Euthanized cat thrown on floor of SPCA.
Employees allege animals are sometimes left for weeks after being euthanized before being cremated.
The SPCA asks that surrendered cats are left in a carrier which can be picked up the next monring. This is to prevent SPCA cages from being dirtied.
"I had to kill every cat that came in the door unless it was different looking..."
Dog on catch pole. No dog on a catch pole should ever have to be shot.
Employees state they are told to lie to the public about being a kill shelter. "I had to put down animals that were not sick or aggressive," Erin Miller.
Rep. Smigiel,
I am a resident of Cecil County and am sickened by this story. No living creature deserves to be treated so disgustingly cruel. We have to clean that place of all human vermine. For $95K, you would think the director would thank those strays for keeping her employed. Instead, she is downright EVIL. Please, please, please, tell me what I can do to help. You can contact me at (302) 547-2583 (cell). I love animals and, with that qualification alone, am better suited to direct the SPCA.
Rep. Smigiel,
I am a resident of Cecil County and am sickened by this story. No living creature deserves to be treated so disgustingly cruel. We have to clean that place of all human vermine. For $95K, you would think the director would thank those strays for keeping her employed. Instead, she is downright EVIL. Please, please, please, tell me what I can do to help. I love animals and, with that qualification alone, am better suited to direct the SPCA.
Ms. Arnold, please let your county commissioner’s know that you want accountability for the money being spent. On Tuesday January 13, 2009 the Cecil County Commissioners will be holding a public hearing to listen to the public about budget concerns. I am hoping the Commissioners will transfer some of the authority, such as for rabies control, to the health department.
The SPCA was given $5,000 last year to start a TNR (trap, neuter and release) program but later admitted at a public hearing that while they took the money they failed to institute any program. They blame the delegation for not putting in legislation to bring them under the local government insurance trust coverage. When we ask, what are they paying now for insurance, what will they have to pay in the future, were they sued, etc. We received no response to our questions. Never the less, if we transfer money from their $675,000 per year to the health department it would not cost the taxpayers an additional dollar and the health department is already covered under the county insurance provider. You could probably run a county wide program for three years for about 25 to 30 thousand dollars. The health department is already doing much of this work through an independent contractor and volunteers. You can help by either showing up, calling, E-mailing or writing to the County Commissioners and asking them to demand accountability from the SPCA. Tell your family, friends and neighbors and don’t believe the spin that will be coming out of the SPCA about the people making the accusations. Ask them to address the facts not to attack the former employees, constituents, volunteers and others who are already calling in with new information. If you call my legislative office at 410-392-5815 I will be glad to offer other suggestions on how you can help to fix this mess.
Yours in public service,
Delegate Michael D. Smigiel, Sr.
I happened across this issue and while I don’t live in Cecil County, I am horrified by this story. I am an animal lover and have volunteered at the Kent County Humane Society. I don’t know what your requirements are for running the CCSPCA but I would love to be given a chance to apply. I am very good at running a team and under my supervision I am sure I could turn the CCSPCA around. To allow the current conditions to continue is horrific and I am happy to hear that steps are being taken to correct these injustices.
Dear Ms. Stewart
Thank you for you volunteer work. I hope you noted that in my article I mentioned I also represent Kent, Queen Anne’s and Caroline Counties and have never had a single complaint about those SPCAs. In fact, I know many in Cecil who feel forced to use Kent County or Delaware SPCAs because of the perception of problems at the Cecil County SPCA. Please spread the word and together I am sure we will be able to force changes.
Yours in public service
Delegate Michael D. Smigiel, Sr.
I realize laws differ from county to county and state to state but abuse is still abuse. I have worked in dog rescue for many years, have worked along side other rescues in my state as well as nationally, dealt with shelters and have taken my training with the Animal Cruelty Task Force.
That being said, none of which I have done would be required to know what is happening in the CCSPCA is abuse and unacceptable at the very least. The former employee’s as well as volunteers showing valid proof of what is happening, I am amazed at the fact these people are still working there. What upsets me most are the children who have learned to help the animals and I have to wonder as well as be concerned at how traumatized they have become because of this. If I were the mother of those children and these people had been allowed to retain their positions in the CCSPCA, I would be on the phone with an attorney. Even if those children did volunteer they have the same rights as a paid employee and what has been done to them emotionally is criminal.
This information is all over the net now and I will see to it that it continues to be provided to anyone willing to listen and act. In the state of VT where I live if this was going on these people would be facing charges and their employment terminated. Too many precious lives have been lost because of them, too many abused and as far as I’m concerned, they should be fired, arrested on multiple charges of animal cruelty and ordered never to be in the presence, own, possess or live within the home of any animals.
I am not a citizen of Cecil Cty or Maryland so I know I have no political clout, however, after reading this and seeing the pictures I must respond. The citizens of Cecil Cty and Maryland must take action immediately to stop this. I have been a volunteer at the CCSPCA annual fund raising auction for about 8 years and I regret that I cannot make any statement that denies these allegations. I have heard rumors of negelect at CCSPCA for several years and have been asked why I continue to support the CCSPCA at the auction and I’ve always replied that I wanted to see the animals benefit from my efforts. I now cannot say there has been benefit to the animals as a result of the work I have done and it breaks my heart to realize this. In addition to the county and state taking immediate action to stop this inhumane tratement of animals, the county and state must stop paying an inappropriate salary to the director, I am sure there are MANY animal lovers that would do this job for a fraction of this amount.
If you want to see how animals should and can be treated visit Animal Friends in Pittsburgh, PA; a non-kill non-profit shelter. They know how to lovingly treat animals.
About 2 years ago my dog was picked up by SPCA…I called them after searching for her several hours. The phone was busy for 4 hours and then finally someone answered. Rude and unfeeling the woman said she had no idea if my dog was there and that I should come down and look for her. I did, and at that point realized that the phone was busy because they just leave it off the hook! I explained that my dog sliped out the door and I was frantic that something had happen to her. I was met with a very uncareing “well look around and see if she is here.” When much to my relief I found my dog shaking and cowering in a small cage the woman gave me a lecture about letting my dog run loose! Then the fines..almost $250 later I was told I could go get her and if it happen again it would cost me more! That was the last time this regular supporter of the SPCA ever or will ever give that organization a dime. The lady that works at the desk has no bussiness working with aniamals let alone dealing with people.
A shelter that could do so much and does so little should in my opinion be looked at by our officials. I am a firm believer that any about of money paid to the people running the Cecil County SPCA is too much!
Delegate Smigiel,
I have been involved with the CCSPCA in various capacities over the past 10 years or so. My daughter volunteered there several years ago and my family supports the annual fundraising events – especially the auction and car show day. We have adopted animals and I have had to bring and injured stray to be euthanized. After reading your article and having heard from individuals who recently volunteered there, I am sickened and horrified at the way the CCSPCA has been allowed to treat the very animals they are there to protect and care for. This past year’s fundraiser (auction, car show day) made it very clear to numerous county residents just how inappropriately the CCSPCA has been run. The director was extremely uncooperative with several volunteers and made the event into some kind of power war. As a result, some of the shelter’s most committed and dedicated volunteers were so saddened or angered at things they witnessed first hand that they had to walk away. It seems as if the director and animal control officer are guilty of cruelty to animals. If the people charged with caring for these animals are breaking the laws put in place to protect them, those people should be held accountable. Not only should they be removed from their positions, they should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Perhaps that would remind them of why they were entrusted to these positions in the first place!
My little dog of 14 years died in my arms after a SIMPLE operation at the Cecil County SPCA, in May. I was called to say the operation went fine and I could pick her up. When my husband and I got there I could hear her howling and crying. My poor little baby, she trusted us and the SPCA to give her proper care. Instead, she was in the hands of monsters who just let her bleed all over the room and bled to death in my arms. Why didn’t they sedate her? or anything, blood was everywhere and it was frightening confusion in the last little moments of her life to die in her mommys arms. I was told by vet she died due to hypothermia from anethisia. WRONG! animals and humans as well do not wake up and then bleed to death from hypothermia. One employee from SPCA who was especially caring during this heart wrenching death was Erin. She cryed as Molly died, she called me the next day, even sent us a touching card during our loss.
Please we must stand together to stop this inhumane treatment of our animals. After all they depend on us to take care for them, in return we recive unconditional love. Let’s show them we love them too! I only hope that this story of Molly’s death can save others.
This morning my husband sent this artical to me so I could read it. May heart is filled with sorrow for these pure animals that have done nothing but be born because the person who had thier mother or father would not spay or nuter the animals. Then they are taken to CCSPCA and are not only treated inhumanly by those who are paid quite well to care for them, and meet their needs until hopefully a loving home comes for them, but to have to endure cruel treatment by a veterinarian whose license should be reviewed by the Veterinarian Board of Maryland is worse than horrible. Everyone of them should be suspended without pay until this is investigated fully. If they are found not guilty pay them, but if they are found guilty then they should be prosecuted for the inhumane way they treated those animals left in their care. I have not even mentioned the pure animals that have been given up because their owner can on longer care for them because of loss of a job or bad health.
I am not a resident of Cicel County are of Maryland, but like my husband Roger I too have helped with the yearly auction to help raise money for the animals at CCSPCA. We have done this for about eight years. This is why I feel I have a right to say how I feel about what is going on at the CCSPCA building.
The Cecil County “SOCIETY for the PREVENTION of CRUELTY to ANIMALS” (AKA the CCSPCA) is a horrible oxymoron to give to a place that is so disgustingly inhumane, cruel and negligent of totally defenseless animals brought there hoping for comfort and a second chance.
My question is: What is the county commissioner, the county executive, other public servants doing about what is happening right this very moment at this house of horrors??? Why hasn’t an investigation been started before NOW??? Do county residents and citizens of Maryland at large need to come to the shelter to force the shut down of this facility thus rescuing these poor dogs and cats from further abuse and cruelty???
I cannot stand by and let this continue. Neither should anyone else. Who is it that we need to demand action from? Where do we go to demand the closure of this shelter? Who has the authority to take action right now?
Please post any information we need to take action now, Delegate Smigiel. You are one of voices for these animals and I thank you so much for bringing this to the public’s attention.
I will be at that meeting. We need to get RID of of the people at Cecil County SPCA!!! I don’t want my money paying any of them. I too have seen where a little pit puppy was brought there by my niece who found it wondering the streets. She brought it home kept it with me for a week. I have 5 dogs (who I rescued) and the puppy was wonderful. Not a mean bone in her. I said to take it there because we could not find the owner. The very next day I went there to see how the puppy was and he was not there. They would not answer my questions nothing!! What do you think happened? Than I had to bring our own dog there to be put to sleep. He was 14 years old not eating or drinking for over a week couldn’t walk so after trying everything we could we took him to vet there to have his suffering ended- he took him in the back room I thought to check him out, but I heard Pizza scream and I thought why is he screaming, he cann’t even lift his head. Than he calls us in the room and there is Pizza, dead with his eyes wide open and a blanket covering up all but his head. I couldn’t believe this!!! HE DID A HEART STICK!!!!!! One of the most painful ways to end a life. This was the most horrible experience I ever had. knowing that this family member , we cared for since he was 7 weeks old was put to sleep like this. The vet knew us, and knew how much we loved this little guy. We had spent thousands of dollars on his health. He knew we would of never wanted an end for him like this. He should not have a license, he should never be allowed to be around any animal. Please help us to do something to these people. I also rescue and care for animals. My whole life has been spent around animals and theses people have got to go!! They need to be replaced ASAP!!!! Thanks, Patti
As a rescuer of x-racing greyhounds, a pet business owner locally, & an animal rights supporter, I am appalled at the conditions & practices exhibited by a county supported (tax supported) organization. Tax dollars should not be spent to support people who have such narrow-minded concepts of animal “rescue”. This isn’t rescue, it’s inhumane treatment of defenseless animals.
