Special Cat Adoption Fees
From now until the end of December 2010, we are offering a reduced Cat Adoption Fee of only $100.00!!! Adopt one and save 2 lives: the one you adopt and the one you’ve made room for that we can now take in!!!
From now until the end of December 2010, we are offering a reduced Cat Adoption Fee of only $100.00!!! Adopt one and save 2 lives: the one you adopt and the one you’ve made room for that we can now take in!!!
Ming is a 6 month old Lab/Terrier Mix that came in as a stray. She is an active girl and very sweet as well. Ming has a beautiful, shiny coat, and loves to go on long walks. Ming would do well in a family with an active lifestyle.
Mambo is a 1 year old cinnamon ferret that is part of a bonded pair of ferrets(along with Splinter) that are up for adoption and must go together. Mambo is a sweet guy that is just learning what it means to be a ferret! We are asking that only experienced ferret people apply to adopt. They are in a foster home and can be seen upon request.
Splinter is a 2 year old ferret, with ‘panda” coloring and markings. He and his friend Mambo are a bonded pair and must go together. Splinter is a big mush and enjoys being held and played with. We are asking that only experienced ferret people apply to adopt. They are in foster care and can be see upon request.
Arwynn is a 4 month old Daschund Mix that came in as a stray. She is the cutest little girl and just wants to give and get kisses all the time. Arwynn will not grow to be much larger than 20lbs, as best as we can tell. She is looking for a family to lavish affection on!
Audra is a 2 year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier Mix. She is 30 lbs at full weight, short and compact! She is also a timid little girl that probably has a sad story to tell the person that opens their home to her. Audra is sweet and loves to give kisses. She could be considered a “lap” dog!
Cholena is a 1 year old girl that was rescued by a friend of the MCSPCA. She was found tethered outside with the lead wrapped around her back leg several times. The lead embedded into her skin and has left dark scars behind to tell her sad story, as well as little to ne feeling in her paw. Cholena is a golden shepard mix, very sweet and smart as well. Please adopt her an dshow her humans are not all bad!
Layne is a 1 year old Lab Mix that was found tied to a park bench in the heat! Layne is an active dog who needs an owner that will spend time with her and teach her that people can be loving and kind. She is a really nice dog , smart, and very pretty as well!

The MCSPCA’S Annual Dogwalk and Pet Party is set for September 18th Saturday, !!! Bring your dogs and family out to Shuttleworth Park for a fun filled day of “doggie” events, such as:
Pet Costume Contest Pet Party w/cake
Blessing of the Animals
Police K-9 Demo
Best Pet Trick Contest Agility Trials(new!)
Pet/owner Look-a-Like Contest Rotary Club Maze
Microchipping/Nail Clipping Adoption Clinics
Venders and MCSPCA Shelter Store Animal Rescue and Wildlife Groups
Food and Refreshments For Sale
Special adoption fee for cats for anyone filling out an adoption application at the Dog Walk! $75.00 w/ Microchip!
Come out to enjoy the day and to support your local shelter!!!
Tamale is a 6 month old black tiger that was abandoned in an apartment after her family moved out. She is a lovely, lovable girl who simply wants a home with a family that will take care of her for the rest of her life. Oh.. She ‘d also like a sunny window!
Zinnia is a 6 month old, petite, DLH tiger. She is calm, gentle and purrs like a brand new truck engine! She is a lovely young cat that is seeking a wonderful family or perhaps a lonely lady to keep company. Either way….she’ll be content!
Amsterdam, NY, November 14, 2009 - Over one-hundred animals in our area are waiting to be placed at the Montgomery County SPCA Animal Shelter in Amsterdam, as limited space and resources at the facility are preventing their admittance. Many, mostly cats, have been on a waiting list for several months, with the lucky ones receiving basic care by kindhearted residents who are unable to take them in permanently. As winter fast approaches, the prospects for survival for these lost and abandoned creatures diminishes.
In response to this critical need to find appropriate temporary living situations until space becomes available at the Animal Shelter, the Montgomery County SPCA is initiating the new Emma’s Hope Foster Care Program. The organization is now recruiting caring individuals who are willing to share their love and home on a temporary basis with these animals, according to program coordinator Chris Fura, who also serves as vice-president of the MCSPCA Board of Directors. The program is named to honor Emma Hope, an abandoned and injured pup who was recently taken in by the Montgomery County SPCA and fostered by Fura.
