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Humane Society 'Top Dogs' from Indy, New Orleans Square Off Before the Big Game

Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana (New Orleans) visited the Humane Society of Indianapolis and met with CEO, John Aleshire, on Feb 1 to discussions shelter operations. The conversation quickly turned to the larger question of which team would win the Big Game. To underscore the rivalry, Aleshire gave Dorson a present of a package of sugar cookies, decorated with the Indy logos. To show his gratitude, Dorson has given Aleshire a copy of the DVD The Crying Game, to remind him that the outcome of Sunday's game will probably disappoint him and his staff.

The contest has already divided family loyalties within the Dorson family, which, like the Manning family, has ties to both New Orleans and Indianapolis. Born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, Jeff Dorson moved to New Orleans in 1988, where he started the Humane Society of Louisiana and remains as its Executive Director. Roland Dorson, Jeff's brother, is the CEO and President of the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, and is a business acquaintance of Mr. Aleshire' he's rumored to have already pledged a contribution to the Indianapolis Humane Society.

The Super 'Shelter Bowl'

The growing rivalry resulted in the 'Super Shelter Bowl' which pits the two humane societies against each other in a race to raise the most funds for the 'home team'. The contest is simple: society supporters and others wishing to show support for their favorite football team can make a donation to either humane society on their websites or by sending in a contribution by mail. (To count in the tally of the Super Shelter Bowl, donations sent by mail must be received (or postmarked) no later than Valentine's Day, February 14th)

The Humane Society of Louisiana, founded in New Orleans in 1988, is one of the state's largest animal protection agencies. The group's shelter was destroyed by Katrina, and they are still seeking funding to replace it. Their web site is www.HumaneLA.org and their mailing address is Humane Society of Louisiana, PO Box 740321, New Orleans, LA 70174.

The Humane Society of Indianapolis can be reached at www.indyhumane.org or at Humane Society of Indianapolis, 7929 N. Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268.

Your pennies and spare coins can help homeless Katrina pets. Since the Humane Society of Louisiana's no-kill shelter was destroyed in Katrina, the displaced charity has been caring for for 120 animals rescued in the storm's aftermath at the group's sanctuary in Tylertown, Mississippi, called the Dixieland Animal Care and Evacuation Center.

Your donations will directly aid these and thousands of other animals in need.

To participate, simply drop off your donations to any First Bank and Trust branch or any Mackie Shilstone's GNC Stores. If you belong to a civic association, club, or school, please let them know about this fund raiser to help these rescued pets. The first phase of this collection drive ends January 31st.

DECEMBER 2009
HSL's Johnna Harris is featured in the debut issue of 'Cesar'sWay'
Read the article>>

Fighting Back: HSL Responds to Cruelty and Neglect
MAY 2009

HSL has been dealing with a growing cruelty caseload from around the state over the last months. From dog and cat poisonings to scores of horse starvation cases, we have been working hard to keep up with the reports. As we continue to form additional rural volunteer chapters, one recently in Jefferson Davis parish and one planned for Evangeline parish, in the heart of Cajun country, the increase in reports is likely to increase, particularly in this economic downturn.

To better respond, we're happy to have recruited two more licensed private investigators to join our team, Carol Lynch and Erica Hirsch. Carney Anne Chester, a former city prosecutor for the city of Houston, has been assisting with legal aspects of our cases, as well. We've also been working closely with Lori Wilson of Rescue Ranch on equine cases.

To help HSL meet the mounting costs of responding to more calls for help, we recently initiated an emergency fundraising campaign to raise $10,000.00 for additional vet bills and investigative costs. Thanks to the donations and pledges of generous supporters like you, we've already raised $6,069.00. of our goal. Please let other animal lovers know about our drive and we deeply appreciate your support.

View The Paws Cause
View Katrina Survivors Sanctuary

PURCHASE YOUR PET OVERPOPULATION LICENSE PLATE! Help control overpopulation by purchasing an ANIMAL FRIENDLY license plate. The fees generated help to supplement spay and neutering for those who normally could not afford to pay for these services. With your help, more spay/neuter means fewer animals ending up homeless and unwanted, and, ultimately, fewer animals being euthanized. Visit www.lapetplate.org for more information.

HURRICANE READINESS PROVIDES RELIEF FOR ANIMAL GROUPS
September 28, 2008
The Humane Society of Louisiana partners with
many groups to meet the needs of animals throughout the state of Louisiana

Tylertown, Mississippi. When the board of directors of the Humane Society of Louisiana purchased land in Mississippi in 2005, they didn't have a concept as to how wise of a move they were making. Three months after they bought the property, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita demolished their shelter in Algiers and left thousands of animals without homes.

Having safely evacuated the shelter pets to Tylertown, the group quickly moved into disaster relief mode, with over 1500 animals visiting Camp Katrina. Though most of the animals were returned to their owners, adopted, or placed with adoption partners, 120 animals remain in the custody of the group and will likely live their lives at the sanctuary for various reasons.

Fast forward to hurricane season 2008. While hosting a national memorial unveiling and luncheon in honor of animals lost in Katrina, and with animal care officials from across the United States in attendance, the mood was melancholy, yet tense as Hurricane Gustav made his way to the shores of Louisiana.

