SPCA Tampa Bay Ambassadors help the organization engage with the community and raise awareness for its facility, mission and most importantly, the animals it serves. Ambassadors are nominated based on criteria such as influence in the community, event participation, and of course, their love of animals.
For more than 80 years, SPCA Tampa Bay has worked to bring joy to both people and pets. In celebration, some of Tampa Bay’s most influential and well-known residents have come together to share their joy. We call it spreading the humanimality, and we invite you to do the same. All of the pictures below have been taken by Karen and Michael Joseph. Thank you Joseph Photography for capturing that unique bond between us regular folks and our furry and feathered friends.
Ambassador Chair
Robin Moch with Alejandro
Robin’s friend rescued Alejandro from the streets of Miami, and he was comfortable with Robin right away. Lovingly nicknamed Bubba, he rode most of the way home to Tampa on Robin’s shoulder. He was very curious during the car ride and settled in quickly to his new pad.
Seven months later, Robin’s friend reached out once again about Alejandro’s mom who also needed a home. Robin decided to reunite Alejandro with his mom, Kitty Girl, by adopting her too. Come to find out, he wasn’t so excited about seeing his mom again. Since then, they’ve adjusted and Robin catches them loving on each other from time to time
2023 Ambassador Class
We are pleased to present SPCA Tampa Bay’s 2023 class of Ambassadors!
John Barkett
Paula Blanda
Samantha Erix
Pete Karamitsanis
Catherine Mitchell
Ed Montanari
MacKenzie Overton
Paul Wilborn and Eugenie Bondurant
Click the individual photos below to learn more about them, the animals they love, and their stories.
Lucy got into the sprinklers late at night when John and the family were watching TV. Lucy came in completely covered in mud and had run all through the pool tile area and the house. He said it was like the old Family Circus cartoons where the dotted lines showed where everyone had walked, but in Lucy’s case the “dotted lines” were muddy paw prints throughout the entire house (including the carpet). It was impossible to be mad at her.
John Barkett Realty on 9th St N/Dr MLK is the city’s FIRST approved dog friendly office. Lucy follows in the paw prints of the Barketts’ hall of fame dog, Bella, who was John’s first office dog.
Loving dogs runs in her family. Paula’s son has a Golden Retriever named Ranger who recently won an SPCA Tampa Bay pet costume contest dressed as a Disney Rescuer. Some of Paula’s beloved animals include Alex, a Bichon Frisé that lived to 16 years old, and their family dog, a mutt named Peanut. Peanut escaped one night and the whole neighborhood chipped in to help look for him. Turns out Peanut had jumped into the bay! A neighbor down the street spotted Peanut in the water and jumped into the dark bay to retrieve him. The man was a hero and Peanut enjoyed newfound fame in the neighborhood.
“In loving memory of our beloved Carmen. We will continue to celebrate the remarkable 9-year journey of unforgettable love and joy you shared with us, knowing you will be with us forever in our hearts.” – Samantha and Ryan
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Samantha’s husband Ryan got Carmen when she was a 6 week old puppy from a neighbor during Ryan’s time in the military. When Samantha met Ryan, she joked that she married both of them! Carmen even walked down the aisle as a member of Samantha and Ryan’s wedding party in September of 2021. At the wedding, Carmen was the life of the party and everyone took turns looking after her.
Pete and his family first met Charlie when they visited the breeder to see the newborn puppies, and she picked them as her forever family! Charlie is terribly clever and has a keen sense of time. She knows exactly when it is time to eat and she lets you know. She also has a sense of when any of the kids are coming home, waiting at the front door ahead of their arrival. She weighs 85 pounds and thinks she is a lap dog!
Interestingly, Catherine didn’t grow up with pets. When she first met her husband, he had two cats that he brought into her life, Otis and Comet. A funny story Catherine shares is about the time that Otis managed to carefully outwit her, despite Catherine’s very best efforts to keeps the cats away from her dinner. Otis quietly undid and lifted off the aluminum foil covering the pizza. Furthermore, he even took the entire pizza off the counter to share with his sister, Comet. It was quite a deed he pulled off and it was thereafter known in family lore as “Operation Pepperoni.” They now have two cats who are siblings, Ralph and Trixie, which they got from their cat rescue friends in Atlanta.
Ed was a fighter pilot in the Air Force and also flew for American Airlines for 32 years. He knew his pup need an aviation-themed name, hence the name “Jet”. Ed adopted Jet from SPCA Tampa Bay in August 2021. Jet goes everywhere around town with Ed, including the office. Jet has his very own City Hall ID badge. The team at City Hall even had a birthday party for him!