“We are seeking volunteers who want to make a space in their hearts and their homes for an abandoned cat, or maybe two, or a mother cat and her kittens. The MCSPCA will provide any medical needs and spaying/neutering during the foster care, and will make periodic checks with the foster home to make sure all is well”, Fura explains.
In order to insure that volunteer foster homes will provide the appropriate setting for these animals, an application and home interview will be part of the process. “While one’s heart may be in the right place, one’s home may not be the best setting for certain cats”, Fura clarifies. “For instance, an ideal foster home for a particular cat might be one with no other pets, or perhaps one with no small children. Also, some animals may have special needs – medications that need to be administered or minor physical therapy. Each foster situation will be considered individually. The foster home is the first step – once a space is available at the Animal Shelter, the foster pet will be transferred to the facility to continue its care until a new permanent home is found.”
Those interested in participating in Emma’s Hope Foster Care Program by opening their homes and hearts to a homeless animal on a temporary basis should contact Fura for an application by emailing info@mc-spca.org.
The Montgomery County SPCA is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of homeless, neglected, abandoned and abused animals in the Montgomery County area.
Kofi ,Cena,Mysterio, and Ortan are 4 brothers and sisters that have been fostered by one of our volunteers. They are ready for adoption now and are some of the sweetest,mellow kitties ever! They are 12 weeks old and waiting for a great home!
Kofi ,Cena,Mysterio, and Ortan are 4 brothers and sisters that have been fostered by one of our volunteers. They are ready for adoption now and are some of the sweetest,mellow kitties ever! They are 12 weeks old and waiting for a great home!
Kofi ,Cena,Mysterio, and Ortan are 4 brothers and sisters that have been fostered by one of our volunteers. They are ready for adoption now and are some of the sweetest,mellow kitties ever! They are 12 weeks old and waiting for a great home!
Kofi ,Cena,Mysterio, and Ortan are 4 brothers and sisters that have been fostered by one of our volunteers. They are ready for adoption now and are some of the sweetest,mellow kitties ever! They are 12 weeks old and waiting for a great home!
Melina is a 10 week old little girl that was literally dumped at our shelter! She is an adorable kitten, full of spunk and a laugh to watch! Melina has amazing markings and will make a great family pet.
Mister is a 3 year old medium size dog, that came to us as a stray. He is a mix of chow, husky, akita and maybe sharpei. He is an amazingly lovable guy, that seems to have lived a hard life, and just wants someone to love him and treat him right. Mister will make someone a wonderful companion and a grateful one!
CAN YOU HELP SAVE A HORSE BY DONATING HAY, GRAIN OR ALFALFA?
If you can donate hay, grain or alfalfa cubes for horse feed, please contact us @ 842-8050 and leave your name, telephone number and that you have hay, grain or alfalfa to donate. There are owners of horses that can no longer afford to feed their horses. Due to their lack of funds, some of the owners are faced with having to make the decision of euthanizing the horses. Your donation of the horse feed will allow the horses to live and relieve the owners of making this difficult decision. Your help is very much appreciated. Thank you.
Marshall is a 8 week old kitten who was found under someone’s truck hood. He is a typical “curious”kitten that will make a delightful addition to anyone’s home! Oh…. and he is as cute as a button!
Merlot is a 1 year old silver tiger, who is as fine as merlot wine. She came to us from an undesirable situation with 6 tiny kittens. Merlot is at her best as an only cat or with another cat, who (like herself) prefers to be alone. She is a sweet little girl that deserves a wonderful place to call her own.
July:
Dolores Krutz
Sadie Wojcicki
Josephine Dudka
“Cinnamon”~ beloved dog of Mr and Mrs Donahue
‘Kaya”~beloved dog of the Amorosa’s
August
Robert Amanat
Lionel T. Simpson
Doris Rogers
Ethel Bornt
Dorothy Thane
Nellie Raco
William Bath
Belle~ beloved dog of the Chatterton Family
Courtney Lee Montgomery
Diana~ Beloved companion cat of Ming Jaw
Frances Wasserman
Missy~Beloved dog of Ann Stellato
The following is a short list of independant organizations that may be able to provide financial assistance to pet owners in need of medical care for their pets. Please contact the individual organization to see if you qualify.