The staff at Tylertown made contacts offering shelter from the storm to smaller, grass-roots organizations throughout the state. HSL in Tylertown housed 26 additional animals during the storm, and coordinated the safe transport and housing of an additional 38 dogs and 13 cats to a neighboring organization.

Once the storm made landfall, the calls for help began to come in from chapters of the Humane Society, other animal groups and individuals from across the state. In an unprecedented move, the group began to coordinate resources such as supplies, volunteers and transports.

"We were pleased to be able to assist groups and individuals in need with preparedness, evacuation coordination and housing during Hurricane Gustav," said Johnna Harris, HSL Animal Services Director. "It is our plan to have a registration service for animal care groups and resource suppliers so groups can be prepared well ahead of storm season 2009."

It quickly became evident that the most critical need after the storm was supplies. Many of the groups in need had lost buildings and fencing - necessities to house animals safely. To help meet those needs, donated supplies are still being distributed to groups requiring aid.

The supplies donated will accomplish three things:

• Providing organizations with immediate needs for shelter animals.
  
• Providing organizations with supplies to care for owned animals being fostered and animals lost or surrendered due to the storms.
  
• Providing organizations with supplies to distribute to the families of pets who have lost everything, but with a little help will be able to keep their animals.

GUSTAV PRESS RELEASES:

NEWS RELEASE - Sunday, August 31st, 5 pm

STILL IN EXILE AFTER KATRINA, LOCAL
HUMANE SOCIETY PREPARES FOR GUSTAV
-NEW ORLEANS

The Humane Society of Louisiana is preparing for more than 150 animals to weather Hurricane Gustav at its Tylertown shelter site, two hours north of the Big Easy.

"It's hard to believe we just held the unveiling of the National Katrinal Animal Memorial statue in the New Orleans City Council chambers on Friday morning," says HSL Executive Director, Jeff Dorson, "And now, here we are preparing for another extremely dangerous storm." HSL, which plans to return its headquarters to the city, had scheduled other activities and fundraisers marking the third anniversary of Katrina this weekend. These had to be cancelled in response to the need for emergency preparedness.

Founded in New Orleans in 1988, the HSL's shelter was destroyed during the storm season of 2005, Since then, the group has been running its statewide cruelty investigation and other humane programs from its makeshift shelter site in Tylertown, where it first evacuated with 157 animals after Katrina. Since then, HSL has been working to transform their former Camp Katrina into a permanent shelter, while working to rebuild their local grassroots organization.

To prepare for Gustav, the HSL is feverishly making preparations at its Tylertown property. Staff members and animal rescuers with pets have evacuated to this shelter. Dogs are being moved into crates inside. Portable buildings and outdoor kennels are being secured, and everyone is hoping for the best.

HSL is cautiously optimistic about the safety of pets in the region. As a result of Katrina, new laws have been implemented on a national level allowing residents to evacuate along with their pets. However, the agency has been receiving calls all day about animals that have been left behind. "We sincerely hope that everyone has remembered the hard lessons of Katrina and have evacuated to safety along with their pets," says Dorson.

The group is confident that the availability of sheltering facilities for local residents with pets will help save both people and animals this time around. HSL's volunteer chapters in rural parts of Louisiana are also been extremely busy getting ready for Gustav. Just yesterday, the head of HSL's Acadia parish chapter, Janet Lyons, spearheaded the effort to evacuate all of the animals from a nearby rural shelter, which which was planning to euthanize all of its animals in preparation for Gustav.

HSL is asking for urgently needed contributions for recovery efforts. In addition to its own recovery, the group will be working to help coordinate volunteers and supplies around the disaster zone after the storm.

They encourage people wanting to help to check into their web site for information on how to help.

"We encourage donors to give to the local groups, who will so urgently need it after the storm," says Dorson. Contributions can be made online at www.HumaneLA.org or by calling 1-888-6-HUMANE. The Humane Society of Louisiana is not an affiliate of any national group and is funded solely by private contributions.

CONTACT Jeff Dorson at 901-268-4432 / 1-888-6-HUMANE or info@humanla.org.

PRESS RELEASES >>

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HSL Board member and attorney, Ariel DiGiulio, recently chaired the meeting of Louisiana's Pet Overpopulation Advisory Council in Baton Rouge. HSL created this Council through state legislation several years ago. It was held up for quite some time over unrelated legal issues, which were finally resolved last year. The Council created an Animal Friendly license plate and will provide grants to organizations, shelters and vets providing low cost sterilization surgeries across Louisiana! Programs like this have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for homeless animals through the sale of license plates...the only thing missing is for many, many more plates to be sold! Ariel and HSL are creating a web site and materials, which will help us promote the sale of the plates. Together, we can raise needed funds to cut Louisiana's euthanasia rates and save lives! If you'd like to volunteer to help us promote this program, please email or call us today. We can particularly use people with graphic design, public relations and copy writing skills.

Please help us spread the word about the plate by downloading and distributing our FLIER.