Why should 1 person (the director) be allowed to make decisions over what animals get euthanized? Any worthwhile animal rescue organization would involve veterinary advice in these sort of decisions.
Also, although I am not a pit bull owner, I know of many of this breed of dog that are wonderful household pets, & to make a global, predjudiced decision that all pits will be euthanized is unacceptable!
Please, Del. Smigiel, I urge you to launch an immediate investigation into this organization concerning all of their policies, employees, facilities & treatment of helpless animals. This cannot be allowed to continue!
I had to have my dog put to sleep one year ago in December. My dog was let out of his kennel by kids who were playing with him and the SPCA was called to pick him up. When we got there my dog was in the back of building in a freezing cold/drak room and could not stand. After taking him for medical treatment to the Emergency VCA in Newark and a vet in PA for a second opinion we were told that his hips were crushed from someone kicking him and beating him with a hard object. We had to explain to our children the day before X-Mas that we had to put him to sleep. He was given no medical attention but yet we were charged/fined $750.00 to have him picked up and in their care for two hours. When I questioned them about the condition he was left in I was told we could continue to fine you. My concern at that point was to get my dog the help he needed. I left several messages there to talk to the people on duty the night my dog was brought in but got no call. They did however take a picture of our dog to keep on file and he was perfectly fine in the picture when he got there. He was standing in the photo yet when we got there two hours later he could not even stand. Please help these animals!!!!!!
I just called and asked them if they were a kill shelter, and an employee said there not a “KILL SHELTER” But there a “MODIFIELD KILL SHELTER”, Know this was said after I had asked about adopting a dog, hell any dog. They should be ashamed of themselves.
DONT CLOSE THE SHELTER I AM SURE IT IS NEEDED BUT FIRE & FINE EVERY PERSON YOU CAN AND USE THAT MONEY TO HELP THE SHELTER GET LOVING & CARING PEOPLE TO WORK THERE. PEOPLE WOULD BE PROSECUTED FOR TREATING CHILDREN THIS WAY AND SO SHOULD THE PEOPLE WHO TREATED ANIMALS THIS WAY.
I am not a resident of Cecil County or Maryland either, however, I have an amazing friend, Brieann, who is a resident and she runs Ruff Life Rescue and CCSPCA is her local shelter. This article was sent to me by her and I am in absolute shock that this inhumane, cruel and barbaric behavior has gone unnoticed for so long. As an animal lover and an animal rescuer/transporter, I am appalled these people have been allowed to stay employed at this facility. The employees and of all things, the Director, should be punished to the fullest extent of the law, because cruelty to animals is against the law, no matter what State you live in. Perhaps they should be treated the same way in which they treated those poor lost souls. Not to mention the poor children that volunteered their time and TLC to those animals, only to have to witness such unspeakable acts. It’s a crying shame that it has had to come to this for something to actually be done about it. I certainly hope and pray that justice will prevail in this matter; and that these poor lost souls did not die in vain. There’s far too many animals being put to death in these so-called “no kill” shelters all over this Country. Who in God’s name is looking out for God’s creatures???? It’s about time that someone does! Please see to it that no further harm comes to any more of those poor animals at the CCSPCA. Hopefully, you will see that the appropriate actions will be taken against those individuals in question. God Rest the souls of those poor helpless animals!
I grew up in Cecil County and just moved back here from five years away. I am appalled by the backward treatment of animals in these modern times and it makes me ashamed to be an animal lover AND a resident of this county. I, like nearly all of the residents of this county, were ignorant to the treatment of animals at the SPCA. I only came across this article because a friend of mine posted the link on MySpace. Have you, or any of the other readers of this article, considered publishing something in the Cecil Whig? What about going to the local news stations? Word about this has to get out before anything will be changed – hopefully, the neglectful director will be forced to step down and someone competent will take her place.
I am in absolute shock about this article. A year ago, I had gone to the CCSPCA to look for a cat, after my pet of 15 years passed away. I was so dichanted with what I saw, and the demeaner of some of the employees, that I decided to look elsewhere. My heart was broken for the loss of my friend, but when I left there, I sat out in my car and cried. I wanted to take each and every animal out of there. I found a cat rescue in Pennsylvania, and took 2 cats home with me. Someone, and I don’t recall who told me this, but told me not to take them to the SPCA to be nuetured and fixed, instead take them to “All Paws Wellness”, in Perryville, MD. What a wonderful person Mindy Carletti, along with the others at that wellness center was great.
She has even came out to our complex and taken care of stray cats. I can not say enough nice things about All Paws.
The director and other employees should be held accountable for the money in which our tax dollars go. Take her car away. Reduce her pay, and then let her go. Or better yet, why not put her in a cage for a while. Thats what they do to people who kill isn’t it? Maybe someone needs to call the National SPCA and let them know of the horrible conditions of things there. I stand behind the Ewings, and anyone else who will speak out against this perticular organization.
This type of conduct is not acceptable, especially for a shelter with such large budget. The director should be fired and replaced with someone that acutally cares about the lives of the animals they should be protecting, not collecting a big salary. The people that should be protecting these animals should be held accountable. These poor aniamls shouldn’t have to suffer. Please let us know what we can due to stop this. I don’t live in the area, but I’ll do want I can.
I am horrified that this is taking place!! We must STOP this now!! If we don’t we are all just as guilty as them! I am a Cecil county tax payer and I do not want my money paying these people! They need to be fired and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law!
My blood is flowing. I am so downright angry. I lived in Elkton for a couple of years a while back but no longer live in Cecil county. As an ex-police officer and animal lover, I am wandering why these people, all of them are not sitting in a jail cell right this min or at the very least out on bond and jobless…??? Even 8 AM in the morning is rediculasly late. What’s the hold up on the firing and execution? That would be my question…Good Lord. Stop paying this idiot at the very very least. Jiminy Christmas man.
Goes to show the cruelest creature that walks this earth is man himself. Not all I am speaking of, just the ones as stated in the article. It’s a shame a downright shame. God bless all those animals within the shelter’s walls. Ridiculous.
Has this person been removed and or punished…can I help…do you need a donation or some political help…my father is very well connected in Baltimore and Harford counties.
God Bless You…Keep up the fight
Your Fellow Animal Lover – Jonathan
[...] Cecil County SPCA Images [...]
I have now found out the horrible truth about my mollys death-MURDER! my worst fears were confirmed. molly was the little dog left to bleed to death after operation in blog! thank you del smigiel and erin miller for bringing this to attention. I have had my calls returned by commisioner and attorney general. People are listening. I urge everyone to make appropriate calls and send this site to all. Molly and other animals don’t have to die – MURDERED anylongerJ
Congressman Frank Kratovil Jr.
Washington, DC Office
CongressmanFrankM.KratovilJr.
314 Cannon HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515
Phone: (202) 225-5311
Fax: (202) 225-0254District Office
Congressman Frank M.KratovilJr.
112 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, #102
Bel Air, MD 21014
Phone: (410)-838-2517
Fax: (410) 838-7823
Attorney General
200 Saint Paul St # 1700
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 576-6360
Online Form : http://www.spca.com/contact/
HSUS Headquarters
Serves: Maryland and Washington, D.C.
2100 L St., NW
Washington, DC 20037
202-452-1100
Fax: 202-778-6132
Cecil Whig * PO Box 429, Elkton, MD 21922
Phone (410) 398-3311
WBAL-TV 11
3800 Hooper Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 467-3000
Contact: John Sherman
County Commissioners
County Administrative Building
200 Chesapeake Blvd., Suite 2100
Elkton, MD 21921
410.996.5201
410.658.4041, ext. 5201
(Rising Sun)
Fax: 410.996.1014
Vicky R. Rinkerman
Executive Office Administrator
410.996.5202
e-mail: vrinkerman@ccgov.org
County Administrator
Alfred Wein 410.996.5203
awein@ccgov.org
CC Dept. of the Budget
Craig Whiteford 410.996.8302
cwhiteford@ccgov.org
I’m a animal lover. And to see the things I saw for Cecil County SPCA to do to these’s animals is very sick and the poeple running the shelter and doing animal crulity should be fire and to pay SPCA the money that was funded under them back to the shelter and find some jail time. Just like any owner doing animal crulity would be put in jail if it was them. But they county trusted these poeple to protect and do by the animals and find them a home. There are some many poeple looking for animals out there and I tell them go to your shelter near you and adopt one because they are well cared for and don’t cost much. But see what these poeple have done make me and my friends in Cecil County and around sick to our stomachs. And knowing these poeple are still there is just wronge the should be put on leave and investageted for what they have done. Plus there is so much proof against them. And I think for any one to step up against them took alot of pride. And for the fax’s that childern had to witness that was died wronge for them to see from grown ups. They remind me of poeple that like to see animal suffering and to have mental problems to be so crule and I hope some one does some thing sooner than later. I wish every one will stand up for these poor animal who did nothing wronge to be treat like this.I will be write Mr. Kratovil JR And given him my thoughts on these mater and nothing is down I’m calling channel 13 news and channel 2 new teams and having them do there jobs they do so well on this matter. The poeple there are animal lovers too. I hope god helps these animal soon.Because Cecil County SPCA need a new team all together .Every on should write Mr.Kratovil JR consrening this matter.with return receipt stated they recieved it.
So this is the Cecil County Society for the PROTECTION OF CRUELTY to Animals….
I do NOT feel this is strictly a Cecil County issue. This is an animal issue and ANY caring person should have a say in this. The criminals involved in this need to be charged with cruelty. The so called director needs to be held accountable for these inhumane actions.
As a long time animal rescuer and advocate, I find the sum of $674,000 going to this chamber of horrors absolutely astonishing! We work literally on a shoestring budget in a very rural KY area and our animals get get first rate care compared to what I am reading here. For that sum of money you would think these animals in Cecil would be laid up on satin pillows and eating out of sterling bowls!!!
I ask that a petition be set up so that out of area residents can leave comments and their opinions. I think every person that has loved an animal should have a voice in this issue. I sincerely thank you, Delegate Mike Smigiel , for seeing that the truth is finally known. You are a good and caring soul.
It nearly made me sick to view these photos. I always had respect for those working at the CCSPCA and felt that they were individuals who had an unmatched level of love, patience, caring and understanding for their job and these animals. Apparently, this is not the case. I would love an opportunity to help turn this intolerable cruelty around. PLEASE CONTACT ME!!!!
This should go national, and our country should spend some money and stop this type of thing. It happens more than you would like to think. Don’t fool yourself.
Ceil County Spca should of been checked into a long time ago. I used to be a manager of the Pet Store in Elkton and I heard so many rumors of abuse from friends that actually voluteered for the SPCA.
