February 5, 2009
New Orleans, LA (1/28/2009) - After months of negotiations, the LA/SPCA and the City of New Orleans have come to an amicable agreement.  Recognizing the revenue limitations and timing problems for the City of New Orleans, the LA/SPCA has agreed to perform all animal control services for $2,350,000 for 11 months.  This provides the City of New Orleans the time needed to pursue the revenue sources needed to pay for services for the final month of the contract year.  The LA/SPCA is only obligated to provide emergency services for the final month if the City has not found any new funding for the LA/SPCA.  Additionally, the City of New Orleans has agreed to pay the LA/SPCA for services already rendered this year. 

"As a fiscally responsible nonprofit, we knew the service cut backs were necessary; we are relieved that it was for a short window of time and we are now able to get back to the important animal control services that we do so well," explains Ana Zorrilla, LA/SPCA CEO.  "It's unfortunate that our contract expired but with some creative thinking and the support of the City Council and Administration, we have been able to broker a new agreement that will provide the funding we critically need and the essential services that the City values.  It's truly a win-win."   

Effective today, the LA/SPCA has reinstated after hours emergency responses and bite case management.  Additionally, the LA/SPCA has resumed Monday hours.  Shelter hours are Monday - Saturday 9AM - 5PM and Sundays 12:00 noon to 5:00 PM. 

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The LA/SPCA will continue to provide all humane services including lost and found, adoptions, humane education, dog obedience training, volunteer programs, low cost spay and neuter program, off site adoptions, and feral cat TNR through grants and charitable donations.

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The Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an organization devoted to improving the lives of animals and eliminating the homelessness, neglect and abuse that signal animal suffering. Chartered in 1888, our history has been paved with an understanding that only through an improved human-animal ethic can we better the lives of companion animals and that of our community.  Our programs and services are infused with the highest standards of care and compassion.