ASPCA Humane Awards Honor Dog, Peacock & Humane Heroes

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Tuesday, 6 February 2001

Event also honors Governor George E. Pataki, Kuki Gallman and NYC Police Officers and Firefighters

Today, The American Society For The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) will honor both people and animals that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to furthering the human-animal bond at their annual ASPCA Humane Awards Luncheon. The event will be held at The Pierre starting at 11:30 a.m., followed by a luncheon and awards ceremony from 12 noon to 2 p.m.

Actress and long time advocate for shelter animals, Catherine Hickland, will emcee the event and will begin by presenting The Trooper Award For Animal Heroism. This award will be given to two very special and heroic animals that have demonstrated qualities of devotion and compassion towards humankind. The first award will be presented to Sophie, a 2-year-old dog who had a rough start by fending for herself as a stray puppy on the streets of New York City. Sophie has come along way with the help of her owner, Dr. Stephanie LaFarge, The ASPCA's Senior Director of Counseling Services and her special training. Today, Sophie is giving back to people by participating in The ASPCA's Intervention Program by helping Dr. LaFarge rehabilitate animal abusers. In addition, Sophie is in the process of becoming certified as a Delta Pet Partner, a program that allows animals to visit nursing homes and other hospice settings. The second award will be given to Peabody, a lovable and loving peacock, who went from rags to riches within a few months. A Good Samaritan rescued him after being hit by a car while attempting to escape from being roasted alive. Luckily, Peabody has wonderful new owners who have given him a good home and three square meals a day.

In addition to honoring special animals, the National Humane Awards also honors members of the public, humane community and public and civil servants. The President's Award For Outstanding Veterinarians will be given to Drs. Steven Fox, Anthony Alario, John Charos and Greg Nelson from Central Veterinary Associates in Valley Stream, New York for giving Peabody a second chance at life.

The veterinarians performed six pro-bono surgeries and dedicated two months of around-the-clock medical care to rehabilitate this very special peacock.

The Duncan Gibbons Award for Heroism will be presented to Regina Massaro, an individual who exercises heroism on behalf of animals' 365 days a year. Regina, the founder of Roxy's Sanctuary, a non-profit animal rescue group in Maspeth, Queens addresses what she believes is the root cause of pet overpopulation in New York City: unspayed and unneutered cats and dogs on the streets. One of the largest rescues that Regina spearheaded was on October 4, 2000, where she worked with members of the NYPD Emergency Service Squad #6, NYPD Harbor Unit Scuba Team, NYPD 78th Precinct and the NYFD Fire Squad #1 to rescue six puppies that fell into the Gowanus Canal. The police officers and firefighters that Regina worked with will be presented with The Henry Bergh Medal of Honor for putting themselves at risk to rescue animals in danger.

The ASPCA's Founders Award is given to individuals in recognition of their lifetime devotion to the humane treatment of animals. The first award will be presented to Governor George E. Pataki. Within the last five years, Governor Pataki has made New York State a much safer place for animals by signing into law crucial pieces of legislation that affords greater protection for animals. The second award will be presented to Kuki Gallman, an established author, poet and active wildlife conservationist for dedicating her time and resources to creating a balance between humans and animals in Africa. In memory of her husband and son, Kuki created the Gallman Memorial Foundation, whose mission is to reconcile the presence of people and their activities in Africa with the protection of the wildlife and the environment. Isabella Rossellini, a long time friend to Kuki will present her with the award.

"The ASPCA is proud to honor people and animals, who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion, bravery and commitment to making the world a better place for animals," says ASPCA President and CEO Dr. Larry Hawk. "This event is a great opportunity for us to showcase the human- animal bond and to raise awareness of the great joy animals bring to our lives every day."

For more information, or to contact American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, see their website at: www.aspca.org