-The Perseus Foundation - www.PerseusFoundation.org
Angels for Animals – www.angels4animals.org
Feline Outreach- www.felineoutreach.org
Cats in Crisis _ www.catsincrisis.org
Help-a-Pet- www.help-a-pet.org
Feline Veterinary Emergency Assisitance – www.fveap.org
The MCSPCA wants to thank all the people that attended the Pretties For Paws event at the Riverfront Center, on Tuesday, August 3rd. It was the 1st time the event was held and was hosted by Volunteer Maureen Rossi, who thought of the idea herself. There were thousands of donated peices of jewelery available for sale at the most reasonable prices imaginable! Thanks to all the shoppers!
There was such a great crowd, that we are thinking of running a smaller scale event at our annual Holiday Pet Photos in December! So come do some Christmas shopping with us!
We will be accepting donations of jewelery throughout the year,, which can be dropped off at the MCSPCA Shelter. Thanks for all your support!!!
The MCSPCA wants to thank everyone that braved the rainy weather and came out for our 2nd Annual Motorcycle Run for the Animals held on July 24th. It turned out to be a beautiful day for the ride, that started at The Bad Pig Saloon in Rotterdam Junction, went to the following stops: The Hillview in Esperance, Jim’s Irish Harbor in Canajaharie, Kiddo’s in Amsterdam and ended at Loopie’s in Tribes Hill. There was music, raffles and good food! Everyone please spread the word for join us next year for more of the same!
We have the” 2nd Annual Run for the Animals” T-shirts for sale at the shelter! They are black with white graphics! A bargain at only $10.00!
Peri,Roane,Tirr,Xanas, and Asrai are 4 month old kittens that were brought in as wee babies with their mamma, Disir. They were raised by atheir foster mom until they were able to be brought into the shelter. They are all beautiful and sweet, crazy kittens,( as all kittens should be). Come to visit and take 1 or 2 home!!
Peri,Roane,Tirr,Xanas, and Asrai are 4 month old kittens that were brought in as wee babies with their mamma, Disir. They were raised by atheir foster mom until they were able to be brought into the shelter. They are all beautiful and sweet, crazy kittens,( as all kittens should be). Come to visit and take 1 or 2 home!!
Peri,Roane,Tirr,Xanas, and Asrai are 4 month old kittens that were brought in as wee babies with their mamma, Disir. They were raised by atheir foster mom until they were able to be brought into the shelter. They are all beautiful and sweet, crazy kittens,( as all kittens should be). Come to visit and take 1 or 2 home!!
Peri,Roane,Tirr,Xanas, and Asrai are 4 month old kittens that were brought in as wee babies with their mamma, Disir. They were raised by atheir foster mom until they were able to be brought into the shelter. They are all beautiful and sweet, crazy kittens,( as all kittens should be). Come to visit and take 1 or 2 home!!
Disir is a 1/12 year old mom of 6! She came in pregnant and gave birth to a huge litter of beautiful babies. They are being fostered by an MCSPCA foster volunteer until they are altered. Disir is a calm, gentle lady that was a stray and is on the look-out for a home where she can live forever with sunny windowsills and a comfy bed. She deserves it!
Becker is a 1 1/2 yr old orange tiger, and a big handsome one at that! He is declawed and is a lovable curmudgeon that is perfect for someone! Becker is named for the guy on the TV show”Becker” and his personality is the same! becker is looking for his “purrever” home.
Montgomery is a 4 month old orange tiger that was abandoned here at the shelter. He is as cute as a button and is one of the many kittens we have up for adoption. Come and take him home with you!
Charmin is a 1 year old beauty that was abandoned at the shelter with her 5 kittens. They were left in a cage in the hot sun with no food or water. The kittens were close to death. Since then, the staff has lavished love and medical care on Charmin and the kids and all are available to be adopted. Charmin is a real “lady” and is looking to be treated like a queen!
Karina is a 1 year old orange tiger that came from a home overrun with 22 other cats. She is sweet and petite! Karina is seeking a real home where she can be well taken care of and loved for the rest of her life. Please make her dream come true.
Beardsley (or Beer) for short, is a 1 year old male DSH that was surrendered by his owner who was moving and could not take him with her. Beer is an awesomely nice, huggable guy, that is sure to make any house a home!
Apricat, Auburn, Chalk and Confetti are 4 kittens that were brought in with their mommy, Charmin, and were fostered by one of our staff, until they were able to be brought into the shelter.They are 3 1/2 months old. All four of these kittens are absolutely adorable and looking for a home to spend the rest of their ‘nine’ lives in! Won’t you make room at your home for 1? Or 2?
Apricat, Auburn, Chalk and Confetti are 4 kittens that were brought in with their mommy, Charmin, and were fostered by one of our staff, until they were able to be brought into the shelter.They are 3 1/2 months old. All four of these kittens are absolutely adorable and looking for a home to spend the rest of their ‘nine’ lives in! Won’t you make room at your home for 1? Or 2?