Miracle was rescued from the top of a building during the floods of Katrina. After being adopted by a family in Indiana, they relinquished her to a shelter without contacting HSL. It was only because of her microchip that we found out and immediately sent a volunteer to rescue her again.

100 KATRINA PETS AT OUR TYLERTOWN SHELTER STILL IN NEED OF SANCTUARY,
THREE YEARS AFTER THE STORM.

It's difficult to believe it's been three years since Hurricane Katrina destroyed our shelter and devastated our hometown. On top of our other many other programs, did you know that the Humane Society of Louisiana is still providing care for 100 animal survivors of Katrina? Some of these wonderful animals, who survived against incredible odds, may never be adopted, but we are working hard to ensure they can at least live happy lives with us in the countryside. Of course, it was never in our original mission or budget to provide lifelong sanctuary care for these animals, but the compassion and commitment of our donors and volunteers to these very special animals have inspired us to work that much harder, every day since the storm!

There are many reasons why we still have so many Katrina animals in our care. 45 of our cats, for example, were obviously feral when rescued, although they were too sick at the time for us to know it. As they recovered after proper veterinary care, it became apparent that most could never be adopted as typical family pets. We've built an outdoor addition for them, and you will be hearing over the next several months about our efforts to build a 'Katrina Kitty Village' for these special retirees.

Many other cats who evacuated with us from our original shelter site were victims of cruelty and neglect and had special issues, even before the storm. Others were ferals, who we trapped just before the hurricane. While many were adopted after Katrina, their advanced age, coupled with the closure of our Happy Tails Adoption Center in New Orleans last year, has made it very difficult for us to attract good homes for them. Dozens of these cats are still housed next door at the St. Francis Animal Sanctuary, and we must provide new housing for them, as well.

As for our canine residents, while we have still been successful in adopting dogs and finding homes for puppies on the East Coast, our isolated location in Tylertown has still made adoptions more difficult, as well. Many of the dogs, too, have behavioral issues and simply wouldn't fit into a typical family home, in spite of the fact that they're all wonderful animals! While many still have a chance at adoption, some of our special cases, like Hope and Stu, do just fine in sanctuary care. They will most likely live out happy lives in the country with us. We are establishing a Katrina Survivors Fund to help provide for their ongoing care.

HSL welcomes back Ian, a former employee of HSL who has returned to volunteer. Ian is shown here getting some computer support from Gabriel and Aussie, and again shown letting Gabriel use him as a cat tree....

THANK YOU SLIM GOODIES!

Slim Goodies at 3322 Magazine Street, www.slimgoodies.com, hosted two fundraisers for HSL this month. During the week of March 17-21, the restaurant donated the cost of any patron's meal if the customer wrote a check to HSL for the cost of that meal! Then on the evening of March 22nd, they hosted a Beer Bash--complete with raffles, reasonably priced plates of food and entertainment by Nikki Calloway, a talented singer/songwriter. A good time was had by all and we are grateful for the funds the event brought in.

This opportunity to raise funds for HSL was done to honor Ray Horn, Jr., who passed away several years ago at a young age. Ray loved animals and was a vegetarian. Lil Ray, as he was known to his family and friends, was the nephew of Kappa Horn, the owner of Slim Goodies. He will never be forgotten!

Working to See St. Bernard Pet Killers Prosecuted

Animal lovers nationwide were outraged by the recent action of Louisiana's newly elected Attorney General, James Caldwell, who dismissed aggravated animal cruelty charges against two St. Bernard Sheriff's Dept officers, Sergeant Clifford "Chip" Englande and Deputy Mike Minton. You may recall the shocking video, which led to these charges being filed; it was recorded by award-winning Dallas Morning News photojournalist, David Leeson. Leeson was filming scenes in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when Minton and Englande were captured on tape, allegedly shooting pets and stray animals at random. The shocking images rightly created a public outcry, and a grand jury convened by the office of former Attorney General Charles Foti handed down an indictment against the officers. We have been in communication with former and current prosecuting attorneys in the case, and they believe that the evidence is strong enough to bring the matter to trial, and we support their view.

We are asking local animal defenders and animal advocates from across the country to participate in a "National Referendum" on the issue. To support this initiative, please call the Louisiana Attorney General's office during the week of April 21st - 25th and ask others to do the same. Simply contact the Criminal Division of the AG's office at (225) 326-6000. Inform Mr. Caldwell's office that you are participating in the National Referendum on the St. Bernard pet shooting case and that you are strongly opposed to the decision to drop the felony animal cruelty charges against Minton and Englande. At the conclusion of the Referendum, HSL representatives will deliver a wreath in remembrance of the animals who were killed to Attorney General Caldwell's office and urge his office to bring the case to trial.

Wildlife Gets Helping Hand at Tickfaw State Park

State Officials Recognized for Their Work in Implementing New Policies and Procedures

See the press release for more information

Ike Recently found a wonderful home in New Orleans.

So close! Molly was just about to be adopted, when it was discovered she needs expensive surgery for a hernia. To get her the care she needs, we are working overtime to find guardian angels who can help our lovely Molly. They'll all get a special note form Molly herself to say "thanks."

