MSPCA-Angell 2009 Annual Report

Year In revIew 2009

YEAR IN REVIEW 2009 · 4

carter Luke, president, MSpcA–Angell

“He was a great veterinarian and humanitarian, and a true leader in both fields,

nationally and internationally. But I think what his friends and colleagues will remember about him most is his heart.

He cared so very deeply about animals and people.”

WE dEdIcAtE thIS EdItIoN of thE MSpcA–ANgELL YEAR IN REVIEW to guS W. thoRNtoN, dVM, ouR pRESIdENt EMERItuS,

Who dIEd oN JANuARY 24, 2010.

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Year In revIew 2009

03 Letter from the President

04 Animal Care and Adoption Centers

06 Angell Animal Medical Centers

08 MSPCA–Angell in the News

10 Humane Law Enforcement

12 Government Affairs

14 Spay/Neuter Assistance Program

16 The American Fondouk

17 Communications

18 Donors in the Spotlight

19 How You’ve Helped

20 Angell Capital Priorities

21 Fundraising Events

22 Financial Report 2009

25 2009 Donors

“He was a great veterinarian and humanitarian, and a true leader in both fields,

nationally and internationally. But I think what his friends and colleagues will remember about him most is his heart.

He cared so very deeply about animals and people.”

In 2009, through Your ongoing assistance to the MSPCa–angell, Your handS reaChed out to comfort and care for More than 67,000 anIMalS. eaCh one of theM exPerIenCed the touch of kindness beCauSe of You.


“Our depth is our strength. And our family of

supporters is as essential to us as breath is to every life.

Without your help, this organization would not

exist. The depth of our gratitude for you is

very real.”

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LEttER fRoM thE pRESIdENt

the depth of our Caring, the depth of our gratitude

With the MSPCA–Angell, you don’t always get what

you see.

You get a lot more.

For as long as I’ve been working for our MSPCA–Angell (25 years), I’ve been an adopter and a client as well. I’ve brought my cats and dogs here for wellness visits, surgeries, specialty visits, and emergencies.

When you’re a client, you’re pretty much focused on a couple of things: your pet and your veterinarian. You want your pet to get the best care and you want your vet to provide it. That three-way relationship — pet, vet, and owner — is very intense.

Recently I brought my cat Scoots in to see our veterinarian, Dr. Doug Brum. I was worried: Scoots was not well, and I had no idea what might be wrong. During our appointment I was focused on Scoots and Doug and not much else. But a few days later, after my sweet cat was recovering, I began to think further about our experience that week.

I began to see depth where I had previously seen only the surface. I began to see layers everywhere…layers of care, of service, of professionals, of programs…even layers of the wonderful multi-purpose building we were in — the Helen Schmidt Stanton Clinical Center and Copeland Animal Care and Adoption Center.

That building, now open to the public for about four years, was built from dreams and paid for by you, our amazingly generous friends. Every day, in that beautiful building, our staff and volunteers offer kindness, care, hope, and comfort to people and animals. That building was something we — and the animals — needed, and you, our dear friends, made it happen.

And inside that building are more layers still. My veterinarian, Dr. Brum, doesn’t function alone. The totality of Angell’s staff is available to him — and therefore to his patient, Scoots. When Scoots needed an ultrasound and 24-hour care, even more professionals went to work, each of them caring for this one very important, very fortunate cat. In the end, Scoots walked out of Angell and into my arms, her life given back to her through Angell’s caring expertise.

This layering also extends from my office to the desks of all our administrative and support staff who work so hard every day to make things function smoothly. And our staff members work hand in hand with an essential layer of energetic caring — our volunteers, without whom we certainly could not tend to so many thousands of animals every year.

We have layers of programs for animals and for people too — everything from dog training to law enforcement to financial aid for pet owners to forums for high-end donors.

We extend our programs overseas, by working with organizations like the World Society for the Protection of Animals, and through the lifesaving work of the American Fondouk in North Africa.

The more I thought about it, the more the layers just kept unfolding — every time I thought I’d arrived at the bottom, another one opened up. Then I happily remembered a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson, one of our earliest supporters: “It’s not the length of life, but the depth of life.”

Our depth is our strength. And our family of supporters is as essential to us as breath is to every life. Without your help, this organization would not exist. The depth of our gratitude for you is very real.

Please enjoy the pages of this Year in Review and please recognize your role in every page you turn. Without your help, our story could not be written.

Carter Luke

President


Gentle, Welcoming Hands — our MSPCa animal Care and adoption Centers

Animals come to us in all shapes and sizes. Homeless. Hurting. Hoping for love. Because of your ongoing support, we’re able to take them in. All of them are welcome.

All of the animals who arrive at our four MSPCA adoption centers — Boston, Centerville, Nantucket, and Nevins Farm — have one staggering trait in common: they are with us because they have no homes. At the very moment we officially take them in, we are their world; we hold their fates in our hands.

We know it is essential that they feel welcome. The last hands that touched them might have belonged to a loving owner who had to give them up for reasons out of his or her control, a Good Samaritan who found them wandering in the world alone, an unfeeling person who shooed them away, or even a cruel abuser — but the hands of our adoption center staff and volunteers are always open and kind and welcoming. We know that makes a difference.