Apricat, Auburn, Chalk and Confetti are 4 kittens that were brought in with their mommy, Charmin, and were fostered by one of our staff, until they were able to be brought into the shelter.They are 3 1/2 months old. All four of these kittens are absolutely adorable and looking for a home to spend the rest of their ‘nine’ lives in! Won’t you make room at your home for 1? Or 2?
Apricat, Auburn, Chalk and Confetti are 4 kittens that were brought in with their mommy, Charmin, and were fostered by one of our staff, until they were able to be brought into the shelter.They are 3 1/2 months old. All four of these kittens are absolutely adorable and looking for a home to spend the rest of their ‘nine’ lives in! Won’t you make room at your home for 1? Or 2?
Pet Adoption Clinics: 2nd Saturday of each month
Proceeds benefit the homeless animals of the Montgomery County SPCA
Meet and adopt your new best friend!
Tractor Supply store, State Highway 30, Amsterdam
10:30am-3pm
8th Annual Prancin’ Paws Dog Walk and Pet Party: Saturday, September 18
Proceeds benefit the Montgomery County SPCA New Shelter Building Fund
Dog Walk Registration 11am
Prizes for the most donations collected!
Pet Party 11am – 3pm
Vendors, demos, adoption clinics, Shelter Shop, animal rescues, educational booths, petting zoo, food, much more!
Shuttleworth Park, Amsterdam
Donation admission
Holiday Pet Photos: December 4 & 5
Proceeds benefit the homeless animals of the Montgomery County SPCA
Holiday Shop, microchip clinic & refreshments!
Amsterdam Riverfront Center
11am – 3pm
Available to all residents of any county
Fee of $75 per cat includes:
Transportation of the cat between MCSPCA Animal Shelter and the vet’s office
Spaying or Neutering
Veterinarian Examination
Feline Leukemia Test
FIV Test
Rabies Vaccination (cats over 3 months old)
Ear Mite Treatment
Capstar Flea Treatment (this is a 24 hour treatment, killing fleas only)
Nail Trimming
Feral Cats will have their ears notched to indicate they have already been spayed or neutered
Optional Services:
$5 for Worming
$8 for 30-Day Flea Treatment to kill fleas plus eggs
Additional Services determined by the vet during examination:
Ranging from $10 to $20 for Females in heat or pregnant, cryptorchid males and other minor surgery
You must pre-register at the MCSPCA Animal Shelter during open hours. At this time you will sign registration forms and pay $75 plus the $5 and/or $8, if you choose optional services Cash only. Unfortunately, checks cannot be accepted. The exact amount of cash is appreciated. You will be scheduled for the next available Monday.
On the scheduled Monday, Please:
Drop your cat(s) off at the MCSPCA animal shelter by 7:00 AM.
For the cat’s safety, have each cat in a separate durable plastic cat carrier.
Be sure the carrier is clean and provide a towel for your cat.
Be advised appropriately sized carriers make the surgery day more comfortable for your cat. They will be spending most of the day in the carrier.
Pick your cat(s) up the same day at the MCSPCA animal shelter @ 5:00 PM.
Be advised that we cannot house any cat overnight.
For health reasons your cat will not be vaccinated for distemper. It is a health risk for your cat to be vaccinated at the same time of the surgery and rabies vaccination. Please be sure to have your cat vaccinated for distemper by your veterinarian.
Tressa is a 1 year old lady who was surrendered to us because the owner could not afford veterinary care for her. Tressa has a sprinkling of white hairs throughout her black short coat that makes her look like she has faery dust on her! She is a lovable mush of a cat who loves attention!
Fae is the last remaining girl from Merlot’s litter after her sister, Fontaine, was adopted. She is a 4 month old DLH and as cute as a button! We don’t know why she is still here. Be the person to adopt her and finally give her a home of her own!
Nero is a 14 week old DLH that is one of Bastet’s babies. He is a laid back kinda dude who would be great with a family with children.
Bastet is a 1 year old beauty that came in with a litter of kittens. She was fostered with the “kids” and they all are ready for their new homes. Bastet is a calm sweet lady that wants a window of her own to bask in the sun.
Navin is a 1 year old shepard mix. He was running “on the lam” for several weeks until he finally decided to let himself be rescued! He is an active, playful young guy that needs a family that will set time aside to teach him the basics. Navin is very smart and quick to learn, and will make someone a great lifetime friend.
