GRIZZ UPDATE: Heartland SPCA Volunteer Kathi Thies and Grizz started the journey last night and stopped for the night at a hotel. The hotel normally charges $10 for a dog… but the front desk heard the story and told them not to worry. The trip today is going well! They just stopped for gas in Dix, Nebraska, and she said Grizz is doing great! Thank you Kathi Thies! You truly are a HERO for pets!

Check out our facebook page for additional photos: http://www.facebook.com/heartlandspca.

Thank you to the area media and others for helping us share Grizz’s AMAZING journey!

http://www.kmbc.com/news/30355082/detail.html

http://www.kansascity.com/2012/02/01/3404552/montana-dog-heads-home-after-kc.html#disqus_thread

Jan. 31, 2012

MERRIAM, KAN – The Heartland SPCA Lost Pet & Intake Center accepted a lost dog on Wednesday, Jan. 25^th with a microchip registered more than 1,200 miles away. Within 24 hours the dog’s microchip connected Heartland SPCA with his owner in Butte, Mont.

“The phone number affiliated with the microchip was disconnected,” Intake Coordinator Wendy Blair said. “However, we were successful in contacting the animal shelter where the dog was microchipped, and they had valid contact information for its owners.”

During standard intake procedures at the Heartland SPCA Lost Pet & Intake Center, the dog was scanned for microchip identification. Microchips are small, rice size devices that are implanted just underneath the skin. The permanent identification tool affiliates with a national database of registered identification numbers.

“We were thrilled to see a microchip,” Blair said. “This is the most effective way for us to reunite a pet with its owner.”

As luck would have it, the microchip identified the dog as “Grizz,” a one-year old Lab/Pit mix, with a loving home in Butte, MT.

“Grizz immediately stole our hearts,” Blair said. “Our standard behavior assessment reinforced that Grizz is a great dog. He is very sweet, patient, curious and even housetrained! He’s just been hanging out with rawhides and squeaky toys as we figure out his journey to return home.”

Longtime volunteer and friend of Heartland SPCA Kathi Thies immediately volunteered to drive Grizz half way home. Grizz’s owner is eager to meet her along the way in Cheyenne, Wyo.

“This is an incredible story of one pet’s journey to return home – all thanks to a microchip,” Wendy said. “Whether down the street or across the nation, this is what my job is all about. Without the microchip, the dedication of our volunteers and Grizz’s owner, this reunion would not be happening. ”

Volunteer Kathi Thies will prepare Grizz for his return home at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1^st at the Heartland SPCA Lost Pet & Intake Center at 9827 W. 67^th St. in Merriam, KS 66203.

The media is invited to attend and is encouraged to RSVP. Please contact Heartland SPCA Director of Marketing & Communications Emily Amos at (913) 742-7319, (620) 272-1677 or eamos@heartlandspca.org for more information.

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Heartland SPCA is a recent merger of Animal Haven and No More Homeless Pets KC. As the Greater Kansas City area’s most comprehensive resource for pets and their human companions, Heartland SPCA serves more than 18,000 pets each year. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization Heartland SPCA works to save, protect and improve the lives of animals, while strengthening the relationship between pets and their human companions providing humane sheltering, adoptions, and affordable spay/neuter and veterinary wellness services.

MERRIAM, KAN – Friends of Heartland SPCA are teasing their hair, pulling up their leg warmers and going “Back to the Future” for Martins Gala 2012: We Heart the ‘80s from 6:30 – 10 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 4^th at the Overland Park Convention Center.

“Martinis Gala 2012: We Heart the ‘80s is our largest fundraiser of the year, and the best way to celebrate the joy that pets bring to our life,” CEO/Executive Director Courtney Thomas said.

All funds raised from the gala directly support the organization’s $4 million budget and mission to save, protect and improve the lives of animals, while strengthening the relationship between pets and their human companions.

“The 2012 format has been totally revamped, and the theme leads to a more open atmosphere where guests can mingle and visit, enjoy sensational food and signature drinks, along with great music and entertainment,” Thomas said. “Get ready to go back – ‘Back to the Future!’”