Stories of SPCA employees stealing money from donation cans that they retrived from our counters that were left in our store to raise money for the animals. I started to write personal checks for the amount that was in the cans so SPCA employees could not pocket the money that was picked up from our store. Stories of how they would open up the unit where they euthanize the animals and if they were not dead they would use other means to kill them. One person told me how John Kitchen would kick the animals around when he was frustrated. I heard a lot of bad things being in the pet industry and it is very sad. The building even smells bad like no one there is really doing a very good job of cleaning that facility up after the animals. I don’t get how all of that has been going on for such a long time, like someone is just closing their eyes to it all. Hope something is done, it is only fair. Especially since they should have a very high standard to with hold being with in the public eye. Over the years I even made phone calls to them about stray animals or pets being locked in cars, I always got a bad response from them. One day in a parking lot I reported to them on a very hot sunny day that a dog was sitting in a car and it took them over an hour to get out there, acted liked it was a bother for them. Is this not their job!!
ok folks here I go! I’m tryn to put together a protest againt this monsrtocity tommorow! Gettin the ducks in a row now. Who’s With Me!? Call me- 443-466-3110. off work soon
I do not live in this county or in this state – I live in the South, where unfortunately shelter conditions like this seem to be the norm. The shelter directors here are paid little and most of the helpers at the shelter are inmates. Most shelters in this area are grossly underfunded. I am appalled that the director of this shelter could make $90k+ a year and urge every citize of this county to scream for their dismissal IMMEDIATELY!!! As an animal rescuer and foster, I can tell you that it is difficult enough to deal with the overwhelming number of animals that are discarded by ‘owners’ every year even with the best, most caring shelter directors. To have someone like this unneccessarily exhibit cruel and inhumane behavior to these helpless animals is unspeakable. PLEASE be the voice for all of those that have endured it and for those that may pass through this shelter in the future – they cannot speak for themselves!
These people are worse then Michael Vick.Its really just a sign of sickness in people.If any of the workers from there are reading this you are a COWARD THAT PRAYS ON THE WEAK!and please feel free to respond back so we could possibly set up a meeting so you can try to do to me like you did those poor animals.
If anyone was at the CCSPCA at the time of their “Great Santa Paws Rescue” last Christmas, PLEASE CONTACT ME IMMEDIATELY at pagenr@gmail.com. I spoke with the commissioner’s office this afternoon regarding this particular incident/situation. It needs to be known that the CCSPCA embellished and fabricated details of that event. For the record, I am not the owner of the private kennel but I am related to them and as always there are two sides to every story. It greatly saddens me to know that those dogs were voluntarily turned over to the CCSPCA on Christmas day with the assurances that they would be receiving the best of care and new homes. It needs to be understood that those dogs were not in cages. They were in kennels, with runs attached to full-sized, custom built sheds. These animals were vaccinated for Rabies and Parvo and were wormed. These animals were loved dearly and were happy. It’s sickening to know that the CCSPCA euthanized several of these dogs under the guise of being elderly. The oldest dog was born in 1998 and the Basset mix that they refer to as being very old with a serious medical condition was in fact a Lab-Basset mix that was at the most 3 years old and in perfect health. Regarding the poor Pom that nipped a boy, I’m sure I’d nip too after I was chased around my kennel cage by a stranger carrying a catch pole and net.
Again, please contact me via email at pagenr@gmail.com if you either visited the CCSPCA during that time, adopted an animal from the Pomeranians and Chihuahuas or know of someone who did. Thank you in advance.
i can not believe that people that sign up to protect these animals can do a thing like this. This really shows that people have no respect for animal life . I think all of the workers that have anything to do with it should be locked up for life and be treated the same way they treated the animals. I will enjoy reading that the people that are involved with this are being persecuted severely.
if anyone is interested in calling media attention to this horrible state of affairs please..please call 1-443-466-3110..i called and am ready to do something about this mess
hello everyone we are moving forward with our crusade to help save helpless animals! Plans in motion! contact me to help 443-466-3110.
Over the years I have heard different “rumors” about things going on at the CCSPCA and the animal crulety and never believed that people could really be that nasty. Until now seeing the proof and the pictures and reading peoples devasting stories about what has happened to their animals. I do have reliable sources that have proven to me such facts about the going-ons with what is happening. The people running the CCSPCA need to be fired, we need people in there that truley care and love the animals that are there. These animals do not ask to be put there. PLEASE HEAR THE CRIES FROM EVERYONE!! Meanwhile the women in charge of the SPCA uses the facility and her employees to groom and maintain her show dogs while she is putting other animals down.
everyone that reads this and is on blogging in outrage needs to put there words in to action and call 1-443-466-3110 the only way to draw media attention to this is to ACT.. peacefully and with reason but we need to do something if we don’t we are just as guilty and neglectful as they are
I live in Queen Anne’s County, but I am still Equally as angry about the Cecil County SPCA! In my opinion, the entire SPCA staff should be arrested and thrown in jail for Animal Cruelty! Fire all the employees there and bring in an entirely new staff that actually cares about the animals and will protect them!
I was born and raised in Cecil County and I am ashamed to say I am from there and this SPCA gives me one more reason to.
looks like the spca thinks they are pretty well protected don’t worry spca there are ways to penetrate your very weak walls of false security. i’m sure that the spca has noticed that out of all of the blogs and forums there has not been one single in support of the facility ………this alone speaks volumes. this is not going to blow over, i and others will make sure of that. we are going to protect our four legged furry friends
I just read Patti Clifton’s horrifying story about what happened to her elderly dog at the SPCA. Patti is a dear friend of mine, and I am just sickened after reading this! I never knew about a heart stick Patti. This must be what they do to all the animals then? I know that years ago they used to use a horrible decompression device to suck all the air out of the animals…which is about as sickening as it gets. Evidently euthanasia done properly is too much work for these deviates? My heart goes out to you. And if anyone needs evicence for court: my dog picked up kennel cough at the Cecil SPCA. That is documentable. I hope they clean house in this torture chamber immediately!
Let me start by saying I don’t live in Cecil County but I do live in the state and this is probably one of the most disturbing things I have read. I adopted a pup from the humane society 8 years ago that lived in my house everyday as more than a member of my family but as my child and 2 days before Christmas this year I had to put him to sleep because he had a tumor on his Aorta that was suffocating him.
I’m telling you this because that is what you are supposed to do when you commit to taking care of a pet—love them and give them your all. I am disappointed and everyone with a hand in this should be ashame of themselves. It’s your job and responsibility to treat these animals with respect and care for them and you violated them worse than their owners. These animals didn’t ask to be born, nor did they ask for their owners to abandoned, abuse, and/or mistreat them.
My wish is that one day the legal system will do more than slap people on the wrist and give them a $50 fine for animal cruelty. I hope one day the courts will start putting people in jail for a long time for these kinds of acts.
Shame on you!
I have had dealings with CCSPCA over the years. The staff always acted as though people (and animals) were an unwanted interruption in their day. The dogs were unclean, never walked or handled, and no one even bothered to find out anything about the animals (or interact with them to find out about personalities). In the past few years, the shelter has been full of Mrs. Deemings purebred setters, pointers, etc. for which she charges higher adoption prices (and its done through a separate rescue, so the dogs are using county space and I’m sure the county sees none of this income). I always wondered why there was so much space for the purebred dogs – and now I know why.
If the CCSPCA changes administration, I’ll be there to volunteer!
I am willing to do anything that is needed to get any and all people listed in the accusations removed from their position and fined. I am also willing to provide volunteer services when needed if needed. Also Jennifer Snellings-Barber, I didn’t see this article till today but if you haven’t done a protest yet and are planning to do it at another time or are planning to do something on the 13th I am all for it. you can get a hold of me at joshua.bryan@comcast.net
No human has a right at hitting an innocent dog. If you think you were man or woman enough to beat a puppy or kitten or dog or cat then you need to face your punishment.
We are a local pet rescue that pulls dogs from high kill shelters and otherwise bad situations and finds them homes. We have repeatedly contacted this shelter in hopes to assist with the adoption of their dogs but have received no response. We would help in anyway possible to keep these things from happening but can not help a shelter that does not want help…… We would love to have the means to set up a local shelter and stop these cruelty all together but we do not have this funding. We are not handed money like the shelters are and rely on donation to help our animals… It would appear that they would be more willing to help us help them because of this.. Please contact us at any time if we can further assist with the adoption of these little ones…. We are trying to help little paws have a better tomorrow, one life at a time.
http://www.pawsoftomorrow.com
I am overwhelmed after reading all of this about the CCSPCA. I took a dog there a couple of months back that was a stray at my parents home. She was a beautiful white american bull mix. I cleaned her up and took her to my vet and had her shots and a checkup. She was very loving but was just too big for me as my husband and I both work full time. So after a week of trying to see if someone else could take her I finally took her to the shelter. When my brother and I arrived the workers were rude and arrogant. The rather large women who works there took the dog from me as if I was totally interrupting their day. I remember saying to them how sweet the dog was and that she just needed a larger area for a home. I also had the shot records from our vet. They took a copy of my license and as I turned around; the rather large women aggressively took the dog and yelled at her. I told her there was no need for that and that aggravated them further. I guess at that time I should have done something further then. Well after reading about how others have found themselves in the same situation I feel that I have to speak up. I remember looking on petfinders.com to see if she had been placed on the CCSPCA web site…never did I see this dog and no one could ever give me any information. My aunt left, as part of her estate, a large sum of money to this organization years ago and I guess it is time that I investigate what really is being done with the monies that are provided to them. I am willing to write or call or even go to the offices of our representatives and have those individuals held criminally accountable for their actions. If anyone has a way that I can help them please feel free to call me at 443-466-3548……….The pictures that were on this web site of those poor animals in that incinerator were nauseating and very disturbing. Those that are responsible will be held accountable……Thank You
I am a pet owner and a cecil county tax payer. I am sick. I have went to this shelter to donate blankets several times. Every time I walk in I get treated like I am bothering them. The “officers” ,if that is what you call them, are rude and act like you are a criminal. The last time I went around October, I ask the one lady that came out (I think the director) if the dogs would get the blankets and was told that the dogs don’t get blankets and the cats would use them. I noticed that the dogs had no blankets and looked dirty and terrified. I guess my point is that the people I have encountered at the ccspca are rude, uncaring, not helpful and basically the complete opposite of what they need to be as a caring animal support person. I am an animal lover and conservationist and I believe that the horrors that these people have committed should be paid for. A full investigation needs to be done and then if found guilty the director, officers and abusers all need to be convicted and imprisoned for all the crimes from abuse of animal to abuse of our trust and tax dollars a citizens of the county. I will be at the board of commissioners meeting to try and get the support our county needs. My family wants to do whatever we can do to help the animals of our county and to pray that the deaths of the little ones before do not go in vain. PLEASE HELP!!!
If these alligations are not true then I hope all parties are exhonerated. If they are true then I hope everyone named in these alligations is fired, toss the bad attitude apples out while you’re at it.
PS- why does this woman working in *nonprofit animal rescue* make several thousand dollars more than I do in the human medical field? WTH is up with that, folks?
I have just read this,and though I live nowhere near cecil county, I wish I did.
Someone, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE put every worker there behind bar’s so they can never hurt an animal again.
I am SO pissed off about this, and it’s really aggravating that people could possibly be so horrible.
this is horrible. I live in delaware, not far away from this. It highly sickens me and deeply upsets me that these poor animals are being tortured. These animals have done nothing wrong to deserve the treatment they are getting. They didn’t choose to be stray or to be given up. These workers should either do something about this or be locked up.
It’s pathetic what they are doing to those poor animals. The people who are doing it should be removed from their jobs and serve time in prison for animal cruelty. I mean people go to jail for abusing their spouses, their kids, and other humans why not for abusing animals they should be giving the same right to live
It’s not right what is going on and as a resident I truly hope the workers go to prison.
I hope this message reaches some higher officials, as well as provides some information and insight for the public. On Friday, I just returned from the National Animal Control Associating (www.nacanet.org) training confrence in Atlanta, Georgia. This training is broken up into two sections that provides the training needed to become an animal control officer.
I agree with the post above. We don’t want the shelter closed. It needs to be reorganized with new, caring, qualified people. The county needs the shelter and the funds from the county but not with the current staff. There should be an investigation and charges brought on any and all who have treated the animals cruely and have misappropriated any funds.