Kohi was brought in from a person that had too many cats to take care of. She is sweet and gentle and would make an excellent lap kitty. All she wants is her own spot on your bed to make her life just purrrrfect! Kohi is 3 years old but very petite.
The Montgomery County SPCA and Catholic Charities Domestic Violence Services of Montgomery County have formed a partnership to assist domestic violence victims and their pets.
Assistance will come in the form of a safe shelter for the pet. While a victim is in residence at a domestic violence shelter, the animal can be temporarily housed at an animal shelter, boarding kennel, or foster home.
Care for the pet will be provided until the victim of abuse can care for their pet or until they can find a friend or family member to care for their pet.
When coupled with other valuable services from other community agencies — such as counseling, legal assistance, medical care, childcare assistance, and job training — this service helps abused individuals and children escape the violence and start a new life.
We are in need of temporary foster homes to help these families. If you have room in your home to help. Contact
The Montgomery County SPCA 518-842-8050
Thank you
Pandora is Barley’s buddy. She is 3 1/2 yrs old and a gentle sweet cat. Pandora would be fine in any home, so long as she has a sunny spot to call her own. Pandora also was brought in because of the ownder’s allergy problems.
Leona is 7 months old, and such a petite sweetie she is. She loves her belly rubbed and will make any home complete. Make room for her at yours!
Reese’s is a 10 month old DLH with tortieshell coloring. She is a quiet girl and was originally born outside. A wonderful lady took her in and fostered her for months before bringing Reese’s to the shelter. Reese’s wants to know the love of a family more than anything else(besides good food). Maybe you are the person she is looking for?
Caroline is 7 years old and a plus sized woman she is! But big and beautiful is in! Caroline is a tortieshell with a silky coat, which she enjoys having brushed. She is looking for a home where she can rest easy and enjoy life!
Soda is 8 year old tortie, that has had a tough life and is ready to live in her new castle and be treated like royalty. She is is looking for a senior human to live out the remainder of her life and will return the love you give her ten-fold!
Lila is a 1 year old green eyed beauty. She is extremely lovable and a real attention getter. Lila would do well in almost any home and has a real sweet nature.
Jinx is 3 year old DSH that was a stray that was holed up in someones basement. She is a lovable cat that talks a lot, and would like a sunny spot on your bed!
Cutiera is a 3 1/2 yr old girl that would do best in a home without other cats. She is so soft and lovable and seeks out human companionship. She and Alovar came from a home with many other well taken care of cats and are now looking for their forever homes.
Primrose came in as a stray and she is the sweetest cat you could ask for. She is grateful to be out of the wet weather and she is becoming lovelier everyday. Primrose has no problem joining a home with other pets. She just wants to be somewhere she can call her own.
Lyall is a 4 year old DSH, white with tiger markings. He was abandoned at the shelter on a chilly spring morning. How sad! Hhe is learning to trust people again and just wants a forever family.
$125 for cats and kittens
This adoption fee includes:
Please be sure to bring a cat carrier to transport your newly adopted cat or kitten from the shelter.
$150 for dogs and puppies
This adoption fee includes:
All dogs will be licensed at the time of adoption. This is a requirement of NYS Agriculture & Market Laws. The fee ranges from $2.50 to $10.50.
Adoption applications may be obtained by clicking here.
If you rent, written proof (lease or letter) is required that the landlord allows pets.
CIJA (pronounced CEE-JAH) is a very sweet little lady. She is a 4 year old Staffordshire with a white face and a brindle body. She is spayed and up to date with her vaccinations and is micro chipped. She LOVES people and has yet to meet anyone who is not a friend. She would prefer to be an only child and she does not tolerate cats. She is very loving and has a sweet temperament. She was made for apartment living – not too big, not too small. We are working on basic obedience but she is well behaved, knows to sit and walks wonderfully on a leash. She does well in her crate but it is really not needed. She does not like to be left outside by herself and would be happy with just a daily walk or two.
She would make the PERFECT companion for a mature, perhaps retired, person or couple – someone who would be home most of the time. She LOVES to go for rides in the car and never barks at anything. She is waiting for her forever family very patiently!! Please contact Jackson’s Legacy Bully Breed Rescue (info@jacksonslegacy.org) for any information about CIJA.
Montgomery County SPCA does not take any responsibility for any of the pets listed for private adoption.