The touch of a human hand — or in some cases just the offer of a human hand — allows each one of them to relax a little.And there are so many now who need that welcoming touch. Our nation’s troubled economy has rendered thousands of animals homeless. Last year our MSPCA adoption centers received more than 2,600 surrenders that were likely due to economic reasons. We see no signs that this trend will be changing soon.

And yet our adoption centers are doing really well against incredible odds. Our staff estimates that four out of every 10 surrenders are made by people who have checked with other facilities and been told they had no room or that their pet would have to be put on a waiting list.

Unfortunately, this world isn’t set up to protect homeless animals — our MSPCA Animal Care and Adoption Centers are.In addition to finding homes for the homeless, our adoption centers provide their communities with animal-related information and assistance. They become links to information about wildlife, pet population control, and animal rescue. They sponsor educational and fundraising events. They nurture relationships with dedicated volunteers. They reach out to children through programs like the Nevins Summer Camp, and offer popular dog training classes and classes on equine rescue. Truly they are creating “a just and compassionate society.”

Bernie passed yesterday, but he lived a great life. Thank you for bringing this hurt, messed-up kitty to us so we could love him and turn him into an angel. I would like to donate on Bernie’s behalf and there isn’t anyone other than you that he would want to see help other cats.

Pat and Katie Cahill

Love Letter

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ANIMAL cARE ANd AdoptIoN cENtERS

We placed over 10,000 animals in new homes in 2009! here are just three special cases…

IN 2009

· 10,588 animals were placed into new homes.

· 450 foster homes provided care for 2,963 animals who were not quite ready for a doption.

· 934 volunteers helped with animal care, special events, and office work.

· 1,472 people and their dogs attended training and agility classes in Boston and Methuen.

· 240 children and 25 junior counselors participated in Nevins Summer Camp.

· Approximately 400 pre-schoolers attended the new “Little Bookworms” story hours at Nevins Farm.

· The Equine Ambulance staff traveled to 10 sport horse events throughout the United States and Canada.

· 600 people attended training classes for equine and large-animal rescue.

· 225 tons of hay, 223 tons of shavings, and 17 tons of grain were used for the farm animals’ care.

poStINAPostina, an eight-week-old kitten, was left to die when someone pushed her through the opening of a mailbox. There she remained, trapped, helpless, hungry, confused, and alone until the next day when a kind postal worker brought her to our adoption center. We gave Postina rest, nourishment, vaccinations, and lots of love, then adopted her out into a wonderful new home. In fact, it turned out that her perfect adopter was another U.S. Postal Service worker.

Publicity surrounding Postina’s case reached animal lovers worldwide and reminded the public that animal abandonment is a felony crime, punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.

cALLICalli’s financially strapped owner could no longer afford to feed or care for her properly. By the time she came to Nevins Farm, Calli was filthy and shockingly thin, but with a helping hand from our Nevins equine experts, she was on her way back to health and contentment. We’ve seen a tremendous increase in cases like Calli’s, horses who’ve become innocent victims of our struggling economy. They’re very expensive to care for and rehabilitate, but we gladly take them in.

LEftYLittle Lefty, his parents, and his four siblings were brought to us by animal control officers who rescued them from a filthy environment and cruelly neglectful owners. All the puppies suffered from severe eye infections, respiratory disease, and intestinal parasites. When they arrived at our adoption center, they needed more than food and shelter.

Contributions to our Pet Care Assistance Fund enabled our adoption center to utilize all the resources of Angell Animal Medical Center to help these brave little dogs. Following extensive treatment, four of them were adopted into caring homes, but two needed additional critical care. Lefty and his sister Lily had such severe eye infections that each of them had to have an eye removed. Lily did well, and was adopted quickly. Lefty eventually overcame all his physical problems — and his foster family, falling head-over-heels in love with his unflagging spirit, adopted him!


Your pet is a cherished member of your family — at Angell, every staff member recognizes that, and offers not only state-of-the-art medical care, but the kind of warmth and understanding both you and your pet deserve.

dr. julie pera, kerrie donahue, and dr. doug brum check out jc gittens, who spent a little time in angell critical care.

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Put Your Animals in the best of hands

It’s three o’clock in the morning and your dog isn’t breathing properly — where do you know you can go for help? Angell. And what greets you when you arrive? Knowing, caring hands, from the moment the door opens. You can really feel that you and your dog will get the help you need — and fast! There’s no better feeling than the one you get when you encounter all the welcoming faces, comforting hands, and understanding hearts that are at the very core of an Angell visit.

And on a more ordinary day, when you bring your pet in for a wellness visit or some ongoing therapy, the same thing occurs.

Angell Animal Medical Center isn’t just a building; it’s a dynamic, passionate family of healers and their helpers, all working together to make your animals well.

Our Angell Animal Medical Centers in Boston and on Nantucket employ 79 full-time veterinarians, many of them board-certified in various specialties, who provide clinical excellence enhanced by state-of-the-art technologies. Angell Animal Medical Centers have earned the accreditation of the American Animal Hospital Association, and stand proudly among the best veterinary hospitals in the country.

dr. william rosenblad performs a dental procedure.

dr. lisa moses administers acupuncture.

ANGELL–BOSTON

ANGELL–NANTUCKET

· 50,912 pets were served by 76 veterinarians.· 1,177 pets were spayed/neutered. · 10,510 pets received emergency care. · 429 transfusions were given.· 155 pets provided 260 blood donations.· 14,844 surgeries were performed. · 315 MRIs were performed.· 469 radiation treatments were given.· 3,841 ultrasounds were performed.· 1,039 dental surgeries were performed.· 122 families received Pet Care Assistance for a total of $150,271.