MacKenzie has always had a passion for animals. Currently, she has two dogs named Peanut and Cashew. They’re both 5 months old, Miniature Pinscher/Dachshund mixes. They’re from the same litter, but one is 3.5 pounds and the other is 13 pounds! She also adopted a cat from SPCA Tampa Bay a while ago who eventually became attached to MacKenzie’s neighbor, so now the cat is living his best life loved by them both.
Paul and Eugenie got Noonie from SPCA Tampa Bay last fall. She was about six months old when they adopted her. Noonie loves to play with toys and chase cloth mice that Eugenie dangles from sticks. She plays like she’s a kitten and they aren’t sure who has more fun with these games, Noonie or Eugenie! Paul was always a cat person and Eugenie always had dogs, but for now, they’re sticking with cats.
Hi world, my name is Max! I am a two-year-old rescue kitty and have been with my mom Shelli since I was just eight-weeks-old. My favorite activity is opening all of the doors in my house. I love to jump up, pull the lever, and make my grand entrance into the room. I also enjoy going into the kitchen cabinet where my treats and catnip are kept. My mom thinks she is hiding them from me, but I just go in and help myself. I also love to play fetch! Mom throws my fuzzy mouse and I run and bring it back to her. I have an older kitty brother named Teddy, he is a rescue like me. I love playing with my brother, but he gets tired so fast. I could play all day!
Hi everyone, my name is Luna! My mom Aniria first met me when she came to a shelter to see some puppies. My mom’s daughter Nina spotted me first. I was only nine-months-old and Mom was a little apprehensive at first to bring me home because I had SO much energy! With some persuasion, Mom agreed because she saw how much I loved Nina. Mom now says that adopting me was the best thing they ever did. Mom loves to embarrass me by telling the story about the day I came home and I didn’t understand what the stairs were, but I learned quickly! Mom and Dad always say that I came into their lives at just the right time. Our first Christmas together was so special. They look me for walks and I had a blast exploring the lawn ornaments and lights! For the past three years our Christmas tradition has remained… taking me to see the lights!
Hi! I am Sophie, a three-year-old Golden Doodle. I met my mom Ellen when I was about four-weeks-old. I love riding in my mom’s convertible, getting the mail, and helping wheel the garbage out. My mom spoils me with baskets full of toys that I love to play with. My mom has rescued many other animals and is a dog-lover!
Hello, I am Faithful, an eight-year-old Lab/Husky mix. After I had surgery on my ear at SPCA Tampa Bay, I was fostered by my dad Jim. He quickly fell in love with me and I became part of his family. I love taking morning walks with Dad and playing with all my toys. I am so lucky to have been rescued by such a great family!
We are all so lucky to be part of such an amazing family! Our parents Mike, Jim, Nichole, and Leonard are the best and are all SPCA Tampa Bay Ambassadors. All four of us dogs have our own unique story. Big brother Rufus is the oldest at eight-years-old. Jax is five-years-old and is an SPCA Tampa Bay alumni! Captain is four-years-old. The youngest, Raya, is one-year-old and was rescued from Suncoast Animal League. Although we all come from different backgrounds, we are one big happy family! Our parents let us rule the house and always say they couldn’t imagine their lives without us.
Hi everyone, my name is Frank! My mom Connie rescued me many years ago after attending an animal rescue event. She had no intention of adopting another dog, as she currently had a Golden Retriever named Bob at home, but when she saw all the dogs that needed homes, she felt compelled to rescue one. That’s when she saw me and knew I was meant to be part of her family. I am a sensitive guy, which helps me read Mom and others very well. When Mom had to say goodbye to my big brother Bob, it was the hardest experience of her life. Bob’s favorite pastime was grabbing a shoe and running around the dining room table with it. I knew that Mom was so sad that day, so I picked up her shoe and ran around the dining room table, like Bob always did! I’d never done that before, but knew that’s what Mom needed in the moment. She always says adopting me was the best decision ever.
My name is Blu! My mom Izabelle and dad Roy welcomed me into their family seven years ago. Two of their friends had a litter of puppies, which resulted in the birth of me and my six puppy siblings! Mom and Dad came to meet me and instantly fell in love, but can you blame them? I was the calm one out of all my crazy siblings and when my parents walked in, I ran right over to them and laid at their feet, hoping they would pick me to be part of their family. They always say that was the moment they knew I was the perfect pup for them! My favorite activity is going for walks with my parents and sniffing out the best lawn on the block! The highlight of my day is rolling around in the green and fluffy grass. I love both of my parents so much, but am definitely a Momma’s boy at heart!