Shelters are filling up fast and many are at their breaking points now. So we have come up with a way for you to find a home for your pet and help other homeless animals as well. We get 1000’s of visitors per day here on our web site so your chances are much better than word of mouth when looking for your pets new home. Here is all you have to do:
The Montgomery County SPCA is always looking for self-motivated people willing to give some of their time to the animals at the shelter.
We currently need volunteers for the following days, time-frames and jobs:
Ongoing help is needed for the following jobs:
Contact us at 518-842-8050 for more information
There are some who believe that your local Montgomery County SPCA is otherwise subsidized by either the National Organization, the State, County or City of Amsterdam. This is not true. Our only source of income is the donations and contribution made by the charitable, caring and thoughtful supporters like you. Please make a contribution today. Everyone’s generosity works wonders in the lives of the animals. Most of them have been abused or abandoned, but thanks to you we can give them medical care and the tender loving care they need. Please help our animals by making a tax-deductible contribution to the SPCA. You will be contributing to “no more homeless animals” because your donation will go towards spaying and neutering animals. To make a donation to the Montgomery County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, please send a check payable to the Montgomery County S.P.C.A. at: Montgomery County S.P.C.A. PO Box 484 Amsterdam, NY 12010 or click on the donation button below:
Montgomery County SPCA Wish List
Miscellaneous:
- Plastic storage bins (any size)
- “Forever” postage stamps
- Liquid laundry detergent, dryer sheets
- Paper Towels
- Copy paper (assorted colors)
- Dish soap & bleach
- Jewelry (costume or fine) for our annual jewelry sale, “Pretties for Paws”
- Metal folding chairs
- Rugs, bathmats
Dogs & Puppies:
- Bil-Jac brand liver treats
- Large Nylabones
- Large Kong rubber toys (black, red)
- Chicken or beef jerky treats
Cats & Kittens:
- Small, washable fleece for beds at PetSmart
- Purina Cat Chow (dry)
- Purina Kitten chow (dry)
- KMR (kitten milk replacement)
- Plastic cat toys
Gift Cards:
- Visa, MasterCard, American Express
- Gas cards
- Target, Wal-Mart, Price Chopper, Hannaford
- Restaurants, malls, ect. for raffle prices for our events
- JoAnne’s Fabrics
Items We Can’t Use:
- Pillows, bed spreads, sheets, sleeping bags
- Large used pet beds
- Broken or used litter pans, dishes, carries or cages
- Newspapers
- Used dog/cat toys
- Plush or soft thin rubber dog toys
If you have non-food items to donate that we are unable to use, please donate them to Catholic Charities in Amsterdam
The Staff, Volunteers, and the Board of Directors thank you, but the animals love you for your contributions.
You may drop off your donations at:
Montgomery County SPCA
1007 Route 5S
Amsterdam, New York
Phone: (518) 842-8050
A Memorial Gift to the SPCA will speak for you during difficult times. When you make a gift in memory of a loved one, person or pet, the SPCA will send a card letting them know you made a memorial gift. Each Gift of Love is further memorialized on the SPCA’s Memorial page of this website.
By making a bequest to the SPCA you have the satisfaction of knowing your legacy will continue to help homeless and unwanted animals long into the future.
Gifts received through wills and trusts are the financial foundation that makes possible the extensive care and comfort of the animals. There are three common ways of making a bequest:
Thank you for helping to make good things possible for the animals.
Serving Montgomery County for 100 years, the Montgomery County SPCA provides vital services to animals and people alike through sheltering and adopting animals, investigating animal cruelty and neglect.
Saturday, August 21st
Rural Grove Fire Department, Rt 162, Rural Grove
9:00 am – Noon
*Tuesday, Sept 14th
St Johnsville Town Barn, Route 5, St Johnsville
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Saturday, October 2nd
Fultonville Animal Hospital, VanWagenen Dr, Fultonville
9:00 am – 11:00 am
*Saturday, Nov 6th
Mohawk Town Barn, Park St, Fonda
10:00 am – Noon
*Vaccination is available free-of-charge to Montgomery County residents, but donations will be accepted to help defray program costs. Suggested donation is $10.00
You will need a current rabies vaccination certificate to obtain the dog license.
The NYS Agriculture and Market Laws does not allow the redemption of any dog over four months old to the owner without a current rabies vaccination. The cost to the owner for the rabies vaccination is $40 payable to the Montgomery County SPCA. If your dog needs a rabies vaccination, call us at 842-8050 and let us know so we can make arrangements with a veterinarian.You must redeem your dog within 5 days of impoundment to avoid additional charges.We want to reunite you with your pet as soon as possible. We will do what we can to make that happen.