Susan Hiland of Fox 4 News KC will emcee the evening. Eighties themed music and decor, silent and live auctions, and a surprise performance by a well-known celebrity will keep guests entertained and on their toes.

Generous volunteers will be transforming the Overland Park Convention Center into an ‘80s street scene. Boulevards will keep guests moving through the room, high-boy tables will allow for social conversation and various food stations will take taste buds on a ride.

Seven complete food stations will be strategically placed among the ‘80s street scenes including Italian Family Ties, Back to the Future Asian Style, Caribbean Cocktail, Greek Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo’s Firey Mexican, Brat Pack BBQ and Ferris Bueller’s Vegan Day Out.

Guests are also invited to enjoy complimentary beer, wine and a signature “Electric Lemonade Mutt-ini.”

“Key sponsors and generous community support are allowing our non-profit to really offer an experience, all in celebration of the joy pets bring to our lives,” Thomas explains. “We’ll also have plenty of adoptable pets sharing the story of Heartland SPCA in an ‘80s themed dog park.”

Generous sponsors like Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners, the Kenneth L. and Eva Smith Foundation, The Quinn Foundation and others will make the evening possible. And, the community has generously shown their support with both silent and live auction items.

“Tim Decker, a nationally recognized speed painter, will literally be making art in front of our eyes, combining music, art and humor in an interactive setting,” Thomas explained. “A private soccer lesson with Sporting KC, a once-in-a-lifetime Napa wine experience and a luxurious Colorado vacation will also be included in the live auction.”

Furthermore, Heartland SPCA will be offering an opportunity for one pet to receive the year-long honor of serving as Heartland SPCA’s pet ambassador. The 2012 Furry Face of Heartland SPCA will promote the Heartland SPCA full-service solution and save lives through recognition on Heartland SPCA’s website and promotional materials.

“Elaina G Photography will coordinate the Furry Face of Heartland SPCA with a special sitting,” Thomas said. “And, the Nigro Brothers will keep the live auction informative and entertaining.”

Attire is also key to personal entertainment. Guests are invited to dress to impress with everything from big hair and skinny ties to Swatch watches and leg warmers.

“Ultimately, Martinis Gala: 2012: We Heart the ‘80s will be the party of the ‘decade,’ and will make it possible for us to continue to serve the more than 18,000 pets who depend on us each year,” Thomas said. “Show your support by donating to, attending or sponsoring Martinis Gala 2012: We Heart the ‘80s!”

Sponsorship opportunities and various ticket packages are available beginning at $150 for purchase online or by contacting Special Events Manager Amy Atha at (913) 742-7335 or aatha@heartlandspca.org.

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CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS >>>

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At Heartland SPCA, we believe that no matter what their size, shape or story, all dogs and cats deserve the chance to live long, happy and healthy lives. That’s why our team of experts works hard every day to be a lifeline to a better future for pets by providing comprehensive, affordable medical care, adoption services and innovative community programs. Because we know that with a little support, people and pets can build a bond unlike any other, creating happier homes and a community that values life, love.

Heartland SPCA is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization.

Thank you to our 2012 sponsors!

Epic Sponsor $25,000

The Quinn Foundation

The Kenneth L. & Eva Smith Foundation

To The Max $10,000

Pat & Janet Curran

Beth & Jeff Dillow

Totally Awesome $5,000

Bayer Animal Health
Friends of KC Animals
Husch Blackwell
Sporting KC

Radical $2,500

The Bradley W. and Linda J. Nicholson Foundation Fund
Garmin
Kathleen Kunkler
T-Kennels
White Goss Bowers March Schulte & Weisenfels
Woof’s Play & Stay

Heartland SPCA’s CEO/Executive Director Courtney Thomas recently spoke with interviewer Nancy Lewis about how you can be a HERO for pets in 2012, the recent expansion at the Heartland SPCA Animal Medical Center and new program offerings highlighting behavioral training to serve pets in need.

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Heartland SPCA is a recent merger of Animal Haven and No More Homeless Pets KC. As the Greater Kansas City area’s most comprehensive resource for pets and their human companions, Heartland SPCA serves more than 18,000 pets each year. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization Heartland SPCA works to save, protect and improve the lives of animals, while strengthening the relationship between pets and their human companions providing humane sheltering, adoptions, and affordable spay/neuter and veterinary wellness services.