· 5,596 pets were seen by 3 veterinarians.· 449 pets were spayed/neutered. · 1,185 surgeries were performed.

Angell Animal Medical Center isn’t just a building; it’s a dynamic, passionate family of healers and their helpers, all working together to make your animals well.

ANgELL ANIMAL MEdIcAL cENtERS


MSPCA–AngellIn the news

MR. tuxWhat’s black and white and gorgeous all over? That would be our friend Mr. Tux — but when this currently sleek and elegant eight-year-old gentleman first came to Nevins Farm, he didn’t look quite so fine.

Mr. Tux’s first owners didn’t know much about horses and really couldn’t afford to care for him. When they surrendered their sad-looking horse to Nevins, his ribs were sticking out and his coat was coarse and dirty. Even though the staff at Nevins is taking care of a record-breaking number of homeless horses, they did their very best for Mr. Tux. It took a lot of food, love, care, and rehab, but pretty soon he was out in the field at Nevins trying to attract a brand-new family.

That’s when a very lucky woman met her dream horse and took him home. It was a dream come true for Mr. Tux as well, because now not only does he have a wonderful owner, but pasture-mates he loves so much he calls to them when they’re out of his sight. Mr. Tux’s new “mom” is crazy about her “really good boy” and says he loves to play with toys in his corral.

gREASE & MoNKEYTwo kittens covered in oil and grease arrived at the MSPCA–Angell in July. We called them Grease and Monkey. The pair required daily baths to slowly remove the toxic material as they shed patches of fur. The case appeared to be one of deliberate cruelty. “Animal cruelty occurs through-out the year; however, allegations climb by about 33% each July and August,” says Peter Gollub, the MSPCA’s Director of Law Enforcement. “There are many contributing factors to this increase in allegations, including a rise in outdoor temperatures, increased pet abandonment during the warmer months, and the fact that people are out and about more often to witness acts of animal cruelty.”

Animal cruelty is a felony in Massachusetts, punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. In most cases

MSPCA Law Enforcement officers work with the public to educate them about proper pet care before filing cruelty charges. In this case, unfortunately, no perpetrator was found.

The kittens went into foster care, where they continued to slough off dead skin and fur. Sadly, Grease never recovered from his dreadful experience, but Monkey got well and was adopted into a wonderful home.

Thanks so much for giving me my sight back. Without you, I never would have seen my new house and wouldn’t be running around the beach and golf course!

Love, Kobe (and Nancy and Paul Stager)

Love Letter

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MSpcA–ANgELL IN thE NEWS

Enzo Miss piggy

ENzo & MISS pIggYEnzo, an emaciated one-year-old English Bulldog seized by local law enforcement because he was living in squalor, was brought to Nevins Farm and then rushed to Angell Animal Medical Center, suffering from pneumo-nia and a host of other medical issues. Angell’s Emergen-cy and Critical Care staff immediately placed the highly distressed dog in an oxygen chamber and provided him with 24-hour critical care.

It turned out that Enzo had been microchipped as a puppy and records revealed that he’d been stolen from a pet store one year earlier. His treatments, which included eye surgery, were costly, and we raised enough money from featuring his story on our website that there was enough left over to help other animals.

Soon, as fate would have it, a second English Bulldog, a female named Miss Piggy, was brought to Nevins in need of immediate care at Angell. Veterinarians removed 10 of her teeth and the remainder required extensive cleanings. Miss Piggy’s doctors also removed a cancerous lump from her knee and scheduled a series of radiation treatments. The money raised for Enzo’s treatments was used to make Miss Piggy well too, and both she and Enzo have been adopted by people who adore them.

StEM cELLS VS. cANINE ARthRItIS

In 2009, Dr. Sue Casale, a staff surgeon at Angell–Boston, began using stem cell technology to combat canine arthritis, helping several dogs who had previously experienced debilitating pain when walking.

The stem cell technology used at Angell was developed by Vet-Stem, Inc., a California-based veterinary company focusing on regenerative technology. When a

patient is approved for stem cell treatment, a small amount of fatty tissue is removed from the dog and converted into regenerative cells that, once injected, will mimic the surrounding cells, improving joint movement for months.

“Stem cell technology has provided my patients with pain-free movement for months at a time,” says Dr. Casale. “While this technology is not a cure-all, it is an important and effective alternative to more invasive procedures. It is our hope that one day stem cells will be effective in treating fatal diseases, including those of the heart and liver.”

Our president Carter Luke adds: “Angell is one of the leading veterinary hospitals in the world, and it is the re-sponsibility of Angell’s staff members to continue to pursue ground-breaking technologies, to better care for our patients and relieve their suffering.”

You are so blessed to have such a caring staff. I have been comforted by vets, techs, staff, and volunteers — they have the right words and hugs…It makes me realize how much all of you truly value each life in your care.

Susan Lorenz

Love Letter


MSPCA Humane Law Enforcement:expertise, Compassion, and Courage

Most of us cringe when we read about a human being deliberately causing an animal to suffer physical or emotional pain. We’re filled with anger or disgust or sorrow. We can’t understand it.

But our MSPCA Law Enforcement officers manage such cases every day. They perform an urgently needed service, one that most people would never be able to cope with. They tackle situations that range from slightly disturbing to highly dangerous and deal with people who could be called anything from simply careless to frankly heartless.

