha LongoDENISE WALLINg The Friday Morning Moms of Shenendehowa United Methodist Church, Clifton ParkvERA WEISS’ BIRTHDAY Diane Chevalier Larry and Suzanne Godshalk Donna M. WeissMICHELE WHINNERY Theresa RosaCALvIN YOUNg Theresa RosaALICE ZAYAC Mary-Joan MillerMARK ZWINAK’S BIRTHDAY Beth Zwinak

In Honor of PetsANNABELLE Theresa L. RosaBLUE Kim Green & Andrew KouzanAPOLLO & LEBRON DAgOSTINO’S BIRTHDAYS Larry, Linda & James DagostinoDELMAR DOg BUTLER Steve RellesgIZMO Gloria SnyderALBERT HENRI TOULOUSE gUILLOME Ariane MryaskiSAMMY MESKUTOvECZ & ALL HIS SIBLINgS Gayle MarkleMINI & PATI Elinor HermanPARKER, ADOPTED 8/4/05 Mr. & Mrs. Sidney KaufmanPRINCESS & PRECIOUS Alice W. DeCostePUMPKIN & PEPPER Eric JoachimTITER Agnes G. IngrahamMOLLY AND gINgER TRUDELL Cynthia RothZAKK Elizabeth Mack

In Memory of PeopleHENRY C. AUMILLER Denise Buffone Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Czyzyk John & Cindy KielbLYDIA BARKER Kathleen Baptiste Robert Baptiste Thomas & Patricia Clement Dr. & Mrs. John J. ParilloMARgARET BAKER Patricia E. SimonANNE BOUFFARD Victoria Bouffard Jacqueline B. Gish

RONALD W. BROSWSKI Joan & Bill Baumler Sue & Peter Conlin Cristine Cioffi, Esq. Friends at Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C. Terry Dewey Janet Fink Dennis & Mary Furman Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Jakubowski James Monahan Staff at Thorpe’s Pharmacy Michelle WildgrubeROgER BRUSIE Mr. & Mrs. Joseph SampsonMARJORIE Y. CHAPMAN Geraldine HaightRON CHLOPECKI Shirley DeMartinoBARBARA CRANSTON Mrs. Carolyn Learnan Sharon OlshefskyJOHN R. DADEO Pat & Dennis Chakas Jane Hallfors Sonja Holmer-Herrmann Howard & Debra Moyer William Purdy Allan VilleneuvegRACE DAMIANO, MY BEST FRIEND Holly HayesRICHARD J. DICRESCE Mark & Annette LawsonMARILYN “MICKIE” DUFRESNE Toni Ann Alteri Melanie CullenWILLIAM D. EDWARDS Mrs. Amy E. GeorgeBEv EOFF Norma and BernieEMILIE MARIE EvANS Mr. & Mrs. Arthur DeManiaTED EvENDEN Charles WelchANNA gOODROW FRISKEY Barb & Hank Brown Joan A. RogersHARRIETTE HAMILTON Red-Kap Sales IncorporatedCATHRYN HOLT Bill HoltgLORIA M. HUNTER The Elfun Society-Schenectady Chapter Karen B. Johnson Ruth Richards CONNIE JOHNSON Barbara WagarANN KACZKOWSKI Mr. & Mrs. Joseph SampsonRobert & Mary Ann VanGorderELIZABETH M. KELLOgg Peter Crane Kathie Stoddard & Paul Macey Sarah & Michael RappJULIA F. KIERU The Webber FamilyHOWARD KOERNER Mr. & Mrs. Lester PembrookPHILIP H. KOMP, SR. Arlena Bora Susan A. Braidwood Annetta & Michael Carrano Kevin R. Carroll Don & Chris DeLuke Val Erickson and Family Carol & Ed Funyak Clifford R. Gray, Inc. Michael & Barbara Naumoff Mr. & Mrs. Peter Pfaffenbach Elaine Polsinelli SAFE Inc., of Schenectady Board of Directors and Staff

In Honor and In Memory of Special People and Animals Who Have Touched our Lives ...While gifts of any amount are genuinely appreciated, due to space constraints only honorary and memorial gifts of $25 or more are included below. Listing reflects gifts made between June 16 and October 20, 2009.To make a donation, please use the enclosed envelope or contact Mary at 374-3944, ext. 114 or forden@animalprotective.org. Photos are welcomed and will be used as space allows.