Sassafras, Frankie and Rosie are recovering at our Tylertown facility. They were suffering from serious neglect when rescued by HSL.

The Rapid Response Animal Abuse Team has registered over 140 people from around the nation and an article about the group is in the current issue of Animal Fair magazine. T-Shirt's which features one of the surviving Edgard 5 puppies can be purchased through HSL.

In memorial....

Those of you who attended our "Art for Animals Auction & Gala" before Katrina will certainly remember William Perry "Pepper" Brown. In addition to attending and helping out with other HSL events and activities, Pepper was the volunteer auctioneer at "Art for Animals" for close to a decade, and we are saddened to learn that he passed away just weeks ago in his New Orleans home. Once again, our city lost another great friend of the animals. Pepper was great company and a real New Orleans character. We'll truly miss him, and we offer our condolences to his friends and family.

and we say goodbye to two of our long-time shelter animals....

This month we said farewell to one of senior citizen residents, Tiger, who recently passed away peacefully in his sleep. In the mid '90's, Tiger was adopted out by a New Orleans animal charity. We were contacted, when his loving guardian died shortly after Katrina. His master's desperate, dying wish was that his beloved Tiger be allowed to live out his natural life. When family and friend didn't make this dream come true, we took Tiger into our care, where he received love and attention for our staff until the end.

We also said goodbye to Picayune this month--one of our gray tabby cats who went to a better place, after we had done all that we could to provide for him medically. Picayune escaped Katrina with us in our initial evacuation. This is one little guy who never developed a liking for people and could therefore not be successfully adopted. Luckily, he had a great time hanging out with his preferred feline friends. Picayune was an amazing rescue--HSL Board members trapped him as a kitten in a storm drain in the heart of the Central Business District in New Orleans. It was miraculous that his little cries were heard by downtown hotel employees, over the din of the roaring traffic. He was subsequently fostered for close to a year, but he always remained wild to the core, growing up with a healthy dislike for humans. Picayune may never have really liked us very much, but we'll certainly miss him.

February 2008:

DEFENDING THE "EDGARD 5" AND LOUISIANA'S VOICELESS VICTIMS OF CRUELTY AND NEGLECT

One of "The Edgard 5" surviving puppies

Amidst the shocking cases of animal cruelty reported to the Humane Society of Louisiana, it is difficult to find any one particular case that stands out as being more heinous than the rest. One recent crime in the city of Edgard, however, demanded our immediate action. A nursing mother dog was shot to death, leaving her four puppies behind to suffer and die of starvation, had they not been rescued. Luckily, the puppies are now thriving at a veterinarian's office. To respond to this despicable act, and in an attempt to catch the perpetrator, seven humane society volunteers spent a recent Saturday afternoon seeking justice for the unfortunate family of animals we nicknamed "The Edgard 5" Our volunteers handed out fliers about the crime and publicized our establishment of a reward fund. Workers also met with the resident who reported the crime, to thank her for coming forward, so the puppies could be saved. HSL will continue working to apprehend this animal abuser in Edgard, as we push local officials to act on other important cases, as well.

In Tangipahoa, for example, a cat was shot in the head and killed on a rural highway; even though our local chapter President, Randy Stegall, identified the boy's residence and is a primary witness to the crime, the authorities have failed to take action. In another case we are monitoring, a New Orleans municipal judge found a man guilty of cruelty, but inexplicably awarded the horses back to their abuser. HSL plans to file a complaint about this ruling. From investigating complaints about pet stores, animal pounds and breeders, to tackling shocking incidents of cruelty and neglect that are commonplace in communities across Louisiana, HSL is working hard in the trenches to ensure that justice for animals is done. We have also recently formed a Rapid Response Animal Abuse team, to mobilize HSL members to act in support of our work, in specific cases of cruelty. Anyone wishing to become an active volunteer for the team can do so on our homepage.

Adopted!

Gilbert barely escaped death three times before his adoption: he survived a trailer fire, only to be abandoned at the scene; he was later saved there from a pack of wild dogs!

Gus was abandoned on a rural highway near our emergency shelter.

If only every animal in need of our help were as adorable and so easilly adoptable as these two.

Support from Foundations

The Humane Society of Louisiana thanks the Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear Hugs Foundation for their recent $5000 grant. These funds were donated to help us pay for some of the extraordinary veterinary expenses we incurred on behalf of animals impacted by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear Hugs Foundation is committed to making life more bearable for children, families and pets, in need of a helping paw. With the sale of each full-sized Bearemy's Kennel Pals friend - a collection of Build-A-Bear Workshop plush dogs - one dollar is donated to domestic pet programs, including local animal shelters, stray pet rescue and rehabilitation organizations, and pet education programs around the country.

Our gratitude to our wonderful local veterinarians, who helped us after the storm and have been so patient with us, as we have attempted to pay off these unanticipated bills.

We were delighted to have completed a new doggy play yard, supported in part by a Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant!

We thank the Freeport-McMoran Foundation as well, for their kind recent gift in support of our Acadia chapter!

