Bucks County SPCA Turns 110 Years Old: See Birthday Photos

LAHASKA, PA — The Bucks County SPCA celebrated 10 years of its Quakertown shelter in February, and a whopping 110 years of lifesaving work for the animals of Bucks County.

The local SPCA was founded in 1912, as an independent animal welfare agency with a budget of just $2,000. The organization has remained independent since, assisting animals in need through rescue, rehoming, cruelty investigation and prosecution, and community outreach.

"The Bucks County SPCA has always relied on the support of individuals and businesses who share our mission," board president Diane Magee said at the celebration. "As we mark this important anniversary and the accomplishments of our first decade in Quakertown, we are grateful for the sustaining support of our friends and neighbors who help us save thousands of lives in Bucks County each year.”

The anniversary event included directors, board members, staff, 10-year volunteers, community members — and Rex, the first animal adopted in 2012 when the BCSPCA’s Quakertown shelter opened.

Rex was a 6-month-old puppy in need of a home at the time, and Scott Elsesser worked on the shelter during its construction. He and his wife Michelle adopted Rex and have enjoyed 10 wonderful years with the playful chocolate lab.

BCSPCA executive director Linda Reider honored longtime former board member Marcia Hill for paving the way for the Richland facility, which includes a roomy barn and pastures that have served hundreds of rescued farm animals including chickens, cows, horses, sheep, pigs, and more.

"The community in Upper Bucks was so welcoming when the shelter opened, and it still is," Hill said.

Magee highlighted the impact of the Quakertown shelter in its first 10 years including 20,624 animals served; 9,773 animals adopted; 1,320 lost pets reunited with their families; 1,000 animals rescued by BCPSCA animal cruelty investigations; 969 animals transferred in from other shelters and rescues; and 2,289 cats sterilized through its public spay/neuter clinic.

"It’s wonderful to know that so many lives have been touched through the good work done here," Hill said.

Learn more about the Bucks County SPCA — including animals up for adoption — online.

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