The Partial Observer by Allison Hungerford
SQSPCA Seeks Adopter for Longest Shelter Dog Resident
The Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals takes pride in finding the right homes for adoptable pets as quickly as possible, helping to minimize the amount of time animals spend in the shelter. In 2025, SQSPCA’s average length of stay was just 34 days—well below the mid-year national average of 47 days for dogs, according to Shelter Animals Count, a data-sharing and analysis program of the ASPCA.
“An animal’s length of stay is incredibly important to us,” said SQSPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes. “No matter how hard our team works to provide enrichment, comfort and love, nothing compares to being in a home. When we notice an animal is being overlooked, we create a special action plan to help pave their way to adoption.”
That is the case for Poncho, the SQSPCA’s longest resident dog. Poncho entered the shelter’s care in June of 2025, and despite numerous marketing and outreach efforts, he has yet to find his family.