Farewell to a Good Friend:

HSL also bids farewell this month to Earl Cancienne, one of our most committed volunteers for more than a decade. HSL's Linda Dell, our former Thrift Store manager, who worked closely with Earl, offers this remembrance of her friend and colleague:

"Any regular customer or donor to our thrift store would have eventually met Earl Cancienne. He volunteered when he could at the store from the time it opened in 1997, until it closed its doors for the last time on the Saturday morning before our Katrina evacuation. When I went to work there in 2000, I was very impressed with his knowledge of local history, as well as collectibles and antiques. I had to consult him many times when trying to decide on the value of items donated. Earl helped HSL in any way he could over the years and volunteered at almost every event we had.

Not being a person to brag, I only found out from others that he had been a hero in his neighborhood in Marrero during Katrina. While everyone else evacuated, Earl stayed behind to care for the neighbors animals, including dogs, cats, horses and birds, that were left by those who thought they would be back in a day or so. He took care of them all until the owners could come back.

Earl served his country with military service in the Army and cared for both his parents in their extended illnesses. When he retired, he then dedicated himself to helping animals and preserving the history of the city he loved. He volunteered at the Gretna Historical Society and the last time we spoke he was joining a group that would help preserve the spoken French language in Louisiana.

The Humane Society lost one of its biggest supporters, animals lost an advocate, the city lost one of its wonderful characters and I lost my good friend. I will never forget him."

January 2008:

This is the year we reach the 20th Anniversary of HSL! Our thoughts will be about about the friends, staff, volunteers and financial supporters that helped us along the way all these years--and all the wonderful animals that we were honored to help over the past 20 years of animal advocacy in Louisiana!!

Concerned animal rescuers recently contacted us about a group of homeless puppies, who were living in an abandoned New Orleans housing project slated for demolition. Rightly fearing for their welfare, the rescuers were able to move the puppies to safety, after HSL agreed to step in and help them. The seven chow-mix puppies are under veterinary care and we fear that they may need more help than we had first thought before they can be neutered and placed for adoption.

In keeping with the spirit of the season, the lucky pooches were all named for some of our local carnival krewes. So all hail Zulu, Rex, Isis and the rest of this cute canine gang.

Dr. Rich, one of our wonderful veterinarians, has already helped us find a new home for Nugget (above) where he has another prairie dog for a companion! Nugget's last guardian was being deployed to Iraq and was forced to find a new home for her little friend. HSL was glad we could help.

Special thanks to all of the volunteers who came out to support the Humane Society by working at the Krewe of Barkus parade. HSL is proud to be one of the beneficiaries of this all-canine Mardi Gras krewe. In return for providing volunteers, our group receives a portion of the profits from the parade. Barkus is the only Mardi Gras krewe in New Orleans by and for the canine population. This year's theme was Indiana Bones and Raiders of the Lost Bark.

Some of our rescues that are scheduled to have new homes in the North very soon:

Bogey (One of the cutest puppies ever!)

Fric and Frac have a good time on a sunny day....

And more little friends....

IN MEMORY OF MARK HARRIS

It is with very profound sadness that the Humane Society of Louisiana relates the tragic loss of Mark "Scooter" Harris, beloved son of HSL Animal Services Director and Board member, Johnna Harris. Mark left this life far too young, at the age of 21. Our thoughts and prayers are with Johnna, her family, and all who knew and loved Mark, at this difficult time. We are also grateful beyond words to Johnna who, with her characteristic determination and compassion, has continued her tireless and difficult work for our animals, at this time of great personal sorrow and hardship

December 2007 :

As you can see, with treatment and tender love and care, Wilson fought hard to overcome his horrible ordeal. In even better news, while it was earlier thought his leg would have to be amputated, it now appears that it can be saved! He's ready for Christmas at Tylertown....

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HSL's Cassandra Koster and Dana Nesbitt pose with Diamondat the shelter, as Betty and Dante look on in the background. Adopted from our New Orleans sanctuary before its destruction, Diamond was sadly returned to us by her family of several years for behavioral issues, which may now seriously narrow her chances of finding another home. Regardless, she'll get plenty of love and affection from us, in the meantime. Because our contracts require adopters to return animals to us in the event a placement doesn't work out for whatever reason, we help ensure their safety for life, should families choose or be forced to relinquish their pet. During a recent pet transport, HSL's Johnna Harris picked up Diamond in New York, where her former family had relocated.

The ferrets shown here are two of the five rescued in the month of December. One was saved from an animal shelter and four others were so severely neglected that animal cruelty charges are likely to be brought in the matter. We're happy to report that Maverick and Goose, two ferrets that have been in our care for several months, were recently adopted together into a very loving home.

Here's one of our many feline friends at our Tylertown Shelter - dressed up for the holidays.

We were happy to have two sons of HSL's Cassandra Koster helping out at Tylertown during the holidays. They will be leaving after the first of the year to serve their country in Afghanistan. We are grateful for their help and we all pray for their safe return!

NOVEMBER 2007

We had many reasons for gratitude this Thanksgiving. The HSL crew was able to avert a potential crisis and instead start the holiday season on a very positive note! For the last two years, the costly rental fencing at our emergency shelter was secured with grants, first from the Northshore Animal League and then from the Taylor Family Foundation. Our contract was due to expire again this month, but at the last moment, The Ahimsa Foundation came to the rescue by providing us with $25,000 towards permanent fencing at our site. We're hopeful this will be the first of many 'miracles' in store for Louisiana's animals this holiday season!