Hello, my name is Chloe, I’m a proud SPCA Tampa Bay alum! I live with two humans who love me so much that they don’t like to leave the house without me. My favorite activities include stalking squirrels at the park, destroying squeaky toys, napping, barking at movies with strong canine protagonists, and stalking more squirrels. My mom Natalie set up an Instagram page for me, so I can follow other rescue dogs and some cats. Please follow me @chloe_the_rescue_lab. Mom recently wrote her first novel, titled LIES IN BONE. A lot of humans like it, so you should check it out on Amazon. Mom wants me to tell you that I rescued her and not the other way around.
I was drawn to SPCA Tampa Bay through my St. Petersburg of Commerce Chamber work with Martha Boden. As an Ambassador, I am passionate about sharing the stories of the good work that SPCA Tampa Bay does in our community for both pets and wildlife. I currently don’t have any pets at home, but am an animal lover at heart. We have had many animals in the past, including a cocker spaniel, schnauzer, papillon, goldfish, and French dwarf lop-eared rabbit.
My pal, and SPCA Tampa Bay Ambassador Rhonda Shear, was Chairing the annual Gala and she asked me to emcee with her. I gladly said yes and then decided to head over to visit the Largo shelter to get better acquainted with all the organization does in our community. My husband, Bryan, and I hadn’t been there 5 minutes when he spotted a teeny-tiny, black ball of fur. We were love struck! We had no idea the joy she was about to bring into our lives.
Miss Lily certainly didn’t come to us as a snuggly, cuddly kitty. Poor tiny baby, she was scared of her own shadow. But within time, she came around and these days she’s a sweet little cuddle bunny.
Would you believe Lily fetches? Yep, she surely does. Every morning, she greets me in my kitchen with a big loud ‘meeeeeooooow’ as if to say ‘it’s about time you got out of bed to play with me!’ Then the games begin! Fetch. Over and over and over. It gets a little tiring but I wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s my morning sunshine!
I was inquiring about a puppy for a doctor that had helped take care of my parents. His puppy had recently passed. Tuffie was behind a gate as she was headed to SPCA Tampa Bay. Tuffie’s mother had bit off her ears during the birth process. Tuffie kept barking and trying to make it over the fence. She managed to get over the fence, knocked over the puppy that was walking toward me and tried to jump in my lap. So she chose me.
Tuffie has literally saved my life. When I fell and broke my neck she went and got a guest who was staying with me. She barked so loud and then she jumped on my guest pushing them out of bed. The emergency personnel said if I had laid there much longer I would not of made it. Because of this Tuffie gets whatever she wants!
I guess the simplest way to describe it is, they just make our family complete. The neat thing is they each serve different purposes and roles. My wife for a long time would jokingly ask me (after we got Luna), ‘What is Gary’s purpose?’ I said, ‘Gary makes people happy. That’s his purpose.’ There’s always a buddy for relishing your coffee on a morning stroll (Gary) or HIIT training around Crescent Lake (not Gary). Luna for some reason thinks Gary is the alpha and is incredibly loving – but is also a fantastic guard dog. On top of it, Luna makes it up our daughter’s stairs every night to sleep with her. It’s incredible to watch. They’re wonderful with each other, our family, friends and for exploring/enjoying our sunny city.
We’re very blessed to have our pups. They’re incredibly loving, sweet, and smart… Well, Gary is not the brightest bulb in the box…but he’s got it where it counts. Plus, Luna makes up for it in spades. Priceless additions to our family!
They are all part of the family and come to work with us every day. They are our security team at the office. Darla was a rescue from SPCA Tampa Bay and was likely abused. She is the most loving dog now. Every day they make us smile in one way or another.
I brought my wife, Rose, to the kennel to see a long haired Dachshund as a possible addition to the family. After seeing that one we decided to go through the kennels to see who else was there and we found Darla, cowering in the corner, shaking and afraid of everything. Rose said this is the dog that needs our love and we brought her home. The first year was challenging as she was afraid and a runner, but over time, with the love from her people she has become the most affectionate dog we’ve ever owned. Don’t tell my wife this, but she was right to look beyond the obvious choice and found our Darla.
Dale says: dogs have a way of finding the people who need them, and filling an emptiness we didn’t ever know we had. The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog. I cannot imagine my life without Apollo & Finley.
Apollo named after the Greek god of Art & Music…perfect! The name Finley means Fair Warrior/Hero and is of Scottish origin. They are a gift of pure unconditional love and affection.
