Dear HVHS Friends, We are swamped with calls from potential adopters seeking kittens and we thought this would be a good time to post some kitten basics…

The HVHS Humane Law Enforcement Division recently seized 69 animals held in captivity from a hoarder in a private home in Garnerville, NY. The animals included: 23 ducks, 21 chickens, 4 dogs, 4 geese, 3 guinea hens, 1 swan, and wildlife including migratory birds such as 12 Canada Geese and 1 Mallard Duck. Additionally 2 other animals were present for a total of 71 however, 1 dove and 1 rooster flew out of a broken window screen. The seizure was completed in compliance with a warrant procured by the HVHS HLE and executed through the Haverstraw Police Department. Once all animals were removed by HVHS personnel, a Haverstraw inspector immediately classified the dwelling as condemned and uninhabitable as conditions were deplorable with feces, urine and mold throughout the building. The Rockland County Health Department was also represented. Upon the completion of the seizure, all animals were seen by a licensed veterinarian and are receiving treatment for various maladies by the HVHS.

The HVHS is launching a fundraising effort today in conjunction with Bravelets™ a company inspired by the times in all of our lives where we need to be brave – whether for ourselves, for our family (including our furry and feathered members), for our friends, or even for a complete stranger. Bravelets™ bracelets are more than just something to wear on your wrist. Bravelets™ are a symbol of hope, strength and courage just like the HVHS. We have designed a group for you to choose from and wear proudly to help the HVHS in its mission.

The HVHS announced today that charges have been levied against Brian Strom, age 49, a Pomona resident for his actions regarding a Pitbull-type dog named “Ace”. “Ace” was emaciated and required surgery to remove the foreign substances in his abdomen. The evidence led the HVHS to believe food was withheld from “Ace” forcing him to ingest whatever he had access to. As such, Mr. Strom was charged with a misdemeanor violating Section 353 of Article 26 of the New York State Agriculture & Markets Laws which states: A person who overdrives, overloads, tortures or cruelly beats or unjustifiably injures, maims, mutilates or kills any animal, whether wild or tame, and whether belonging to himself or to another, or deprives any animal of necessary sustenance, food or drink, or neglects or refuses to furnish it such sustenance or drink, or causes, procures or permits any animal to be overdriven, overloaded, tortured, cruelly beaten, or unjustifiably injured, maimed, mutilated or killed, or to be deprived of necessary

Halloween is a fun day for the whole family, but for dogs and cats it can be a scary experience. Here are Halloween guidelines to keep the family dog and cat happy, safe and secure.

John Principe appeared in Stony Point Justice Court on Monday, September 8, 2014 for sentencing relative to his guilty plea of selling sick animals, specifically Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever dogs, in direct violation of New York State Agriculture and Markets Law earlier this year. Mr. Principe brought to Court reimbursement to the owners of the victims, a total of $10,600.00. The entire $10,600.00 represented restitution of the medical costs associated with the treatment necessary for these sick animals. At the time these animals were suffering, Mr. Principe vehemently denied they were ill and deflected all responsibility. Mr. Principe is not allowed to sell or breed dogs for a period of one (1) year while under the Court's on-going supervision. Additionally, he was sentenced to perform fifty (50) hours of community service by December 2, 2014 and to pay a fine to the Court. As a result of meeting all these conditions, the Judge allowed him to change his plea to Disorderly Conduct. The plea agreement was reached between the District Attorney's office, the Defendant and the Judge, and it was approved by each of the complainant dog owners. The plea ensured the owners the satisfaction of knowing they were absolute in pursuing justice, as well as a monetary reimbursement for the expenses that Mr. Principe’s crimes cost them.

Our Thrift Store will reopen Sat., October 11 at 11zm. The Store has had a complete makeover and now includes designer-label clothing and an expanded jewelry selection. The Store will be open every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm. Proceeds are dedicated to veterinary expenses for animals in our care. The Thrift Store is located at the HVHS Headquarters at 200 Quaker Road in Pomona with convenient access from exit 13 of the Palisades Interstate Parkway.

Once again, the Town of Ramapo has opened its heart and pool to the canine citizens of Rockland County. On Sun., Sept. 7th, the town pool on Spook Rock Road will become the coolest place on the planet. That’s right, beginning at noon (and until 3:30pm) canines are welcome to show off their doggie paddle skills in Rockland at the “K-9 Pool Party”. Splashing is definitely encouraged! The Hudson Valley Humane Society, Rockland’s only no-kill, full-service animal welfare organization will benefit from the event proceeds which will be dedicated to its new kennel building. This is the 11th consecutive year since the Town and the HVHS launched this event and the turnout and support from the public has been tremendous. Each year more than 200 dogs and their human counterparts enjoy a paws-a-tively fun time and a similar turnout is expected. While this event is pure fun, “The dogs have a great time while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of swimming minus negative impact on their joints,” commented Ann Marie Gaudio, President, HVHS. She continued, “At the end of the day there are lots of pooped pooches and a fun memory for the summer.” The K-9 Pool Party for the HVHS has attracted participants from a number of States, the farthest from Alaska.

