The ASPCA is hosting their annual Humane Awards in NYC Nov 16th, where it honors both animals and people working to support the organization’s’ mission.
This year they’ve found a roster of honorees from every species who’ve made their own strides towards animal welfare. 11 year old ‘Kid of the Year’ Jessica Brocksom from Milford, CT may just be in the fifth-grade, but she’s already fighting for legislation towards allowing therapy animals in court, and raising awareness about the dangers of leaving pets in cars during hot weather.
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‘Dog of the Year’ Rescue, from Cambridge, MA works as a support dog to Jessica Kensky, a survivor of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Kensky and her husband say that besides helping with everyday tasks, Rescue the dog has been a source of invaluable emotional support for their family that helped transform their lives after tragedy.
The Cat of the Year is “Flame” from Greenville, SC. Flame was a malnourished orange and white kitten when he strayed into the Belmont Fire Department in South Carolina in 2015. He attached himself immediately to the firefighters, who returned the affection, opening their home and hearts for him. Flame brings them companionship and comfort, even during the most stressful and tragic moments, and also participates in educational events with local children.
The Citizen Hero Award goes to Judy Obregon from Fort Worth, TX. When Judy Obregon discovered that an area near Fort Worth, Texas had become a dumping ground for abandoned, injured, and deceased animals, she vowed to help them. Since 2010, Judy has visited this financially challenged, high-crime area to rescue animals, arrange veterinary care, and assist with their adoption. With help from a network of local volunteers she formed, Judy has rescued more than 300 dogs to date, inspiring admirers across the country.
The Henry Bergh Award goes to Mission K9 Rescue from Houston, TX. Mission K9 Rescue assists American retired military and working dogs who risk their lives in heroic service at home and abroad. While these animals are cared for during their tours of duty, some end up homeless, injured, and very vulnerable afterward. Mission K9 Rescue provides necessary care and rehabilitation, and facilitates reunion and adoption opportunities. Since its founding, Mission K9 Rescue has reunited more than 70 canine handler teams and rescued more than 100 dogs in need.
The Equine Welfare Award goes to Fleet of Angels in Evans, CO. When lifelong horse-lover Elaine Nash saw how commercial transportation costs and a lack of access to horse trailers hindered the rescue and adoption of at-risk horses, she launched Fleet of Angels to help. Fleet of Angels is a network of thousands of trailer owners dedicated to helping equines relocate from dangerous environments to areas of safety – sometimes as far away as Alaska. Each year, thousands of horses are assisted by their life-saving work, including horses recently displaced by Hurricane Harvey.