If you see an individual here during closed hours, please understand they cannot handle the transaction. Please give us a telephone call at 842-8050.
Dogs and cats love to wander outdoors in the warm weather. Quite often an animal owner awakes or comes home to find their loyal pet is missing. This time of year, the Montgomery County SPCA receives up to 5 calls per day in regards to lost or found pets. Here is important information you will need to know if your pet is missing.
First, call the city or town’s Dog Control Officer (DCO) The DCO usually works in or with the local police department. The dog control officer’s job is to pick up dogs wandering in the area and bring them to a holding facility. If the DCO has not picked up your dog, give the officer your pet’s information. A good citizen may find your lost pet and call the police.
A walk around the neighborhood may help find your missing pet. Ask neighbors if they have seen your lost animal. Bring a picture of your pet to show the people you speak with.
Next, place calls to all the veterinarians and animal shelters in and around your area. Give employees a complete description of your pet, the location it was last seen and a phone number where you can be reached. A concerned stranger may call or bring in your pet to one of these locations. The shelter and vets office will usually post your pets description on their bulletin board.
It is a good idea to make LOST PET signs with a picture of your pet. Place the signs at corner stores, gas stations, or other busy areas. Please ask store managers before posting LOST signs.
These suggestions may help your lost pet find its way home. When your pet returns to you, please call back all the facilities where you reported it missing. Remember, these animal lovers are all still looking for your pet.
There are several ways to keep your pet safe on your property. Do not leave your pet outdoors unsupervised. If you must leave your pet outside, buy a secure outdoor kennel designed for animals. It is very unsafe to leave a pet tied by a rope or chain. Spaying and neutering your pet will help reduce its desire to roam. Finding a lost dog’s owner is simple when a license tag is attached to the pets collar. All dog owners should purchase a dog license at the town hall.
If you find a lost or wandering pet, please, do not look the other way. These frightened animals are depending on you to find their loving owners. Remember, a scared pet may scratch or bite a stranger out of fear. Call the police station or local shelters and report the roaming animal. Notify officials of the exact location of the animal and the direction it was heading.
Remember, you can make a positive difference in an animal’s life!
Note: The following is just a list of shelters in Fulton, Montgomery counties. There may be more in your area so please check your phone book or call one of the shelters listed. I am sure they will help guide you in the right direction.
Located in Amsterdam New York
Montgomery S.P.C.A. Phone: 842-8050 Located in Amsterdam, New York
James Brennan Humane Society
Phone: 725-0115
Think about this:
Your new dog may have been abandoned or surrendered by a previous family. The dog may have been abused. The dog or puppy had to adjust to the shelter and is now going home to a new, unfamiliar place with strangers. Kind of scary if you think about it! Being gentle, considerate, kind and patient will help ease your friend into his new family.
Freedom
Your dog may have been in a kennel for several weeks or months. He may be CRAZY HAPPY the first few days just because he’s so happy to be out and about and around people. Make sure to provide plenty of exercise to help him wind down. Don’t give up.
Fear
Your dog might be afraid and unsure of his new surroundings. If he appears to be scared, keep him in a small, quiet area (such as a gated off laundry or bathroom) to start, and take it slow. Don’t allow your children to bother the dog if he is afraid; fear can result in nipping. Instead, give your dog plenty of time to adjust to his new surroundings, taking it one step at a time. Don’t give up.
Accidents
Even a potty trained dog can make mistakes in a new home. He doesn’t know which door to go to or how to ask his new owner for what he wants. Start a habit of going out the same door every time you bring him to potty. Keep a watchful eye on your friend and confine him when you can’t watch him. Please be aware that change of food or nervousness can set off diarrhea. Take him out for potty time within 30 minutes of eating his meal. Limit his eating and drinking after 6pm. Do not leave bowls of food and water out for him 24/7 until he is potty trained. Once he is trained you will find that you may give him food and drink 24/7 and he will let you know when he has to relieve himself.
There will be behavior problems
Your dog had a whole other set of rules in his previous home. He may have been allowed to sleep in bed and beg at the table. IT’S UP TO YOU TO TEACH HIM YOUR RULES. Teaching proper behavior takes time and patience. If you need help, check out www.mc-spca.org for valuable website addresses to help you deal with issues that new pet owners have.
How long will all this take?
