ASPCA Completes Expansion of Rehabilitation Center for Canine Cruelty Victims

NEW YORK—Today the ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) announced the completion of a critical expansion project that will accommodate housing and behavioral rehabilitation for New York City canine cruelty victims.

In January 2014, the NYPD and ASPCA launched a citywide partnership in which the NYPD takes the lead role in responding to all animal cruelty complaints in the five boroughs, and the ASPCA provides direct care support for the victims and conducts police training and forensic analysis. Construction on the Gloria Gurney Canine Annex for Recovery & Enrichment (CARE) – made possible by the estate of benefactor Gloria Gurney – was announced in May 2015.

“This partnership has resulted in the rescue of more animal cruelty victims in New York City than ever before,” said Matthew Bershadker, President and CEO of the ASPCA. “CARE gives the ASPCA much-needed space to house victimized dogs and offer personalized behavioral rehabilitation that will give them the best chance of finding safe and loving homes.”

The 5,000-square-foot facility, which is not intended for public use, is located near the ASPCA’s Upper East Side hospital and adoption center and can house approximately 50 dogs. Dogs often arrive at CARE after completing medical treatment in the intensive care unit and the special anti-cruelty ward of the ASPCA Animal Hospital. At CARE they receive behavioral assistance necessary to prepare them for adoption.

CARE was specifically designed to create a calming experience for its canine residents, including paint colors that are relaxing to a dog’s eyes and hallway ceiling skylights to provide a natural sunrise and sunset experience. A full-size kitchen enables the staff to prepare food and enrichment treats that keep the dogs physically and mentally stimulated during the day. Two spacious exercise rooms, one of which can be divided into two areas, will be used for daily exercise and training sessions.

“Many of the dogs that come to us through the NYPD partnership are shy, fearful and under-socialized as the result of physical abuse or neglect,” said Gail Buchwald, Senior Vice President, ASPCA Adoption Center. “It’s important that we provide them with a consistent, home-like atmosphere to assist their recovery while our staff works on their behavioral issues.” 

CARE is one of several ways the ASPCA has invested in the success of the NYPD partnership. The organization also assists law enforcement officials in the form of forensics work, comprehensive legal services, field assistance, and ongoing training and educational materials for officers.

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. For more information on the ASPCA’s efforts to tackle animal cruelty, please visit www.aspca.org.