Pet Access Resource Guide 2018 Revised Aug 2018...Pet Access Resource Guide 6 | P a g e Vet Mobile Office: 718-544-7387 InfoLINE: 718-770-7387 HelpLINE: 718-321-7387 [email protected]

2018

Pet Access Resource Guide

Any comments or pet resources you’d like to share?

[email protected] or (212) 780-1400 Ext. 7702

Pet Access Resource Guide ��

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Table of Contents

Section 1: Low Cost Vet Care

• ASPCA…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3

• PAWS ……………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5

• Vet Mobile ……………………………………..……………………………………………………………………………..6

• Vetco Clinics……………………………………………………………………………………………………………........7

• NY Save …..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….8

• The Humane Society of NY ……………………………………………………………………………………………9

• Pets for Life …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………10

• Animal Care Centers of NYC………………………………………………………………………………………….11

• Animal Medical Center…………………………………………………………………………………………………12

Section 2: Pet Food/Pet Training

• Pet Help Partners………..……………………………………………………………………………………………….14

• New York Common Pantry… ………………………………………………………………………………..........15

• Animal Alliance NYC……………………………………………………………………………………..................16

Section 3: Pets that are Dying or Deceased

• Animal Care and Control of NYC …………………………………………………………………………………18

• ASPCA…………………………………..………………………………………………………………………………........19

• Pet Grief, Burial and Cremation Information ……………………………………………………………….20

Section 4: Volunteering with Animals

• List of Opportunities…………………………………………………………………………………………………….26

Section 5: Hurricane Sheltering

• Evacuation Centers………………………………………………………………………………………………………29

• Evacuating with Pets………………………………………………………………………………………….…………30


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• ASPCA Mobile Clinic (877) 772-9692: The ASPCA offers free and low-cost spay/neuter services

throughout the five boroughs, targeting the most underserved communities via a mobile

spay/neuter van. For more information on cost and logistics, check the

website: www.aspca.org/nyc/aspca-mobile-spayneuter-clinic

• Operation Pit: (877) 900-PITS (7487) offers free spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping

for healthy Pit Bulls and Pit mixes between four months and six years of age, by

appointment. For more information, visit www.aspca.org/nyc/operation-pit.

NEW YORK CITY SERVICES: https://www.aspca.org/nyc

Cruelty Prevention Programs: The ASPCA's cruelty intervention efforts in New York City are

focused in three main areas: animal hoarding, emergency veterinary care for underserved

communities and resources for domestic violence survivors. Referrals are made for pet owners

with mental health, financial or structural barriers that prevent them from providing necessary

care to their pets. The ASPCA works with clients to find the best possible resolution for the

animals involved.

Animal Hoarding: Animal hoarding is a widely misunderstood, complex public health issue that

affects the animals and humans involved. Collecting animals is a symptom of underlying issues

that cannot be appropriately addressed without also focusing on the needs of the hoarder.

Hoarding situations may go unreported for fear that the people will get in trouble or that the

animals will be taken away, however, early intervention allows for the best possible outcome

Section 1

Low Cost Vet Care


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for the animals and humans involved. Without intervention, animal hoarding situations will

worsen, putting an increasing number of animals at risk.

Emergency Veterinary Care: The ASPCA has a grant program in place to provide life-saving

veterinary care and other resources to low income pet owners in New York City. By partnering

with the local veterinary community, the ASPCA makes grants directly to service providers on

behalf of the animal in need, preventing surrender or euthanasia. Grants are made to cover the

cost of diagnostics and treatment of acute, one-time medical conditions and injuries. The

ASPCA provides comprehensive wellness packages that include vaccines, micro chipping and

spay/neuter procedures. Pet owners referred to this program typically want to keep their pets

and can provide basic care, but are unable to afford the costs of emergency care and treatment.

Domestic Violence: One in four women will experience some form of domestic or intimate

partner violence in their lifetime. In a recent survey of women in a domestic violence shelter in

Ohio, 42.5% reported an abusive partner harming or threatening to harm a pet. According to

the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 25% to 45% of survivors of Intimate partner

violence stated that their pet was a barrier to them leaving an abusive situation, as they could

not take their pet with them to a domestic violence shelter. If you are in need of identifying a

domestic violence shelters please contact the Safe Horizon Hotline at (800) 621-HOPE. Hotline

volunteers can also assist in identifying shelters that accept pets and can guide you through

how to care for your pet while maintaining your own safety.


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www.pawsny.org - [email protected] - (212) 203–4760, Ext. 302

Our Services: PAWS NY services are designed to help our clients overcome the physical and

financial limitations they face caring for their animal companions. If you are a senior or

someone with an illness or disability, and you are struggling with the day to day care of your

pet, then PAWS NY might be able to assist. Please note our focus is on physical assistance, and

we are unable to provide financial assistance.

House call Program: This is our core program through which PAWS NY volunteers provide on-

site home visits to our clients. Visits generally include: dog walking, litter maintenance,

medication administration, and provision of food and water. Other services may be provided to

existing clients who are already receiving the aforementioned services.