And they always keep in mind their first objective: to prevent further cruelty through education and outreach. Those efforts are usually successful, but when they fail, our officers are fully prepared to take whatever action is necessary to protect

the animals involved. They handle every case with expertise and sensitivity, acutely aware that precious lives — both animal and human — need improvement. During 2009, officers made 53 court appearances, and were compelled to file criminal charges on 11 cases.

In 2009, the average number of animal cruelty investigations performed annually per officer rose to 392, representing a 22% increase over the previous year.

In 2009, the status of 14 previously opened cases changed. Two defendants failed to appear at court, and default warrants for their arrest were issued. The remaining 12 defendants received probation in addition to other conditions imposed. Not one of the 12 cases resulted in a dismissal or a “not guilty” verdict.

did you know?The MSPCA–Angell is a stand-alone, private, non-profit organization. We do not receive any government funding nor are we funded by or operated by any national humane organization. Donations you make to “national” humane organizations do not funnel down to the animals we serve in Massachusetts. The MSPCA–Angell relies solely on the support and contributions of individuals like you who care about animals.

officer nadya branca and law enforcement director peter gollub with boston adoption center dog.

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LAW ENfoRcEMENt

LAW ENfoRcEMENt cASES fREquENtLY INVoLVE ANgELL ANIMAL MEdIcAL cENtER…Early in 2009, the Law Enforcement Department received a call from a veterinarian in central Massachusetts, who said he was treating Maggie, a seven-year-old Cocker Spaniel, for a serious medical problem that looked as if it might have involved neglect, if not outright cruelty. The young dog had been brought to him by a rescue group. At that point, Officer Nadya Branca began her investigation.

Maggie was referred to Angell Animal Medical Center for specialty care. Because she was in acute pain, her examination had to be conducted under anesthesia.

Our veterinarians removed a pound of severely matted and compacted material from Maggie’s leg, only to find that a grossly ignored infection had literally eaten away part of her wrist and front paw. The dog’s condition required extensive wound management, performed under anesthesia, plus long-term follow-up including antibiotics and pain medication. Further examination revealed that Maggie also suffered from severe and widespread dental disease and our Angell dentist had to remove many of her teeth.

An MSPCA Law Enforcement investigation confirmed that the dog’s clear needs had not been addressed in its home environment. The woman who had owned Maggie was charged with animal cruelty and as a result of a plea bargain she submitted to the court, was ordered to submit to probation.

The happy outcome of this complicated case was that Maggie found a new loving home with her foster “mom.” Today, Maggie gets around surprisingly well on her injured leg, and is as happy as she always deserved to be.

Bear, our ferret, wanted me to email you and let you know he is doing great! We were wondering if you dropped any horse parts into him because he is always in the food bowl…Please give Bear’s love to everyone who took care of him and tell the surgeon she did a great job.

Donna Dalton

Love Letter

cAtS REScuEd fRoM LINgERINg MISERYOne striking animal-cruelty case on the North Shore, investigated by MSPCA Law Enforcement Officer Martha Parkhurst, resulted in a successful prosecution. The case involved a man who maintained a number of cats and kittens in dramatically unsanitary conditions, forcing them to breathe foul and potentially hazardous indoor air. He had ignored previous directives from the town that improvement had to be made, and his home was condemned. The cats and kittens suffered from untreated respiratory infections, parasite infestations, eye infections, and other illnesses. Twenty-four felines were removed from the home, and all required veterinary care. Regrettably, one kitten suffered from painfully ulcerated eyes that were beyond treatment, and he became permanently blind.

The defendant pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 30 months of probation, during which time he may not own animals and is subject to inspection by the MSPCA or the probation department. He also had to pay restitution costs.


The legislative process often requires good measures of patience and perseverance, but Kara Holmquist and Linda Huebner, our MSPCA Government Affairs team, know that it can be moving and exciting as well. Working with legislators, MSPCA members, community leaders, the public, and animal advocates from across the state, they educate, train, and lobby to create strong animal protection laws and policies.

The goal of this work is preventative: by enacting better laws, we can reduce the number of animals who are homeless and abused. Our Government Affairs team focuses on the word “prevention” in our organization’s name.

MSPCA Government Affairs:Preventing Cruelty through Public Policies

kara holmquist, director of advocacy, at the massachusetts state house.

KEIth E. JAcoBSoN © 2008

linda huebner, deputy director of advocacy, works on a wide variety of animal-related public issues.

In 2009,MSPCA

GovernmentAffairs:

Testified on more than 50 bills in the Massachusetts

legislature.

Offered workshops across the state to train over 10,000 Animal Action Team members on how to help animals through public

policy efforts, and held our largest Lobby Day ever

at the State House to implement these efforts.

Kept our Animal Action Team updated through a monthly e-newsletter and e-alerts,

which, combined with our website’s Action Center and new social media tools on Facebook and Twitter, enabled people to take

quick, easy action to help animals.

Updated our Legislative Scorecard to provide the public and our

members with information about how “animal friendly” their legislators are.

Drafted and filed numerous bills for the 2009–2010 legislative

session. These efforts included a bill that would update the state’s animal-control laws, improve the treatment of

elephants in circuses, strengthen animal-cruelty laws, reduce the number of homeless animals,

and allow judges to include pets in temporary restraining orders

issued in domestic-violence cases.

