From his first day at the shelter, he exhibited incredible trust for a dog that could not see and had been left out on the lawn for animal control to retrieve. He gratefully received our hugs and petting without pulling away or cringing or letting on that he was the least bit afraid. He did whimper a bit from the pressure that had built up beneath his eyes, and tried to find our hands so we could rub them for relief. For his comfort, and because he was totally blind, they were removed. He then went to stay with SPCA volunteer Simone and her adopted dog, Charlotte.

Bear and his new mom        

Simone taught Bear how to maneuver stairs and gave him long, soothing, doggie massages. Charlotte taught him how to run and play. Life could not have been better – except that a woman in Maine, who had learned about Bear’s story, expressed her wish for him to come and live with her permanently. Simone and Charlotte made the long journey to Maine to see if Bear and Elizabeth might be a good match. Bear and she became best friends instantly. On the day Simone left to return home, Charlotte stood by the car waiting for her friend to get inside with her. It was a bittersweet moment for her and Simone. We wish Bear and Elizabeth many happy days ahead. We thank Simone and Charlotte for their incredible kindness to a dog that could not see their faces but undoubtedly felt the warmth of their love. And, we’re grateful for stories like this one that inspire us to continue our important work and quietly teach us the true meaning of courage. Thank you, Bear.

Briarcliff Manor, December 2011
Ten-year-old Sean DePatto of Garnerville, NY, wanted one thing more than anything else for Christmas this year: a puppy from the SPCA of Westchester. The young boy who receives chemotherapy treatments several times a week for leukemia, had spotted the puppy on the shelter’s website. “Prince”, an adorable 12 week old shepherd mix, had been rescued from a high-kill shelter (thanks to Homeward Bound Rescue of Mississippi) along with his sibling and transported to the SPCA for adoption. Sean’s parents contacted the SPCA and asked if they could adopt Prince. “We were delighted to help this family make Sean’s dream come true,” said Lisa Bonanno, Development Manager and transport coordinator for the SPCA. “So many people in the community were excited about surprising Sean with the puppy.” The Garnerville Fire Department assisted with presenting Prince to his new best friend. Family and friends gathered to share the DePatto’s celebration as the furry, squirming Prince was placed in Sean DePatto’s waiting arms. “The family couldn’t be happier and we are so thankful to have been a part of this special day.”