Client Eligibility: In order to qualify for services, individuals must meet each of the following

criteria:

• Be in need of on-going House call Services as outlined above

• Be a New York City resident

• Be a senior citizen (60+), or individual suffering from a temporary or permanent

disability or illness

• Have an impaired ability to provide day-to-day care for your pet(s)

• Have a maximum gross monthly income of no more than $1,850

• *Please note that PAWS NY focuses on in-home care for clients who are living at home

and are in need of on-going assistance.

SERVICES WE DO NOT PROVIDE:

• Assistance when individuals are hospitalized if they are not existing clients

• Adoption/Placement services

• Spay/Neuter services

• Temporary boarding for pets not in our House call Program (foster only provided in

cases where an on-going client is facing a medical emergency)

• Veterinary care for pets not in our House call Program


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Vet Mobile

Office: 718-544-7387

InfoLINE: 718-770-7387

HelpLINE: 718-321-7387

Info@LowCostVet .org

WWW.LOWCOSTVET.ORG

Low Cost “Vet Mobile” has served 10,000 pet guardian families in its first three years! There

are two major programs introduced by Companion Animal Network. A telephone “hotline” to

assist pet owners in times of crises, called “ The Safety Net” Hotline and a super low cost full

veterinary service, the “low Cost Vet Mobile.” Please note: Proof of income status may be

required.

Some of the Vet Mobile Services Available

Dentistry Cherry eye tie-down surgeries

Most surgeries Eye and ear infections

Glucose curves Blood tests

FIV/FELV test Mange

Heartworm snap test Heartworm treatment

Fecal test Splints and casts

Vaccinations Orthopedics

Parvo test Mammary tumors

Urinary and bowel blockages Giardia test

Laser therapy Board certified specialized surgeries

BRONX - TUESDAYS

Fordham Plaza – East 189th

St. & 3rd

Ave. (in front of Applebee’s)

QUEENS - WEDNESDAYS

159-19 Horace Harding Expy, Fresh Meadows, Flushing – (side road of the LIE)

STATEN ISLAND - THURSDAYS

1838 Victory Blvd. (near Manor Rd. & Slosson Ave. by S69 bus)

MANHATTAN - FRIDAY & SATURDAYS

Corner 111st Street and First Ave. (next to Thomas Jefferson Park)

BROOKLYN – QUEENS – SUNDAYS

Corner of 149th

Ave. & Cross Bay Blvd. at Linden Blvd, Ozone Park/Howard Beach/East NY, Brooklyn


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www.vetcoclinics.com

https://www.vetcoclinics.com/services-and-clinics/vaccination-packages-and-prices/

Bring your dog or cat into a Petco or Unleashed location in your neighborhood and save on the

cost of vaccinations, heartworm and Lyme disease testing and purchase prescription flea, tick

and heartworm prevention products. Don't risk losing your best friend - get your dog or cat

microchipped at Vetco for only $15.

Our state licensed Veterinarians administer high-quality vaccines with no appointments and no

exam fees. You'll find low cost dog and cat vaccinations, puppy and kitten vaccine programs

and the great prices on quality pet meds at our nation-wide vet clinics at Petco. We offer

heartworm tests and rabies shots, bordetella (kennel cough), distemper vaccines and much

more

Vetco offers affordable, low cost vaccination services and preventative veterinary care during

convenient evening and weekend hours. Our state licensed Veterinarians administer high-

quality vaccines with no appointments and no exam fees. You'll find low cost dog and cat

vaccinations, puppy and kitten vaccine programs and the great prices on quality pet meds at

our nation-wide vet clinics at Petco. We offer heartworm tests and rabies shots,

bordetella (kennel cough), distemper vaccines and much more. Visit website and enter your zip

code at the top of any page to find a Vetco clinic near you.


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P.O. Box 140486, Staten Island, NY 10314

www.nysave.org /[email protected]

Phone: (917) 669-7281 / Fax: (718) 720-1110

The goal of NY SAVE is for any pet owner residing in one of the five boroughs of New York City who is

truly in need of financial assistance to be able to take their pet to any participating veterinary hospital

for emergency veterinary care. Pet owners can apply directly to NY SAVE or obtain services through a

referral by a veterinarian who is a member of the Veterinary Medical Association of New York City. To

qualify, pet owners need to provide identification and some form of documentation indicating that they

are currently unemployed, on public assistance, disabled or living at or below the poverty level. There is

a $2,000.00 annual limit per household. Pet owners who are able to pay a portion of the veterinary care

will be asked to do so on a sliding-scale basis. Veterinarians participating in the program will reduce their

fees in order to care for animals accepted for treatment under NY SAVE. The pets treated through NY

SAVE will receive the same level of care as any other veterinary patients. After treating the emergency

condition, the veterinarian will institute the appropriate therapy for the continued stabilization of your

pet.

What is NY SAVE? NY SAVE is a philanthropic organization established to provide funding for the

emergency veterinary care of companion animals when their owners are unable to pay the costs of such

treatment. NY SAVE's overall purpose is to alleviate suffering of companion animals.

How does a pet owner qualify for financial aid under NY SAVE? Any New York City resident pet owner

may apply when he/she truly needs financial assistance to pay for emergency veterinary care. To verify

your financial status, we will ask you to provide identification and some form of documentation

indicating that you are currently unemployed, on public assistance, disabled, or living at or below the

poverty level.