Continued to advocate for non-lethal solutions to beaver-

related flooding by facilitating the installation of water-flow devices in

many Berkshire County communities with funding from the Robert Nion

Thieriot Foundation.

In conjunction with our affiliate, the Center for Laboratory Animal Welfare (CLAW), updated several

publications on laboratory animal welfare, joined the Leaping Bunny program (a program that certifies household/personal products that

aren’t tested on animals) and engaged in outreach and educational initiatives relating to

laboratory animals.

Ensured that Question 3, the ballot question that phased out

Greyhound racing in Massachusetts, was not

delayed or repealed until it took effect in January 2010.


A kitten can get pregnant as young as four months old. If she is not spayed, she could bear three litters in a year. If each litter included two females, and they were not spayed, within one year the result could be 52 kittens. In seven years, starting with that one pregnant kitten, 420,000 cats could be born.

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The struggle to end pet overpopulation rages on; while we’ve made significant progress over the years, a serious challenge remains. Since every animal’s life is precious, the MSPCA–Angell takes a proactive stance on addressing this important issue.

Our Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP), as part of an effort to meet this challenge effectively, collaborates with the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association to offer reduced-cost pet sterilization to low-income pet owners by means of a discount certificate redeemable at nearly 200 participating veterinary practices.

Also, our Shalit–Glazer Clinic, located within the Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center, provides “one-stop” pet vaccination and sterilization to qualified pet owners for a nominal fee. Both SNAP and the clinic directly decrease the number of animals surrendered to our adoption centers.

Through the thoughtful generosity of donor Ruth A. Dingee, who specified that the funds the MSPCA received through her estate plans be used to benefit cats, we were able to sponsor very low-cost Spay/Neuter Days in June and October for cats owned by low-income families. Veterinarians from the MSPCA and two other collaborating animal-welfare organizations sterilized 189 cats, and each cat also received a physical examination, microchip, flea treatment, nail trimming, and dewormer. Since cats make up a high percentage of the pets who come to us unsterilized, this kind of effort can make a significant difference.

Spay/Neuter Assistance:lending a hand to Pet owners

IN 2009

· 8,089 spay/neuter applications were received.

· 175 veterinary practices participated. · 1,476 animals were spayed/neutered at the Shalit–Glazer Clinic (87% of these were cats).

Special Note: Since 1986, when the program started, 112,115 pet owners have been assisted.

I am truly impressed by the fact that all who have treated Gato have shown a bedside manner that conveys professionalism and love…qualities that those who care for humans need more of…All at Angell that I have met have a gift in how they care for those who need their help.

Richard Noce

Love Letter

SpAY/NEutER ASSIStANcE pRogRAM


Empathy is more than an admirable quality; at the American Fondouk, it’s a necessity. Without empathy, Dr. Denys Frappier, the Fondouk’s director, and his dedicated staff might be able to address the physical needs of animals, but they would never be able to affect the kind of change that’s needed in the lives of both the animals and the people who own them.

For in Morocco, the people are hardworking and poor. Families struggle to buy animals — mules, donkeys, sheep, goats — to help them make a living. These animals work to live, and work so that humans can live as well. Unfortunately, their owners are frequently unaware of the most humane ways to care for them.

The American Fondouk is a full-service animal hospital in Fez, Morocco that treats more than 80 animals a day, more than 22,000 annually — all free of charge. The MSPCA has managed the Fondouk for over 80 years.

Through their veterinary and educational efforts, Dr. Frappier and his staff help people earn a living, educate them about proper animal care, and give them a chance to feel less helpless about the hardships they endure. Fondouk means shelter in Arabic, but it also takes on the meaning of sanctuary in this case. The Fondouk’s business is safety, dignity, and hope.

In 2009, Dr. Dan Biros, an ophthalmologist from Angell Animal Medical Center, and two members of his team, traveled to the Fondouk to volunteer their expertise. Dr. Biros chronicled his impressions of his Fondouk experience in a blog (mspca.org/fondoukblog), excerpted here:

Working animals require strong legs and backs, since they sometimes carry loads up to several hundred pounds every day. Many people simply do not own a pickup truck to carry their goods from one place to

another. They rely on these animals, and when the animals become injured, it is imperative that they receive adequate care, or else their owners could not earn the money their families need to survive…I am convinced that the Fondouk’s staff members continuously help the local population understand what it takes to provide adequate care for an animal at every opportunity. This is not an easy task. They work by example. It is very reassuring to see this each day I am here.

The MSPCA depends on friends like you, who empathize with the Fondouk’s work, to support it through your generous contributions. In 2009, over 100,000 Moroccans were assisted through the educational efforts and veterinary services of the Fondouk. By means of your ongoing support, the American Fondouk continues to offer free care to both working and companion animals who would otherwise experience pain and hardship every single day of their lives.

The American Fondouk:Skillfully touching the lives of animals and People in Morocco

“There are many stories here in Fez of animals who find their way to the American Fondouk on their own to receive food, shelter, and care. They walk or fly through the large, gated doors, knowing there is a place they can come for respite from the harsh reality of living in a big city.”

dr. dan Biros

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coMMuNIcAtIoNS

We think it’s important that our message of kindness and care for animals find its way into as many hearts as possible, so we use all the contemporary communications tools at our disposal toward that end. When you see our stories and hear about our work, we hope you’ll take a moment to be proud of your MSPCA–Angell.