Smiley and Dorothy Will Be "Home For The Holidays"

Smiley and Dorothy are two of HSL pets that were adopted this month and will be spending the holidays in their new homes with their new families! Dorothy was named for the Wizard of Oz character--earlier this year, Dorothy bravely protected her pups as a tornado raged through our shelter site, tearing down fencing around her. She also nursed another litter of orphans after her own puppies were adopted. Smiley

Dorothy

CIRCUS UNDER FIRE

HSL investigators gathered evidence in an ongoing case, at the request of the California group, in Defense of Animals. Elephants on loan to the Kingsford Circus are not receiving adequate care, according to the USDA, the federal agency charged with monitoring circuses. In several federal court proceedings over the years, the circus was already fined hundreds of thousands of dollars for Animal Welfare Act violations. HSL will use its video evidence to help pressure the USDA to take more aggressive action.

Puppies transported to new homes in Connecticut!

Johnna Harris made another successful transport of 15 puppies to new homes!

Here are the puppies taking a much needed break in Ohio at the home of HSL'S Linda Dell before continuing on to their destination in Connecticut...

HSL SAYS FAREWELL TO THREE BELOVED ANIMALS THIS MONTH

This month we were forced to say farewell to three of our beloved animal residents, whose conditions were no longer humanely treatable with veterinary intervention. Lovely, elderly Shivers, shown here, was too ill and stricken with arthritis to go on. We are so grateful that we were able to provide her with the love and a warm, comfy bed for the last year of her long life. We also lost good natured Bob, an elderly, handsome silver tabby, and Wild Bill, who succombed to the effects of feline leukemia. We thank all of our supporters who allowed us to provide these "hard to place" but wonderful animals a place to live out their lives with love and dignity. They will all be missed.

OCTOBER 2007

HSL is pleased to report the return of Cassandra Koster to our shelter. Cassandra was one of the original volunteers that rushed to Camp Katrina after the hurricane to help. She returns from Ohio this month as an employee and a great asset to our dedicated staff. Cassandra is shown here with Toby.

Toby was scheduled to be euthanized by Baton Rouge animal control. A caring worker contacted us about her plight.

Aussie, animal companion to Johnna Harris, our Animal Services Director, is ready to roll! She is always by Johnna's side on every transport, and is seen here, patiently waiting to hear the transport van engine start up. Aussie and Johnna are just waiting for funds to make another transport. Aussie loves to travel and is annoyed that they aren't on another trip yet. She won't have to wait long - there is a transport scheduled for early next month.

Here are some of the puppies that will be on the transport:

HSL has had a trapping program underway for weeks, to save eight Chihuahuas and mixes who were abandoned in the woods. The two most frightened holdouts were just captured. Scared and hungry, the initially terrified little guys eventually calmed down.

This homeless Mama dog picked the right place to give birth to her litter of seven precious puppies-right under the building of one of our participating veterinarians. They were kind enough to provide all of the shots and vet care for the animals, with the understanding that we would find homes for the whole adorable family.

These beautiful kittens are now resting comfortably at our shelter after being abandoned in a box in a dumpster. They will be up for adoption as soon as their health permits.

Dog rescued just in time....

This beautiful lab mix was near death when he was rescued this month lying in a field with terrible skin infections and a broken leg. It was only by accident that he was seen. Now instead of a slow agonizing death, he is being cared for by HSL staff. He may have to have his leg amputated but it is too soon to know. We've named this angel "Wilson."

CAT CAUGHT IN STEEL LEG HOLD TRAP

(Metairie) - Walking out on to her patio, Beverly Bourgeois was taken aback by what she saw. There, in the middle of her back yard, she saw a small brown cat with a steel leg hold trap clamped down on her right rear leg. Startled by Mrs. Bourgeois walking towards her, the cat hobbled away, with the leg hold trap still clamped to her leg. Mrs. Bourgeois immediately contacted the Jefferson Animal Control Department, which dispatched an animal control officer to the scene. The officer canvassed the area and was able to locate and catch the injured cat. The officer was able to disable the trap and placed the frightened cat into a carrier. The cat was then transported to the East Bank Animal Shelter, where she was examined and treated by a shelter veterinarian.

Mr. Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana, and Ms. Metherne, Director of the Jefferson Animal Control Department, held a joint press conference on Tuesday, October 2, to discuss the details of this case. The cat that survived this attack and the trap that was found attached to the cat's leg was shown to media representatives during this conference. HSL is offering a reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

"We are very fortunate to have gotten to this cat when we did," said Leann Metherne, newly appointed director of the Jefferson Animal Control Department. "It is amazing that the trap didn't inflict more damage. Usually, animals caught in leg hold traps have their toes, paws, and/or legs completely mangled. If the animals survive the initial shock of being caught and injured, they often suffer from effects of dehydration, trauma, and/or blood loss. Many animals that survive being caught in a trap have their paws or limbs amputated as a result of infection. We suspect that the cat's leg was so small that the trap did not close all the way on it. However, we are extremely upset that someone deliberately set this trip within our city limits to ensnare an unsuspecting animal. it is illegal to use these dangerous traps outside of trapping season and within the incorporated areas of Jefferson Parish, where the majority of animals are domesticated cats and dogs," added Metherne.

