ASPCA treats 1,000 animals since launch of NYPD partnership

NEW YORK—The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) today announced that 1,000 animals have been treated as a result of their life-saving partnership with the New York City Police Department, which launched citywide in January 2014. With this partnership, the NYPD took the lead role in responding to all animal cruelty complaints in the five boroughs and the ASPCA expanded its direct care support for its victims, as well as training, veterinary forensic and legal support for the NYPD.

“The heroic efforts of NYPD officers and ASPCA medical and behavioral staff are clearly giving more victimized animals the opportunity to recover and transition into safe and loving homes.” said Matt Bershadker, President and CEO of the ASPCA. “Reaching this milestone so quickly confirms the effectiveness of the ASPCA/NYPD Partnership in fighting animal cruelty and upholding New York City’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable residents.”

The animals brought to the ASPCA over the last year and a half have experienced a range of cruel treatment from being discarded on the side of the road, viciously kicked and even stuffed in a suitcase and left to die. To meet the needs of the increasing number of canine cruelty victims being rescued through the partnership, the ASPCA opened and recently completed construction on the Gloria Gurney Canine Annex for Recovery and Enrichment (CARE), a rehabilitation center dedicated to providing specialized behavioral treatment for dogs that were victims of abuse and neglect. Earlier this year, the ASPCA and New York Police Department Foundation also announced the expansion of the foundation’s Crime Stoppers program, which allows the public to easily and anonymously provide information about animal cruelty in New York City.

To report animal cruelty in any of the five boroughs, the public is encouraged to call 311 or submit an online complaint. For crimes in progress, individuals should call 911.