Mark your calendars for the Heartland SPCA Martinis Gala 2012 – We Heart the ‘80s for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4th at the Overland Park Convention Center!  This year’s theme, We Heart the ‘80s, will celebrate the joy that pets bring into our lives! All of the proceeds from the event will allow Heartland SPCA to continue the important work of caring for nearly 18,000 pets in our community each year!

Emceed by Susan Hiland, of Fox4 News KC, the Martinis Gala 2012 – We Heart the ‘80s event will feature cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres and small plates, and a one-of-a-kind silent and live auction featuring the incredible Nigro Brothers!  Throughout the evening the musical era of the ‘80s will be revived for a totally, radical time!

So tease your big hair, put on your rad clothes and go “Back to the Future” for an evening to get “Footloose” and show We Heart the ’80s – and dogs and cats too!

Sponsorship opportunities and various ticket packages are available beginning at $150 for purchase online or by contacting Special Events Manager Amy Atha at (913) 742-7335 or aatha@heartlandspca.org.

.
CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS >>>

###

At Heartland SPCA, we believe that no matter what their size, shape or story, all dogs and cats deserve the chance to live long, happy and healthy lives. That’s why our team of experts works hard every day to be a lifeline to a better future for pets by providing comprehensive, affordable medical care, adoption services and innovative community programs. Because we know that with a little support, people and pets can build a bond unlike any other, creating happier homes and a community that values life, love.

Heartland SPCA is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization.

Thank you to our 2012 sponsors!

Epic Sponsor $25,000

The Quinn Foundation

The Kenneth L. & Eva Smith Foundation

To The Max $10,000

Pat & Janet Curran

Beth & Jeff Dillow

Totally Awesome $5,000

Bayer Animal Health
Friends of KC Animals
Husch Blackwell
Sporting KC

Radical $2,500

The Bradley W. and Linda J. Nicholson Foundation Fund
Garmin
Kathleen Kunkler
T-Kennels
White Goss Bowers March Schulte & Weisenfels
Woof’s Play & Stay

MERRIAM, KAN. – Heartland SPCA welcomes Skip Daiger as its new Manager of Behavior and Training. Daiger will add tremendous value to the community and Heartland SPCA’s life-saving mission through public classes, staff and volunteer training, enrichment programs for shelter residents, and behavioral support to adopted dogs and their new pet parents.

“It can be said that the leading (indirect) cause of death in dogs is due to unresolved behavioral issues,” Manger of Behavior and Training Skip Daiger said. “My desire is to teach with positive methods that are fun for both human and dog.”

Daiger completed his BA at the University of Maryland and graduate work at Pennsylvania State University. He has attended a full range of educational conferences and professional seminars in pursuit of his love of ethology and canine behavior. Daiger is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. He also serves as a professional mentor trainer for the Animal Behavior College and is a founding member of the Heartland Positive Training Alliance here in Kansas City.

“The Heartland Positive Training Alliance represents a philosophical niche, specializing in positive reward training,” Daiger said. “From reading programs and play groups to perfumes and play toys, my approach will emphasize positive training programs.”

More than 500 active volunteers and hands-on staff interact with Heartland SPCA’s adoptable and public pets each year. Daiger’s techniques will train both volunteers and front-line staff with tools and knowledge to work with homeless pets and answer questions from the public.

“We will save lives by providing resources to those interacting with pets,” Daiger says.  “Adoptable pets will now be directed in a manner that provides simple doggy life skills like basic commands and leash walking. Owners looking to relinquish a pet will be provided resources for common behavioral issues, and new adopters will be provided a firm basis for forging a long-lasting happy relationship with their pets.”

Heartland SPCA introduces both shelter and public pet programs this month. Shelter pets will receive an assessment of needs, along with a plan to increase their quality of life. Public training classes will feature puppy training to intermediate dog skills, including six classes spanned over a six-week session.