In 2009, the MSPCA–Angell used new and traditional communication methods to keep our supporters well informed. Some friends looked to our established Companion newsletter for the latest animal news, while others connected with us online. We used innovative online offerings such as animal ringtones, and expanded our social networking on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to engage new friends in our mission. We shed light on animal-welfare issues through widespread press coverage, and broadened our outreach through public relations campaigns, e-newsletters, advertising, and public service announcements. We sponsored public television and radio to complement our network television and radio advertising and reach more communities.

In addition, we continued to enhance our website and its ability to serve as an adoption resource, educational tool, news outlet, donor gateway, and interactive information source for our hospital clients and referring veterinary community. Our online Angell Alumni Center (mspca.org/alumni) enabled former Angell residents, interns, and veterinarians to stay connected to us and to each other. Donors used our website to share photos and accomplishments while supporting the MSPCA–Angell Walk for Animals. Our Tributes Campaign (mspca.org/tributes) offered pet owners the opportunity to create personalized web pages in honor of special animals and people in their lives while raising funds for our mission.

Your MSPCA–Angell:linking to the world

My almost 14-year-old black Lab Harley was diagnosed with a condition called megaesophagus and developed pneumonia because of it. Now I am jokingly calling him “Lazarus the dog.” This would not have been possible without the loving care of your Neurology team. They have been miracle workers, going above and beyond the call of duty helping me out with him.

Mary Schwager

Love Letter

IN 2009

· Many thousands of our online donors and referring clinicians received our e-newsletters. These cost-effective communications keep supporters informed of MSPCA–Angell news, medical services, and donor opportunities.

· Many thousands of our supporters received our Companion newsletter, while many also accessed it online. This biannual publication provides updates on our news, and events.

· 780 referring, primary care veterinarians read our Partners in Care newsletter and/or attended our Angell regional networking events. We further strengthened our ties with many of these loyal referrers by conducting on-site feedback consultations.

· 1,200,000 network, public, and cable television viewers saw our advertisements and sponsorships.

· 1,300,000 listeners heard our weekly radio advertising and public service announcements.

· 10,000 savvy animal lovers served as our “friends” on Facebook and helped us to spread our mission, while over 900 followed us on Twitter.

· More than 4,000 news clips highlighted the work of the MSPCA–Angell in over 700 televised segments and over 1,100 articles appearing in print publications like newspapers and magazines.

· 1,300 members of the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association viewed our Angell print ads in the trade publication Mass Vet News.


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Stephen and Kara Rogers are longtime friends of MSPCA–Angell who have supported many of our fundraising efforts, including the Animal Hall of Fame, Spring Gala, Tree of Life, and the Boston Capital Campaign. Stephen is an MSPCA–Angell Director and trustee of the Rogers Family Foundation. The Foundation’s generosity has benefitted Nevins Farm in past years and for the past two years has granted funding to Angell’s Pain Medicine Service.

Lynn Bay Dayton and her family have supported the MSPCA–Angell for several years. She and her husband Bruce wanted to find a philanthropic interest they could share with their two young boys and realized the MSPCA–Angell was the perfect fit. When Lynn and her sons enjoyed a tour of Angell Animal Medical Center and the Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center, each boy selected the area he most wanted to support, while their mom directed her own giving to our General Fund.

George and Connie Noble, MSPCA–Angell Overseers and past recipients of our Kindness and Care Award, are longtime friends of the animals and staff at Nevins Farm. The Nobles’ generosity enabled us to build the Noble Family Animal Care and Adoption Center there and helped fund the new riding ring as well. Connie has a special place in her heart for horses, but caring about animals is a family affair for the Nobles. Not only are they “serial adopters” of horses and senior and special-needs dogs, but they’re frequent visitors to Nevins, where they help walk dogs and visit with the staff members.

Andrew and Michelle Feinberg first came to Angell Animal Medical Center during an emergency with their dog Chili (shown here with Andrew). Unfortunately Chili could not be saved, but the Feinbergs wanted to commemorate her life by designating two branches on our beautiful Tree of Life in the Angell–Boston lobby. As they learned more about the MSPCA–Angell, Michelle and Andrew began to support events like the Spring Gala and the Animal Hall of Fame. Michelle also enjoys working on our Advocacy department efforts.

Fred and Jane Jamieson adopted their mixed-breed dog Penny from the MSPCA when she was about a year old. Penny is now 14, and her human companions are pleased to bring her to Angell for both emergency and routine care. Fred’s childhood pets had always been mixed-breed dogs who lived to ripe old ages, and the Jamiesons are great advocates for mixed-breed adoptions. They were so grateful for their “free and fabulous” Penny that they began to support the MSPCA financially, and have increased their giving every year.

19

hoW You’VE hELpEd

How You’ve Opened Your Hearts Once Againdonor generosity at work for animals

We thank you all infinitely for helping Floyd wage his 10-month battle against cancer, living symptom-free far longer than his prognosis. Your care extended his life with quality, and that is a gift that we can never adequately repay.

Magda Fernandez and Greg Roberts

Love Letter

In 2009, even though times were hard for almost everyone, your generosity once again fortified our determination to fulfill every facet of our mission: to protect animals, relieve their suffering, advance their health and welfare, prevent cruelty, and work for a just and compassionate society. The work we do, on every level, would be impossible without your kind support.

