mspca SPRING 2004 Kindness and Care for Animals Gatepost

COMMITMENT, COMPASSION AND COMMUNITY

The Capital Campaign UPDATE Vision of a New Nevins

MSPCA at Nevins Farm Fast Becoming a Reality Methuen, Massachusetts In October 2003, the MSPCA at Nevins Farm broke ground on the Noble Family Animal Care and Adoption Center. More than 75 people attended the groundbreaking, blueprint, you can see the actual center being construct- $10 million which marked the first phase of a historic $10 million ed,” said Adoption Center Manager Mike Keiley. capital campaign. To date $3 million has been raised to The new state-of-the-art facility will provide housing $9 million renovate and expand the farm’s aging facilities. for an additional 75 animals and will offer separate

$8 million “We are supercharged areas for evaluating new by what is happening,” animals and housing $7 million said MSPCA–Angell those with special-care

$6 million President Larry M. Hawk, needs. A medical suite to D.V.M. “Through the assess and treat incoming $5 million very generous support of animals and specially

$4 million the Noble family and designed areas for dogs, others, we are building a cats, small mammals, $3 million state-of-the-art facility birds and exotics are

$2 million that will enable us to also planned. better care for the more “A wonderful opportunity still exists for those Low-maintenance, $1 million than 7,000 animals who who love animals to help us fulfill our mission energy-efficient materials come to Nevins Farm by contributing to the campaign.” such as an energy-recov- each year.” ery ventilation system and To date we have raised $3.3 million The center is named in thermal-paned windows towards our new Nevins Farm. A very big “thank you” to all those who are making recognition of George and Connie Noble, whose $1.5 are being used to construct the facility. Interesting archi- our dream a reality! The following have million contribution is making the new center possible. tectural details include earth-tone exterior accents and provided leadership gifts: Construction of the 18,000-square-foot facility is well cupolas. “The center is designed to fit into the land- Bafflin Foundation underway and is quite visible to passersby and visitors, scape, to carry the charm of the farm throughout,” said Colloredo-Mansfeld Family who often ask staff what is happening. “This is so excit- Chief Architect Stephen Jensen. “It has an antique feel, Derby Family Gladstone Family ing. It is now real and tangible — instead of looking at a with all of the modern amenities.” (continues inside) Kimball Family Noble Family Pingree Family Rogers Family Foundation Campaign Priorities Kimball Family’s Gift Going to the Dogs Noble Family Care and Adoption Center Currently under construction, the following naming opportunities are still available: Nevins Farm has long been a favorite destination for Ron Kimball. Cat Pavilion $250,000 Medical Suite $150,000 Growing up, Ron and his parents staff to be “super nice and profession- Small Animals $50,000 would often visit the animals at al,” he finds the current facilities lack- Birds and Exotics $50,000 Nevins. “I always wanted a dog,” ing. “When I adopted Dragon, it was Phase II remembers Ron, “and while my difficult to see his true personality. Exciting naming opportunities are family loved animals, we were not The shelter is crowded and dogs are also available for Phase II of the in a position to have a when I often overly excited. Dragon kept capital campaign: was growing up.” barking when I visited, but now that Equine Center $1.5 million Over the years, the Kimballs have he is home, he is one of the quietest Equine Rehabilitation Barn and Indoor Ring donated supplies, such as sheets and dogs I know!” $1 million towels, to the animal care and adop- The new dog pavilion will provide Adoption Barn $500,000 tion center. At Christmas time, Ron a more relaxed, less stressful environ- Farm Animal Care and Adoption Center $1 million would donate a portion of his holiday ment. Specially designed areas will Individual Centers: bonus to the MSPCA, instead of allow for socialization and for poten- Cows $50,000 “keeping it all for himself.” tial adopters to interact more easily Fowl $50,000 Several years ago, Ron’s cousin with the dogs. “Ron’s love of dogs $50,000 brought home a dog. “My mom, makes the pavilion a perfect fit,” said Waterfowl $50,000 Eleanor, fell in love with him,” said Ron Kimball gives a hug to his best pal, Dragon, Campaign Director Deborah Coletti. Community Education Center $1 million Ron. This broke the ice. We have who was adopted at Nevins Farm and was success- “We are so lucky to have people like Auditorium $150,000 since shared our home with four fully treated for cancer at MSPCA–Angell last year. Ron out there, who care so much.” Classroom $50,000 wonderful dogs. Our current dog, “It’s a fantastic feeling to be mak- Library $50,000 Dragon, is a 10-year-old Siberian memory of Punky, Punky II and ing a difference,” said Ron. “Mom Animal Protection Center $1.5 million Hillside Acre Cemetery and Pet Loss Services Husky/German Shepherd crossbreed, Snoopy — is funding the new animal was so excited when we arranged for Pet Loss Center $250,000 adopted from Nevins Farm. care and adoption center dog pavil- our gift. It is our hope that the new Remembrance Room $50,000 A recent unexpected source of ion. “I am delighted to be able to center will attract more people, who income allowed Ron to make an even contribute such a significant amount will visit and adopt these wonderful For more information or to contribute to the greater contribution to Nevins Farm. to make the pavilion a reality,” said animals. All animals — especially campaign, contact: Deborah Coletti, campaign The family’s $250,000 gift — from Ron. older dogs and cats — deserve a director at 978-687-7453, ext. 117, or e-mail Ron, Eleanor and Dragon and in While Ron has always found the chance for a loving home.” her at [email protected]. Letter from the Campaign Chair