“People need to know how to understand dogs,” Daiger said. “We’ll show pet companions how to emotionally ‘dance with their dogs’ and bring enhanced programming to homeless pets awaiting forever homes.”

To learn about Heartland SPCA’s Manager of Behavior and Training and enrollment in newly-formed classes, contact Manager of Behavior and Training Skip Daiger at (913) 742-7308 or sdaiger@heartlandspca.org.

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Heartland SPCA is a recent merger of Animal Haven and No More Homeless Pets KC. As the Greater Kansas City area’s most comprehensive resource for pets and their human companions, Heartland SPCA serves more than 18,000 pets each year. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization Heartland SPCA works to save, protect and improve the lives of animals, while strengthening the relationship between pets and their human companions providing humane sheltering, adoptions,  and affordable spay/neuter and veterinary wellness services.

MERRIAM, KAN – You’re invited to stop by and celebrate the newly expanded Medical Center from 4 – 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 18^th, 2012 at 5428 Antioch Dr. Merriam, KS 66202. Tours will be available, refreshments will be provided, and the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce will cut the ribbon! The expanded facility will allow Heartland SPCA to enhance and increase the quality of life for thousands of pets.

“Pet owners want to provide their pets with the medical attention they deserve,” CEO/Executive Director Courtney Thomas said. “However, they are also on a limited budget to do so.”

Heartland SPCA believes all pets in the Greater Kansas City area should have equal access to high/quality medical care at an affordable price. In support of this vision, Heartland SPCA has expanded its Animal Medical Center to serve the growing demand for high/quality affordable spay/neuter surgery and veterinary wellness care.

Specifically through the expansion, the state-of-the-art medical facility has more than doubled its capacity to serve pets and people in need. Two additional exam rooms have been added, along with digital radiography, expanded dental equipment, and canine and feline hospitalization.

“Those who prior were financially unable to provide necessary medical care to their beloved companions, are now able to give their pets the care they need,” Thomas said, “and the quality of life for thousands of pets in our community has improved as a result.”

To learn more about the Heartland SPCA Animal Medical Center Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting, contact Director of Marketing & Communications Emily Amos at (913) 742-7319 or eamos@heartlandspca.org.

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Heartland SPCA will sponsor a Christmas Eve Adoption Special from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24^th at the Heartland SPCA Pet Adoption Center! Adoption fees will be waived for dogs, cats, kittens and rabbits when you spend $50 in Heartland SPCA’s Baxter’s Boutique on must have pet supplies for your new companion!

“Adopting a shelter animal is the beginning of a rewarding journey for the animal and the human companion,” Director of Shelter Operations Joe Hinkle said. “However, it’s important to have all the tools and supplies needed for your new furry friend.”

Numerous pet items are available for purchase at Baxter’s Boutique located within the Pet Adoption Center including flea and tick preventative, heartworm preventative, leashes, collars, toys, treats and more.

“Both dogs and cats can suffer from fleas or heartworms,” Hinkle explains. “So we highly recommend preventatives in order to prevent more costly health concerns down the road.”

Hinkle also recommends investing in toys that keep a new pet entertained while family is away. For the most intelligent of pets, he recommends mind stimulating toys like Kongs and treat dispensers.

“Kongs can be filled with peanut butter, frozen, and left with your pet for hours of complex mind-stimulation,” Hinkle said. “Treat dispensers will make dogs work for their rewards.”

Heartland SPCA adoptable pets have received a veterinary examination, age-appropriate vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, permanent microchip identification and one month of flea and heartworm prevention. Each Heartland SPCA pet adoption also includes one month of complimentary pet insurance.

The Christmas Eve Adoption Special will be from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24^th at the Heartland SPCA Pet Adoption Center located at 9800 W. 67^th St. Merriam, KS 66203.

Heartland SPCA is also continuing its fee-waived special for adult cats now through Dec. 31^st.

For more information about Heartland SPCA Pet Adoptions, call (913) 742-7355 or email adoptions@heartlandspca.org. A complete list of pets awaiting adoption is available online.

For complete details of the Christmas Eve Special, contact Director of Shelter Operations Joe Hinkle at (913) 742-7323 or jhinkle@heartlandspca.org.