Hello- I hope this messages reaches some higher officials as well as provides some general knowledge for the public. On Friday, I just returned from the National Animal Control Association (www.nacanet.org) training in Atlanta, Georgia. This training session teaches the common and accepted practices of everything pertaining to animal control in the nation. The training is split up into two levels to provide all the necessary tools to be an officer in the field. This training is NOT required to have completed previous to entering the field, regardless of how helpful and necessary it is to do the job. I underwent this training before getting an AC job because change can only happen with knowledge and awareness. The public is “outraged” on the subject; but, not to doubt the knowledge of some individuals, for the vast majority, the public is not aware of the necessity of public education regarding shelter practices, adoption of animals, and laws governing euthanasia.
Yes, some of the stories posted are heart wrenching, however; they are strongly opinionated and not based solely on fact. It is natural to feel disgust or resentment in this situation, but letting emotion overcome fact, attacking and humiliating officials or employees will not achieve the desired outcome you are looking for when it comes to change. Change will be made when the steps are properly taken to resolving the matter.
For the general knowledge of the public, according to NACA, there are only three accepted methods of euthanasia in the US: Intravenous Injection, death by carbon monoxide, and death by a bullet. I do not doubt the allegations of abuse at the shelter; however, one must understand that these are accepted AS LONG AS THEY ARE DONE HUMANELY. The newspaper states animals were euthanized with a .22 caliber rifle, on a large scale, this is inhumane, but an animal can be shot to death as long as there is an emergency situation that justifies the use of a gun, and as long as it is done humanely (proper bullet placement to eliminate any suffering). The large numbers of healthy animals being euthanized is of no fault of employees, overcrowding is a more serious problem to shelters (and tax payers!) than euthanasia, which is known as “the good death”. Over crowding is one of the main causes of the spread of infection and disease in shelters. If disease is rampant in a shelter, whether proper vaccinations are administered to the sick animal, shelters fill through the dribble method, one leaves and two more come in; meaning the disease is still in the shelter and the new animal can, and probably will, contract it and spread it before leaving. Sometimes it is a necessary evil to euthanize all the animals in the particular space to rid yourselves of zoonosis diseases (transferable from animal to human) that you adopt into your home. Euthanizing healthy animals is because we no longer have the space, or resources and funds to simply house them, despite what we would like to do. We very simply cannot operate that way.
The title “animal control” does not mean controlling a vicious animal; it is population control as well. Man’s population is barely controlled by the following three things: war, famine, and disease. Animals do not know the first two, so the only thing they have left to control their numbers is disease. Therefore; when an animal contracts a disease, it is not inhumane to euthanize it and put the money, which in theory, could be used to “cure” the animal, and focus it instead on animal welfare education, adoption awareness. We cannot continue to accept surrendered animals, take in strays, and house peoples unwanted puppies and kittens that they are needlessly breeding because “they are cute” and not expect some ramifications of these actions. The price we pay is humanly euthanizing of large numbers of animals, and this is largely due to the lack of education of the public regarding these matters. Having to euthanize large numbers of animals is the number one reason people leave the animal control field. Do not think for a second it is not stressful for employees. However; do know that as you become more educated in the matter at hand, you too will realize it is the necessary evil of the job. AC officers, and humane workers got into the field for love of animals, this is why they know they must do things to control the population to ensure a better quality of life for the remaining animals. Rescues, while they may appear to be the most humane option, really only help a few animals, just as the SPCA does. Once rescues are full, the animals they would be taking in are just sent to the SPCA and euthanized anyway. It is agreed there may be some level of corruption in our SPCA, but shutting it down, as some of you have suggested, is not the answer. Getting rid of corrupt people, policies, and practices is the answer; but it is surely not how all animal control officers, humane workers, or any other kind of operation works. Let it be decided by an investigator if the level of inhumanities is really as sever as the public, news papers, or officials are saying.
When the house cleaning of the CCSPCA beings; please push for the new employees to be required to take training classes through NACA. It has inevitably educated myself; as well as other brother and sister officers of the practices and stipulations of animal control.
I am a former no-kill shelter volunteer, and staff and first off would like to say, that any agression towards the animals in a shelter is not at all allowable. Shelters are extremely high stress to the dogs and cats, and a few weeks of being in one can turn the best pet into a an unstable one. Most animals are able to be rehabed for adoption, but some are not, and should be humanely put down. There are far too numerous unwanted animals to be able to help them all, but to sacrifice a peaceful death for money or time is inhumane.
And for the SPCA, Cecil County is not the only one in the area. A former shelter co-worker spent a year at the Berks County Humane Society, and told of similar tales of cruelty from them. I refuse to give details, since my knoweldge is not first hand, but hearing the stories every week…they happened.
Just make sure everyone shows up tomorrow for their meeting at the county building. I’m not a CC resident, but will go anyway.
There will be a Candlelight Vigil at 6:30 pm on Tuesday 1-13-09 held outside of the Budget Meeting at the Cecil County Administration Building, 200 Chesapeake Blvd. Elkton Md. Please join us in honoring the victims of the CCSPCA’s cruelty.
The media will be there and we need your help to evoke change at the CCSPCA.
Please bring candles,any posters or info to support change in the Cecil County SPCA. Let us all fill our cars with supporters and show up in droves to honor the animals and support Delegate Smigiel.
Please remember this is a PEACEFUL VIGIL in memory of the animals harmed by the Cecil SPCA, NOT A PROTEST. Please be respectful and courteous!
The Budget Meeting starts at 7pm and is OPEN to the public. Please plan to stay through the meeting to support Delegate Smigiel and the rest of the attendees as we urge the Commissioners to stop the 674K public funding of the abusive Cecil County SPCA.
Directions: http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Elkton+&state=MD&address=200+Chesapeake+Blvd.
Please contact : ccspcaabuse@gmail.com for further info.
For all who cannot attend, please light a candle:
Click here to see the candle
http://www.gratefulness.org
Candle group: SPCA
Let’s keep this burning!
Thank you for being a voice for the voiceless and most innocent of all-the animals.
To Amy L. above: I appreciate your thoughts and I agree with some of what you’re saying above. I also see why you’d feel like you need to defend being an animal control officer, it’s a tough job. I also apprecate the fact that you are taking it upon yourself to receive proper training. However, before you make statements about Officer Hawkins at the CCSPCA shooting animals and why it’s OK, perhaps you didn’t read about the 20+ cats that he was seen shooting because they were living out in the back of the place? It wasn’t inside the shelter and maybe you missed the pics of the bullet holes in the back shed of the place? Those didn’t take place because the cats were attacking Mr. Hawkins, I’m sure you’d agree.
I think you and anyone else stopping by should search through this entire blog (there is more than just this part of the story) before you draw the conclusion that the public doesn’t understand what happens in animal shelters. Also note, overcrowding was not an issue stated in this case from what I’ve seen, the Director is charged with accomodating her own pets vs. the county’s…
Folks, by the way, this shelter is in fairly good condition, about 10 years old now. I suggest anyone ride by and see what we’re talking about here before making assumptions about the place. The beautiful parcel of land was donated to the county/shelter many, many years ago. The building is large and adequate for the county’s needs. There are over 10 or so acres that could be housing or providing care for lots more animals. Horses, pigs, etc. I’ve been there numerous times. It’s the staff that’s at issue here in my opinion. A new Director, full staff and Board needs to replace the current ones if these charges are found to be true in a court of law.
I find this news very disturbing and think it should be aggressively investigated. I do have a personal story to share regarding an encounter my father and mother had in the fall 2007 with the Cecil County SPCA. Someone had dropped a litter of about 8 kittens off at our residence. We were able to find homes for several and since we already had 4 cats of our own (that had been dropped off years earlier) we were unable to keep these kittens. My dad called the SPCA and they told him they could not come to get the kittens because it was not their job; it was their job to pick up only stray dogs. The person did not identify themselves to my father. He also told my father that he would suggest that Dad put the kittens in a burlap bag and toss them into the canal. This irritated my dad so he and my mother gathered the kittens in a cat carrier and drove the distance to Chesapeake City from Conowingo to take the kittens to the SPCA. Once there they were informed they would have to come back the next day to pick up their cat carrier. My Dad told the guy that he was going to leave there with his carrier even if he had to let the kittens out in the office area. That persuaded the SPCA employee to take the kittens and give the carrier back to my parents. Given our personal experience with the attitude of that SPCA employee, I do not have any hesitation in believing the allegations that we are hearing.Anyone that would treat an animal in the ways mentioned in the allegations deserve to be put in jail.
In response to the article above.
In my opinion, This building is in sound condition, but the building has not been maintained properly inside. Meaning, painting, cleaning and more room for the animals. If there is 10 acres of land here, you could certainly do A LOT more then what they are doing. You could expand the building with proper outside runs, bigger cat rooms and a cleaner environment. You could also have fenced in areas outside for these animals to run freely and be able to go to the bathroom. This would be able to house more animals for adoptions. I agree with removing the current staff members, they should not have the privlage to work in the facility. I have been to the ASPCA in New York City and it is amazing. I wouldn,t be surprised if they have the same budget as the CCSPCA. They have an emergency care van, huge cat rooms, where the cats just roamed in this room with almost 10 other cats. They all had their own cats beds and litter boxes. Also volunteers came in regulary to groom and give them Tender Love, and Care. They also have people come in to walk the dogs in the park. Whenever an animal had an accident, they immediatly cleaned it up. The public was coming in and out of the facility to adopt an animal. They had clean air vents coming in to each dog/cat room. They also were not stuck behind cages, but had a see through glass and had water spickets for each dog room to clean/bath and water the dogs. If CCSPCA was this amazing and clean, who wouldn’t want to adopt an animal? The ASPCA advertising/sponsors was unbelievable and the prices were actually reasonable. They market their animal shelter and want to get these animals into good homes! This facilty was based on volunteering also not paid wages. These people loved animals and wanted to help have a good quality of life while in a shelter. Why cant Cecil County have the same kind of quality shelter with the kind of money they bring in each year? They need to get rid of all the staff members and bring people in who love animals and know how to manage a business/ shelter. You could just do unbelieveable/creative things with 10 acres of land!!! It doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
ASPCA monsters!! These criminals deserve to be punished for such inhumane evil activies they should be in jail. They profit from the ones that they should be protecting. Shooting at them using them for target practice. ASPCA stands for American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, these monsters are just the opposite they get all props the dough and on top of that a great cover up for their outrageous conduct. This is the epitomy of cruelty. The law applies to everyone, why should they get away with murder?? Because animals don’t have a voice! Well, we need to stop this! We can not let this continue we need to be their voices. These monsters deserve to be jailed and get the maximum punishmnet for their actions. Misuse and abuse of goverment funds and grants for their personal benefit. The lies need to stop, their above the law behavior needs to stop . Every single person in the Cecil County ASPCA does not only need to fired from their position they need to pay for their crimes, their cover-up’s and years of abuse to animals. We want JUSTICE, we can not go on blind and deaf to what’s in front of us. Years of abuse…just think how many they have killed and tortured.
i agree , they are murderers.they need jailed ,poor helpless animals.please animal lovers help us fight for the helpless animals to stop the abuse and killing.help get a low cost adoption so possibly animals can be adopted.stop them from profiting for their own greed.we cant let these people keep getting away with these acts.everyone with heart and loves animals join in the fight against those monsters at the spca cecil co. sadened animal lover elkton do the right thing have a voice and help the animals!!!!