Two cows were saved from potential slaughter by the Hudson Valley Humane Society. “Rosie” an approximately 6-month old Jersey cow and “Junior” an approximately 10-month old Holstein steer were at risk of losing their lives when the HVHS was called in to help. The young cows resided at a private residence in Orange County where they were maintained tethered to a tree or in a barn. Local children became so fond of these cows they adopted “Meatless Mondays” and asked if these cows could be saved, as a result, their plight then became known to the HVHS who contacted the owner. The cows’ owner, who fully cooperated with the HVHS, asked to remain anonymous and surrendered them to the HVHS. The cows were loaded in a trailer and transported to Rockland County where they enjoyed a private barn and paddock courtesy of an HVHS volunteer. They munched on hay, alfalfa and sweet feed while waiting for their journey to continue.

“Yogi” a 6-year old apricot Poodle has landed the lead canine role of “Tootsie” in Awake and Sing! opening tonight at the Elmwood Playhouse in Nyack, NY. Yogi was surrendered to the HVHS last month just weeks before the director began looking for talent. Yogi auditioned and captured the role. Alan Demovsky, Director, commented “Yogi is a natural on the stage and just perfect for the part of Tootsie, we are delighted to work with him and the HVHS.” Yogi is the second dog to represent the Hudson Valley Humane Society in a theatrical production. During 2012, Colt, a Shetland Sheepdog was the first in the organization’s history to take the stage. Colt appeared in the lead canine role in John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. Awake and Sing! was written by Clifford Odets and first produced for the Broadway stage in 1935. It takes place in the Depression-era and focuses on the dysfunctional Berger family struggling for balance and living in the Bronx. Performance dates include: July 18, 19, 25, 26, August 1, 2, 7, 8 & 9 at 8pm; July 20, 27 & August 3 at 2pm. Tickets may be purchased at www.elmwoodplayhouse.com or by calling 845-353-1313.

Craig “Zee” Braxton, 48, pled guilty to 8 counts of “overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance” as defined in the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 26 Section 353. A total of 14 dogs comprising of 9 German Shepherds and 5 Rottweilers were seized from his residence in New Hempstead pursuant to a warrant executed February 10, 2014. All of the dogs were immediately taken to a team of veterinarians for examination and treatment. Thereafter the dogs were held at the Hudson Valley Humane Society’s facility on Quaker Road in Pomona and at another, undisclosed location. Mr. Braxton’s guilty plea in the Town of Ramapo Justice Court included:

The HVHS launched a recycling effort to raise funds to help complete a new animal Adoption Center currently under construction. Acceptable recycling materials include: inkjet cartridges, laser toners, laptops, cell phones, iPads and iPods. Residents are encouraged to help collect these items through their workplace, school and home. A collection station for drop off of these items is located at our kennel at HVHS headquarters, 200 Quaker Road, Pomona, NY and is accessible 7 days per week. The Adoption Center will be dedicated to housing felines and small animals and will include a glass-enclosed sun room and an outdoor play area. Completion of the Adoption Center is expected early 2014.

The HVHS participated in a rescue effort to save 12 puppies and dogs from euthanasia in Kentucky and West Virginia. Municipal shelters in southern states often reach out to partner organizations throughout the nation in an effort to save thousands of adoptable animals each year. The canines received a clean bill of health from a veterinarian and were approved for interstate transport. All 12 of the canines arrived at the HVHS via ground transport by a convoy of volunteer drivers and are available for adoption. Breed types include: Pugs, German Shepherd mix, Coonhound mixes, Feist, Corgi/Spaniel mixes, Rat Terrier, Papillion, Beagle mix, Daschund/Yorkie mix, plus a few marvelous mutts! “These canines will have a wonderful life thanks to the rescue groups in Kentucky, and West Virginia, the volunteer transport, and the HVHS,” commented Ann Marie Gaudio, HVHS President. “It is extremely rewarding the moment they arrive into safety … their lives just turn around.” Adoptions are by appointment only. A complete medical history will accompany each dog.

The HVHS wants to remind the public of the hazard of leaving a dog in a car. One dog needed rescue from confinement in a vehicle at a State park in Rockland resulting in an officer breaking the window to save the dog; another dog was left in a car in Spring Valley. Temperatures in vehicles climb rapidly. On the average 85 degree day, it takes 10 minutes for the interior of a car to reach 102 degrees with open windows. Within 30 minutes the interior can register 120 degrees. The general rule of thumb is that an interior car is at least 20 degrees hotter than the ambient temp outdoors; parking in the shade offers little relief.

