By Kaitlin Sinclair, Contributing Writer
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Cattaraugus County, located at 2944 Route 16 in North Olean, is a peaceful getaway for students of St. Bonaventure University to visit. While students can go to the SPCA to volunteer, there is also a beautiful view. There is a walking trail, a pond and an outdoor fenced in areas for dogs to play and get exercise.
The SPCA is a no-kill shelter, meaning animals stay happy and healthy in the shelter until they find their forever home, no matter how long that may be. There are multiple kennels for dogs, and multiple rooms for cats, offering cage and cageless options.
Grace Coley, a junior sociology major, has been going to the SPCA since her sophomore year.
“My friend and I miss having our pets around us,” said Coley. “We did some research to find places where we can be around and help animals.Whether you are a cat person or a dog person, the animals at the SPCA are sure to catch your eye. I usually either walk dogs or I go into the cat area and play with the cats.”
In addition, the SPCA is a way for students to get off campus while also social distancing.
“The main safety precautions at the SPCA are to wear a mask at all times and use hand sanitizer. I feel safe when I am there. All the volunteers and workers always wear masks and they are good at enforcing rules, so we feel safe,” said Coley.
As well as wearing a mask, volunteers have to fill out a COVID-19 screening before seeing any animals or going into the back of the facility. The SPCA is taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their volunteers and animals.
The SPCA is always getting new animals, while working to find current residents their forever homes. They are constantly trying to better the lives of abandoned or abused animals. If an animal needs special care or surgery, they do everything in their power to get the animal the care they deserve.
“The SPCA provides Bonas students with a sense of home,” Coley said. “I have five pets at home, and I miss them dearly, so just being around animals again is a great feeling. The dogs are always so happy when me and my friends come to walk them. The cats are very sweet for the most part and it is fun to play with them and see their energy rise. I definitely have more fun around the cats though. Seeing all the cats’ different personalities come out is one of my favorite parts.”
Going to the SPCA allows for all who love animals to come in make a difference in animal’s lives. In these uncertain times, animals don’t know we are in a pandemic. Providing them with more love than ever is important.
Even with a busy schedule, there are still ways to give to the SPCA. They are looking for donations of fabuloso cleaner, dish soap, sponges, paper towels, trash bags, kitten chow, and canned dog food.
sinclak18@bonaventure.edu