Hi My name is Robert G. Matkins i currentley live in perryville as a animal owner myself and a dad i was at work when i herd about this. i work for the fire dep. i so agree that this place of Cruelty not to be called ASPCA should be terminated or closed i hve two cats that i adopted. one i adopted from castle cats in arlington VA. DR. Jane Rice The other i adopted from All Paws AWC DR. mindy Carletti DVM 1098 Principio Furnace Road Perryville MD. 21903 Phone #410-642-6396 i want to help out any way i can for the poor animals im so saddend by this horrifying story i will be attending the candle light Vigil tonight in Honor and memory of the poor animals we must do somthing about this im not going to stand for this and neather should any body elese i will do everything in my power th see this never happens and is stoped forever Thank you for letting me post this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a complete BS story. Prove those pics are from the CCSPCA!!! and furthermore prove they weren’t photoshopped!!! I’ve been to the shelter and know people who work there and I know that this is complete crap.
To Bull this is no BS this is no photoshop you are full of BULL. You say you know them but you may not really know of them or you coulb be just like them. Proof is everywhere you can’t stop it now. The truth will be known and JUSTICE will prevail at the end. You obviously do not know what’s going on.
In response to bull.
If you hadnt noticed, every blog on here has had the same experience at the CCSPCA and if you were actually in this place you would see that these pictures resemble this horrible place.You are the only one with the crap being told. And if this was complete crap, then why is everyone have the same horried story. I mean common sense now people.
In response to Bull:
Your comment is short, which to me proves you have no education and love for animals. I too have been at the shelter, and wonder why those poor dogs are in such small cages? And that urine is everywhere, and that feces are in thier walkout (which is so small)
Hmmmmmm, if I had $674K and 10 acres of mud….I sure would have a beautiful shelter. Huge kennels, fenced areas, volunteers everywhere, dog walkers, people to help play with them…..Music piped thru the shelter….
As far as the pictures, we have many many more! Since YOU brought up the idea about “photoshopped”, is that on the CCSPCA website too???
Get a grip please, and understand the real issues please. This is not about you, this is about hopeless animals that cannot talk, and for the ones that are under the rainbow~
I can personally confirm that pictures 2 and 3 were taken at the CCSPCA. I personally witnessed a number of dead animals in that very crematorium, with the door open just as you see there, with flies all over them and the stench was unbearable. I did not think much about it at the time except that they were obviously sitting around for a long time to be smelling like that. Now I see it is just another example of their incompetence. Not surprising, they can’t even respond to an animal hoarding complaint or do anything about the hundreds of stray cats in this county, so what if they don’t cremate animals in a timely manner.
In response to Bull:
Spoken like a true friend of the animal abusers at CCSPCA. How many people have come forward with their own horror stories. Sorry pal (is that you Hawkins?)you are outnumbered. Oink!
Jean and Jerry,
If only small portions of the alligations are true, you need to resign immediatley.
I do hope that BS is Jerry Hawkins and he is reading. With Nancy’s call for an AG investigation, either she has the outcome already fixed or she’s going to lay it all at your feet. After all, you are the triggerman, with many witnesses. It’s time you came forward and tried to make a deal – ex-cops don’t do so well in prison….
Mike, please delete the previous message – I got the alias wrong.
Thanks
I do hope that Bull is Jerry Hawkins and he is reading. With Nancy’s call for an AG investigation, either she has the outcome already fixed or she’s going to lay it all at your feet. After all, you are the triggerman, with many witnesses. It’s time you came forward and tried to make a deal — ex-cops don’t do so well in prison….
And the CCSPCA is still open? Whats wrong with this picture? EVERYTHING. Shut it down, get those animals who are lucky enough to still be alive into another shelter until this one can be rid of all its EVIL.
JEANNE, JERRY AND SUSAN: THE COUNTY IS CALLING FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE RESIGNATION. YOU SHOULD BE BANNED FROM EVER OWNING OR WORKING WITH ANIMALS AGAIN.
As for the photos in question above, I volunteered there for many months and there is nothing “photo-shopped” about them. Let me add that they failed to show the fact that on any given day, there are 3 large commercial size garbage cans of crushed animal bones out back by the incinerator. If you don’t beleive it, drive over there. Not to mention the cats in carriers sitting by the back door with cans of old tuna that stunk just waiting on their fate. That’s everyday I was there. Now, yes, those garbage cans could have just been sitting there for that long, but I think they were probably emptied at least once a week, wouldn’t you agree.
Sounds like some serious house-cleaning and a FULL investigation is needed here. Where is all the money going, if not to the animals?
We adopted a cat from the CCSPCA back in July. When we decided to go to the shelter to adopt a cat we expected the animals to be pretty healthy. That’s not what we found. We didn’t choose our cat she chose us. She was not the type of cat I was expecting to find at the SPCA. I was planning on adopting a healthy happy cat. She was so skinny you could see and feel every bone in her body. She looked really bad. I felt really bad for her and wanted to adopt her so I could love her and make her all better. At the time I didn’t suspect the SPCA had done this to her. There were about 5 other cats and at least 3 of them looked pretty healthy. I asked the guy who helped us why she was so skinny and he told us she came from a bad home about 2 weeks earlier. He gave us our paperwork (rabies vac., spayed papers etc.)and sent us on our way. It wasn’t until we were home and I was reading over her paperwork that I realized she was at the SPCA for 2 months prior to my adopting her. I wondered if he lied to me or he just made a mistake? Why would he tell us she was only there 2 weeks when she was there for so much longer? I was suspicious but I didn’t do anything because I was taking care of her now. After we had her about a week she started to gain weight and you could tell. Each day you could feel and see less of her bones. After a month she looked perfectly healthy. She was at the SPCA for 2 months. There’s no reason she should have looked so bad if they were taking proper care of her. After reading all this I am no longer just suspicious. I believe that she was in that condition because she was at the SPCA for so long.
I think we shouldn’t have to wait for their resignations. They should all be fired and then prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
I was on the board of the Cecil County SPCA in 2003. Jeanne Deeming, the Director, and Nancy Schwerzler, President of the Board, controlled the operations of the organization in a very secretive manner. When I pushed for greater transparency particularly in the financial area, I was told the information I was asking about was none of my business. When I continued to push the issue, they arranged to have me removed from the board that year. I am not surprised at what is surfacing.
I find this story apalling. This is not a place helping animals…it is HELL on earth!
This place needs closed and the owners and employees fined and jailed for the atroocities that have occured here.
Sick em!
ENOUGH !!! TESTAMONY THAT IS THERE FROM PEOPLE WITH NO AXE TO GRIND. TAX MONEY–SPCA MONEY–CONTRIBUTIONS –HOW CAN WE ACHEIVE ACCOUNTABILITY WHAT MORE IS NECESSARY.
SOME ONE IN AUTHORITY PLEASE REPLY WITH NEEDS OR AN ACTION PLAN.
Dear Mr. Smigiel:
Thank you for bringing these allegations to light.
I am a resident of Baltimore County and have always cared for strays and volunteered for animal welfare with various organizations.
Wouldn’t an aggressive audit of this organization’s finances be helpful in wresting control of animal welfare work in the county away from these terrible people?
What has to happen to get rid of this corrupt and evil crew? How can I help, even though I don’t live in the county? Is all the money county money, or does some of it come from the State?
Thank you.
Lori K. Brown
Catonsville, MD
I like everyone else is truly horrified by the incidents that haven taken place at the SPCA that are now coming to light, although I must say I am not really all that surprised.
I have had several bad experiences with them and based on what I am hearing now I am wondering about one of them in particular.
I was bitten by a stray cat in my neighborhood and ended up on an overnight stay in the hospital and undergoing rabies shots. I contacted the SPCA after the fact because 2 days later the cat was still in the neighborhood. They were very dismisive and quite rude and told me it was there policy not to pick up cats, even if the cat has bitten someone and could quite possibly have rabies. I was then told that if I trapped the cat myself, then they would come out and pick it up. Needless to say, I found it really hard to believe what they were telling me but what are you going to do when they refuse to help you. Does anyone know if this policy is accurate, or perhaps it was just a matter of they didn’t want to be bothered.
I was at the SPCA today just to take a look around and see what was going on. I have been to the SPCA many times and today was the ONLY time I was greeted in a nice way. The place was clean, a guy was making sure the dogs had water and letting some out to use the bathroom. The size of the kennels sill amazes me though. All and all the place and people were nice for a change. I cant belive that people can change like this at the flip of a switch. Cause like I said before I have been many times and the people were down right rude……Oh and by the way you can find that nice new SUV hiding behind the shelter…..WHY HIDE?????
I am concerned that the investigation through Chris Eastridge’s office (410-996-5335) is a CONFLICT of interest due to Keith Baynes. He says “we are liars”. This investigation needs to be done OUT OF CECIL. We need to take it to Harford County!
Keith Baynes needs to remember that he runs for Judge every election, don’t you all think we will remember this when we VOTE?????
CALL 410-996-5335 and get the investigation to Harford County, MD. We will NEVER get a FAIR investigation in this county!!
1-15-09
5:35pm
Fact Of Life:
Do and say what you like, maybe it will help.
The horrible truth is that, as much good as you ThinK your doing, in reality, its not really doing a whole lot. Just because you might bring down or shut down one or two kennels due to lack of, well, every thing, wont stop the thousands more that are around the country. Its kind of like a bully. No matter where you go, there will ALWAYS be a bully around. Same thing with these sort of kennels. No matter what you do or where you go, there will ALWAYS be horrible people and horrible kennels.
Its a fact of life. Deal with it how ever youd like. (But it wont make much of a difference)
Thumbs Up and Good Luck.
In reponse to Scott aka Thumbs Up:
You are exactly right, the TRUTH is reality and YES; WE WILL GET something done, other then have a kennel or 2 shut down. You are missing the point, sorry to say. If a non-profit org. is funded 674K not including other donations, and ANY, and I mean ANY type of abuse is going on, then it is time to DISMISS the entire staff and BOARD!!
True, we have a bully, quite a few actually, and the time has come for them to be put back down in their place and no longer be associated with the CCSPCA….PERIOD~
Horrible people are everwhere Scott, but it is the WONDERFUL people like “US” that will step up and the ones that will keep going until the horrible people are GONE!
Have a great evening!
In reponse to the poster above “At the SPCA Today”…
Your posting says “I was at the SPCA today just to take a look around and see what was going on. I have been to the SPCA many times and today was the ONLY time I was greeted in a nice way. The place was clean, a guy was making sure the dogs had water and letting some out to use the bathroom. The size of the kennels sill amazes me though. All and all the place and people were nice for a change. I cant belive that people can change like this at the flip of a switch.”
And, beyond the reports of the wonderful turn out at the meeting on Tuesday night, this is one of the few pieces of GOOD news I’ve read on this blog in a week. Even if it’s only temporary and most certainly NEW – to hear that the animals currently housed at the CCSPCA may be enjoying some good days warms my heart on this very very cold day.
It does however speak to what must be happening at the shelter in response to all of this. If it has made them stop and look at how they’ve been treating their animals and affects even ONE positive change, I’d say the concerned citizens of Cecil County are winning battles that will hopefully lead to winning the war against the wrong doings that got you here in the first place.
I continue to hold you all in my warm thoughts.
Val H.