STEvEN KORAL Heidi VanDeusenROSE KORMAN Lorraine VanDerWerkenWILLIAM L. KRUSZONA Wendel Delorme William & Irene Dormandy Agnes & Christopher Haddon Dan Pastalaniec Isabelle Pastalaniec Laureen PottynskiDEBORAH LANE Mr. & Mrs. Joseph SampsonAUgUST LIERMAN Lou, the Kids & Gus-GusMARILYN LUKE-PRICE Susan SmithALMA M. ‘MARILYN’ LYON Joan & Sal Davi Skip & Mary Della Rocco Bessie & Marcia Pijanowski Donald Sanders Mr. & Mrs. Floyd (Skip) Slater Elmer TomshaBEvERLEY LYON Margaret & Harry Blake Department of Transportation of the Saratoga Springs City Schools Wini & Howard Doster Lori Picard-Wayand Francis & Martha Simiele Grace Snell USPS - Scotia Branch Vicky, Gary, Pete, Rick, Gaby & ElaineDONALD J. MIZENKO Linda & Robert DeMarco Robert Feulner Agnes & Raymond Hyam Dawn Nasters Mr. & Mrs. Michael NastersJANET MONT Ruth M. NejmanLAURETTA R. NEHLS Sharon & Norman PirroRICHARD NORWOOD Mr. & Mrs. Robert F. Norwood Mr. & Mrs. Ronald TalbotANNETTE “ANNE” POWERS Janice M. HainesDONALD C. PREDDICE Mario & Muriel Ciancetta Beth Kost Barbara Van Etten HANNAH ARLENE QUICK Karen & Leon Barnish, Jr. Richard Comstock Cynthia Goodman Deanne Langton Rose & Irv Lichenstein Joan & Larry O’Donovan, Sr. Eileen, Lindsey & Ryan Quick Bonita SchneibleKATHERINE M. MALONETracy R. CurioneMARY & PAUL MONACO Rosemarie MeliusMARgARET A. MONTY Debbie & Dave AddingtongERALD R. MOSKAL Mr. & Mrs. Harry Bull Guy Hildreth Mary MalkowichJOHN O’BRIEN Pam & Jerry PedinottiPAT H. OLMSTEAD Co-workers and Friends at WRGB The Fenick Family George Van Schaick Marilyn WaldronELIZABETH KUDER OLSEN McConchie’s Heritage Acres

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PAUL P. PIRONI Paul J. PironiRAYMOND PRESSMANMike & Freya GriffinJulie WattsTHOMAS PUZO Doreen & Steve HennesseyJOSEPH RICCIO The Cullinan Family David Dillenbeck Wayne & Karen Prescott Nicholas & Dolores RiccioSTELLA ROBINSON Robert & Sonia RetajczykLINDA ROSSNorma & Joe GalinskygEORgE ROZA Kathy & Milt PrattROBERT RUDD Margit L. MorganROBERT C. SADDLEMIRE KAPL Mixed Bowling League MembersvESTA TURNER SAgER Virginia Reamer Sue ThiebaudSCOTT Ron & Kathy BortellCAROL SMITH Elizabeth CatoneJAYNE SMITH Leon Smith, Jr.KATHI SMITH Jim Peeke & Cindi ChristieSTEPHEN SMITH Duanesburg Volunteer Fire CompanygEORgE J. SOKOL Hill & Dale Association Karen Montgomery Sue Northrup Patricia & Peter Van KeurenHOWARD J. STAFFORD Guy & Mary Forden Thomas & Betty ZeltwangerJOAN A. STEvENS Nicholas & Dolores Riccio Donald Shaw Staff and Employees at Bassett HealthcareJOHN EDWARD STEWART Helmut DeegLAUREL TEERHarline Andrus Friends of LaurelTOM THALER Pam PedinottiRAYMOND g. TOWNSEND KAPL, co-workers of David Townsend Robert & Fleurette Traxler Winifred Yahn