Meet Lola: a beautiful girl facing an extreme situation that requires veterinary care.

Fox 4 KC’s Problem Solver Linda Wagner received a note on her car windshield while shooting a story on Dec. 15th. The desperate note requested assistance with her dog named Lola.

The owner noted that she has no heat or lights, but she’s most worried about “her babies.” Images submitted by Fox 4 KC show that Lola appears to have a large mass.

“We are very eager to be a part of creating a better life for Lola and her pet guardian,” CEO/Executive Director Courtney Thomas said.

Heartland SPCA’s HERO (Humane Education Resource Officer) Program works to assist pets most in need of a helping hand. Whether it is a pet living outside without proper shelter, an owner who cannot afford to buy pet food, or a pet who needs medical treatment, the HERO team is committed to helping improve the lives of all pets in the Greater Kansas City area. HERO will make a difference for pets just like Lola, working to assist her with food assistance, high quality veterinary care, vaccinations, transportation and more.

“Heartland SPCA plans to bring Lola to our medical center to perform a full veterinary examination and blood work,” Thomas said. “We’ll then provide x-rays and assess the best plan of care for Lola.”

To show your support of the HERO program and Lola, donate online. To make a gift by mail, send your check made out to Heartland SPCA to 5428 Antioch Drive, Merriam, Kansas, 66202.  To make a gift by phone call (913) 742-7336. Please specify that your gift is in honor of Lola.

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Heartland SPCA has a lot to be thankful for this holiday season. Since January 2011, Heartland SPCA has served more than 17,500 pets through intake, adoptions, spay/neuter and veterinary wellness services. Funding for our life-saving programs is solely financed through generous community donations.

“Our staff feel truly honored knowing that the work we are doing is touching and changing the lives of so many needy pets in our community,” CEO/Executive Director Courtney Thomas said. “However, there are many more who still need our help.”

Heartland SPCA, a merger of Animal Haven and No More Homeless Pets KC, is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that’s mission is to save, protect and improve the lives of animals, while strengthening the relationship between pets and their human companions. Funding to support the organization’s mission comes solely through the benevolence of its donors. Heartland SPCA receives no government or national funding from organizations like the ASPCA or Humane Society of the United States.

“We are the Greater Kansas City area’s most comprehensive resource for pets and their human companions,” Thomas explains. “From our street side HERO program and affordable public veterinary wellness care to our senior programs and pet adoptions, we are here to be a partner for life to the animals and people we serve.”

Heartland SPCA’s high quality affordable spay/neuter surgery and wellness services provide public resources at the most affordable rates in the area.

“Most pet owners want to provide their pets with the medical attention they deserve,” says Courtney Thomas, CEO/Executive Director, “But they are on a limited budget to do so.”

This limited budget also forces many pets and their owners into extreme situations. The HERO (Humane Education Resource Officer) Program serves the animals in our community most in need of a helping hand. They provide pet owners with the tools they need to provide for pets, including food assistance, providing outdoor shelter, financially assisting with vaccinations or spay/neuter surgery, transferring pets to the medical center for treatment and advice for behavioral issues.

TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) is also a primary initiative of the HERO program. TNR is widely recognized as the most humane and effective strategy for reducing feral (wild or unsocialized) and free-roaming cat populations. TNR involves humanely trapping feral cats and transporting them to a veterinary clinic where they are spayed or neutered and may receive vaccinations and treatment for routine medical conditions. After surgery, the cat recuperates and is then released back to its colony habitat where it will live out its natural life.

“We sponsor monthly Feral Cat clinics and alter up to 100 feral cats in just one day,” Thomas says. “With the US feral cat population estimated in the tens of millions, this is a small part of the solution that every animal lover can help participate in to make a difference.”

Although feral cat programs assist with the challenges of pet overpopulation, Heartland SPCA’s intake center is routinely at capacity.

Heartland SPCA manages 12 Johnson County municipality contracts, providing much needed sheltering services for animals served by animal control in the Johnson County area. The pets served through these contracts account for up to 55 percent of the shelter’s total intake. Additional intake comes from owner surrendered pets, strays found by Good Samaritans, assistance with puppy mill and hoarding situations and transfers from area shelters forced to euthanize for space.