Apollo had a very rough and traumatic first six months of his life. He was found as a stray after being hit by a car. He suffered multiple fractures to his back legs. Apollo’s vet bill was $3,000 in orthopedic surgery for the steel rods in his legs. To make matters worse, his initial microchip operation became infected and it had to be removed. This little guy needed LOVE. My heart melted when I saw this stoic, determined and adorable little pup. I decided to adopt Apollo and shower him with as much love and care as he can stand! Apollo represents a true survivor in a sometimes harsh and challenging world.
Ren is a rescue from SPCA Tampa Bay! We agreed to foster her in February 2020 and instantly fell in love. She immediately became a “foster failure,” aka, we decided to adopt her permanently.
Our pets are a constant source of joy. Every day they bring a smile to our faces with their playful antics. Just yesterday, our entire family — including the furry, four-legged members — curled up on the couch to watch a movie. I felt at such peace having us all together. We bring joy to their lives by showering them with affection and (probably) too many treats. My husband likes to say there’s no such thing as a thin O’Brion pet!
Echo is a special seven-year-old Lab/Retriever mix who completes Kathy and Charlie’s family. Echo has a love for the open ocean and one of her favorite pastimes is sailing with her human parents. As soon as they gather their boat gear, Echo darts out the door and down to the dock. She is fond of sailing to the Bahamas where there is a special spot called Shroud Cay— this is where Echo loves to chase the waves and birds.
Valerie and her family have five amazing dogs: Skye, Rachel, Bria, Janie and Lilly. Lilly is the newest member of her family, adopted at SPCA Tampa Bay in 2019 as a fragile senior. Janie was taken in from Valerie’s veterinarian office in 2018 at only 8-weeks old, with very poor health. Skye, who was blind and deaf, was fostered by the Brehm Family from SPCA Tampa Bay. While fostering her, they fell in love and decided to adopt her. Bria, a Valentine’s Day present from Valerie’s husband, came into the shelter as a stray due to her emaciated condition And last, but certainly not least is Rachel, who was adopted from SPCA after she had surgery to remove a benign mass found during her spay surgery.
Valerie is so grateful for all of her pets. As a canine behavior volunteer, she sees the distress the animals feel during then home-to-shelter transition and loves when a pet finds a comfortable home. Taking care of all the dogs in the shelter as well as her five girls is a motivating force in Valerie’s life, a purpose that gives her great joy.
Rose (AKA Rosie-Poise) the Beagle was a diamond in the rough. While visiting Georgia during Thanksgiving and Christmas of 2009, Robin spotted Rose in a field behind her brother’s house. The stray pup would not let her come close, so Robin contacted several local rescues; unfortunately, she was unable to find anyone to help catch her and take her in. Several months later while visiting the area again, Robin saw Rose once more as she was packing up her car to depart back to Florida. This time, Rose bolted right up to her car and jumped in! The months following, Robin diligently cared for Rose to help her recover from the trauma of living in the woods. It was her full intention to find her a new loving home, but quickly realized that she already had!
Robin and her husband also have a Canadian-bred dog called a Coton de Tulear named Maddie. This breed is known for their clown-like personalities, which is fitting for Maddie as she constantly entertains everyone she meets. She also keeps her sister, Rose on her toes!
Rehabbing a rescue animal was one of the most rewarding things in Robin’s life. Rose has taught her so much and she couldn’t be happier that she and Maddie are best friends.
Lariana has a silky terrier Chili, also known as Chillster, Cutie, Chili-dog, and basically any variation of Chili they can think of! Chili has only been a part of the family since January 2019, but has already brought them a large amount of joy.
Lariana’s son likes to sings out of the blue, “Oh, I love you Cutie Chili dog” all the time. Chili loves to chew, chase and fetch a ball just as big as he is (his favorite is a normal sized football)! Chili has his family wrapped around his little paws! Lariana and her family can’t imagine a life without their Chili-dog. It was love at first snuggle!
About four years ago, Carol fostered Bella for the first three weeks of her life and decided to adopt her. Soon after, Carol inherited Bella’s brother, a striped tabby cat named Spice, when his owner and her friend passed away. Bella finds Carol every night before bed to give a high-five for a treat.
She also loves to be pushed around in Carol’s stroller during the day by the water. Spice has arthritis, so he likes to stay in his “cat cave,” but comes out occasionally to walk around and to be held. Carol also has finches—Mr. and Mrs. Weaver and Romeo. Carol built her own aviary for the three of them and loves to hear them greet her with their chirping in the morning, and when she comes home.
Frank and Toby rescued both their girls, Alice and Lola. After being found wandering on the side of the road, Alice was given to Toby and Frank by their daughter who owns an animal clinic. She has always been so sweet and loving.
