Altmann’s fight for SPCA funding results in 800 investigations of abuse; 44 Animals rescued throughout county in 2007

Newly-formed Nassau County Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals now functioning and fulfilling its mission

Back in 2005, it came to Legislator Lisanne Altmann’s (D-Great Neck) attention that the County’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals had fallen into disarray and dysfunction. The SPCA had become so ineffective and disorganized that it was operating under a “temporary receivership” following a judge’s order.

That’s when Altmann stepped in to help rescue the rescuers. She was able to secure $100,000 in funding for the organization for a variety of programs, including education and the investigation of animal cruelty complaints. Now, almost two years later, the newly formed NCSPCA is strong, effective and functioning better than ever. In 2007 alone, the NCSPCA has received 925 calls for alleged abuse, conducted 800 investigations, uncovered 266 cases of animal cruelty. Peace officers have issued 12 desk appearance tickets and made seven arrests, and rescued 15 dogs and 29 cats from unsuitable homes.

“It is our duty as compassionate and caring human beings to protect defenseless animals and to make sure that anyone who mistreats them are prosecuted to the full extent of the laws,” said Altmann. “This additional funding for the NCSPCA will go a long way in reaching these goals.”

The NCSPCA is dedicated to the welfare and protection of animals in Nassau County from abuse and neglect. As part of its activities, the NCSPCA encourages and facilitates spay and neuter programs to reduce the population of unwanted animals, provides a continuing educational program to help people understand the needs of their animals so they are better able to care for them and keep them healthy, and makes presentations to children at schools, scout programs and other groups.

“The Nassau SPCA is proud to be the premier agency in Nassau County dedicated to enforcing laws pertaining to animal cruelty,” said Jim Dunn, President of the NCSPCA and Assistant Chief of the Law Enforcement Division. “We are an organization committed to the safety of animals and are here to ensure that our pets are treated properly.”

NCSPCA currently has 20 members, all volunteers, 10 of who are peace officers. The peace officers, all former law enforcement officials, have the following duties:

?go after individuals who are abusing or mistreating their animals;

?respond to calls regarding animal cruelty and neglect

?investigate the circumstances

?attempt to resolve the situation in the best interests of the animals involved.

The NCSPCA is the only organization in Nassau County, other than the police department, authorized to enforce NYS animal cruelty laws.

The Nassau County SPCA was organized in 1973 and was originally called the League for Animal Protection, Inc. A not-for profit corporation organized to protect the animals of Nassau County from neglect and abuse and to provide for animal welfare, the SPCA is run entirely by unpaid volunteers. Its operations have historically been funded through contributions solicited from the public and some corporate grants.

“I am hopeful that the County Executive will continue to adequately fund the NCSPCA in his 2008 budget and I am also working to add additional monies to help their important work,” said Altmann.

Legislator Altmann encourages residents to call the NCSPCA if they know of any animal abuse or neglect, are looking for tips on how to care for their pet, or wish to volunteer or contribute to an organization that makes animal safety their mission.

Anyone who wishes to help animals can volunteer to help the NCSPCA or make a contribution. Visit the NCSPCA website at: www.nassauspca.com. To report an incident of animal abuse, please call 781-2052.