Nearly a thousand lost pets have been reunited with their owners at Heartland SPCA this year.

“Our staff works hard to cross reference lost pet ads, Craigslist and other avenues to reunite lost pets with their owners,” says Thomas. “One of Heartland SPCA’s key objectives is strengthening prevention programs in our community, which is a key driver in the reduction of shelter intake.”

“It’s not just ensuring that every pet is microchipped and properly ID’d,” Thomas explains. “We also provide key educational services to reduce pet overpopulation and assist pet owners facing extreme situations which lead to owner relinquishment.”

For the many lost, abandoned or homeless pets who do arrive at the intake center, their story continues with Heartland SPCA’s humane, compassionate sheltering services and ultimately adoption into a forever home.

“Adopting from a shelter not only gives a loving pet a forever home,” Thomas explains. “But, in essence you are helping two pets at once. The pet being adopted has a new place to call home, and the adoption space in the shelter is made available for another pet in need.”

Heartland SPCA’s adoptable pets receive a thorough medical exam, spay/neuter surgery, all age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, one month of flea and heartworm prevention, a permanent means of identification through a microchip, and one month of free shelter pet insurance.

Nearly 4,000 pets have entered the shelter doors this year. One thousand lost pets were reunited with their owners and more than 2,400 dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, and small mammals have found their forever homes through Heartland SPCA since January of 2011. The remaining 600 found homes through Heartland SPCA partners or are currently residing at the Pet Adoption Center.

“Serving such a large number of pets requires significant funding,” Thomas said. “For each sheltered pet we serve, the cost to provide food, shelter, enrichment, and medical services exceed $450.”

From pet adoptions to affordable veterinary care, the comprehensive solution of Heartland SPCA is an ever expanding resource for pets and their human companions. With the support of its community, more pets will be spay/neutered, vaccinated, assisted through the HERO program, given temporary housing or find new forever homes.

“Consider a year-end gift that lives beyond the holidays,” Thomas explains. “Whether you give your time, talent or treasure, Heartland SPCA wishes you Happy Holidays on behalf of all the pets and human companions we call family.”

To show your support of Heartland SPCA, go online at www.HeartlandSPCA.org or donate today.

MERRIAM, KAN. – SASSY (Saving Animals by Supportive Seniors and other Young at heart) approved a merger with Heartland SPCA at its Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 14^th, 2011.  The merger allows SASSY and Heartland SPCA to expand programs serving senior adults and senior pets.

“SASSY will enhance Heartland SPCA’s ability to serve senior pets and their human companions,” Heartland SPCA CEO/Executive Director Courtney Thomas said. “We’re very excited at the opportunity to better serve a segment of the senior homeless pet population and the important active older adult community who is already very involved with our organization.”

SASSY offers a unique approach to solving two community problems while creating a win-win result for shelter pets and lonely seniors. By promoting “senior-appropriate” shelter pets and removing some of the barriers to pet adoption, seniors can lead a more fulfilling and product life, and homeless pets can find a forever and loving home.

Members of SASSY support program initiatives including SASSYmeals, SASSYfunds, and senior-appropriate volunteer activities.

• SASSYmeals partners with area Meals-on-Wheels programs to distribute pet meals to those receiving meal assistance. This service is available in select areas.
• SASSYfunds provides financial assistance to seniors on a fixed income who have pets in need of veterinary services.
• Senior-appropriate volunteer activities include various administrative tasks, meal preparation, donation collections and fundraising event planning, including the annual Project Poochie fashion show featuring alumni shelter pets and their human companions.

“The incorporation of the SASSY organization into Heartland SPCA strengthens our organizational position to truly be partners for life to the pets and people we serve,” Thomas said.

For more information about SASSY’s merger with Heartland SPCA, contact CEO/Executive Director Courtney Thomas at (913) 742-7307 or cthomas@heartlandspca.org.

To learn more about the SASSY Program, contact SASSY Program Director Barbara Ross at (913) 742-7318 bross@heartlandspca.org.

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