Lola was a Hurricane Katrina rescue who attended SPCA Tampa Bay’s Fur Ball Gala in 2005; They adopted her shortly after. Never having a dog before, it took some time for Toby to warm up to Lola. Now, he couldn’t imagine her not having been a part of his life! After years of loving and caring for sweet Lola, she passed away recently from ongoing health issues. Because she would always need to be cleaned up after, they left a spot of dirt on the wall in their home as a memorial for Lola.
Oliver, Rosie, and Louie are the light of Moe’s life. Oliver was just a three-day-old puppy who was dropped off at a nearby animal hospital after his mother rejected him. The hospital called Moe to see if she wanted to adopt him and she came as fast as she could! Oliver loves to snuggle and just wants to be loved and cuddled.
Rosie and Louie are litter mates from Orlando, Florida. Moe wanted another girl after her previous Maltese, Molly, had passed away; but when she found Rosie with her brother Louie, she fell in love with them both! Rosie is so smart and can get out of any situation, so Moe nicknamed her “Dora the Explorer.” She is also great with people, perfect for rehab and nursing homes. Louie is a sweet boy and loves to play fetch with his favorite reindeer toy
Metro Inclusive Health is a partner organization to SPCA Tampa Bay! Their Community Center in St. Pete is located on the same block as the SPCA Tampa Bay Veterinary Center. Thank you, Metro, for helping us Spread the Humanimality!
Staff Pictured:
Kim Shulmister Loved by three cats (Remy, Una and Nero) as well as Scout, the dog
Ivy Paisner
Loved by her dog, Griffin
Toli Gintoili
Loved by three cats (Franklin, Chandler and Penni), two dogs (Ellie and Pru) and a pig (Knio)
Erin Robinson
Loved by Tess, the cat and Eleanor, the dog
Jimmy Biascan
Loved by his dog, cat and betta fish
Erin Byrne
Loved by Luna, the cat
honda and her husband Van have five Chihuahuas and a Yorkie – Chicky, Tiki, Sweetie, Lexie, Brandy and Honey. These sweeties have a special place in Rhonda and Van’s hearts. Each one has a strong personality and funny quirks, like their eating habits, sleep preferences and pill intake.
Chicky, now 13, can be the quirkiest. She won’t walk on Rhonda’s wooden floors or step on a crack, and she’s been that way since she was three months old. They bring so much joy and happiness to her life, and she can’t imagine life without them. They’ve helped her get through some low points in life and continue to bring a smile to her face every day!
Donna has her hands full with her four-legged cat children: Peter, Callie, BB Kitty, AZ, Cyrus and Belle. The cats fulfill her life in so many ways – they lift her spirits when she’s ill, they make her laugh after a bad day, and they all have different characteristics that make her life interesting. There’s no doubt in Donna’s mind that her pets know how much they are loved! Donna adopts pets to make their lives the best they can be, especially for senior pets. She couldn’t imagine ever not having a pet in her life!
Angeline and her husband found their Chocolate Lab, Cole, while traveling to Indiana during their engagement. They instantly fell in love and brought him home to Florida. For his 1st birthday, they hosted a huge party at Fort De Soto dog beach with all his dog friends and of course -dog-friendly cake!
Angeline’s two children, Evan and Della Jane loved Cole and played with him non-stop. Cole lived a long and happy 12 years but recently crossed over the rainbow bridge. Cole brought pure joy to Angeline and her family. There is not a day that goes by that they aren’t thinking about Cole running and swimming in doggie heaven.
Pinellas County Sherriff’s Office Deputy Troy Savetz has picked up a number of stray pigs while on patrol over the years. But there’s only one that walked into his life and stayed. Troy found Maple, a precious pot-bellied pig, as a stray and brought her to SPCA Tampa Bay to try to find her owner. When she wasn’t claimed by an owner, he adopted her into his family, which includes many dogs, a cat, two horses and a cow. Maple instantly bonded with the other pets and now they are inseparable. She even tries to imitate her dog siblings when they bark.
he Holdens are a family of animal lovers. Greg grew up with a lot of small pets like birds, hamsters, and turtles because of family allergies to cats and dogs. Greg’s wife, Mollie grew up with golden retrievers and they played an important part of her family life. The goldens cleaned up after dinner, made sure the family stayed fit during frequent long walks and snuggled up on the couch during movie night. Although they don’t have a pet now, the Holdens fully anticipate adding a furry friend to the family once their son, Will, is old enough to help care for a dog.