We are making progress…but we still have a long way to go!

Nevins Farm Capital The Noble Family Animal Care and Adoption Center is Workshop on Equine Transport. rapidly being built and looking tremendous. The staff Since 1994, when we launched the nation’s first equine Campaign Committee members and volunteers shall rescue and emergency transportation soon have a state-of-the-art facili- program, we have trained thousands ty in which to perform their mira- of animal care professionals and event Dianne Pingree cles, rather than the small anti- organizers. It is imperative that we MSPCA Board quated building that has made do train more personnel around the and Campaign Chair for so many years. Both staff and country in our FEI-approved tech- animals are most deserving of this niques, so that sport horses of all Susanna Colloredo-Mansfeld new wonder. Thank you, Nobles! kinds may be covered and cared for We desperately want to contin- at competitions. Maryann Esdaile ue onward and upward, and we I have been very proud of the shall, but we need your help! response we have received toward this Robert MacLeod The Equine Center — which campaign and I look forward to host- MSPCA Board will house the MSPCA National ing groups and individuals at Nevins Dianne Pingree meets her new companion, Devlin, who Equine Ambulance Training School she adopted the day of the groundbreaking. Farm this spring, so that you may all George and Constance Noble — is greatly needed so that horses appreciate the progress and the need. may be exercised and trained I hope you will come and visit, to Karen and David O’Connor year-round, despite the inclement “Whatever the animal, ask questions of the staff and to see, Honorary Members weather that New England is very whatever the need, they first-hand, the superfine work that is U.S. Olympic capable of tossing our way. performed here for animals of all Equestrian Medalists The Sport Horse Ambulance are never turned away. kinds. Whatever the animal, whatever Program has helped protect hors- the need, they are never turned away. John Pingree es at competitions nationally and We are a 24/7 operation We are a 24/7 operation as far as care, internationally. We provide ambu- as far as care, rescue and rescue and love are concerned. Stephen Rogers lance service at nearly 20 events a Thank you for whatever financial year, including the Pan American love are concerned.” support you are able to offer! John Stevenson Games and Rolex Kentucky. And We have raised $3.3 million this first in preparation for the 2000 Olympic Games in Australia, year, but we have another $6.7 million to go to complete the MSPCA — along with some of the world’s foremost the project. We all know we can do it if we all put our equine veterinarians — sponsored the International hearts into it!

Staff Use Creative Techniques to Manage Stress New facilities to improve animals’ health and well-being. One of the biggest issues faced by adoption center Horses and farm animals are also affected by staff and the animals they care for is stress. Just as stress. “Being displaced from a familiar environ- in humans, stress can affect animals in many ways, ment, and often their group, makes these animals both physically and emotionally. Coming into the feel isolated and vulnerable, which creates high adoption center can be stressful because it is a for- levels of stress,” said Erin O’Bryan, equine and eign environment, with unfamiliar people and ani- farm animal adoption manager. mals. Animals confined to small spaces — some- times for extended stays — crave room to play and activities to stimulate them. “Stress presents differ- “The new adoption center and ently in different animals, but the negative effects other planned facilities will of stress are universal,” said Mike Keiley, animal care and adoption center manager. “Be it a guinea have a dramatic impact on pig, dog or cat, chronic or severe stress can lead to the health and well-being of serious behavior and health problems.” the animals.”