MARY vALLETTA Margaret DeBiaseELAINE vAN DORN Erik Van DornLYLE vAN DYKE Daniel & Sharon Grygas Judith RasmussenEDWARD WALAg Eugene & Janet DedaWESLEY J. WEAvER, JR. Barbara & Thomas Blanchard Joanne Bosley Anne Brockenauer GE Global Research CMT Mr. & Mrs. E. Lee Huff George & Marge Kopchik Rich & Ann MacDonnellJOSEPH I. WHITTLESEY Richard & Joy Donlan Cynthia Hamilton Sue Hough Patricia Johnston Frank & Francine Leackfeldt Helen MartinBETH WILKINSON Anonymous Donors Paul & Maryann Butterfield Nancy McMillen Penny SheedyDONN CHARLES WRIgHT Robert Carr Janice Carr-Vrana Linda & Robert McCarthy Michael Ottati Steven & Doreen Pitsas Joseph & Dorothy Pratico Patricia Thatcher Norman & Mary ZyravIRgINIA YEATER Sally QuinnROBERT A. YODER Mr. & Mrs. Robert C. Yoder In Memory of PetsANNABELLE, PASSED AWAY 6/8/09 Krista A. HawkASCOT Blanche FischerBANDIT, MY BUDDY Rose RyanBEAUXSiri PardiBUDDY L. Bezio & R. DiCoccoBUFFY Rich & Cheryl LittleCACIE CAT James BuellCALvIN Sherry Conners

CLOvER Patricia GroeberCODY Keith & Claudia RolfeDEXIE Kelly WalshDUKE MCCANN Billie McCann E-Z & MUFFY Marlene PaccicoEMMO Mr. & Mrs. Edward MoyFIgARO Sue SanborngINgER Santina RobertsgREMLIN Milt & Kathy PrattgUY Gary & Ann WhittmoreHANNAH HOUCK Judy Dillenbeck Kathy SnowdenHARLEY Edward KaufmannHONEY, FRIEND OF JOE & BOB Mary Gene TanskiINDY Peggy CoryeaJACK Mrs. K.JUDAH Sheila McGeeKALI, SQUEAKY, TIggY & MIKEY Mr. & Mrs. Dan GrygasKITTY Karen Frankenfield LILY MESKUTOvECZ Judith Boston Martha & Ed Meskutovecz Marguerite PearsonMAggIE Gloria PerrottoMAESTRO Lynne ConnollyMAX Nadine VineMAXINE & CHEWI Pamela BirdMEENA Mike & Kathryn SokarisMIKEY Howard Halstead & Melissa EnglerMISTY Bette HelmsMISTY MORRETT Tom & Diane Houck

MOLLY Milt & Kathy Pratt Steven RiderMOSES Laura SpragueMUFFY, MITTENS, DOUgIE & BELLA Brenda OlsenMURPHY Martha & Ed MeskutoveczMURRAY - BELOvED COMPANION Donna DeBieNATASHA Marion FosterOLD PA Mr. & Mrs. Harol PechettOLIvER, MY BEST FRIEND Karen DaffnerPEBBLES 1997-2008 Peg & FamilyPEPIONE & MOLLY Yvonne W. deGenovaPEANUT Carol HaightPRECIOUS Mr. and Mrs. Thomas BartlettRALPH AND ALICE DE PAZ Joan De PazSAMMark PhoenixSANDY, CINDY, SARA & PENNY Gloria SnyderSHADOWErik Van DornSHEBAKenneth & Amorette FichtelSIESTA (CECE)James, Cheryl & Christina DeLellaSIR LANCELOTCarol T. Gascoyne & FamilySMOKEYMarie MacPhersonSPIKEJohn & Brenda WrennSTURgESSEdna GageTASHACraig KimballTHOMAS SNOWDENTom & Diane HouckKathy SnowdenTINKERBELLE, ANgEL, NIPPER, SAMMY & POOPSIEJean MyersTONKA Elizabeth CatoneTUNA - THE BEST CAT IN THE WORLD Russ, Carol & Richard ColluraTYLER Robert & Mary Ann VanGorder

TRIBUTE gARDEN BRICKSBricks engraved with loving tributes line the path to our beautiful Forget-Me-Not Garden. It’s a thoughtful way to honor special people and pets, past or present. For pictures of the garden, visit www.animalprotective.org. Please call 374-3944, ext. 114 for more details.

CHECK ONE:[ ] 4" x 8" brick with 2 lines of text .....................................................$50[ ] 8" diamond brick with 3 lines of text ....................................... $100[ ] 10¾" granite brick with 3 lines of text ..................................... $250

Your Name ____________________________________________

Address ______________________________________________

City/State/Zip _________________________________________

Phone _______________________________________________

E-mail _______________________________________________

[ ] Check enclosed in the amount of $_____ (payable to APF)

Credit Card: [ ]Visa [ ]Mastercard [ ]Discover [ ]AmExCard#________________________________ Exp. ____________

Signature _____________________________________________

Please print the name or message to be engraved. Each box represents one character, including spaces and punctuation. 4" X 8" BRICK

8" DIAMOND BRICK

10 ¾" gRANITE BRICK

www.animalprotective.org 5

HOLIDAY gIFTS THAT gIvE BACK APF gift CertificatesA gift to the animals in a loved one’s name is a truly meaningful gesture. With your gift of $25 or more, we will send a holiday certificate announcing the gift from you. You may purchase certificates online, in person, by mail, or by calling 374-3944 ext. 114. Our deadline for Christmas mailing is December 18.

