Libby Jones – Charlottesville Albemarle SPCA  Executive Director

SSV members and guests were welcomed to the January 2024 program meeting by Outgoing President Sue Friedman.  Newly elected officers and Board members were introduced and can be found on our ‘About Us‘ page.

Libby Jones has an impressive career spanning over a decade in animal welfare, veterinary medicine, and zoology, including pivotal leadership roles at influential organizations such as the Humane Society of Charlotte, Guilford County, and her most recent position as Chief Operations Officer at Seattle Humane, Jones brings a wealth of invaluable experience to her new role.

Libby shared an overview of CASPCA noting that the staff members are fully engaged and excited by their work.  She shared that she entered this field for the animals, and now works to support the staff who care for the animals.

Audience questions included:

—With efforts to clear out the kennels, how much care is taken to be sure the pet is going to a safe and happy home so the pet is a higher priority than clearing the kennels? Response: CASPCA uses a nationally recognized program called “Adopters Welcome,” that encourages conversation between the potential adopters and the CASPCA Staff.  They want the adoption to be the right fit for both the animal and the adopter…the animal can happily fit into the adopter’s life.  

—What is the process to become a CASPCA volunteer? Response: The process and application are on the CASPCA website.  There are many ways to volunteer and support CASPCA, plus not all of them involve coming to the Shelter.  For example, food and treat drives in the community are a great way to support CASPCA, and provide volunteer support.

—When taking pets from other areas/shelters, does CASPCA take into consideration how few vet offices there are to take care of the pets once they are adopted in our community? Response: There is a veterinary shortage here and most everywhere in the country.  Veterinary medicine is expensive to pursue and has challenges as pet owners and the public are often critical of veterinary care.  Libby indicated that enrollment in veterinary medicine programs has decreased, as the veterinarian is often not receiving the respect they deserve from their pet owners nor community. The CASPCA is building partnerships and relationships with veterinarians, and looking to expand veterinarian care available through CASPCA, to address the growing shortage as the CASPCA does want to provide adoption opportunities to rescue groups and other shelters.  If these often young and very adoptable animals are not provided opportunities through CASPCA, they are likely to be euthanized simply for space.

—Are all adopted animals microchipped? Response: “Absolutely.”

—Can you provide basic facts, a snapshot, for CASPCA. Response: Libby noted that the budget is about $5 million a year.  More than 3000 animals were rehomed (returned to owner) or adopted last year.  CASPCA has 60 employees, with budget for 65.  

Libby encouraged anyone to contact her (ljones@caspca.org) and visit the website for much more information on CASPCA.