Stress also affects an animal’s chances of being adopted. “If an animal is under stress, Lulu, a 6-month-old American his or her personality may not come through. Staffordshire Terrier, has been at When an animal is healthy and relaxed, potential Nevins Farm for two months. Staff do adopters can interact more easily and see the everything they can to enrich her time animal’s true personality,” said Kelley Bollen, at the center, but keeping her physically and mentally active is a challenge. M.S., MSPCA–Angell behaviorist. For dogs like Lulu — who staff must A keen awareness among staff, who monitor train in the lobby because no other space animals for signs of stress, and creative manage- is available — the new center will be a ment techniques — including space management, tremendous boost. A “real-life” room group play and summertime pools for dogs, toys will provide comfortable space to social- Alex, a beautiful 7-year-old chestnut and socialization in the kitty condo for cats — help ize and meet prospective adopters, Thoroughbred gelding with a sweet, will- reduce stress. Horses, who often bond with their and a specially equipped center will ing personality, is still waiting for a home human companions, are paired with staff to pro- make training much easier. after two years. Back at Nevins Farm after vide a continuum of care. Volunteers play an a recent stay with a foster family — who provided consistent daily exercise — staff important role in reducing stress as well, providing cannot continue Alex’s daily training due invaluable one-on-one attention, exercise, play species-specific environments — including to the lack of an on-site indoor ring. The time and foster care. screened-in porches for cats, group play areas for new Equine Center will enable staff to The new adoption center and other planned dogs, natural lighting for birds and exotics, and properly train and exercise horses and facilities will have “a dramatic impact on the creative space for small animals — that will allow allow prospective adopters to see the health and well-being of the animals in our care animals to live and play in a more relaxed, less wonderful balanced movement of horses as stress factors are significantly decreased,” stressful manner. Future plans include an indoor like Alex. said Keiley. ring that will allow staff to exercise and train The new center will provide more natural, horses year-round. mspca Nevins Farm Kindness and Care for Animals

Equine Center The Equine Center — the only full-service and

horse-rescue facility in New England — Equine Center is currently housed in a 25-stall barn built Indoor Ring in 1922. The new center will provide state-of-the-art, climate-controlled stalls and an indoor ring for year-round exer- cise, therapy and training. The space will provide opportunities for staff, prospective adopters and horses to work together and to host community rider, animal behavior and demonstration programs. The center will also house the MSPCA National Equine Ambulance Training School. Showday Struts His Stuff Showday, a 5-year-old Thoroughbred, Barn was surrendered by his owner who “could not get near the horse and was afraid of him.” Initially, he was so skittish and nervous, he would only walk back- wards into his turnout space. Our staff sent him to a professional trainer with an indoor facility. After extensive training, Showday returned to Nevins Farm for additional training and was adopted by a woman who loves him dearly. The indoor ring at the new Equine Center will allow staff to assess horses year-round and to Storage FP train them on-site, resulting in significant savings.

Equipment

Crematory Protection Center Animal Protection Center This spacious facility will provide much- needed space to house the hundreds of abused or neglected animals who come to Nevins Farm for protection. A climate- controlled environment, medical exami- nation and treatment rooms, and staff trained in the specialized needs of mistreated animals will be on hand to provide optimal care. A Welcome Refuge A recent slew of back-to-back law enforcement cases have significantly strained our limited resources. Several cases have involved housing multiple sets of birds — including chickens, ducks, turkeys and guinea fowl — requiring tem- porary emergency flight cages to be built. Route 213 NEVINS FARM Extensive stays are often required until 55 acres court cases can be settled and quarantines lifted. The new Animal Protection Center will provide appropriate housing and care for abused or neglected animals who come to Nevins Farm for refuge until they are available for adoption. of the Future