When Meredith, Andy and son Noah walk in the house, their two adopted dogs Anna and Rudy are so happy to see them that their entire bodies wag and they don’t know who to greet first! The genuine happiness they display every day helps Meredith forget about her stresses and feel thankful that they all found each other.
Meredith and Andy first adopted Anna after finding her at their local humane society. She was the longest-term resident at the time. Rudy was adopted after his previous owner passed away. Now they’re all part of the family!
Anna and Rudy, along with now-passed Lewis, Shelby and Wesley, walked down the aisle with Meredith and Andy during their wedding in 2008. Wesley, their black lab mix was the ring bearer.
The SPCA Tampa Bay family is heartbroken over the untimely passing of former Board President, Ambassador, and long-time donor, John Ralph. John was passionate about our mission and worked tirelessly on behalf of animals and the people who loved them. He was a true partner to our organization and will be deeply missed. His wife Kathy carries on their shared passion for animals in need.
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Lucky, PJ and Princess were about five weeks old when John and his wife, Kathy rescued them. John gave each of them attention every day by talking to them as if they were humans. They reciprocated this adoration by anxiously waiting for him to come home from work every day.
Each cat has a distinct personality – PJ is skittish, Princess is precocious, and Lucky thinks he is a human. But this family agrees that cats are the best and they don’t understand why anyone would ever want a dog!
Man’s best friend doesn’t even begin to describe the relationship between Sobe and Danielle. After 15 years together, little Sobe has been with Danielle through good times and bad. They’ve celebrated a lot of firsts together, like Sobe’s first trip to the ocean, and the birth of Danielle’s son, Alexander. Sobe will always be Danielle’s “first born” and if one thing is for certain, it’s that these two were made for each other.
Every little girl’s dream is to grow up with a loving and loyal pet. Anna found hers in Zsa Zsa. All through elementary, middle and, now, high school, Zsa Zsa has been Anna’s confidant and best friend. What started out as short rides in a dolly stroller are now exciting adventures for Zsa Zsa in Anna’s car. With her spunky personality and million-dollar smile, Zsa Zsa lives up to her namesake Zsa Zsa Gabor (blonde hair and all).
A tragic beginning becomes a storybook ending in the tale of Tiger the cat. Katie’s family rescued Tiger 13 years ago after her litter had been thrown out of a car. But that terrible day hasn’t dulled Tiger’s positive outlook on life as she is still full of lots of warm snuggles and playful energy. No ponytail tie or piece of string is safe in the Pemble household as Tiger will often seek them out to bat around. While it is a joy to watch Tiger pounce and play, Katie’s family could do without the unusually loud snoring that come from little Tiger, but still, they love her all the same.
Lovebirds have always held a special place in Nichole’s heart, having owned them since she was a small child. So when the owners of Totter and Burger couldn’t keep them any longer, Nichole made room among her growing bird family for the new feathered friends. Nichole found Totter back in 2007 abandoned behind her clinic with a “Dear John” letter stating he was sick and the owner couldn’t care for him. She didn’t hesitate to take him in and he has since lived to the incredible age of 16 years. It brings Nichole joy everyday knowing she helped give these birds the lives they deserve and they thank her in return with constant chatter and music to express their love.
The Heheman’s were looking for a sibling to keep their German Shepherd, Shadoe, company and when they came across 8-week old Nugget, they immediately fell in love. A dynamic duo, Nugget and Shadoe loved playing, going for walks, and even participating in the SPCA Tampa Bay Pet Walk. Nugget learned a lot from Shadoe, and after Shadoe’s passing, Nugget helped Teresa’s family carry on through hard times. Like Shadoe, who was adopted from SPCA, Nugget loves to raise awareness for SPCA and help other pets. When Nugget isn’t making the community a better place for other pets, carrying in the groceries or bringing in the paper, she can be found in the backyard with Teresa’s Dad, getting combed and watching the wildlife.
When they are off the clock, these fire chiefs return to their homes, families and furry friends. For James Large, that would be his puppy Soto, who is always happy and enthusiastic in greeting him. Soto is a very affectionate pup; however, if you turn your back, he will steal your socks and shoes — they are toys, after all! Michael Domante and his wife don’t have kids, so Duke has become their very important fur baby.
Duke brings them joy in many ways, one being his “buzz.” When Duke gets excited, he growls, or “buzzes” as a way to show off. (He’s also as speedy as a buzzing bee!) Ian Womack shares his love, and his home, with Athena, who showers him in kisses (and fur of, course) every time he returns home. When she’s not urging him to play, she loves to go for walks in the great outdoors.