How do pet owners apply for funding? Pet owners may apply directly to NY Save, or they may be

referred through veterinarians who are members of the Veterinary Medical Association of New York

City. NY SAVE can provide up to $2,000 per emergency case.

Are there any instances when the pet owner will be expected to contribute to the cost of veterinary

care? If it is determined that a pet owner can afford to pay a portion of the treatment costs, we ask

them to so. Any contributions by pet owners will be requested on a sliding-scale basis.

Will veterinarians reduce their fees in order to care for animals accepted for treatment under the NY

SAVE program? Yes. Veterinarians are asked to reduce their fees by at least 20%.

Will the pets treated through the NY SAVE program receive the same level of care as other veterinary

patients? Yes. Also, after treating the emergency condition, the veterinarian will institute the

appropriate therapy to ensure the continued stabilization of the animal.


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The Humane Society of New York

(212) 752-4840 - (212) 752-4842

http://www.humanesocietyny.org – [email protected]

Clinic Hours: Open 7 days (by appointment only) 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Clinic Appointments & Inquiries: between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Address: 306 E. 59th St (between 1st and 2nd Avenues) NYC 10022

On any given day the Humane Society of New York is responsible for hundreds of animals with

diverse needs. For many, the Society is the only place they will find help:

• Seven days a week, dog and cat owners with limited means turn to the Society for

quality veterinary care at affordable rates.

• Services range from basic wellness care to spay/neuter to advanced diagnostic and

surgical procedures.

• Neediest cases (frequently elderly or disabled owners with acutely ill pets) receive full or

partial underwriting for care; costs are covered through the Society's Animal Emergency

Appeal. Each year, hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of life-giving care for

animals in need is made a reality through such underwriting.

• The Animal Multi Free Spay/Neuter Program covers 100% of spay/neuter costs for pet

owners. The service is available by appointment.

• Also by appointment, owners of pit bulls and pit bull mixes may have their pets

neutered at any time, costs covered by the Society.

• The Outdoor Cat Spay/Neuter Program - the New York area's first such effort-prevents

much unnecessary suffering by underwriting spay/neuter and basic wellness care for

feral cats.

• Adoption dogs are evaluated and trained under the supervision of renowned animal

behaviorist Bill Berloni, the Society's Director of Dog Training. After dogs go home, Bill

continues to guide and assist new owners.

Clinical Services

Office Visits Wellness Exams

Inoculations Blood Tests

X-rays/Ultra Sound Geriatric Care

Surgical Mgmt. EKG

Spay/Neuter Hospitalization

Endoscopy Dentistry


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The Humane Society of the United States

Pets for Life NYC

Hotlines: (917) 468-2938

http://www.humanesociety.org/about/departments/pets-for-life/

200 West 57th Street – Suite 705, NY, NY 10015

What is Pets for Life? Pets for Life builds humane communities using innovative strategies and

fresh approaches designed to extend the reach of animal services, resources, and information

to underserved areas. Addressing the critical need for accessible, affordable pet care, our

program helps animals by empowering the people who care for them.

Pets in Poverty: Here’s a snapshot of the United States in the 21st century: One in six

Americans lives in poverty, one in five Americans speaks a language other than English at home

and 6 out of 10 U.S. households include at least one pet. As our cultural landscape changes, so

must our approaches to addressing animal welfare in all of our communities. There are tens of

millions of people living with their pets - and our research shows that 87% of pets in these

communities haven’t been spayed or neutered. To respond effectively to this, we must reach

out to people who have the least access to animal wellness information and services. Pets for

Life is creating informational change for dogs and cats by going into these communities and

staying there for the long haul, closing the service gap.

Helping People and Pets: Building trustful relationships with people and establishing an

ongoing presence in the community is critical to making a real impact. Experience has shown us

that when we extend our compassion to human beings as well as animals, we can create long-

term and meaningful social change. Pets for Life embraces the human component of the

human-animal equation by approaching people in a respectful way and recognizing that

people’s love for their pets transcends socioeconomic circumstances and cultural differences.

Working with Communities: Pets for Life conducts in-depth community assessments, provides

ongoing neighborhood outreach and offers free services such as dog training, spay/neuter

surgeries, vaccinations, pet supplies and general wellness care. We strive for partnerships with

animal welfare organizations and other important community leaders and service providers,

including faith-based entities, social service programs, health care agencies and local

businesses. We also develop tools for and offer training and mentorship to other animal

welfare organizations. We’ve combined the valuable lessons our program staff have learned

over time with extensive data collection and innovative strategies for reaching new audiences.

We are meeting people where they are instead of waiting for them to come to us—building

relationships and giving people and pets life-changing resources.


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212-788-4000 - http://www.nycacc.org [email protected]

Our Animal Care Centers: Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) has three full-service Animal Care

Centers located in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island, as well as two Admissions Centers

located in the Bronx and Queens. Whether arriving at our shelters due to homelessness, family

crisis or abuse, we do not turn away any animal in need.

