CHA Animal Shelter Receives ASPCA “Champion for Animals” Award for Efforts to Help Victims of Dogfighting

COLUMBUS, Ohio – On Thursday, January 30, the ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) presented CHA Animal Shelter with its “Champion for Animals” award, honoring organizations and individuals who have shown dedication to ending dogfighting in their communities and across the country. In the past six years, CHA Animal Shelter has supported the ASPCA’s efforts to tackle animal fighting by taking in and finding loving homes for more than 70 dogfighting survivors rescued by the ASPCA.

Kelsey Smucker, executive director of CHA Animal Shelter, received the award on the shelter’s behalf, which was presented yesterday afternoon by members of the ASPCA National Field Response team. The presentation included CHA Animal Shelter staff and ASPCA representatives, along with two dogs who the ASPCA helped rescue from a dogfighting case in New York City in October 2019 and are currently available for adoption at CHA Animal Shelter.

“The ASPCA relies on our valuable partnerships with animal welfare organizations across the country to support our efforts to tackle cruelty and improve the lives of animals nationwide,” said Jasmine Holsinger, senior manager of ASPCA National Field Response. “Thanks to CHA Animal Shelter’s dedication, we’re able to help rescue more victims of dogfighting and place them into new homes where they can experience the love and care they deserve.”

“The team at CHA Animal Shelter is honored to receive this award and we are thankful to the ASPCA for giving us opportunities to help dogs and puppies rescued from dogfighting,” said Kelsey Smucker, executive director of CHA Animal Shelter. “There is no better feeling than when you get to see one of these dogs leave our adoption facility with a loving family. When you know what each dog experienced in his or her past and what each dog’s outcome would have been if not rescued, it is truly heartwarming to be a part of their journey and see them walk away towards a better future.”

Among the many dogfighting survivors CHA Animal Shelter has helped to give a second chance is Rex, one of more than 60 dogs the ASPCA helped rescue from a dogfighting case in Illinois in 2016 where the dogs were found tethered to heavy chains. Brennen Williams adopted Rex nearly three years ago and says he is a best friend who is loved by everyone he meets, including Williams’s six nieces and nephews.

“I cannot stress enough how great we are for each other, and I wouldn’t trade him for the world,” Williams said. “I want to thank CHA Animal Shelter and the ASPCA for taking care of him and letting him come home with me. My only regret is that I haven’t had him in my life since he was just a little puppy.”

About CHA Animal Shelter

CHA Animal Shelter is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter in northeast Columbus, Ohio. CHA is funded solely by donations from adoption fees, donations from the public, and our own fundraising efforts. Our mission is to serve the people and animals of Central Ohio by providing safe, temporary shelter and care for abandoned or otherwise homeless cats and dogs, and to reduce pet overpopulation by means of spay and neuter, education, and community outreach. We have been fulfilling our mission since 1975. For more information visit www.chaanimalshelter.org be sure to follow CHA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.