Two Spring Valley men charged with a felony by the HVHS for dog fighting admitted to their crime and pled guilty. Ralph Cadet and Tyrell Francis staged a dog fight for their entertainment at their home at 39 Greenridge Way; the scene was caught on video where the men encouraged the pit-bull type dogs to fight. 9 dogs and puppies were recovered from the residence; 5 have since been adopted, 4 remain. One dog forced to fight has permanent scars and will live for the remainder of her life in the care of the HVHS at an undisclosed location. The men will be sentenced Sept. 17 and may serve up to 1 year in jail. Their names will be added to the County's Animal Abuse Registry. "After more than a year, one particular dog still is fearful of walking with a leash, we attribute it to the heinous, painful experience she had at the hands of these men," commented HVHS president Ann Marie Gaudio. "I am really proud of how our HLE team handled this case." "Chief Raheb's interview of the subjects resulted in their admission, which made the case, and exemplifies his years of experience in humane law enforcement; HVHS has a solid team of Agents providing outstanding service to the County," commented Marc Kissel, Chief of Department.

The HVHS seeks the help from the general public to identify the person(s) responsible for throwing a dog from a moving truck. On Monday, June 3rd at approximately 3:35pm a black flat-bed truck thought to be a Ford was traveling on Powell Avenue in Newburgh. The dog referred to as “Bennie” sustained no injuries and is in good condition at HVHS Headquarters. “Bennie” is a neutered male, weighing approximately 35 pounds. His coat is wiry and white and tan in color. The dog has no collar, tags, microchip or tattoo. Anyone with any information is encouraged to call 845-354-3124 or email reportcruelty@hvhumane.org. “The HVHS received a phone call from the people who ran to the dog’s aid; they were angels to rush in and assist the dog,” commented Ann Marie Gaudio, President, HVHS. She continued, “Anyone who may know the dog’s identity or may have witnessed this crime is encouraged to call us.” The person(s) responsible, if found, could be charged with a violation of Article 26 of the NYS Agriculture and Markets Law.

The HVHS has “paired” with ShoeBox Recycling and adopted them as a partner for a unique spring cleaning effort. During the month of April the HVHS is collecting pairs of shoes to be recycled and "adopted" by new owners. The HVHS is asking our community to clean their closets and consider recycling pairs of shoes no longer wanted and put them to good use for people in need. ShoeBox Recycling will pay fifty cents for every pound of recyclable shoes the HVHS collects; all funds generated by this effort will be dedicated towards our new Adoption Center Project. "We are delighted to become a part of a meaningful turn-key recycling program that helps our fundraising efforts while raising awareness for our Adoption Center Project and the benefits of shoe reuse,” said Ann Marie Gaudio, President, of the HVHS. “Our volunteers embraced this fundraiser and it really resonates well with our community.” ShoeBox Recycling is proud to be a for-profit recycler of shoes. They have flipped the recycling triangle upside down and have mastered the most powerful ‘R,’ REUSE, with all of the shoes collected

Pomona, NY (Feb. 5, 2013): The Hudson Valley Humane Society announced today that additional charges have been levied against John Principe, a Stony Point resident and licensed breeder of Golden and Labrador Retrievers. Mr. Principe was charged with violating Section 357 of Article 26 of the New York State Agriculture & Markets Laws. Mr. Principe turned himself in at the local police department for processing after his arraignment for a prior animal-related violation also brought against him by the HVHS in December. The arresting officer, Chief Rich Raheb, continues to monitor this case as additional complaints persist against Mr. Principe. Sale of a sick, contagious animal is a violation under Section 357 of Article 26 of the New York State Agriculture & Markets Laws. The HVHS Humane Law Enforcement Division consists of 4 New York State Peace Officers who have full police powers and actively investigate crimes against animals in Rockland County. The Agents are led by Chief of Department, Marc Kissel and Chief of Patrol, Rich Raheb. The HLE Division responds on average to approximately 20 complaints per month.