Spay & Neuter: To ensure that the dogs, cats and rabbits in our Care Centers do not add to New

York City's population of unwanted animals, ACC requires every healthy animal adopted from

our Centers to be surgically sterilized (spayed or neutered). Not only is it required by law, but

also it is beneficial to the health and behavior of each animal. If the animal you are adopting

has already been spayed/neutered, it will be able to go home with you after your adoption is

complete. If not, your pet will need to stay and you will pick him or her up after spay/neuter

surgery. You will be required to leave a $150 deposit, which will be returned when you bring

your pet back for surgery (which must be within 60 days of adoption). Appointments for post-

adoption spay/neuter can be made online at our Spay & Neuter Online Appointment page.

Volunteer Program: ACC's volunteers are central to the welfare of the animals in our Care

Centers. Volunteers help in the care and placement of shelter animals, foster animals in need,

and give valuable administrative and fundraising support. Please visit our Volunteer

Opportunities page for more information.

Lost & Found: Many of ACC's animals are lost pets. To ensure the return of your missing pet,

ACC encourages you to have current identification on your animal in the form of a license or

microchip so that if your pet comes into our Care Centers, we can return your pet to you. If

you've lost your pet, you can search for your pet at any one of our three full-service Care

Centers open seven days a week.

Field Operations: Animal Control Officers are in the field to assist animals and people in need

in all five boroughs. ACC's Field Operations respond to calls from the public regarding animals

that are in need of rescue, pose a threat to public safety, stray dogs, and injured dogs and cats

that need extra help. To help such an animal, please call 311. Please visit our Field Services page

for more information and details


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ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

510 East 62nd Street, New York, NY 10065

Main Phone Number: 212- 838-8100

Appointments: 212- 838-7053

Financial Assistance Inquiries: 212-329-8767

http://www.amcny.org/# / https://www.amcny.org/financial-assistance#

Email: [email protected] – Financial Assistance Dept.

Applicants must reside in the tristate area (New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut) and receive a

medical referral for their pets by an AMC. Financial assistance is available for care and

treatment rendered at AMC. 24 hour emergency service available.

About Us: The Animal Medical Center in New York City is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-

profit veterinary center that has been a national leader in animal care since 1910. As an

academic veterinary hospital, AMC promotes the health and well-being of companion animals

through advanced treatment, research and education. Our staff is comprised of nearly 100

veterinarians who utilize an interdisciplinary team approach in our Elmer and Mamdouha Bobst

Hospital, combining expertise in more than 17 key specialties and services to care for your pet

24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our Mission: The Animal Medical Center (AMC) is dedicated to providing compassionate and

collaborative care to animals and to leading the advancement of veterinary medicine through

innovative clinical research and education. Compassion, Advancement, Respect, Excellence!


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Comprehensive Pet Care: Pets receive inpatient and outpatient care 24 hours a day, 365 days a

year. AMC offers a comprehensive range of services and treatments including, but not limited

to: Brain and spinal cord surgery.

• Brain and spinal cord injuries

• Cancer treatment

• Computerized tomography (CT) and MRI

• Diagnostic ultrasound

• Emergency services

• Internal medicine

• Minimally invasive surgery

• Pacemakers

• Routine care

• Surgery

Education: The Education Division is dedicated to advancing veterinary care. The Animal

Medical Center offers internships and residencies to doctors of veterinary medicine who wish

to

Clinical Investigation: The Caspary Research Institute conducts clinical investigation of naturally

occurring disease in companion animals to enable more effective diagnosis, advanced medical

and surgical treatment and prevention of disease in all pets. Investigations are conducted by

observing and treating naturally occurring disease. Animal Medical Center does not induce

disease for research and does not maintain any laboratory animals for research.

Community Outreach: AMC meets special needs by offering a variety of free or subsidized

services to those in need:

• 401K-9 Fund

• AMC to the Rescue

• The Buddy Fund

• Frank V. D. Lloyd Fund for Guide Dogs

• Honey Bunny and Rou German Shepherd Fund

• Kiki White Umbrella Cockatoo Avian Fund

• The Monty and Minny Fund

• Patient Assistance Fund

• Seniors’ Animal Veterinary Effort (SAVE)

• Pet Loss Support Group

• Financial Assistance


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The Humane Society of the United States

Pet Help Partners

(917) 484-3169

www.humanesociety.org

Is Your Cat’s Behavior Frustrating You?

Pet Help Partners has free expert cat behavior assistance

to help you and your cat live together happily. Call (917)

484-3169 for assistance.

Section 2

Pet Food and Pet Training


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New York Common Pantry

8 East 109th

Street, New York, NY 10029 - 917-720-9700*

CALL FIRST AS SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED!

PET FOOD:

Emergency pet food is available during business hours

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Note: There is no information on the actual website but we contacted

organization and they do in fact provide pet food (while supplies are

available).


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Free & Low-Cost Pet Food, Litter & Supplies

http://www.animalalliancenyc.org/yourpet/food.htm

If you live in the New York City area and need a little help affording food and supplies for your

pets, these programs can help.

Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) Pet Food Pantry: BRONX RESIDENTS ONLY! ACC's Pet Food

Pantry, housed at their Bronx Admissions Center, is open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to

8:00 p.m. for dog and cat owners who may be experiencing difficulties in providing for their

loved ones. With a generous grant from Animal Farm Foundation and donations from New

Yorkers, ACC’s Bronx Admissions Center provides dog and cat food to those in need in the

borough. Owners must bring their pets in for free microchipping and sign an enrollment

agreement in order to begin receiving pet food. http://www.nycacc.org/services/community-

pets-program

Pet Food Pantry - ACC Bronx Admissions Center

464 East Fordham Road, Bronx, NY 10458

Animal Relief Fund (ARF): Animal Relief Fund (ARF) helps to keep pets with their families and

reduce the number of abandoned dogs and cats by distributing pet food to local food pantries

that serve New York families in need. http://arf-ny.org/

Food Bank For New York City: Food Bank For New York City sometimes has pet food available

at its food pantries (availability depends on how much food has been donated). Contact them

for more information. https://www.foodbanknyc.org/


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Healthy Pets Project of NYC: Healthy Pets Project of NYC offers free spay/neuter services, pet

food, and supplies for low-income pet owners, and assistance to those facing financial hardship

due to a veterinary emergency, with the goal of keeping pets in their homes. Applicants are

evaluated on a case-by-case basis and must meet certain criteria.

http://www.healthypetsnyc.org/

PAWS NY: PAWS Pet Pantry: PAWS NY partners with food banks and food delivery services,

and distributes pet food and supplies on a limited basis to people who are having trouble

buying food for their pets. We evaluate each client on a case-by-case basis and offer services

accordingly. https://pawsny.org/services

Pets of the Homeless: Distributing Organizations: Pets of the Homeless works with distributing

organizations — local food banks, pantries, soup kitchens and homeless shelters — who have

agreed to distribute the pet food to the homeless and poor in their communities around the

country https://www.petsofthehomeless.org/get-help/?r=New+York


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Animal Care and Control of New York City

http://www.nycacc.org/index.htm

Euthanasia:

Services for Owned Animals: Saying goodbye to your companion is not easy. Animal Care &

Control of NYC (AC&C) is here to support you during this difficult time. For pets that are

terminally ill, aged or injured to the extent that they will never lead a normal happy and healthy

life, euthanasia is a humane option. We recommend that before you make any decision, you

speak to your vet about it first.

We encourage you to bring your pet to a private veterinarian for euthanasia services whenever

possible, as this may make it easier to say goodbye to your beloved companion. If this is not

possible, you can bring your pet to one of our Care Centers to discuss your options and the

humane euthanasia service we provide to the public.

Euthanasia is performed by a lethal injection of sodium pentobarbital. Each procedure is

completed with care and compassion by a euthanasia certified technician. The cost of this

service is $125.00. Final decision as to whether euthanasia is the appropriate option or not will

be made by AC&C.

Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate visitation requests during the procedure or

cremation requests after the procedure.

Section 3

Pets that are Dying or

Deceased


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How Long Before Animals are Put to Sleep (Euthanized)? There's no pre-specified time period

we hold animals. AC&C rescues thousands of animals each year. Euthanasia decisions are based

on the health and behavior of each animal as well as the resources of the Center at the given

time. We are an open admissions shelter, meaning we do not close our doors to newly arriving

animals when we are full. If someone brings an animal to our shelter, we are required by law to

take it in. Therefore, we must always have room for the dogs and cats that are in need of

rescue.

(212) 876-7700 – Ext. 4490

http://www.aspca.org

Euthanasia:

While it cannot be said that the ASPCA is “for” euthanasia, it recognizes the inevitable necessity

for euthanasia in certain circumstances. In many areas of the country there are more pets than

there are appropriate homes. The ASPCA believes that unwanted pets deserve a dignified,

painless death rather than suffer from such cruelties as malnutrition, disease or trauma,

outcomes commonly associated with an unwanted and/or uncared-for existence. Similarly,

long-term housing of individual dogs and cats in cages without access to exercise or social

activities is not an acceptable alternative. Euthanasia must be understood for what it is: a last-

step, end-of-the-road option to spare animal’s further hardship and suffering.

The ASPCA recommends the injection of sodium pentobarbital as the preferred agent for

euthanasia of shelter animals. Euthanasia should be performed only by skilled professionals

who have been trained and certified in administering injectable euthanasia solution. Euthanasia

should not be performed in the presence of live animals, and it is essential that the proper

steps are taken by the trained staff to verify that death has occurred. Performed properly,

euthanasia by injection is the most humane, safest, fastest and least stressful to the animal and

is safe for shelter personnel. No forms of drowning, suffocation, electrocution, mechanical

stunning or killing are acceptable alternatives. In emergency situations, when no other options

are available, trained officials only may carry out euthanasia using firearms. The ASPCA

supports the recommendations of the American Veterinary Medical Association Panel on

Euthanasia


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https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/end-life-care

End of Life Care: Coping with the impending loss of a pet is one of the most difficult

experiences a pet parent will face. Whether your furry friend is approaching his golden years or

has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, it’s important to calmly guide the end-of-life

experience and minimize any discomfort or distress. As your pet’s health declines, you may

elect to care for your pet at home—with the supervision of a veterinarian—or you may decide

to end his suffering with euthanasia. Read on to find out how to help make your pet’s final days

peaceful and dignified.