Delaware
There are not enough words to express how disgusted I am that this is taking place!! I live in Harford County, MD and am appalled that our neighboring county employs such merciless people at their animal shelter. I only pray that this is stopped immediately! These people need to be fired and held accountable for their horrific actions.
um is anyone eles confused wiyh last(official post) you mean to tell me they did have the spca meeting last nite? wtf!?- wtf! can someone explain to me please. guess I’m another stupid cecil county citizen – well show nancy how stupid we are in the end!Watch what happens tommorow, The rest of the world will see the tv news and will see the poor innocent animals being con-deemed to death! (good one huh?) I’m pissed off
In response to Scott, if everyone were like you to sit back and say why bother nothing will happen there would be so much wrong going on in this country. Individuals stand up for what they believe and know what’s right. People pull together at a time of need, and this is certainly a time of need for animals that do not have a voice. However, it is not only the animals, it the taxpayers of Cecil County. Our tax money has gone to and for what, abuse, neglect….the bullets that killed innocent animals who didn’t have a chance at life. Maybe if Cecil County corrects the problem here, other counties will look at there shelters more and animals everywhere will be taken care of. Everyone opinion matters and that is your opinion, but think of the good that can come from this.
To Lynn (comment 92) – I suggest you make a visit to the public shelter in YOUR county. I was in both the Cecil and Harford shelters on the same day in August of this year, and conditions at the Harford shelter worse than those in Cecil, in terms of the living quarters the dogs are in.
Regarding the Cecil shelter – the conditions there are not ideal, given the age of the faciilty, but on that visit, as well as on a previous visit in the fall of 2006, I saw no evidence that the animals there were not being cared for.
I will write more later about my experience in adopting a dog from them in August; however, at the time, I found the shelter workers who dealt with me helpful and caring.
I did find it a bit disturbing (as well as unprofessional) that they couldn’t or wouldn’t give me ANY information as to how he got to the shelter in the first place, and that they left a previous adopter’s contact information, including driver’s lic number, on his rabies certificate.
Also, I strongly question the fact that the shelter has seperate websites and seperate fees for purebred dogs vs mixed, and that about a third of the shelter’s runs appear to be dedicated to a breed rescue for English Setters.
NO other shelter I know of has such a practice.
I SAY FIRE ALL OF THEM START ANEW, MAYBE THIER SALARIES SHOULD BE REDUCED AND HIRE A STATE INSPECTOR TO MAKE UNANNOUCED INSPECTIONS OF EACH SHELTER THERE-BY NOT GIVING THEM AN OPPORTUNITY TO CLEAN UP THEIR ACTS.
Cecil county is so friggin’ back woods it isn’t even funny. I have lived here for 6 years and this place is unbelievable. Seriously, I hope the attorney general (for the state not the county) investigates these allegations.
I know one thing and that dude that works at the desk is the rudest person I have EVER met. That alone worried me about what was going on there. It’s truly like they did not even WANT to find homes for the animals. The vet is a totally weirdo and that front desk guy is BEYOND ignorant. If nothing else, get some friendly people who actually like animals.
But, hey it’s Cecil County – good luck with that.
Deep Deep down in my gut, I feel this will go away, with some changes. However, this fear would go away, if the RIGHT PLAYERS-get the right people to do the right thing. What do YOU think??
Very proud of Mr. Smigiel for putting this out, and applaud the ones who came forward to tell their stories. Some of you, I know it was very hard, and my heart goes out to you!
So know what? The news took the story, and still NOTHING has happened.
What do we do to get the Cecil County gov’t, law enforcement, etc… UP AND DO SOMETHING!!
That nancy chick, is a trainwreck!!! And I think the famous VET is a NUT CASE, and he KNOWS!!!
WHO IS PROECTING WHO????
That is the question everyone!!
Okay, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE listen to me!!!
EVERYONE that had a bad experience, you need to REPORT this ASAP!! One of our Bloggers named “B”, sent this out twice. It is very important that you do this. I know the pain of what happened is bad, yet in the long run, you will need it!!
http://www.mda.state.md.us/animal_health/vetboard/filing_complaint.php
Also:
Rumor has it, that good, teary eyed Gregory Mark McDermott may not be a TRUE/LICENCED VET. Now, if this come out to be true, look out Nancy, Jean & Hawkins….I would RUN!!!!!!!
STATE BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EXAMINERS
Licensing Verification/Letter of Good Standing
A request for licensure verification, or a letter of good standing, must be made in writing to the Board. Please include your name and license number (if a veterinarian) or registration number (if a veterinary technician). If the State to which the verification shall be sent has a form for completion, please remit it to the Maryland Board with your request.
The fee is $15 and may be made payable in the form of a check or money order. The fee must accompany the request, or the request will not be processed.
I have been a resident of CC for 21 years now. I my 21 years here I can honestly say that any calls I made to the SPCA for help were a waste of time. Eventually I stopped trying to get help from them. Any time I had been to the facility I was first greeted by a smell of urine, then by an unfriendly,hatefull,miserable staff. I could probably type for hours about these experiences, not to mention those of friends and family members. On one occasion (years ago)I called the SPCA and stated that I wanted to donate a gift certificate from my pet sitting business to be auctioned of at their Black Tie Galla event. I never got a call back in response to my offer of a donation. I operate a small dog rescue from my home. I made a phone call to them when I first started my rescue to ask if I wanted to pull a dog from them instead of it being euthanized would I have to pay the $175 adoption fee? I was told yes, my rescue would have to pay the full fee even thought the dog was going to be destroyed anyway!!!!!!!!! Being involved in dog rescue I have had the fortunate opportunity to speak to many different people who also are involved with dog rescue. And with knowing and speaking to all those people I have NEVER known of anyone else (besides Ms.Demming) who is involved with dog rescue that is also a breeder. Most rescue people I know are oppposed to breeding because there ars so many dogs in this world aready that are in need of homes. It is so sicking to know that there are dogs that are being housed there (SPCA) that shouldn’t be,(that were rushed out the back door before tv cameras came in) and are taking up spaces that should be used for abandoned and unwanted dogs. Now is the time for change and justice. The time to stand up and say enough is enough. And finally, Ms.Swerlitzer (spelling?)has contacted the ASPCA and HSUS to initiate investigations to prove their innocense against all the accusations? I am sure that the facility is now spotless, the dogs actually have blankets and toys,food and H2o,staff members have been practicing smiling and being friendly, and her calls were perfectly timed. Kudos. But KAHRMA IS A _ _ _ _ _!!!!!!! We need to get rid of all of them, all at the SPCA and the board. Thank God animal cruelty is now a FEDERAL OFFENSE in MD.
In reference to post 99:
The Maryland state vet board has a list of currently licensed vets. Dr. McDermott does have a vet license. His number is 5479.
The entire list of certified vets is here:
http://www.mda.state.md.us/animal_health/vetboard/current_vets_09.pdf
I am very upset about the abuse that has taken place at the SPCA. It is shocking to see that this could possibly go on. That being said, I don’t think that Dr. McDermott is a monster. I took 2 of my cats to him to get neutered. We also went to his vaccination clinic several times. Each time we visited his office, he was never there. We always had to wait, sometimes 30 minutes or more for an appointment. That leads me to think that Dr. McDermott might not have been aware that this was taking place. He seemed like he knew what he was doing. He seemed very overwhelmed and rushed. That was the only problem with him that I saw. He did seem to genuinely care.
I hope that we can get to the bottom of all of this. I just wish we could get the rest of those poor animals out of there asap. It’s scary to think that the “animal control” officers are running around Cecil County. If you can do these unspeakable things to defenseless animals, and not have any remorse or feeling, you are a psycho who needs to be behind bars. People should be afraid of what you are capable of.
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There are LOTS of breeders involved in rescue. Most breed rescues enjoy the support of their parent AKC breed club. Most responsible breeders help with their breed rescue. Heck, we have breeders who are members of our board of directors. Most rescues/rescuers don’t subscribe to the PETA doctrine that all breeders are evil.
Most breeders don’t operate their buisness out of an SPCA taxpayer sponsored facility. Most breeders don’t bring their dogs into the animal shelter preventing other animals from being able to be housed and thus needing to be euthenized.
Animal abuse should be a warning sign. It’s time for tougher cruelty laws! It’s time to stop thinking “oh, it’s only a dog…” Yeah, THIS time…
The below was taken from http://www.pet-abuse.com Please see the website for further reading.
According to a 1997 study done by the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and Northeastern University, animal abusers are five times more likely to commit violent crimes against people and four times more likely to commit property crimes than are individuals without a history of animal abuse.
Many studies in psychology, sociology, and criminology during the last 25 years have demonstrated that violent offenders frequently have childhood and adolescent histories of serious and repeated animal cruelty. The FBI has recognized the connection since the 1970s, when its analysis of the lives of serial killers suggested that most had killed or tortured animals as children. Other research has shown consistent patterns of animal cruelty among perpetrators of more common forms of violence, including child abuse, spouse abuse, and elder abuse. In fact, the American Psychiatric Association considers animal cruelty one of the diagnostic criteria of conduct disorder.
If you break it down to its bare essentials:
“Abusing an animal is a way for a human to find power/joy/fulfillment through the torture of a victim they know cannot defend itself.”
Now break down a human crime, say rape. If we substitute a few pronouns, it’s the SAME THING.
“Rape is a way for a human to find power/joy/fulfillment through the torture of a victim they know cannot defend themselves.”
Now try it with, say, domestic abuse such as child abuse or spousal abuse:
“Child abuse is a way for a human to find power/joy/fulfillment through the torture of a victim they know cannot defend themselves.”
Do you see the pattern here?
The line separating an animal abuser from someone capable of committing human abuse is much finer than most people care to consider. People abuse animals for the same reasons they abuse people. Some of them will stop with animals, but enough have been proven to continue on to commit violent crimes to people that it’s worth paying attention to.
Also see The Humane Society website regarding animal cruelty and human violence:
http://www.hsus.org/hsus_field/first_strike_the_connection_between_animal_cruelty_and_human_violence/index.html
“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” ~Will Rogers
In response to CJ:
I have been in rescue for 15+ years, and breeders do not use non-profit/citizens money to fund for thier hobby! I, personally do not entertain any relationships with bredders in rescue. The point is to help adopt the ones that need a good home, not to make money on the poor souls!!
In this situation, Cecil county does have an inssue where the director uses the “taxpayers” faculity for her to breed and use the runs for personal use and money!
She needs to be the first to go!!!
Mr. Delegate Smigiel: my statement was not in any way condoning or excusing what is alleged to have occurred at CCSPCA. I merely wished to point out that, contrary to the prior poster’s assertion, many responsible breeders are involved in rescue, and most rescues welcome the assistance and input of breeders. As far as CCSPCA goes – I am reserving my judgement until an investigation and, if necessary, trial occurs. Until then, I will not participate in a trial and conviction by public opinion, especially when only one side of the story is being told. The America I believe in doesn’t work that way.
Ms. Bass – it is unfortunate that you choose to ignore a possible source of assistance for your rescue efforts. But that is your choice. As far as CCSPCA – see my response #106.
to cj #106- this is a large number of citizens who have come forward- please realize that its not a mear coincidence that so many people have come together with there personal heartbroken stories, or have witnessed horrific acts of animal torture. You may not be aware of this but there have been many charges against the spca and staff for just that! ANIMAL TORTURE. This whole county isn’t fibbing. So keep this in your mind. I’m not in anyway attacking you for your comment, I held my dog in my arms as she died. You didn’t hear her painful cries, you didn’t look in her eyes as she gave her last kiss, and you damn sure didn’t see the beautiful life leave her helpless body! It was thier fault- as admitted by them. So yes, you can call me personally when the convictions are handed down as well as the rest of you non belivers – that which are few!