FAIRY-TAIL ENDING FOR ONE VERY LUCKY PUPPY!

New Orleans Police Department officers Mike Cure and Matt Patin noticed a poor, homeless six-month-old puppy wandering around the B.W. Cooper housing project in New Orleans. It was obvious that she was in intense pain; an old collar had grown into her neck, resulting in a horribly infected wound. The caring officers tried for over a month to capture the wounded puppy, as she suffered in silence without relief. Refusing to give up, even when animal control officers failed to capture her and abandoned the effort, the NOPD officers contacted HSL seeking help, as the puppy's condition continued to deteriorate. HSL founder Jeff Dorson agreed to do whatever he could to help the poor puppy.

By adding sedatives obtained from a local veterinarian into her food bowl, Dorson and the officers were able to sneak up on and net the groggy pup, as she fell asleep on an apartment doorstep. She was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic, where surgery was performed to remove the collar.

After her long ordeal, Cooper recovered nicely at a local veterinarian. Concerned animal lovers contributed to her veterinary bills and several wanted to adopt Cooper. After considering all applications to adopt, it was decided that she should go to live with one of the officers.

Television crews covered an HSL press conference awarding Officers Cure and Patin with our 'Golden Paws' award. They truly went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure this puppy's suffering was ended!

JULIUS...

Thanks to all of you who helped Julius along the way to his new home! Our particular thanks go out to Lollipop Farm Boarding Kennel in Lubbock, Cat Cino and Elizabeth Reynolds. HSL is very grateful for the special efforts of Shelli Brooks in helping Julius and so many others.

Excerpted from a report by star volunteer and doggie defender, Shelli Brooks:

Hello to all of you wonderful people who have helped Julius along in his journey!

Julius traveled to Lubbock, Texas with HSL's Animal Care Services Director, Johnna Harris. Even though one of his traveling companions was not one of his favorite dogs, Julius was a very well-behaved boy and was as quiet as a mouse during his trip.....

Needless to say, the image of Julius running around his OWN yard with his new companion and his new mom looking on has had me smiling all day!!!!!!! There are very few things in the world that could make me happier than the fact that Julius is doing so well and has found a soft place to lay his head at last.

. . . HSL never gave up on Julius. They gave him "prime real estate" at the shelter, treated him for heartworms, provided much needed entropian surgery on his eyes, and always made sure he had a person whom he trusted to care for him. And when a home arose, though they didn't have a ton of money lying around to transport him to Lubbock, TX, there was never a doubt that they would get our guy where he needed to go.

Finally, to those of you who offered support in Lubbock and those of you who contributed to Julius' transport fund, THANK YOU! The network of Rottweiler people has been amazing. Having people near by his new home who are there to support his success is so reassuring. And, the fact that so many of you went out of your way to donate money toward his transport is beyond any expectations I could ever have for a group of folks who have never even met Julius.

So JULIUS IS IN A HOME!! HOORAYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!! Shelli

AUGUST 2007

ANOTHER LIFESAVING PET TRANSPORT HEADS TO THE EAST COAST

HSL Animal Services Director, Johnna Harris, is working with our friends at the North Shore Animal League to place 15 puppies, while 10 needy cats rescued from cruelty in New Orleans are headed to a Pennsylvania sanctuary. Sponsors are needed to underwrite the costs of pet transports. If you'd like to help, contact us at info@humanela.org or call 1-888-6-HUMANE.

TYLERTOWN UPDATE: KATRINA CATS ENJOYING NEW OUTDOOR AREA

In addition to the more than 200 other animals routinely in our care, did you know that HSL now provides sanctuary to 40 feral cats, who were saved during the immediate aftermath of Katrina? When these sick and exhausted animals were rescued, they were too ill and in shock to react normally. As they recovered, however, it became evident that they were feral cats, who had amazingly survived the ordeal of the hurricane on the streets! Of course, it's difficult enough to adopt healthy and friendly adult cats, so these special Katrina survivors will undoubtedly require long term sanctuary care. After they lived in an enclosed indoor area for more than a year and a half, HSL supporters like you made it possible for these special survivors to get an outdoor cat area added to their indoor quarters. Since tens of millions of dollars were donated to national groups for the care for Katrina animals, it is a shame that our small, grassroots agency—which was at the epicenter of the disaster—has had to struggle just to provide these hurricane survivors with a bit of sunshine and fresh air. Thanks to you and our own grassroots fundraising efforts, however, the lives of these special kitties are now much improved. We will keep writing grants and pursuing every angle to better provide for these and other animals at our rural shelter site.

