
SPCA of Luzerne County, Inc.
The SPCA of Luzerne County is the only unlimited-intake shelter in our county. We are open 6 days a week, 52 weeks a year serving the people and animals of Luzerne County. Unlimited-intake means that we accept all animals brought to our door including feral cats, stray animals, unwanted litters, pets whose owners are no longer able to care for them, pets involved in cruelty and neglect cases and more. It is our belief that the biggest cause of animal abuse is over-population.
We operate a low cost spay-neuter assistance program offering cat sterilization at a nominal fee to low income county residents. To date we have spayed or neutered almost 4000 cats through this program. We also financially support a low cost spay/neuter program for bully breeds of dogs. We employ three full-time Humane Officers who respond to over 800 initial complaints of abuse and neglect each year. Most cases require multiple visits. In some cases we end up going to court over a charge while the animals remain in our care for many months. Until the case is settled, which can take over a year, we care for the animals involved. We also are contacted by the local emergency vet hospital dozens of times a year and authorize payment for emergency treatment of stray animals costing us thousands of dollars each year.
In 2018 we have adopted out almost 1000 animals, transferred 564 animals, and reunited 283 lost animals with their owners.
We offer humane education programs to schools, scout troops, senior centers, service organizations, corporations and more throughout the year. Our Volunteer program gives meaningful training to people with a variety of disabilities. We are entirely dependent on the generosity of individuals, organizations, and corporations. We receive no tax dollars and are not part of any larger organization.