Entertainment BooksEntertainment Books are packed with hundreds of money-saving coupons for dining, entertainment and much more. They cost just $30 and the APF receives $6 for each book purchased.

Snow Dogs! presented by Tundra Spirits Siberian Husky Rescue and the APF

A fascinating program for all husky lovers age 6 and older. Meet some beautiful Siberian huskies and learn what makes this breed so unique.

DATE: Saturday, February 20

TIMES: Two sessions will be offered 10:00 am – Noon and 1:00 – 3:00 pm

LOCATION: Animal Protective Foundation

FEE: $10 per person, must be preregistered

TO REgISTER: Call 374-3944, ext. 119. Seating is limited and classes fill quickly.

Meet Tika and her friends!

Visit www.animalprotective.org for class schedule, or call 374-3944, ext. 121.

Puppy Pre-School • Basic Manners 101 • Canine good Citizen • Agili-O

Big Round of a Paws!Our thanks to everyone who had a hand or paw in making our 17th Annual Fireplug 500 Walk for Animals such a great success. Over $60,000 was raised to help provide shelter and care for the animals. Pictured is our top team, “Team Ted,” who raised nearly $3,000!

Top 10 Teams Team Ted $2,947APF Staff $2,190Team Terrier $1,855Ed & Robin Paniccia $1,185Team Jackson $835Marshall & Sterling $788Dog-Gone Rascals $660Chance's Crusaders $616K-9 Extraordinaire $608MVPeeeeeers $575

Top 10 Walkers Arlene Krisanda $2,200Vera Weiss $2,000Dawn Denegar $1,798Diane Houck $1,593Edward Paniccia $1,160 Chris VanPatten $815Jennifer Lutz $760Holly Comanzo $724Melissa Tata $710Jessica Rickert $650

Members of Team Ted who attended the Fireplug 500 included Greg Catlin and Sky; Diane Houck and shelter dog Diamond; Holly Comanzo and Fritz; Renee Evenden and Cody; Elana Evenden and Haley Evenden.

Isn’t Love Blind?They say love is blind, but apparently it’s not colorblind. Ask any shelter worker here or elsewhere which pets take the longest to adopt and you’re bound to hear “the black ones.” While superstition may play a role in the adoption of black cats, it’s more likely that black animals simply don’t stand out as well as their more colorful counterparts. Like walking through a department store, your eye is drawn to what is most colorful and dramatic. Black cats and dogs have personalities as colorful as any other pets, and they may need you even more than the brindles, calicos and tabbies. Don’t judge a book by its cover, or you just might overlook the next furry love of your life.

Kids Making a Difference for the AnimalsEvery week, children of all ages come to the APF with donations for the animals. It may be mats that they have made for the kitties here, or a collection of food for the Pet Food Pantry, or supplies off our Wish List. Some kids have lemonade stands or car washes or even ask for donations be made to the shelter in lieu of birthday presents for themselves.

The generosity of such children is inspiring and a real bright spot in a world that seems to have so much bad news taking place. Their kind efforts are truly appreciated by all of us here, staff and animals alike. If your child is interested in helping the animals, download a copy of “30+ Things Kids Can Do to Help” from the Volunteer page on our website at www.animalprotective.org, or pick up a copy in our lobby. Keep up the good work, kids!

jh

APF Pet Academy> Certified trainers > Small classes> Positive training methods

6

Returning in 2010: Pennies for Pets

giving Thanks at Year’s EndFor many, these final months of the year are a time to express thanks for all we have and also to share with others. However it has been a difficult year and economic conditions have made it necessary for most of us to reassess our spending, saving and giving choices. By carefully considering your options, you may discover that you can help the animals in ways you never thought possible.

• Giving gifts of cash, securities and life insurance may provide savings for this tax year and in the future.

• Matching gifts double your support. Check to see if your employer offers such a program. The APF is eligible for GE matching funds from employees and retirees. Please call 1-800-305-0669 or visit www.gefoundation.com to report your gift.

• If you participate in workplace giving through SEFA, CFC or United Way, you may designate your gift to the APF.

To learn more about giving opportunities, please call 374-3944, ext. 110.

