Tails in the News
Group channels community to aid
rescue shelters
A group dedicated to aiding and saving animals through various fundraising ventures is utilizing a number of community oriented, online auction sites to raise money for disadvantaged animal shelters of Pennsylvania and neighboring states.
The Canine Lifeline Foundation, working in conjunction with local communities, gather common household item donations such as small electrical appliances, furniture, kitchen utensils, CD, DVDs, and pet supplies to be re-sold online. Using common auction websites like Craigslist.org and eBay.com the organization posts the items on the net and uses all the proceeds to subsidize local animal shelters and rescue centers, many of which are in dire need of funding.
“We started with nothing but space in my garage and a whole lot of energy,” says Denise Bash, a Lifeline co-founder. “We now have two garages and a rented unit and are quickly running out of space.”
Along with the online thrift store project the foundation also sells coupon and holiday gift books and accepts private monetary donations to aid its cause.
Starting in November the organization will be airing an on-going documentary series on the internet in which volunteer crews will work to improve under-funded humane societies. The first film will chronicle a massive “makeover” style revamp of the Clay County Humane Association’s shelter and facilities in West Virginia. The short films will be aired via video sharing websites such as Revver.com and YouTube.com.
While the group mainly focuses their support on dogs, they’re determined to help any animal in need of aid. All proceeds from the various outlets go towards buying medical supplies, food, bedding, and toys for local rescue centers and shelters.
“What I hope to achieve is a better quality of life for homeless animals in distress and the unsung heroes that care for them day in and out,” says Bash. For more information visit www.CanineLifeline.org.
Gov. Rendell pushes for an end to animal cruelty
In a move that hopes to thwart animal abuse and regulate controversial puppy mills, Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell recently proposed a series of legislative changes to benefit animal welfare.
The announcements came nine months after Rendell’s original pledge last spring to improve conditions at large dog breeding farms, or “Puppy Mills,” around the state. Among the latest changes, the legislation called for stricter penalties for crimes against animals, requires all dogs kept in kennels to be exercised for a minimum of 20 minutes a day, and allows state officials to seize distressed animals from poor living environments.
Above all Rendell created and reappointed a number of specialized state government positions including a deputy secretary for dog law enforcement, a position aimed to implement laws that counter puppy mills.
“We are taking strong steps to protect consumers, reputable breeders and kennels, and the defenseless animals whose health and welfare is at the heart of this important issue,” said Rendell in a statement.
Puppy Mills are notorious for their poor conditions and shear negligence for the well being of the animals. According to the Humane Society of the United States, the State of Pennsylvania, specifically in Lancaster County, is home to a number of mills, many of which are overpopulated.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) are happy with the governor’s plans and welcome his push for action.
“Gov. Rendell’s decisive actions are a great example for other lawmakers who are trying to improve animal welfare conditions in their states and communities,” said Bob Baker, an ASPCA spokesman in an Oct. 17 press release. “The Governor’s decision to infuse change from the top down is a critical step forward in improving the quality of life for these animals.”