Is Your Pet In Pain? When cats and dogs are suffering, they may not show outward signs that

we normally associate with pain like whimpering or crying. Sometimes an animal will continue

to eat or drink in spite of pain or disorientation. Some physiological and behavioral signs that

your pet might be experiencing pain include excessive panting or gasping for breath,

reclusiveness, reluctance to move and food pickiness.

Caring for an Elderly Pet: The most important thing you can do for your elderly pet is to

minimize any pain or distress she’s experiencing.

• Consult with your veterinarian and treat any health problems, since undiagnosed issues

can cause discomfort and rapid deterioration.

• Surround her with her favorite things, like a warm blanket or special squeaky toy.

• Since pressure sores can develop in pets with limited mobility, it’s also essential to provide

a warm sleeping spot with plenty of cushioning.

• Some older pets may develop incontinence, or the loss of bladder control, so be sure to

check your furry friend regularly for any wetness or soiling. If your pet needs help getting

up to urinate or defecate, you can purchase a sling or use a large towel to wrap under her

body and assist her.


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Pet Hospice Care: Pet hospice care, also known as palliative care, is an option if your pet is

suffering from a terminal illness and a cure is not possible. The goal is to make a pet’s final days

or weeks more pleasant with the proper use of pain medications, dietary strategies and human

interaction. Pet hospice is not a place, but a personal choice and philosophy based on the

principle that death is a part of life and can be dignified. When considering hospice care, pet

parents should very careful not to prolong the suffering of pets that are in pain or experiencing

poor quality of life. A participating veterinarian will teach pet parents how to provide intensive

home care to keep an ill pet as comfortable as possible. Hospice care requires an active

commitment and constant supervision from pet parents, who work with their veterinary team

to make sure their pet’s life ends comfortably. If you decide hospice care is the right course for

you and your pet, you will become your pet’s primary nurse and caregiver, as well as the link

between your pet and the veterinary team. Consult with your primary veterinarian and see if

she recommends hospice care for your pet based on his specific needs. Animal Hospice Services

Insta-Vet located in NY/NJ - https://www.instavet.com/contact-instavet/ 917-946-0933

Considering Euthanasia: Euthanasia provides a painless, peaceful end for a pet who would

otherwise continue to suffer. Your veterinarian has special training to provide your pet with a

humane and gentle death. During the procedure, your vet will inject your pet with a sedative

followed by a special medication. The animal experiences no awareness of the end of life—the

process is akin to undergoing general anesthesia for a surgical procedure and takes about 10 to

20 seconds. Your veterinarian is the best person to advise you on when the time is right to

euthanize—information from medical tests is often more accurate than what a pet owner can

observe, and pet owners often delay the moment of euthanasia in anticipation of grief.

Observing and keeping an accurate record of your pet in his daily activities can help you to

decide. If you observe that moments of discomfort outweigh his capacity to enjoy life, it is time

to euthanize, even if your pet still experiences pleasure in eating or socializing. If your pet is in

pain, your main goal should be to minimize his suffering.

What to Do If Your Pet Has Died at Home: If your pet is under the care of a veterinarian at the

time of his or her passing, he or she can guide you through next steps. However, if your pet dies

in your home, there are options to consider. Whether you simply want the body to be removed

from your home, or you wish to permanently memorialize your pet in some special way, the

choice is yours.

• Depending on your decision, you may have to keep the body in your home for a short

period of time. A well-cooled body can be held for up to 24 hours, but the sooner it can be

taken somewhere else, the better.


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• Placing the wrapped animal in a refrigerator or freezer is recommended, with one

exception—if you plan to have a necropsy (autopsy) performed to determine cause of

death, the body should not be frozen (refrigeration is still okay). It is essential that you

contact a veterinarian as soon as possible if you would like a necropsy.

• If the animal is too big to be put into a refrigerator or freezer, the body should be placed

on a cement floor or concrete slab, which is the best way to draw heat away from the

carcass. Do not cover or wrap the body in this instance. Doing so will trap in heat and not

allow the body temperature to cool.

• As a last resort, you may keep the body in the coldest area of your home, out of the sun,

packed with bags of ice. In this case, the body should be placed in a plastic bag to prevent

it from getting wet.

Pet Cremation and Burial: It is very common for pet owners to have their deceased pets

cremated. You need to decide if you wish to keep your pet's ashes as a remembrance. If so, you

will want to arrange an individual (or private) cremation, meaning that your pet will be

cremated alone. Businesses that offer individual cremation commonly offer home pick-

up/delivery of remains as part of their service packages. Depending on local laws, it may be

legal to bury an animal on your own property. It is typically illegal to bury an animal on public

lands such as parks. If you desire burial for your pet but do not have land of your own, check to

see if there is a pet cemetery or memorial park in your area.

Companion Cremation Services

102 Skillman Avenue, Brooklyn, NY

(718) 388-0605

The Animal Medical Center is open 24 hours and will accept your animal for communal

cremation at any time, day or night, for a $50 fee. Other cremation services are available, but

must be arranged directly with the third-party cremation service provider.