Please enclose $40 for each order.

Checks payable to: APF

Total amount enclosed $____________

___ VISA ___ MasterCard

___ Discover ___ American Express

Cardholder’s Name ____________________________

Card Number ________________________________

Expiration Date _______________________________

Signature ____________________________________

Purchaser’s Name _____________________________

Mail to: APF, 53 Maple Avenue, Scotia, NY 12302

If Purchasing for Your Own Pet

Pet’s Name___________________________________

Address _____________________________________

City ________________________________________

State____________________Zip _________________

Phone ______________________________________

E-mail _______________________________________

Gift Recipient and Shipping Info if Different

Name _______________________________________

Pet’s Name___________________________________

Address _____________________________________

City ________________________________________

State____________________Zip _________________

Phone ______________________________________

E-mail _______________________________________

The Catnip Club Join The Catnip Club and your favorite feline will be mailed three 3.5” catnip pillows filled with organic catnip every three months for one year. Each is handcrafted in 100% cotton fabrics in colorful patterns.

Note! Orders must be received by 12/11 for Christmas delivery.

Your membership supports the APF’s spay/neuter and animal care programs.

SHELTER WISH LIST For a complete list visit www.animalprotective.org

> Kongs and Galileo Bones in large and extra large sizes

> Dog collars and strong clip-on leashes in medium/large sizes

> Small fleece cat beds

> Clay (non-scoopable) cat litter

> Liquid laundry detergent

> Paper goods: paper towels, kleenex and bathroom tissue

> Gift cards for Price Chopper, Hannaford, Walmart, Target Michael’s, JoAnne’s Fabrics, Office Max or Staples

> Gas cards

> Forever postage stamps

> Donations of any type of cat and dog food for our Pet Food Pantry Partnership with SICM are always appreciated

For your convenience, we have also created a wish list through Walmart. Visit our website to shop online and have items delivered directly to the shelter!

Vincent loves his catnip pillows!

WHAT’S IN YOUR JEWELRY BOX?If you have a jewelry box, it probably has some pieces you never wear, but don’t know what to do with. We have the solution! Donate your unwanted jewelry to the APF for our second “Tails of Treasure” Jewelry Event, coming in February. Last year we had thousands of pieces, from costume to fine, and raised over $6,000. We will also be collecting silver and gold to be melted down, so we will gladly accept broken or odd pieces as well. For more information, please contact Kim at 374-3944, ext. 119.

Coming UpFebruary - Date TBA Tails of Treasure Jewelry Event

March - Date TBA Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, June 6 Putting for Pets Golf Tournament at Van Patten Golf Club

Saturday, June 12 4th Annual Thrifty Kitty and Bargain Hound Garage Sale

Saturday, September 11 18th Annual Fireplug 500 Walk for Animals

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Coming in 2010: The Return of “Pennies for Pets”There is no denying that kids love animals. Thanks to the hard work and caring attitudes of students at three Schenectady elementary schools, Yates, Van Corlaer and Zoller, $3,000 was raised through “Pennies for Pets” in 2009. The APF funds subscriptions of the award-winning “KINDNews” for over 100 area classrooms and visits many schools to give presentations. The money raised helps support these important humane education programs that reach thousands of children, from nursery school through high school. This year, we are expanding “Pennies for Pets” and are inviting other school districts to participate in the fun. More details will be forthcoming in early 2010, so stay tuned!

www.animalprotective.org 7

Booker Eliza Dodger Oscar

Chelsea & friend Jerzee Lady Bug Sonny & friend

Misty Mini (right) and friend Nolan Willie

WE'vE gONE HOME!We love updates. Please send your pet pictures and stories to Marguerite at pearson@animalprotective.org.

New and Improved!

Pet Pictures with Santa

Saturday, December 5Details Inside

Pancake Breakfast!Introducing

“Furry Thursdays”

The APF now offers extended adoption hours every Thursday evening until 7:30 pm ... but that’s not all!

Thursday evening are now known as “Furry Thursdays” and we’ll be offering something new every week. It could be entertainment, a gift or discount, an exhibit, or a chance to meet a special guest.

Are you an artist, entertainer, crafter, musician or author? Or do you have an interesting exhibit to display? If so, contact Kim at 374-3944, ext. 119 or jess@animalprotective.org to share your idea.

53 MAPLE AVENUE SCOTIA, NY 12302

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ALBANY, NY

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SHELTER HOURS: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 12:00 – 4:30 pm. Thursday 12:00 – 7:30 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.