The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has awarded the Tipton-based organization, Dogs Deserve Better, $7,500 as the first-prize winner of the second annual 2003 ASPCA/Chase Pet Protectors Award.
The contest, sponsored by the Home Equity division of Chase Home Finance, (Home Finance business of JPMorgan Chase. & Co., NYSE: JPM.), was designed with the goal of learning more about progressive and innovative techniques that animal welfare organizations are using to protect our nation’s pets against animal cruelty and neglect.
“This is the first award for our organization,” said Tammy Grimes, DDB founder. “It means legitimacy to me. This award, from one of the most prestigious animal organizations in the country, the ASPCA, tells both us and the world that what we are doing is amazing, truly loving and truly working for the animals.”
DDB is an organization working to provide dogs with more humane living conditions. It began back in August of 2003 in Tipton and now has 25 representatives across the United States and a branch in Australia.
Although the law in many cases states that owners need only to provide the barest essentials – adequate housing and a six-foot chain – DDB works tirelessly to educate the public with widespread campaigns discouraging continuous chaining and penning.
Its current campaign motivates owners to unchain their dogs by sending Valentines and treats for the dog during Have a Heart for Chained Dogs Week.
DDB also encourages good Samaritans to report individuals who chain or pen their dogs. DDB then educates these dog owners by sending literature that discusses the inherent cruelty in continuous chaining or penning.
“The ASPCA/Chase Pet Protectors Award serves as a wonderful opportunity for animal welfare organizations to be recognized for their hard work, share their experience and knowledge with other animal welfare professionals and receive funding to support their exceptional efforts to protect animals,” comments Julie Morris, senior vice president of the ASPCA National Shelter Outreach Program.
“Winning first prize for this award is a godsend to us,” comments Grimes.
“It has legitimized and validated all of the work we’ve done this past year and a half and hopefully will bring us increased respect and appreciation both locally and nationally.”
The organization plans to use the grant towards grassroots efforts including printing educational materials and posters. Area representation can be found in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Washington.
“We just spent $2,200 of it to print brochures in English and also in Spanish,” said Grimes. “There are many areas in other states with a heavy Hispanic population who chain and pen their dogs for life as well.
“We are printing more posters, and will also do posters in a style for warmer weather and in both English and Spanish,” she continued.
“We have just hired our first employee, who will take over the general office duties, so some money may go toward that as well.”
She also said some money will go toward vet services for chained and penned dogs that are rescued or brought into the home as a result of DDB’s efforts. She also noted that more money may go towards fencing material.
Grimes said the organization is always looking for more volunteers and supplies.
Those interested are asked to contact 941-7447 or e-mail at tammy@dogsdeservebetter.com.
The organization will be working hard during Have a Heart for Chained Dog week.
During this week, group members obtain addresses of chained and penned dogs and either mail or hand deliver a valentine, information and a treat.
To wrap up the week, DBB is having a bachelor/bachelorette fundraiser and single dance at the Eldolyn Terrace in Altoona on Feb. 14 beginning at 7 p.m.
“We need volunteer bachelors and bachelorettes to auction off a date with,” said Grimes, “and we need a bunch of single to attend and make this a memorable evening and a wonderful event for the dogs.”
Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. Call 941-7447 for more information.