Allow your dog or puppy several weeks to adapt to his new surroundings and up to 6 months to fully adjust (adults may take longer than pups). Adopting a pet is a lifetime commitment. We assume that you will make a patient and concerted effort to achieve a successful forever home.
www.pets911.org
www.aspca.org: American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
www.hsus.org: Human Society of the United States
www.petfinders.org: Look under “library”
Did you know it is against the law to abandon an animal? The New York State Agriculture & Markets Law, Article 26, Section 355 states: “Abandonment of animals. A person being the owner or possessor, or having charge or custody of an animal, who abandons such animal, or leaves it to die in a street, road or public place, or who allows such animal, if it become disabled, to lie in a public street, road or public place more than three hours after he receives notice that it is left disabled, is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or by both.”
If you for some reason can not handle your new family member, please call MC-SPCA @ 842-8050
It can happen to the best of us. You see a cute, tiger-striped kitten with white paws and green eyes, just begging for attention. Or maybe it’s a gorgeous Labrador mix whose tails seems to be wagging just for you. You take one look, and the next thing you know, you’re walking down the pet food aisle at the supermarket.
If you’re like most of us, falling in love with a pet is easy. And no wonder! Sharing your home with a four-legged friend can be one of life’s greatest joys. Dogs, cats, and other pets give us unconditional loyalty and acceptance, provide constant companionship, and even help relieve stress after a hard day’s work.
Adopting a pet, though, is a big decision. Dogs and cats require lots of time, money, and commitment—over 15 years’ worth in many cases. Pet ownership can be rewarding, but only if you think through your decision before you adopt a companion.
The fact that you’re thinking about adopting from an animal shelter means you’re a responsible and caring person. But before you make that decision to bring a furry friend into your life, take a moment to think over these questions:
Why do you want a pet?
It’s amazing how many people fail to ask themselves this simple question before they get a pet. Adopting a pet just because it’s “the thing to do” or because the kids have been pining for a puppy usually ends up being a big mistake. Don’t forget that pets may be with you 10, 15, even 20 years.
Do you have time for a pet?
Dogs, cats, and other animal companions cannot be ignored just because you’re tired or busy. They require food, water, exercise, care, and companionship every day of every year. Many animals in the shelter are there because their owners didn’t realize how much time it took to care for them.
Can you afford a pet?
The costs of pet ownership can be quite high. Licenses, training classes, spaying and neutering, veterinary care, grooming, toys, food, kitty litter, and other expenses add up quickly.
Are you prepared to deal with special problems that a pet can cause?
Flea infestations, scratched-up furniture, accidents from animals who aren’t yet housetrained, and unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but common aspects of pet ownership.
Can you have a pet where you live?
Many rental communities don’t allow pets, and most of the rest have restrictions. Make sure you know what they are before you bring a companion animal home.
Is it a good time for you to adopt a pet?
If you have kids under six years old, for instance, you might consider waiting a few years before you adopt a companion. Pet ownership requires children who are mature enough to be responsible. If you’re a student, in the military, or travel frequently as part of your work, waiting until you settle down is wise.
Are your living arrangements suitable for the animal you have in mind?
Animal size is not the only variable to think about here. For example, some small dogs such as terriers are very active—they require a great deal of exercise to be calm, and they often bark at any noise. On the other hand, some big dogs are laid back and quite content to lie on a couch all day. Before adopting a pet, do some research. That way, you’ll ensure you choose an animal who will fit into your lifestyle and your living arrangements.
Do you know who will care for your pet while you’re away on vacation?
You’ll need either reliable friends and neighbors or money to pay for a boarding kennel or pet-sitting service.
Will you be a responsible pet owner?
Having your pet spayed or neutered, obeying community leash and licensing laws, and keeping identification tags on your pets are all part of being a responsible owner. Of course, giving your pet love, companionship, exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary care are other essentials.
Finally, are you prepared to keep and care for the pet for his or her entire lifetime?
When you adopt a pet, you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his or her lifetime.
Sure, it’s a long list of questions. But a quick stroll through an animal shelter will help you understand why answering them before you adopt is so important.
Many of the shelter’s homeless animals are puppies and kittens, victims of irresponsible people who allowed their pets to breed. But there are at least as many dogs and cats at the shelter who are more than a year old—animals who were obtained by people who didn’t think through the responsibilities of pet ownership before they got the animal.
Please, don’t make the same mistake. Think before you adopt. Sharing your life with a companion animal can bring incredible rewards, but only if you’re willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love—for the life of the pet.
Copyright © 2003 The Humane Society of the United States. All rights reserved.
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