Animal Medical Center

510 E. 62 Street, NY, NY

(212) 838-8100

Burial: It is legal to bury an animal on your own property in New York City, but it is illegal to

bury an animal on public lands such as parks. If you desire burial for your pet and are not

fortunate enough to have a garden of your own, you still have options. The first is Pet Haven, a

company that serves the entire tristate area. Pet Haven has a beautiful pet cemetery in the

Poconos, and you can have as much or as little involvement with the burial as you are

comfortable with. Pet Haven offers many other services as well-please visit the company's

website to learn more.


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Pet Haven Cemetery & Crematory

East End Avenue, NY, NY

(917) 608-9729

If you wish to keep your pet closer to home, you may wish to consider Hartsdale Pet Cemetery

in Westchester County, NY. Bring your pet's body to the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Animal

Hospital, which will hold it for up to 10 days while you make arrangements with Hartsdale.

Hartsdale will retrieve the body from the ASPCA and keep it until burial service or, if you decide

on individual cremation, return ashes to you. The ASPCA will charge a refundable deposit to

hold your pet on behalf of Hartsdale.

Hartsdale Pet Cemetery & Crematory

75 North Central Park Avenue, Hartsdale, NY

(800) 375-5234

ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital

424 E. 92 Street, NY, NY

(212) 876-7700, ext. 4200

Fee-Free Options: The New York City Department of Sanitation will pick up animal remains that

are left curbside. This service is free of charge, but there are specific rules that must be

followed:

On your neighborhood's regular trash pickup day, place the animal in a heavy-duty, black plastic

bag and put it in your usual collection spot. Tape a note to the bag stating "deceased animal

inside."

If you have any questions about disposing of a deceased pet in this manner, please call 311,

New York City's government and service information hotline.

If your pet dies at any time of year other than summer and your garbage collection day is

several days away, you are presented with the problem of having to keep the body in your

house for over 24 hours-which is unadvised unless it is in a freezer.

For further support dealing with the loss of a pet, including information on meeting the

emotional needs of children at the time of a pet's death, call our Pet Loss Hotline at (877)

GRIEF-10.

Free Services for tenants or program participants who have suffered a loss of a pet:

1) Bide-A-Wee hold monthly support groups run by licensed clinical social workers

with experience in the fields of illness, loss, and bereavement.

212-532-4986

2) ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline

1-877-GRIEF-10

ASPCA Partners in Care - May cover Euthanasia and communal cremations for

low income applicants. 212-876-7700 Ext. 4420


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Care Centers:


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Locations in Manhattan:

1) Animal Haven · www.animalhavenshelter.org

212-274-8511, Ext. 2

200 Centre Street (SoHo)

Description: Volunteer opportunities for dog-walking, cat socializing, adoption

counseling, and answering phones.

Note: Currently under construction and not accepting applications until Aug. 2017.

2) City Critters · www.citycritters.org

[email protected]

212-252-3183

Kips Bay Petco · 2nd Avenue & 31st Street

Description: Pet Adoption Counselor, must commit to at least 2 hours (preferably 4)

between 12 pm to 7 pm every weekend to help meet and screen potential adopters.

Skills: Volunteers for City Critters must be good-humored and able to deal

diplomatically with opinionated or difficult people; speak English clearly; be able to

make accurate judgment calls within boundaries of CC’s policies; and feel

passionately about matching cats with the right home.

3) KittyKind · www.kittykind.org

[email protected]

[email protected]

212-726-2652

Petco at 860 Broadway & 17th Street

Description: Feed and clean kittens awaiting adoption at the KittyKind adoption

center. This is an ongoing, weekly commitment with the approximate hours of 2-4

pm. Training is provided and volunteers must be over the age of 16.

Section 4

Volunteering with Animals


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4) ASPCA · www.aspca.org

212-876-7700

424 East 92nd Street

Description: greet adopters, socialize cats, exercise and socialize shelter dogs, clean-

up kennels. To volunteer, go online and reserve a spot for orientation.

5) NYC Audubon · www.nycaudubon.org

[email protected]

212-691-7483

71 West 23rd Street, #1523

Description: NYC Audubon protects the city’s birds and their habitats. Volunteers are

needed for weekday office tasks. This includes answering phones, sending out mail,

making photocopies, sending out faxes to more challenging tasks such as writing

grants, and updating paperwork.

Locations in the Boroughs, and Additional Opportunities in Manhattan

1) NYCACC · www.nycacc.org/volunteer.html

212-788-4000 · [email protected]

326 East 110th Street (Manhattan)

2336 Linden Blvd (Brooklyn)

3139 Veterans Road West (Staten Island)

Description: dog walking, dog and cat adoption counseling, clerical support. All

volunteers must attend 1 mandatory orientation/training session.

How to Volunteer: 1) Attend an orientation; 2) Submit an application at the orientation

session; 3) Interview with the volunteer coordinator – not everyone who attends

orientation will be asked for an interview. Availability depends on skills needed at the

time of your application. A $25 application fee is due at the time of the interview and it

includes a volunteer t-shirt and a photo ID; 4) Participate in assigned training; 5)

Schedule a staff or volunteer shadow appointment; 6) Begin your regular weekly

scheduled volunteering.

2) BARC · www.barcshelter.org

Barcshelter.org/volunteer.html


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86 First Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249 (entrance is located next to the vet’s office)

Description: dog walking and cat visiting. Download an application from their website

then call them.