When Jerry saw Oscar for the first time when Oscar was just 4 weeks old, they had an immediate connection. Surprisingly, Jerry found the small puppy through a kitty rescue. Jerry often thinks Oscar may be a person in a dog suit, as he’s smarter than any person Jerry knows. Over the past 11 years, Oscar has brought a truly immeasurable amount of joy to Jerry’s life, as well as an immeasurable amount of sloppy kisses.
Typically matchmakers don’t come with wet noses or wagging tails, but Chanel introduced her owner Nancy to Steve during a walk. As a beautiful and spunky dog, Chanel was an easy conversation starter. Now that she has both Nancy and Steve in her life, she couldn’t be happier. Unless there is a football game on for her to watch. Chanel even has her own touchdown ritual of tossing a ball and catching it in her mouth.
Tucker found his forever home with Chuck when he was just 10 weeks old. After the initial and required “Lion King” pose when they brought him out of the house, he settled right in. It’s hard to decide who rescued who, as Tucker’s undeniable “Scottie attitude” has brought so much joy to their lives. Chuck’s family learned just how energetic Tucker could be one Christmas Day when they returned home and discovered a tree surrounded by shredded open presents. Thankfully, Tucker no longer shreds any unsuspecting wrapping paper and can now be trusted home alone.
Marilyn fell in love with the small kitten the minute she opened her present from “Santa.” Babee, originally too small for her large ears and extra-long tail, eventually grew into them. Sixteen years later, Babee just requires daily belly rubs and an exciting game of fetch. Why yes, she plays fetch. That’s one cool cat.
Coming from different backgrounds, rescues and states, Charlie, Lacy, Ellie, Frank and Lucy all found their forever home with Ethel. And Ethel found unconditional love, comfort and true friendship with them. She is a women who is constantly on the go, and her fur family remains quite active as well – even Frank, who cannot use his back legs, finds activity and joy by swimming. These dogs are truly living the dream life that most people would be jealous to have.
Mr. Carson came into Martha and her husband Roy’s lives with a mouthful of dental issues, deteriorating vision and rather worried about life in general. In need of a haircut and a bit down on his luck, Martha decided Mr. Carson had to come home with her. After a great deal of TLC, Mr. Carson’s looks finally matched his elegant and formal demeanor, earning him the fitting name of Mr. Carson, after the sophisticated butler in “Downton Abbey”. While this old pooch has only been part of Martha’s and Roy’s lives for less than a year, it’s been a special year of fluffy hugs, sloppy, toothless kisses, and lots of love.
If you’ve ever attended one of our Pet Walk events you likely saw two fabulous Party Pirates walking around – none other than our friends Franki and Donna raising money for animals! These two fabulous women are accompanied by fabulous pets. When Franki and Donna get off of work they are not only greeted by their husbands, but also their furry children. Franki has her maltese, Vivica A. Dog (Vivi for short) waiting for her. Vivica had a troubled start with a host of health problems at an early age. Though Franki thought she’d adopted the puppy from a sweet couple who bred dogs and sold them for extra money, she quickly found out that Vivica’s health problems were signs the cute pooch was bred in a puppy mill. Though Vivica was born into a difficult situation, she is now a happy and healthy diva who loves to wear her pearls (like a true lady).
She has stamped a paw print of love on both Franki and her husband’s hearts — they can’t imagine life without her. Vivi is quite definitely a daddy’s girl, as each night she climbs into his lap and licks his entire face clean. Donna and her husband Bryan had their hearts stolen by a tiny 5 week old kitten named Tux. They had been healing from the loss of their first cat, loving dubbed Smelly-Cat, and were wary of getting another pet. When they first laid eyes on Tux they couldn’t resist. He was very tiny when he came home with them (smaller than Donna’s hand) and very easy to lose in their home. Donna created a small litter box for him, slept with him on the bathroom floor and carried him in the pocket of her robe. While Tux doesn’t fit in Donna’s pocket anymore, they’re still just as close as ever.
There is no way to describe Jeanette and Brian’s household other than through their ragtag group of fun, furry and festive pups! Marko, a pit mix, went home with Jeanette for a weekend getaway from the vet’s and never left. Marley was down on his luck and abandoned in Jeanette and Brian’s neighborhood, where Jeanette quickly rescued the cut Lab mix (despite Brian’s reluctance). Mia, a Catahoula mix, was a foster dog that never left the Rivera household once they realized they were the only ones who could put up with the hyper little attention hog. Murphy, the nervous-nelly boxer, was adopted as a puppy and has slowly grown into a mama’s boy.