Hi CJ:
I read your comment to Mr Smigiel. I have no misfortune what so ever! I am very happy that I have saved many lives, and rescued so many animals, that have awesome homes. If the CCSPCA was different, maybe I would have reached out to them for help. But I use other shelters that do, and they do a fantastic job! And…..not at the cost of $674K~
I fell as though you may be missing what is happening here. I am a citizen that has reported so many abuse cases “in the field”, that never was taken care of. It is very frustrating. I even asked owners to surrender their pets, so I could foster them and find them good homes. Some did, and some did not!
So, back to the point: We are fighting for the lives of animals that have been abused in the hands of the CCSPCA…PERIOD!!
THis has nothing to do with breeding, SHAME on JEAN DEEMING for using a taxpayers faculity to breed her dogs, it is BS!!
Ms. Snellings-Barber – If the alleged activities did, in fact, occur, they are heinous and the perpetrators deserve to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. However, so far, all I have seen is allegations from people posting on a blog and that, for me, is not enough to string ‘em up. Excuse me for wanting to let the process play out. I will get out of y’alls way now and let the burning of the witches commence.
CJ, what more do you want?? There are not 1 or 2 stories floating around, there are many, very similar stories with facts to back them up. They are not rumors or hear say. Have you been to any of the gatherings or meetings? Have you talked to the people face to face? I have heard the stories and not through the grape vine. I saw pictures of cats and dogs mistreated. As they say, a picture says a thousand words. Yes, I believe this is really happening.
cj- probobly a good idea. my parents tought me opinions are like ass*#@*# everybodys got one. And to belive none of what you hear and half of what your told, so I can possibly see your opinions and views. But since it appears you need to look at FACTS- then delegate Smigiel has them. If you need proof, its real and its out there contact Delegate Smigiel if your so inclined and have an obvious opinion (ass*#@!*) everybodys got one. Not sure why you can question real proof – but hey go find out. The sad part is it looks as though you are losing site of the real picture- the animals protection. not your animal breeding ethics . I have proof my sweet mollys dead, and they admitted guilt. There have been many others who have filed charges years before this. Look that up too! I hope you or your sweet pets never have to go through this pain at the hands of such evil- Guess you have to experience such proof to have proof.
This only makes me wonder if I did the right thing by taking my dog to the shelter to be put down. He was very aggresive to all but me and he was a stray, but I had him 6 months and worked with him to calm him down. I got his shots and had him neutered also. They asked me if I wanted to stay while they put him down but it was so heart wrenching for me to let him go I would not stay. Now I wish I had…. Bringing to a conclusion of a stray that came to my home a day or so later. He was a pit bull and I could not keep him because my dogs did not get along with him. Being an avid member of the HSUS and the no kill policy it now makes me wonder where this dog is now…. As of now I truly believe they did not do what is the routine exam and see if he is aggresive and try to find him a home. He was a good lovable dog that just needed a home which I could not give because I have 2 recues myself… I would just like to know if this dog found a home or did they commit the obvious MURDER of another animal that did not deserve to die…. He was a black and white pit bull and I would surely like to know if anyone could find out.
Crying for a Cause….
Leslie Joline
If you will tell us when you went to the SPCA I will ask the employee who was doing the euthanasias if she redcalls you or your dog.
Perhaps CJ would also like to write to the Whig about their one-sided coverage, since he’s being so fair.
In response to Italian Chef,
I am laughing so hard right now, I sure needed that, thanks!!
P.S. I AGREE~Let’s give CJ Terry P’s direct #
ok i didnt make the meetings but i wish i could of.im in support for the animals.so whats happening now?
oh by the way i am the girl from mcdonalds protest.anything i can help with.let me know.my thoughts and prayers are with all in favor of putting a stop to this animal cruelty.im tryin to keep up but wasnt able to come to last meeting because work.keep me informed.missemiss23@aol.com thanks
Why has it taken so long for these picures to be made public? The exterior shots clearly show green leaves on trees and we are now in the dead of winter.
Why didn’t some of the people posting on this thread express their outrage earlier? Am I missing something?
Horrible, disgusting. Isn’t the state agriculture department responsible for monitoring these hellholes…or is it the county’s health department? Either way…heads need to roll. Sickening.
I am a resident of Queen Annes County, Md. I would like to express my anger and frustration over the events at the CCSPCA. I am an animal lover and caretaker and have 3 doggies of my own. They are truly my angels. I wish to communicate my feelings to Jeanne A. Deeming of Warwick, MD(Director of the CCSPCA), Jerry L. Hawkins of North East, MD and Susan Maldonado. They are truly EVIL people and deserve to be punished and I hope they will be. Not only should they never be able to own an animal they should have serve a prison sentence. I sure hope that I am called for that Jury Duty, I would want the maximum sentence. How about LIFE? that is what I think they should get.
To all the poor animals that had to pass through those doors, May you rest in Peace. Oh one more thing Mr. Hawkins, you are NO better than a piece of trash laying in the Gutter. May you get what is coming to you. Remember, YOU will pay the price of your actions one Day. CASE CLOSED !
To Catherine:
Yes, this has been going on for a long time and the coverup was widespread. This only came to light because after months of trying to get this dealt with directly, and, that failing, then trying to get the story out, where many news organizations would not take the story, Mike Smigiel started this blog to circumvent the censorship of the media. Write to WBAL and ask them how long ago they knew of this. The leaves were “on the trees” then.
At last night’s Commissioner’s meeting, a veterinarian (whose anme I missed) courageously came forward to tell the Commissioners that their predecessors knew about this over 10!!!! years ago.
Apparently, the needs of the old boy network were put above the law and the good of the animals and citizens.
Hi Catherine,
I have tried for 4 years (on my own) to do something, and I am just talking about “in the field”. I have so many reports, emails, statements of animal neglect, abuse, etc…and the CC SPCA did NOTHING!!!!
Please look at Canal Blog. It has updated pictures of animals that I have reported EIGHT TIMES! The rottie has frost on him!
They know and have known for YEARS!!!!
Once I tired to deliever food and water and was told if I ever go back, I would be arrested! This came from a Deputy. I was only trying to help! The CC SPCA still has NOT done one damn thing to help
We adopted an adorable 3 mo. old Newfoundland mix from the SPCA in July. When I asked to be able to take her to the “get acquainted” room I was told it was a mess and that I needed to look at her in the aisle way. She had just been spayed and only just then available for adoption. They said given the opportunity, she would jump up on me so be careful. All she really wanted to do was lay down. For some reason, I just couldn’t leave her there, even though I had originally gone there with my daughter to find her boyfriend a dog and no intention to get one for myself. I filled out the paperwork, expecting a delay to check out my credentials, however, within a few minutes they said OK. The poor baby reeked of urine and I was told not to get her near water for 5 more days. We took her home in the car and Sophie (as she is now named)only wanted to sleep. Once home she immediately began to cough, kennel cough, and we called the SPCA doctor and got a few pills that were supposed to help. Well, they didn’t and poor Sophie developed pneumonia. My son-in-law literally carried her into our vet where we left her for three days. Our vet told me despite all their actions, we could still lose her! Well, they pulled her through, to which I will be eternally grateful. Of course, the bill was $1000.00 but we paid it. (this included additional medicine for our other two dogs as kennel cough is very contagious). Later we found out that Sophie’s kennel mate also developed kennel cough. I always held this SPCA in high regard but no more. We love this pup and cannot believe what a fantastic dog she is turning into! I only hope she was not mistreated during her stay there.
Most of the staff there we found to be very uncourteous to us. Come on guys, you should at least love animals and at least tolerate humans to do your job! (I also noticed quite a few setter type dogs at this SPCA, later learning that the director had a fondness for this type breed, bet they were never treated badly!) We love our three dogs so much, even taking them with us almost always. Fortunately we are self-employed so they do go to work with us!
To:
Jennifer Snellings-Barber or anyone planning a protest/meeting/rally etc., if you haven’t done one yet and are planning to do it at another time or are planning to do something at a later date. Contact me at SHOPGIRL1911@HOTMAIL.COM
I want to be there. Justice will be served !
There is a silent protest planned for Saturday, January 24th at 11:30am located at the same place as before (Route 40 and; 213). I think the more people we can get out there, the more our words will get across to people. Also, if it is cold we need extra people if someone needs to go thaw out in McDonalds (haha). Feel free to come out and let the citizens of Cecil County know where and what happen to taxpayers money and put a stop to the cruelty that those heartless, lower than dirt people did. I will have a couple extra signs as well.
My mother, Mary, wrote the post above and I still remember the day we took Sophie to the vet with GREEN coming out of her nose. I beg you all to please email the Cecil County commisioners and beg them to reform the animal control laws in the county and to help with this investigation.
Brian Lockhart blockhart@ccgov.org
W. Tome wtome@ccgov.org
R. Hodge rhodge@ccgov.org
Please remember, Cecil County taxpayers money goes towards the SPCA!!!
Thank you every one yes we are gathering on sat (posted I believe) call me anytime. 443-466-3110. We will save the animals, together we can make it happen. I couldn’t save my molly, but I we can save others!
NEW SILENT PROTEST!!!
When: Saturday, 1/24/09 at 11:30am-12:30pm
Where: Corners at Rt 40 & Rt 213 (McDonalds & Burger King) This is where we did the other one.
What to bring: Signs with SPCA Board and; Employees NAMES on it; and DEMAND REMOVAL NOW!!
See you there!!
P.S. News has been notified!
melanie i want to be at the protest but i have a class allday sat for my job.i will hopefully be able to attend another one.
I say we post signs on the lawn in front of Jeanne and; Jerry’s houses that say:
“ANIMAL KILLERS RESIDE HERE”
what do you think????
I want too see them squirm !
Could you post some pics of your event on Saturday, I would be there beleive me if I wasn’t scheduled to work.
Let me know next time ok.
Let me know when the next protest is and I would like to be there too. Email me at joline1160@zoominternet.net
Thanks, Leslie
This Is All So0o Completely Crazy me considering I have taken just about every cat and kitten that has given birth under my home to the ASPCA , I can’t believe insted of treating the animals they’re Killing them. This is completely and Utterly Rediculious.
North East , MD
Tiffany Seward
Dear Mike,
Can you please post this where everyone can see this?
Silent Protest on Saturday, 1/24/09 at 11:30am
Where: corners of Rt 40 and Rt 213 (McDonalds and Burger King)
What to bring: Signs asking for dismissal of SPCA board, SPCA staff, etc….
News contacted and will come to shoot the pictures and on going story
In response to Susan:
Post#130: I am with you! Cruella De Ville pictures with hers next to it~
We will take pictures tomorrow, and most likely they will be on the Canal Blog.
We can ask Mike to put them up too
Unfortunately I have a prior commitment that I cannot cancel, but I will be at the next one! Please post here when the next one will be. Thank you.
Tiffany please contact a local TNR group to have the cats at your home spayed and neutered!
will be there tomorrow… Where is everyone meeting?
On the corners with our signs! Demanding the SPCA employees be fired and the SPCA president resign, or get voted off NOW!!
I just wanted to clarify that Cecil County SPCA is in no way affiliated with the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or the Maryland SPCA. If the conditions are as bad as so many people are reporting, the CCSPCA should certainly be shut down and the people responsible should go to jail. However, I think that as a result, the ASPCA is getting a lot of bad press and I fear that most people don’t know that this is NOT the same organization. I volunteer with the Maryland SPCA (located in Baltimore) and they do a fantastic job of caring for their animals. Each SPCA is individually operated by an independent board. So, when you give donations to the ASPCA or the Maryland SPCA, that money is in no way benefiting the CCSPCA. Funds donated to the ASPCA generally go to public education and legislative reform efforts. Please continue to support the ASPCA and other local SPCAs in their valiant and legitimate efforts to prevent animal cruelty.