Community Education Center Education is at the heart of the Nevins Farm mission to promote respect, com- passion and responsible care. The new center will help to expand the summer Farm Animal Care camp program — where children dis- and Adoption Center cover the value of kindness and the Route 28 importance of spaying and neutering The new center will house up to 100 — and provide greater opportuni- farm animals, replacing the small aging ties for community-based learning pro- outbuildings currently used that only grams. The center will include a 200- accommodate about 40 animals. seat auditorium, classrooms, library, Individual centers will provide species- administrative offices and a retail store. specific care to cows, fowl, goats, pigs, A recent e-mail from the mother of a sheep and waterfowl and prevent unnec- summer camp participant illustrates essary health risks to other animals. how important educational programs A Shy Kid Finds Utopia can be in the lives of young people. Sebastian, a Nubian/Alpine cross goat, The new Community Education Center came to Nevins Farm as part of a larger will provide expanded opportunities law enforcement case. Born only a few for learning and growth. days before his arrival, he was initially Learning to Last a Lifetime housed with other goats. Due to limited “My son was in your first summer space, he had many temporary homes, camp program of the season. I really from a horse stall to a pig shed, before believe that special times and experi- being moved back to the goat pen. ences in children’s lives can change their The new goat center will provide an lives forever. Your summer program environment where goats can graze, play changed him in a way that will guide and climb, all with adequate fencing and him to do something he loves. I saw a shelter. Sebastian, a bit shy, was finally change in him that brings tears to my adopted and now lives happily with eyes. With much love and respect… another goat. ENTRANCE keep up the good work.”

Education Center Farm Animal Center Animal POCare and Adoption Center

Hillside Acre Animal Cemetery and Pet Loss Services Pet Loss Center and Remembrance Room The Pet Loss Center and Remembrance Room will offer pet owners a private area in which to spend time with their Animal Care and Adoption Center pets prior to their death and pet burial services. Other improvements planned A Cinder-ella Story include an equine memorial garden, Following surgery and a lengthy stay at a expanded cremation services and a local veterinarian, Cinder — a beautiful columbarium to inter the ashes of grey and white domestic long-haired cat deceased companion animals. — returned to await adoption at Nevins A Special Place Farm. Due to limited space and a huge Having recently lost one of her dear pets, influx of cats and kittens during the sum- an Andover resident was thankful to find mer, it is often impossible to house cats cremation services were available at the for long periods. Because of Cinder’s Hillside Acre Animal Cemetery. She said, extremely affectionate nature, staff were “I was really struck with how thoughtful hopeful that she would be adopted. The and sensitive the staff was. I walked new center will create more opportunities around and thought how wonderful it is for cats like Cinder — who was recently that this place is here. I have five more adopted into a loving home — to be aging pets — all healthy for the moment, cared for on-site and adopted. but at least I know how this all plays out when their time comes.” Donor Profile Love of Animals a Family Affair

One of Joyce Gladstone’s fondest memories is of the little Cocker Spaniel she grew up with. Accompanied by her parents, then four-year-old Joyce selected the tiny puppy for whom she paid two dollars. Daisy became her constant companion, sharing her life with Joyce for many years. Joyce’s lifelong love of animals has become a family tradition, shared with hus- band Karl and daughters Heidi and Elaine. “We have opened our hearts and homes to so many pets over the years,” said Joyce. “They bring such joy and companion- ship into your life.” “We ask that everyone in Over the years, the family has supported the MSPCA, the community open their providing donations such as gift hearts and join us in build- baskets for the Winter Festival raffle, and blankets and other ing a new Nevins Farm.” much-needed supplies. The Gladstones became Friends of Hillside Acre members after they lost their dear Cocker Spaniels, Abby and Charlie. “The Hillside Acre staff helped us through a difficult time. They offered comfort and support and helped us decide how best to say goodbye,” said Heidi. Three family pets are now buried at Hillside Acre Animal Cemetery. This connec- tion, as well as having received extensive care for an ill pet at MSPCA–Angell in Boston, has had a lasting impact on the family. When Joyce heard about Nevins Farm’s campaign to raise funds for a new facility, she said “that’s it, this is what we have to do.” Joyce and Karl Gladstone The family contacted Campaign Director Deborah Coletti to arrange for their $50,000 contribution, dedicated to the enjoy spending time with daughters, Heidi and Elaine, library resource center. “The Gladstones’ great love of animals makes this an especially wonderful gift. Their support means and beloved companion Max. so much and will help us provide comfort to so many animals and education to our community,” said Deborah. Karl said their gift is a family affair. “We wanted the girls to be a part of this. Over the years we have had so many won- derful pets — Cocker Spaniels, a Boxer, a mixed breed named Fred — even a rabbit named Mr. White! Because animals have played such an important role in our family, we wanted to give back. This is our way of saying ‘thanks.’” In supporting the campaign, the Gladstones hope others will do the same. “It means so much to us, to know this wonder- ful place is here. Caring for these animals, who cannot take care of themselves, is a cause near and dear to our hearts,” said Joyce. “We ask that everyone in the community open their hearts and join us in building a new Nevins Farm.”