3) Mayor’s Alliance for NYC Animals · www.animalalliancenyc.org

212-252-2350

244 5th Avenue, Suite R290, Manhattan

Description: various opportunities including hands-on-work with animals through the 90

participating agencies, including fostering your own little New Yorker!

4) Sean Casey Animal Rescue Center. www.nyanimalrescue.org/volunteer

718-436-5163

153 East 3rd Street, Brooklyn

Description: Dog walking


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Hurricane Sheltering

Hurricane Shelters:

If the mayor orders an evacuation of coastal areas, the City strongly recommends evacuees stay

with friends or family outside evacuation zone boundaries. However, for those who have no

alternative shelter, the City has identified hurricane shelters throughout the five boroughs.

All New Yorkers are welcome at NYC Evacuation Centers and Hurricane Shelters regardless of

their immigration status.

The shelters are secure facilities with public safety personnel on site. They are designed to

accommodate people with disabilities and special needs. Please bring bedding, toiletries,

medication, and other personal items for you and your loved ones travelling with you.

To find out the location of your nearest evacuation center, use OEM's Hurricane Evacuation

Zone Finder to locate your evacuation zone, and the system will direct you to the proper

facility. During an emergency, you can also obtain this information by calling 311.

The NYC emergency sheltering system is friendly to all pets but you will be responsible for their

care so please bring your pet’s food, leashes, cage, and medication. Service animals that assist

people with disabilities are allowed in hurricane shelters. Ideally, you should arrange to shelter

other pets at a kennel or with friends or relatives outside the evacuation area. Legal pets with

proper identification will be admitted into shelters with their owners. Owners should bring

cleaning and food supplies with them, as well as containers and leashes.

Section 5

Hurricane Shelter for Pets


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Evacuating With Your Pet: Think about where you will go with your pet and how you will get

there if you have to leave home during an emergency. Plan to shelter your pet at a kennel or

with friends or relatives outside the evacuation area. In planning for an emergency evacuation:

• Arrange for family or friends outside of the affected area to shelter your pet.

• Identify animal-friendly hotels/motels outside of the affected area.

• Talk with your local veterinarian, boarding kennel, or grooming facility to see if they can

offer safe shelter for your pet during an emergency.

• Practice evacuation plans to familiarize your pet with the process and increase his/her

comfort level.

• Know your pet's hiding places so you can easily find him/her during an emergency.

• Keep in mind a stressed pet may behave differently than normal and his/her aggression

level may increase. Use a muzzle to prevent bites. Also be advised that panicked pets

may try to flee.

• Create a Go Bag for your pet or service animal — a collection of items your pet may

need in case of an evacuation. Discuss your pet's Go Bag with your local veterinarian to

see if there are any special items that you should include.

Pet Go Bag Checklist:

• A current color photograph of you and your pet together (in case you are separated)

• Copies of medical records that indicate dates of vaccinations and a list of medications

your pet takes and why he or she takes them

• Proof of identification and ownership, including copies of registration information,

adoption papers, proof of purchase, and microchip information

• Physical description of your pet, including his/her species, breed, age, sex, color,

distinguishing traits, and any other vital information about characteristics and behavior

• Animal first-aid kit, including flea and tick treatment and other items recommended by

your veterinarian

• Food and water for at least three days

• Food and water dishes

• Collapsible cage or carrier

• Muzzle and sturdy leash

• Cotton sheet to place over the carrier to help keep your pet calm

• Comforting toys or treats

• Litter, litter pan, litter scoop

• Plastic bags for clean-up

• If You Are Unable to Get Home to Your Pet


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Some emergencies may prevent you from returning home. In planning for such emergencies:

• Identify a trusted friend, neighbor, or dog-walker to care for your pet in your absence.

This person should have a set of your house keys, be familiar with your home and pet,

know your emergency plan, and have your contact information.

• Put stickers on the main entrances to your home to alert rescue workers of the number

and types of pets inside. Update the information on the stickers every six months. Free

Rescue Alert stickers can be ordered from the ASPCA.

• Keep a collar/harness, leash, and your pet's Go Bag in a place where it can be easily

found.

Proper identification:

• Dogs and cats should wear a collar or harness, rabies tag, and identification tag at all

times. Identification tags should include your name, address, and phone number, and

the phone number of an emergency contact. Dogs should also wear a license. Get

information on dog licensing from the NYC Department of Health.

• Talk to your veterinarian, call 311, or visit NYC.gov about microchipping your pet. A

properly registered microchip enables positive identification of your pet if you and your

pet are separated.

• Current color photo of your pet (in the event it becomes lost).

After An Emergency:

• Following an emergency, be extra careful when letting your pet loose outdoors and be

sure your pet wears an identification tag.

• Familiar scents and landmarks may have been altered, which may cause your pet to

become confused or lost. If your pet is lost, visit Animal Care & Control of New York City

• In addition, beware of other dangers after a disaster, such as downed power lines and

debris created by strong winds or rain.

Documents

Pet Access Resource Guide 2018 Revised Aug 2018...Pet Access Resource Guide 6 | P a g e Vet Mobile Office: 718-544-7387 InfoLINE: 718-770-7387 HelpLINE: 718-321-7387 [email protected]