Those who show their love for animals and support for our mission through their financial contributions are the lifeblood of our organization. Our Annual Giving Program, major gifts, hospital, and adoption centers received $10,847,419 in donations. And the Society received $2,323,977 in bequests in 2009, the largest from the estate of Madeline Carson.

All of our donors are important to us, from our youngest (children who raise funds for the animals in a variety of creative ways) to our oldest (senior friends who have given to the animals all their lives, and have also included them in their estate planning) because we know how meaningful each and every one of their gifts has been to the animals in our care.

In 2009 we began fundraising through “house parties,” enjoyable events held at the homes of some of our supporters. Christine Fuchs, for example, hosted an intimate evening in her home where guests were joined by President Carter Luke, and her efforts yielded thousands of dollars for our general fund. Marcy and Rich Curtis’s friends enjoyed

an evening with Dr. William Rosenblad, one of Angell’s dentists, raising money for Angell Capital Priorities, an initiative that focused on funding critical diagnostic and treatment capability needs at Angell–Boston (see page 20).

Support from foundations continued to strengthen our fundraising efforts in 2009. We were pleased to receive generous grants from Jane’s Trust in support of Pet Care Assistance, from the Elmina Sewall Foundation and the Alice W. Dorr Foundation in support of our general fund, from the Rogers Family Foundation in support of Angell’s Pain Medicine Service, and from the Bafflin Foundation in support of a new emergency generator for Nevins Farm.

Members of our Leaders Circle (donors who give $1,000 or more per year) attended informational forums on nutrition and dentistry, living with senior animals, and animal behavior, and enjoyed a special presentation by Dr. Irene Pepperberg, author of Alex and Me: How a Scientist and a Parrot Uncovered a Hidden World of Animal Intelligence — and Formed a Deep Bond in the Process.

Direct mail from the MSPCA–Angell brought in $1,966,899 and 13,798 new donors for the organization through 31 fundraising appeals. We also sent out email appeals, which generated $68,500. Efforts to increase contributions to the American Fondouk through direct mail resulted in 4,000 new donors (a remarkable increase over 2008, when the Fondouk database contained only 200 names) who donated $38,622. Renewal donors to the Fondouk contributed $25,103.

Although we lend our support and expertise in so many ways to animals and people all over our state, across the country, and indeed around the world, we receive no public funding whatsoever — which makes your support all the more critical. Your dollars, and the dollars of all the many thousands of generous donors who have gone before you, have truly built the MSPCA–Angell. We hope you have a true sense of pride and feeling of accomplishment when you hear of our successes and how we meet the ongoing challenges of a less-than-perfect world for animals.


“People bring their pets to Angell because they love them so much they can’t imagine bringing them anywhere else. That’s the responsibility we have to live up to: we have to be the best. Anyone who contributes to the betterment of this hospital is contributing directly to the bond people share with their pets, and that’s a very, very beautiful thing.”

In 2009, we began raising funds for Angell Capital Priorities, a new initiative designed to improve the preventative, diagnostic, and treatment capabilities at Angell–Boston so that we can continue to offer cutting-edge care to all the animals who come to us. While Angell is already one of the leading veterinary institutions in the nation, rapid technological advances demand that we upgrade continually. Contributions to Angell Capital Priorities will allow us to purchase a new blood chemistry analyzer and linear accelerator, renovate our dentistry suite, and convert our traditional x-ray technology to digital radiography.

The goal for this initiative is $2.1 million, and in 2009 we raised more than half that amount. Exceptional lead gifts were donated by two generous local foundations and an individual donor. As we advance into 2010 and move closer to our goal, our excitement grows with every gift.

Just as our wonderful donors built the new Helen Schmidt Stanton Clinical Center at Angell a few years ago, they continue to help us extend the very best medical care to our clients’ pets. Every animal who passes through Angell’s doors reaps the benefits of their generosity.

always aspiring to excellenceAngell Capital Priorities:

alice bruce, vice president of development, & remy

“Last year wasn’t easy for many people, and the MSPCA–Angell had a challenging year as well. But at no point did our many thousands of generous members forget the animals we all serve! Coupled with the hard work of our organization’s entire staff, that made 2009 truly inspiring. Thank you for being part of another unforgettable MSPCA–Angell year.

“2009 was hard for me too, because I lost my dog Remy, my dearest companion for over 15 years. The silver lining in this cloud was that I was able to experience firsthand the amazing care that Remy had in the last few years of his life — right up until the end — from the dedicated, compassionate, and expert staff at Angell.”

Jean Marie duddy, dVM

21

fuNdRAISINg EVENtS

Fundraising is a serious endeavor, of course…but when it comes to raising money for the animals, it’s easy to couple that with having a lot of fun. Each year the MSPCA–Angell hosts several major events, as well as many smaller ones held by various programs and locations. We’re proud to say that participation in our major event committees has grown every year, and even in these hard economic times, our events continue to raise significant money for the animals.

our Signature events in 2009Fundraising Can Be Fun:

AnimAl TAles GAlA

Springtime is party time for animal lovers in Boston! In May 2009, at the cutting-edge WGBH Studios, 300 animal lovers and some of their canine companions gathered to celebrate the stories of animals whose lives changed for the better because of our programs and services. Our emcee was longtime MSPCA–Angell friend Randy Price of WCVB-TV. Honorary co-chairs Keith and Emiley Lockhart (with honorary auction chair Stacey Lucchino) led the event committee, and the proceeds from ticket sales, raffles, and auctions raised over $325,000 for the animals.