THE ONGOING BATTLE AGAINST BLOODSPORTS IN LOUISIANA

This month, there is great cause for celebration, as the cruel bloodsport of cockfighting has finally been outlawed in Louisiana! Congratulations go out to all of the groups, legislators and individuals, who worked tirelessly for decades, to finally achieve this breakthrough for birds! The cockfighting ban will go into effect in August of 2008, but an additional law prohibiting gambling at the fights will go into effect in a few short weeks; this will effectively shut down most cockfighting activity. The horrors of illegal dog fighting have also been widely publicized in recent weeks, stemming largely from with the indictment of Atlanta Falcons star quarterback, Michael Vick, on dog fighting charges. Because of the tremendous media focus on dog fighting in recent weeks, HBO Sports was in Louisiana, to report on the issue here at home. Shortly before the TV crew's arrival, our office received an anonymous tip about alleged dog fighting activity in Independence, which we communicated to the State Police. Within three hours of receiving our information, an officer visited the site and prepared a search warrant. Leaving early the next morning at 3am, HSL's Jeff Dorson traveled to Independence, where he met more than a dozen State Police officers and the HBO film crew. The warrant was executed, 14 dogs were seized, and an arrest warrant for felony dog fighting was subsequently issued in the case. More dog fighting leads were investigated with the film crew over the course of two days.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HSL'S GROUNDBREAKING WORK TO COMBAT DOG FIGHTING IN LOUISIANA.

May 2007

LEMON AID FOR PETS IN NEED

Summertime is just around the corner, and HSL is promoting a cool and refreshing new way to help animals: 'lemon aid' stands to raise funds for needy pets!

The first of our thirst-quenching fundraisers was held this month, on behalf of two very special dogs. Princess and MIssy, two Katrina survivors, were urgently in need of veterinary treatment, but their caretakers simply didn't have the money to help them. With no funds in our own budget to assist, we knew we had to come up with a fresh idea that could quickly bring them aid.

Incredibly, the Humane Society of Louisiana raised $1,000 at our first 'lemon aid' stand on a recent Saturday afternoon, which enabled us to cover their veterinary expenses. That's a lot of lemonade!

The beneficiaries of the fundraiser couldn't have been more deserving. Princess is an 11-year-old Chow, who was abandoned at her home during the hurricane. Sadly, law enforcement officers prevented her owners from retrieving her, but volunteers from the Humane Society of Louisiana successfully rescued the senior canine. After being temporarily fostered in Kentucky, she was returned home to Shirley and Russell Quest. Since that time, Princess sadly lost her eyesight as a result of glaucoma. One of her eyes has already been removed, but a second surgery is needed. The family did not have the money needed for the operation, estimated to cost $600.

Another survivor of the storm, Missy, a 6 year old mixed-breed dog, was abandoned in the city by her owners, after the hurricane destroyed her family's junk yard business. SInce then, an elderly neighbor has been doing her best to care for the deserted dog, with the Humane Society of Louisiana helping to defray expenses Missy has been diagnosed with advanced heartworm disease. Her ongoing treatment is expected to cost $400.

In order to reach our $1000 goal, HSL set up its first 'Lemon Aid for Pets' stand outside of Belladonna Day Spa on Magazine Street. We enlisted the help of Mrs. Quest's two adorable granddaughters, 4 yr old Alanna and 6yr old Amatullah, who worked as our volunteers and stole the show by selling lemonade for $1 a cup and "gratitude stones" for $10. Customers were charmed when the two little girls explained that the stones not only brought good luck but reminded their holders to have gratitude in their lives.

With these endearing young sellers on our side, HSL successfully raised about $650 in four hours to help Princess and Missy! Others interested in supporting the effort pledged to donate the remaining funds needed, allowing us to reach our $1,000 goal.

Because of the enthusiastic response to our 'Lemon Aid for Pets' event, we plan to have more of these summer fundraisers for animals, who would otherwise have no hope. Executive Director, Jeff Dorson, who coordinated the first event, noted: "People appreciate being able to directly identify with specific animals in need. The feedback we get is that people want to contribute directly towards helping individual dogs like Princess and Missy and other very special animals like them."

WANT TO HELP US KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING? Why not encourage your children, grandkids or students to take a 'stand' for animals and hold a a 'lemon aid for pets' event? It's a great summer project for young people. If you are interested, HSL can provide information about a particular animals in need of help, and the kids can run their stand to directly aid them. There is unlimited potential for this fundraiser, particularly if neighbors, friends and local business people are invited to get behind the effort. We'll be happy to assist with ideas and support. For more information, please contact us at info@humanela.org.

OR MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TODAY! There are many other animals like Princess and Missy in urgent need of help. If you want to help us reach them, please contribute through our DONATE page or call us at 1-888-6-HUMANE. The Katrina animals who have only the Humane Society of Louisiana to rely on will be eternally grateful for your support! Also, feel free to ask us--if you want to know exactly who you're helping; we will be happy to connect you with a special animal with very particular needs! You can be the difference in their lives!

If you are interested in running your own lemonade stand to help animal survivors of Katrina, please contact us and ask for a Lemon Aid for Needy Pets kit.

May 21, 2007
2:10 PM CST

Accidental deaths spur investigation, changes at parish animal facilities
By Jaime Guillet Staff Writer
NEW ORLEANS CITY BUSINESS ARTICLE