The Hudson Valley Humane Society and The Humane Society of the United States teamed up to rescue 25 cats left homeless in north Rockland by Hurricane Sandy. The storm’s wrath ruined the private house on River Road in Stony Point where they lived. Their owner had meticulously maintained both an indoor and outdoor population for many years, but the storm destroyed everything and she was faced with the daunting task of finding a solution for herself and the cats with no help in sight. Then The HSUS and HVHS answered her call. Once the situation was evaluated and a plan in place, Brian Shapiro, New York State Director for The HSUS and Eileen Jefferson, DVM of Ethical Veterinary of Woodstock, were joined by HVHS personnel, and came to River Road and examined, tested, and inoculated the felines. All those treated were deemed healthy, bright, alert and adoptable. As a result of the collective effort, 25 cats began their new lives on Saturday, January 19 and will go to homes in Rockland County as well as in Mas

The Hudson Valley Humane Society announced today that additional charges have been levied against John Principe, a Stony Point resident and licensed breeder of Golden and Labrador Retrievers. Mr. Principe was charged with violating Sections 353 and 357 of Article 26 of the New York State Agriculture & Markets Laws. The arrest was made on the steps of the Stony Point Courthouse as Mr. Principe departed his arraignment for a prior animal-related violation also brought against him by the HVHS in September. The arresting officer, Chief Rich Raheb, continues to monitor this case as additional complaints are brought forward against Mr. Principe. The sale of a sick, contagious animal(s) and failure to provide sustenance are crimes under Article 26 and are punishable by imprisonment or a fine, or both.

Pomona, NY: The Hudson Valley Humane Society announced today the arrest of a Stony Point man for animal cruelty. The arresting officer, Chief Rich Raheb, responded to a complaint of the sale of a sick puppy by a licensed breeder of Golden Retrievers. Sale of a sick, contagious animal is a violation of animal cruelty under Section 357 of Article 26 of the New York State Agriculture & Markets Laws. A misdemeanor charge is pending. The HVHS Humane Law Enforcement Division consists of 4 New York State Peace Officers who have full police powers and actively investigate crimes against animals in Rockland County. The Agents are led by Chief of Department, Marc Kissel and Chief of Patrol, Rich Raheb. On average the HLE Division responds to 20 complaints per month.

$70 low-cost spay/neuter clinic for felines at the HVHS site. This is the LAST CLINIC until Spring 2013. Call 845-354-3124 to secure your cat's appointment!

Pomona, NY: A sixty-pound, female mixed breed dog died after being left in a car for 2 hours from hyperthermia (overheating). The dog’s body temperature reached in excess of 107° and could not be measured by a thermometer. The dog was pronounced dead on arrival at an area veterinarian. Confinement of a companion animal in a vehicle is in violation of New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, Section 353-d and 353; an investigation by Humane Law Enforcement is pending.

“Colt” the Shetland Sheepdog that became a ward of the Hudson Valley Humane Society has landed the lead canine role in John Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men” which will be performed at The Antrim Playhouse in Wesley Hills, NY. Steinbeck’s novella tells the story of displaced migrant workers during the depression and is a heartwarming illustration of loyalty, friendship and hope. “Colt” plays the faithful but aged dog to Candy the elder handyman on a California ranch. Performance dates include: June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 at 8pm; June 10, 17 and 24, at 2pm. Tickets may be purchased at

HVHS letter in its entirety in response to Burt Saunders'.

The HVHS will be hosting a low-cost spay/neuter event for felines at its headquarters at 200 Quaker Road in Pomona, NY on Thursday, June 14, 2012. Procedures will be done via a mobile clinic operated by The Animal Rights Alliance, Inc. known as T.A.R.A.. The cost is $70.00 per cat and includes the spay or neuter, a rabies shot, ear cleaning and nail trim if needed. Ear tipping of stray cats is also available and must be requested at the time of booking. Additional services such as distemper vaccine ($20.00) or an application of Revolution™ or Frontline™ ($20.00) are also available. Services will be provided by a New York State licensed veterinarian. Drop off time is 7:30am. To book call 845-354-3124 or email hvhsny@optonline.net.

The Hudson Valley Humane Society will be hosting a low-cost spay/neuter event for felines at its headquarters at 200 Quaker Road in Pomona, NY on Thursday, June 14, 2012

The Hudson Valley Humane Society participated in a rescue effort headed by Mid-Atlantic Basset Hound Rescue to save a Beagle and her 3 “bagel” puppies from euthanasia in a West Virginia shelter.

The Hudson Valley Humane Society announced today its 120th anniversary of its incorporation, its birthday. HVHS (originally incorporated as the Rockland County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has successfully promoted the welfare of Rockland’s animal population continuously since 1891.

The Hudson Valley Humane Society announced today the groundbreaking of two new Pet Adoption Centers at their headquarters in Pomona, NY. The new facility will be comprised of two buildings: one dedicated to canines, the other to felines and small animals such as bunnies, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, etc.

The Hudson Valley Humane Society’s Pet Food Pantry marks its first anniversary and is feeding nearly 200 animals. The Pantry was established one year ago today for pet owners needing temporary assistance during challenging economic times. The pantry is funded entirely with donated food or from funds donated for this specific purpose.