Doing The Right Thing By Local Animals: On The New NYPD-ASPCA Partnership

Our friend Ann Simkins of Small World Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers wanted to make sure neighbors knew about a change in the process of reporting animal abuse and neglect.

Since the beginning of a Bronx pilot program in September 2013, theASPCA (who had previously had their own animal cruelty officers) has been focusing on treating, rehabilitating, and rehoming abused and neglected animals, while leaving calls and enforcement exclusively to the NYPD.

Cutting out the ASPCA’s former animal cruelty officers, says organization President and CEO Matthew Berkshadker, has resulted in “a much broader, quicker, and more effective way to protect and save animal lives.”

Berkshadker says that at of the end of the pilot program on December 31, 2013, the NYPD had already responded to 800 calls about animal abuse and neglect, with over 30 animals receiving care from the ASPCA. As of this past Friday, another 24 animals throughout the city had been rescued.

If you find yourself concerned about an animal in Kensington that doesn’t look as happy and loved as that guy up top, you can report suspected ongoing cruelty by calling 311 or filing a complaint online. Or, to report abuse in progress, be sure to call 911 immediately. Our local furry friends will thank you!

Photo by sarah_c