Noble Family Animal Care and A doption Center Well Underway

Vision of a New Nevins Farm (continued from page 1)

Ken Tessitore, Erland Construction project superintendent, says that construction is on schedule. “The structural walls are in place and underground sanitary and electrical systems are being installed,” said Tessitore. “In the coming months, you will really see the character of the building emerge as the interior walls and finishing work are completed.” Tessitore, who adopted his Maine Coon cat, George Bailey, from Nevins, says the experience is very rewarding. “It is truly amazing to be part of a team building something so worthwhile. Once the community sees how great the new center is, hopefully they will contribute to help build the remaining facilities.” Jensen, who has adopted three cats from Nevins Farm, knows how important comfortable, well-designed space is. “I wasn’t a cat person until I sat in the colony room at the MSPCA in Western New England (Springfield). Sitting in this home-like environment, I was surrounded by these friendly, loving creatures who won me over,” said Jensen. “When you make visitors — and the animals — feel more at ease, you foster an atmosphere in which it is easier to bond with the animals and make the decision to adopt.” In addition to the animal care and adoption center, equine, farm animal, community educa- tion and animal protection centers are planned. “This is just the first phase,” said Campaign Director Deborah Coletti. “We are very excited about the tremendous support we have received and look forward to the contributions yet to come. A wonderful opportunity still exists for those who love animals to help us fulfill our mission by contributing to the campaign.” 2nd Annual Upcoming Gretel Spencer Events Robbins Benefit On Saturday, February 28, more than 150 guests gathered for a night of dinner, dancing and raffles — including some rare sports memora- April 15 bilia — at the 2nd Annual Gretel Pizza Night Spencer Robbins Benefit. The bene- 5:00–9:00 p.m. Pizzeria Uno, Methuen, MA. fit, held at the Harris’ Pelham Inn, Purchase take-out, beverages or dine in the was created in memory of Gretel restaurant; 20% of the tab will benefit the Spencer Robbins, a Salem, New Walking in a Winter Wonderland MSPCA at Nevins Farm (ask for coupon). Hampshire native, who passed away The Nevins Winter Festival was a delight for families, children and pets of all in 2002 from cancer. The dinner was ages. Despite a significant snow storm during the first weekend, over $14,000 April 17 and June 12 conceived by her family; Gretel had was raised. The week-long festival featured the annual “The Night the My Holistic Network Wellness Faire asked them to honor her memory by Animals Talked” play, music by Plum Island Sound and Troy Nielsen, pet Portsmouth, NH (April 12) and Andover, MA helping animals and people with photos with Santa, face-painting and a musical video story by Uncle Chomp. (June 12). A portion of the proceeds will cancer. The event benefited the New this year was the Silver Bells Raffle. Prizes, worth $100 on average, benefit the Campaign for Nevins Farm. Visit MSPCA Angels for Animals Fund, were donated by companies. Families donated gift baskets filled with gourmet www.myholisticnetwork.com for details. the Cam Neely Foundation and foods, collectable dolls, dog pampering items, horseback riding lessons and Bone Marrow Transplant Research, more. Two grand prizes, a wine rack and a restaurant gift certificate guide April 15-18 and the Salem K-9 unit. worth of over $500, were also awarded. Equine Ambulance Program FoxHall Cup, Douglasville, GA April is Horse Adoption Month April 22-25 Equine Ambulance Program Are you a horse enthusiast with the time and energy to devote to a great Rolex Kentucky, Lexington, KY horse? April is Horse Adoption Month at Nevins Farm. We have many won- derful horses available of all breeds, ages and ability levels — from just start- ing out to ready to hit the trails. May 13-16 Adoption is a great alternative to buying a horse at an auction or through Equine Ambulance Program private sale. Jersey Fresh, Allentown, NJ “When you buy a horse at an auction or from an individual, you may not Equine Rescue Training know the full history,” said Erin O’Bryan, equine adoption center manager. Central New York Horse Club Fair, “At Nevins Farm we assess all horses for health and temperament. Our goal is Cortland, NY to match the right horse with the right family, so that everyone’s needs are met.” Breeds range from Morgans to Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds to Quarter horses. Potential adopters may choose from horses appropriate for trail riding, flat work, low-level dressage and companion horses. To find out more about adopting your next great horse, call 978-687-7453, Fiona, a beautiful red dunn Quarter horse, ext. 113 or e-mail [email protected]. To view all available horses, visit the is one of many wonderful horses available MSPCA web site: www.mspca.org. for adoption.

