Founded in 1866, The ASPCA is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the leading voice for animals.
Last week we were honored to be invited to cover their Annual Humane Awards Luncheon at Cipriani in NYC. As huge animal lovers and advocates this charity is one of our personal favorites. Hosted by Chuck Scarborough, the event honored both human and animal heroes as well as disaster responders who rescued thousands of animals and brought them to safety during Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.
The honorees included ASPCA Dog of the Year “Rescue”, who provides essential physical and emotional support to Jessica Kensky, who became a double amputee after being injured during the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing.
ASPCA Cat of the Year “Flame”, rescued as a stray kitten in 2015, Flame became the official cat of the firehouse, providing firefighters comfort and companionship during stressful and tragic times.
ASPCA Citizen Hero Award went to Judy Obregon from Fort Worth, Texas. After discovering a dumping ground for injured, deceased, and unwanted animals Judy formed a network of local volunteers to rescue animals, arrange veterinary care, and assist with their adoption. Over 300 animals have been rescued to date.
ASPCA Henry Bergh Award went to Mission K9 Rescue in Houston, TX. This organization assists retired and working military dogs in reuniting with their handlers and adoption after returning home from tours of duty. To date Mission K9 has reunited more than 70 canine teams and has rescued more than 100 dogs in need.
ASPCA Equine Welfare Award went to Elaine Nash, founder of Fleet of Angels in Evans, CO. The organization manages large equine crisis and rescues horses in need through a network of thousands of trailer owners and service providers. Most recently Fleet of Angels assisted in rescuing horses displaced by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.
ASPCA Tommy P. Monahan, Kid of the Year award went to Jessica Brocksom of Milford, CT. 11 year old Jessica won the job of 2017 Connecticut Kid Governor on her animal welfare platform. Jessica works actively to help animals and owners in need, including advocating for legislation to allow to have therapy animals with them while testifying in court, and helping increase awareness of leaving animals in cars during hot weather.
Guests and supporters of the ASPCA included Jill Rappaport, Wes Gordon & Paul Arnhold, Ellen Scarborough, Jean Shafiroff, Mark F. Gilberston, Sharon Jacob, Arriana Boardman, Serena Boardman, Bill Bratton, Christopher Spitzmiller, Lisa McCarthy, Barbara Cates, Jeff A. Pfeifle, Madeline Weinrib, ASPCA President & CEO Matt Bershadker and more.
For more info and to donate please visit ASPCA.org
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