Maybe you should talk to all of the employees who have left the SPCA and ask them why? I have a friend who worked there and has information and photo’s of things that went on there. She was so tired of the treatment of the animals she left.
To Lori Covert:
We would love to talk to everyone, please have them contact Mr Smigiel, have them post on this site. Have them protest with us on Saturday, these people tried before, and NO ONE listened.
Now, we have the attention, and tell them to please take the opportunity to share and prove that they tried to get thier voices heard, and NO ONE HELPED.
We are the VOICES of these precious animals, that have died and suffered due to these people!
sign the petition if u havent already!!!www.care2.com,pass it along thanks!!!
sorry i missed the protest.when’s the next one?
Wanted to share: On the Commissioners Website:
Commissioners’ Meetings
Jan 27, 2009
9:00 am
• Commissioners Worksession – TOPIC: Animal Control in Cecil County
200 Chesapeake Blvd., Suite 2100
Elkton, MD 21921
Okay gang,
It is time to call Mr. Hodge. He keeps insisting on a “taskforce”, for what?? We know the issues, he knows the issues~
Where is the minutes the the “closed meeting”. We have asked for this many times. Also:
1. Who was in the closed meeting?
2. Who attended the meeting and what was said?
3. Why did Moore sit outside?
4. Where are the minutes to this closed meeting?
5. Why did Hodge meet with the former board of director; Ms Ford? ~ Is he interfering with this investigation?
Here is his cell number: 443-553-1517
I cant make the meeting tomorrow I have to go to the State police barracks and talk to someone about the shooting of TE TE by MR JERRY HAWKINS. So please for give me for not being there. But I cant miss this appointment. Just pray to GOD and he will help.
Delegate, if you have received numerous complaints for what appears years, why didn’t you investigate earlier??? Perhaps some of this madness could have been stopped. I remember calling SPCA about 2 dogs I found that were obviously lost. Both were well cared for. One was old and the other was a German Shephard. The handler that picked them up showed extreme interest in the Shephard but absolutely no concern for the older dog. This haunted me and, after sleeping on it, I telephoned the SPCA the next day, they didn’t have any info./record of the dogs (either one). What happened to them?
I have to say the I would be happy to be the Director of the SPCA. 95K and a take home care for doing nothing sounds pretty good to me. If she were a drug dealer, we’d seize their property and sell it.
This is so horrbile! I *used* to take both my dogs to the SPCA regilarly to get their shots. I always wondered why everyone was SO mean. The only nice person in there was Erin. She was always so sweet with my dogs and I always requested her to give my dogs shots… thank goodness!! I do remember though one time I was there and the “vet” cut my dogs nails. He acted like he had never done it before. Such a simple procedure. I had to hold my dog and finally he bit the “vet”. I was so aggitated I finally told him to stop after two paws. Of course I got charged for all four paws… any way it was when the vet walked out of the room and I gathered my things I noticed how disgusting the room was. There was a horrible mold smell and the table that my dog was on actually had BLOOD on it… my dog was NOT bleeding… I never said anything, but just decided I would ask where Erin was before I left. They informed me she was “fired”…. It was then I decided not to ever go back. And I will never go back untill this is taken care of!! I would quit my job to work there if they gave me the chance!! I have no experience in the vet field, but as much love as I have for animals I would keep the place clean and make sure every animal had food and water and was taken care of properly until they were adopted!! You truly have to be evil to not help an animal in need… I hope justice comes and they all get fired. And when they do, I would volunteer now just because I know that then there will be people who will actually care for these animals. Its sad that so many animals have been lost there, but hopefully their deaths will save many others in the near future!!
I think that those people are stupid and retarted!!!!!!! MAKE THEM STOP
MAYBE ONE OF THE REBUBLICAN SENATORS WOULD LIKE TO HEAR HOW THE COMMISSIONERS ARE NOT DOING THERE JOB!!
HERE IS THE CONTACT INFO:
NANCY JACOBS
Republican, District 34, Cecil & Harford Counties
James Senate Office Building, Room 403
11 Bladen St., Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 841-3158, (301) 858-3158
1-800-492-7122, ext. 3158 (toll free)
e-mail: nancy.jacobs@senate.state.md.us
fax: (410) 841-3400, (301) 858-3400
EMERGENCY NOTICE!! : I saved a young (1yr?)yellow lab in town of elkton. she was hit by TWO cars . I carried her three blocks to my car, where I drove to Melanies vet in oxford pa. She just brought a stray that she saved after being hit by a car as well! If anyone is missing this sweet girl please call me asap! She’s just a little sore and needs a GOOD home. I put ad in whig too. 443-466-3110.
Jennifer, you and Melanie are angels for those dogs. Thank you so much for taking care of them. I can not make this Saturday’s protest. I have plans I can’t change. I will be thinking of you guys, stay warm and safe.
Jen & Melanie:
Thank you for taking care of the dogs that were hit by cars.
Melanie, I cannot believe no one else helped you with carrying
the dog 3 blocks. These two dogs will be so ever grateful to the both of you. I hope good homes are found for these dogs.
Tomorrow, my daughter and I will meet up with you all at
Burger King. I hope we all have a good day!!!
In response to Kathy, Here is the story from Canal Side: (Jen and I called each other at exactly 5:14pm, with 2 dogs that were hit by cars and we took care of)
A very strange thing happened yesterday in Cecil County. Two of my friends witnessed two different stray dogs get hit by cars. Not so odd perhaps, except it was at the exact same time of day. The two women called me and each other and anyone else who might be able to help.They were both frantic and upset. This was during yesterday’s rush hour.
Here is an edit of Ms Melanie Bass’ first person account from yesterday’s events…..
“As Jennifer and I said good bye after a quick lunch in Elkton, we departed. She went her way and I went mine.
While driving home, I witnessed a small old dog get hit by a car on Biggs hwy, No one stopped. I stopped traffic and put my car in the middle of the lane. A school bus stopped as well. I sat in the middle of the road to comfort the dog. Of course, people were beeping for me to move, and I would not budge. The dog was crying and I was able to move him to the side of the road. A wonderful and kind State Trooper, who was off duty, offered to help. He called the SPCA and they were closed. He said he had an emergency number, and of course…no answer!!!
He called my vet in PA for me and they said “come on in”. The dog was old, thin, full of flies, and was hurt due to the car hit. The vet and his techs were so compassionate! Knowing this was an old dog, the SPCA would most likely just thrown it in a kennel until the vet could get to it, and who knows the end result. My vet offered to help immediately!
Meanwhile, Jen was in Elkton chasing a yellow lab mix that she witnessed get hit twice. NO ONE stopped. She was yelling at cars, just like me.
Jenn called me and I called her at exactly 5:14pm.
Serendipity????
When I came home, I called her (not knowing she had left me messages regarding the dog she found) She was crying and frantic, had this dog in her car, and didn’t know what to do or where to go. She had almost no gas left in her car and very little money.
I called my vet. They could not believe it! They stayed open late and waited for me. (note: we had called Middletown Animal Hospital in Delaware and were told the doctor was just leaving)
Jenn brought the dog to my house, and we drove AGAIN to my vet in Oxford.
My vet has named the dogs: Stray 1 and Stray 2.
Guess how much for the final bill folks? $152.00. This included emergency service, fluids, food, and overnight stay!!”
One of the dogs was elderly and will probably not make it. The other dog, a young black lab that had obviously escaped from an abusive situation, will need a good home. Thanks to these two angels for the dogs and a very compassionate vet in Oxford, PA (just over the state line north of Rising Sun) these dogs received emergency care at a modest price. (they did the old guy for FREE) And for the record, Cecil County SPCA’s emergency number was not functioning when an off duty trooper tried to call it.
This big hearted vet deserves some recognition!
I sincerely hope that you are being unbiased and ethical in bringing up these allegations. Proper channels must be followed for such a heartfelt subject, i.e., MD authorities. The Cecil Whig is not one of them, BTW. I’ve adopted dogs and cats from the spca. Take those same dogs and cats to the very affordable vet clinic. No issues, etc. Dr. McDermott is a wonderful and very experienced, capable vet. ‘Nuff said!
McDermott- Wonderful! Sure he is! Experienced you say! he almost killed my cat on a simple routine blood draw. He told me he had to anesthezise the cat & put him to sleep to be able to draw the blood, my cat almost died it could not even pick his head up or walk for 3 days. I took him to another Vet and spent $425. to bring him back to life from a blood draw? I have a wonderful Vet she is caring and experienced. My cat had a full surgery done and was up and about like nothing happened a few hours later after anesthesia and a full surgery.
I am glad I did not let McDermot perform the surgery my cat would have died in his hands.
Nuff said!
Dr Science.- Well I’m glad your dogs are the lucky ones. And you didn’t experience what I went my poor Molly and I went through. My poor Molly died at the ccspca b/c of a botched operation and neglectful vet care (which was admitted) by the way. So please keep that in mind. There have been many documented cases of neglected and wrongful deaths at ccspca. I too thought my molly was in good hands , honestly. I just wish I could turn back time and save her. But I can’t. I miss her so much. This is why I won’t give up untill those responsible are gone!
Dr. Science – Heartfelt subject, you’re absolutely right when it comes to the health and medical care of our beloved animals. There are numerous documented cases, sworn afidavits, just one horrible complaint is enough for me to never visit that vet. His license needs to be revoked never to practice again. Maybe that is why McDermott is at the spca no reputable animal hospital would have him and with the rest of the staff he fits right in cause he can’t sustain in private practice. They say the best advertisement is word of mouth. I can’t beleive anyone who truely loves their animals would patronize an establishment with such a blemished reputation. There are many spca’s and vets with NO negative reports. It is the people that close their eyes and ears to this horrible abuse that allows this type of business to continue. You see my animals are memebers of my family and my family human or animal deserves only the best medical care. Believe me I have learned the hard way so I now check out all doctors before using them.
As for the people who have endured pain and loss from the ccspca and McDermott you have my sympathy and my thanks for the knowledge of this slaughter house. Because of your deligence I truely feel you have helped so many animals.
We need to attend the County Commissioners meetings again to state that while they may think it is wonderful that the SPCA requested “on their own” for these reports, we still demand that the staff and board of directors be replaced. There is enough proof now that the SPCA’s current staff is NOT doing their job. A clean building when you know of the investigation is JUST NOT ENOUGH! I am outraged at the suggestion that this staff really cares about animals. Let’s not be fooled into silence.
so nothing is being done about the abuse and those people are still working handling animals.of course the shelter was clean they had alot of time to fix everything.focused on the cat room what about the dogs that get no exercise and go stir crazy?i do not put my trust into the humane society.theres alot more improvements than that the cecil whig listed in the article.THE POOR ANIMALS STILL GET NO JUSTICE BECAUSE THE COUNTY IS CORRUPT AND THEY DO NOT CARE.
So what exactly makes someone qualified to take over and submit a bid for contract. I’m obviously not qualified unless the dogs want lipstick. So what or who has to come forward. What’s protocal? What is an acceptable applicant? I know there is a lot to it but ……..?Its not just a job opening in county its a package opening per say sooo. Someone stop my rambling please and answer my obviously difficult question- thanks
this is ridiculous they should get arestted an charged with animal cruelty…… Peta got away with killing million’s the SPCA shouldn’t get away with it if this was any other people they would be chargerd an peta would be all over this but peta work’s with them if peta loved animal’s y arent they helping these animal’s huh why arent they protesting them
Everybody said everything, from inside out. BUT WHAT HAS BEEN DONE SO FAR?????????? Apparently, NOTHING.
WHY?
hi im a young animal activist and those pictures are just terrible. how do ppl do that to innocent animals?