May 22 Homeward Bound Adoption Day 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. The Equine Center, Campaign on the Road Farm and Animal Centers will be open The Campaign for Nevins Farm is on the move! On March 12, MaryAnn extended hours to encourage people to and Jim Esdaile hosted a reception for the equine community on behalf of the adopt a companion. MSPCA. Guests at the Palm Beach Equestrian Country Club event enjoyed a presentation about MSPCA programs and services — including the Equine Lawrence Celebration Regatta Ambulance Program — and were invited to participate in the Campaign for 8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Bashara Boathouse, Nevins Farm. 7 Eaton Place, Lawrence, MA. Come visit The MSPCA is supported by donors in all 50 states and 27 countries. our booth; fun for the entire family! This spring, Vice President of Development and External Affairs John Bowen and Campaign Director Deborah Coletti will be visiting supporters in June 13 Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. Deborah will also accompany Equine Spring Cleaning and Planting Day Ambulance Program staff to Rolex Kentucky, April 22–25, where David and Come help make our Centers look beautiful! Karen O’Connor, U.S. Olympic equestrian medalists and honorary members of MSPCA at Nevins Farm, Methuen, MA Deborah Coletti will be visiting supporters in Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. the Nevins Farm capital campaign committee, will host a reception.

June 9–13 Equine Ambulance Program Bromont Three-Day Event, Lac Brome, Creative Gifts for the Good of All Quebec Have you ever found yourself considering your legacy to ? June 18–20 & 25–27 Have you stopped from lending your support because of the everyday con- Equine Ambulance Program cerns shared by many of us — a need to increase current income, to provide Groton House , Hamilton, MA for an aging parent, or the educational needs of children or grandchildren? If you are looking for increased income and tax benefits — and an attrac- tive way to support the MSPCA–Angell’s signature programs in kindness and June 28–August 20 care — consider including us in a life-income plan. “It’s a ‘win-win situation’ MSPCA Children’s Summer Camp for donors, the MSPCA–Angell and the animals they serve,” says Planned MSPCA at Nevins Farm, Methuen, MA Giving Adviser Deborah Abrams. There are several variations, each with its own ability to meet your specific goals, concerns and assets. A life-income gift, partnered with the MSPCA–Angell is a good start. It ensures that your own needs are met, even as you provide for animals whose needs are met by the MSPCA–Angell. If you have thought about a gift that can pay you or your loved ones a life- time of income and if you would like to support animal welfare even as you Deborah Abrams pictured here with her provide yourself with the security such a gift can offer, please call Deborah adopted Daschund, Ginger, can help you Abrams at (617) 541-5084 or e-mail her at [email protected]. plan a legacy gift.

©2004 Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of (MSPCA). All Rights Reserved. MSPCA, KINDNESS AND CARE FOR ANIMALS, and the Paw Print Logo mspca are trademarks of the MSPCA. Gatepost is published by the MSPCA, a nonprofit organization founded in 1868. We receive no state or federal funding. Our work relies on the generosity of those who care about the well-being of animals. For more information about ways you can support our programs, including our exciting building plans Kindness and Care for Animals TM at Nevins Farm, please contact: Deborah Coletti, MSPCA at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844 978-687-7453 ext. 117 [email protected]