Maverick was found and taken in as a puppy and rightfully earned his name for being a fighter and independent. He likes to think he can catch the squirrels in the backyard, but is never quite fast enough. And Mr. (not pictured), the youngest of the Rivera clan, stole Jeanette and Brian’s hearts during an SPCA Tampa Bay tour. At 6 months old, he is still learning the ropes but is clearly a match for the group. It’s a lot of work keeping up with all the fur (two Roombas required), but they wouldn’t have it any other way.
SPCA Tampa Bay shelter cats, Squints and Simon, sat in for picture day with the McClellans. Duncan and Irene’s cats, Ramon and Monroe, were born a day apart and are practically brothers. Duncan and his wife, Irene, adopted them together as kittens from a shelter. Upon reaching their new forever home the rather shy kittens had to be coaxed out with some delicious tuna fish. Ever since, they’ve been roaming the place as if it were their domain, bringing endless joy to Duncan and Irene. Monroe learned the hard way about the danger of being too adventurous, as he once climbed high into the rafters and needed saving. Duncan quickly came to the rescue, but in the end Monroe squirmed from his arms and caused Duncan to crash into a very expensive glass vessel. Thankfully, everyone is okay and Monroe no longer explores the rafters. He instead wanders the expansive property while Ramon spends the better part of his day lounging on the living room sofa.
The best day ever for MaryAnn (according to her granddaughter) was the day she got to bring Pinta home. Pinta quickly adjusted to her owner’s new retirement lifestyle, filling the day with playing, walking, more playing and snuggling. It’s hard not to have an active lifestyle when there’s a puppy like Pinta waiting for her ball to be thrown just one more time. For MaryAnn, waking up and greeting the day is fairly easy now that she has an adorable “good morning greeter.”
Betsie, pictured with Jonathan & Antony Browy, Alexandra Michael and Betsie’s three girls (all furry and small in stature) have been her comfort and joy, especially after the passing of her husband. Though tiny, they still manage to take up most of the bed and turn the living room into a zoo with all their playing.
Betsie and her husband rescued Daisy from a puppy farm in 2000. On their anniversary, they received a special gift when Lily fell into their lap (where she quickly became a daddy’s girl). As for Elysian, Betsie would like to think that she handpicked her, but she does have to admit that Lily may have “paw-picked” this new playmate.
The rambunctious duo of Dasher and Buster were the perfect additions to the adventurous Baker family. Rick and his family enjoy making trips to a cabin in North Carolina. And it just so happened that their pups had the same interest in the great outdoors. They gladly stick their noses to the A/C vents in the car as soon as they reach North Carolina, taking in all the smells of the wild. The dogs, of course, not the two-legged passengers.
Nita has been “second-chance mother” to Lucy, Buddy, Gracie and Ricky Bobby since they were puppies, and in each case it was love at first sight. Though these dogs can be considered on the normal side (for dogs, of course), Gracie takes the prize for Miss Oddball. All toilet paper must be kept under lock and key, otherwise Gracie like to unwind and shred it from the roll. With these wonderful bundles of love, Nita could never imagine asking for sweeter furry kids.
Natalie found her two best friends in Onyx and Maggie when she rescued them from terrible lives and situations. Now, however, they truly live the “dog life,” with comfy couches, a swimming pool, long walks and, of course, their humongous doghouse (aka Natalie’s house). Onyx and Maggie are nearly inseparable and have become the best of friends. Natalie is blessed to be able to return the unconditional love that they share with each other and with her.
Dharma captured the hearts of Debra and her family during a pet rescue meet-and-greet. At the end of the meeting and greeting, Dharma was the only one they wanted to bring home. Dharma is a ladies dog and loves to hang with Debra’s girlfriends during book club or girl’s night. She is the most loving of dogs and will snuggle with anyone (unless you come between her and her bone – then watch out!).
Unable to deny his two sons’ hopeful wishes, Chris took them to the shelter where Kimber, a lab-mix, quickly became family. With Houdini-like skills, Kimber would sneak her way out of the crate and into their beds at night. After Kimber’s passing, a new feline friend, Kitty Kitty Bang Bang, just as quickly became family due to her loving personality and adorable face.
A special thank you to the following ambassadors for helping us spread the humanimality with this program since 2015. Our animals thank you and SPCA Tampa Bay thanks you!
Bob Devin Jones
Dave & Ann Moore
Dr. Cherie Buisson & Dr. Derek Moore
Jerry & Ruth Bell
Kevin & Rob Pittman & Ezra the Yorkie
Kim Austin
Lisa Mayrose
Nathan & Sara Stonecipher
Cyndi Edwards
Roxanne Wilder
Susan Burnore
Theresa Pinnix & Aaron Franklin