The 2009 WAlk for AnimAls

Over 1,800 dogs took 2,500 dedicated human companions for a brisk walk at various MSPCA adoption center locations in September, raising over $359,000 for

direct care for animals through the participation of enthusiastic Walk-team donors. Many team leaders

recruit members and manage their teams through our user-friendly online registration system. Repeat top

fundraiser Jo-Edith Heffron, one of our Overseers, walked with her Papillons, leading a team that raised

over $8,000.

AnimAl hAll of fAme

In October, 330 of the MSPCA–Angell’s enthusiastic supporters honored some remarkable animal and human heroes at our 22nd Annual Animal Hall of Fame Dinner, held at the John F. Kennedy Library. Our dear friend Heather Unruh of WCVB-TV served once again as emcee. Co-chairs Robert Beal and Mountie Too did an outstanding job of introducing new participants to the event, and attendees were thrilled by the engaging stories of our award recipients. This heartwarming event raised over $275,000 for the animals.

The msPCA Golf inviTATionAl

For the second year, Board member Jonathan Derby and Overseer Jim Schaye, both avid golfers, lent their support to our MSPCA–Angell golf tournament and dinner, held in June at the Belmont Country Club. After a gorgeous day on the links, golfers enjoyed a program co-hosted by our president Carter Luke and Sara Underwood of Fox 25 News. Tournament registrations and auction/raffle items raised nearly $100,000 for the animals.

P.e.T. ProjeCT

Participate, Entertain, and Transform are the keywords of the MSPCA–Angell’s P.E.T. Project, young professionals who are

dedicated and compassionate animal enthusiasts. In 2009, P.E.T. Project raised over $12,000 at its second annual Party

Animals event held at The Foundation Lounge in Boston. This enthusiastic donor group, spearheaded by Overseer Heather

Colleary, continues to plan events and think of creative avenues of support for the MSPCA–Angell via their friends,

businesses, and contacts.


In 2009 we experienced the effects of the economic downturn. Our adoption centers saw a significant increase in animals surrendered due to foreclosures and financial challenges. At Angell–Boston, client visits increased over 2008, but revenue per patient was down, as the economy forced many clients to make different decisions regarding their pets’ medical care. Fortunately, the economy did not dampen support from our donors. Annual giving and contributions increased by about $1 million dollars from 2008 to 2009.

Due to the restructuring efforts implemented in 2008 and continued efforts in 2009, program expenses decreased significantly. Tight expense control helped to offset lower revenue, resulting in a significant improvement in operating performance over 2008.

The reduction in volatility in the investment markets also contributed to improved performance as our return on investments went from a negative 25% return in 2008 to a positive 24% return in 2009.

As 2010 is off to a better start than 2009, we are cautiously optimistic that the worst is behind us. We are focusing on increasing visibility for the organization overall and continuing to support the animals in our care whether at our hospitals, our adoption centers, or through our law enforcement and advocacy efforts. As evident in 2009, donor support is a critical component to the successful achievement of our mission.

Sincerely,

Amy Fredericks Chief Financial Officer

PROGRAM, FUNDRAISING, AND GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

4%

10%

86%

Fundraising Expense

General & Administrative Expense

Program Expense

Financial Report

2009

23

OPERATING REVENUE

Gross revenue from health and hospital services* $27,455,267 $27,601,357

Less discounted and subsidized care (967,879) (907,237)

Net revenue from health and hospital services 26,487,388 26,694,120

Annual giving, hospital, and adoption center donations 10,847,419 9,896,924

Net income/(loss) from outside managed trusts 469,082 534,280

Investment income appropriated for operations 0 0

Other income 1,692,002 1,587,658

Total operating revenue 39,495,891 38,712,982

EXPENSES

Health and hospital services $29,484,049 $29,852,179

Humane services, adoption centers, animal advocacy 8,267,185 9,423,605

Publications, communications, and marketing 874,156 901,045

Total program expenditures 38,625,390 40,176,829

Fundraising 1,552,638 1,576,589

General administration and support 4,505,054 3,249,433

Total operating expenses 44,683,082 45,002,851

Change in net assets from operations (5,187,191) (6,289,869)

NON-OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Bequests received $2,323,977 $6,644,329

Investment income (loss) 7,601,432 (11,522,851)

Net income (loss) from outside managed trusts 1,763,620 (4,107,344)

Pension plan 5,160,209 (13,239,822)

Other (147,048) (3,020,980)

Total non-operating activities 16,702,190 (25,246,668)

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS $(224,748) $(484,519)

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS $11,290,251 $(32,021,056)

OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Endowment, at market value $40,757,711 $37,555,968

* This reported information is from the MSPCA unaudited financials.

* For more information, contact Amy Fredericks, Chief Financial Officer, 617 541-5002.

REVENuE & ExpENSES 2009 2008

fINANcIAL REpoRt


The Mission of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals–Angell Animal Medical Center is to protect animals, relieve their suffering, advance their health and welfare, prevent cruelty, and work for a just and compassionate society.

350 South huNtINgtoN AVENuE BoStoN, MA 02130

617 522-7400

MSpcA.oRg

MSPCA-Angell 2009 Annual Report

Documents

Transcript of MSPCA-Angell 2009 Annual Report