Animal welfare is a top priority for philanthropist Sue Ann Arnall. A lifelong animal lover, she recently established the Arnall Family Foundation, which has a dedicated focus on animal welfare through its Watershed Animal Fund.

With the help of the Watershed Animal Fund, the ASPCA’ is planning for the expansion of our Behavioral Research Center to a permanent facility in Weaverville, North Carolina. This custom-built, state-of-the-art center will be designed specifically to facilitate behavioral rehabilitation and includes an on-site residence where animal welfare professionals hailing from all over the country can train to bring these protocols back to their local shelters.

Ms. Arnall tapped veteran animal welfare professional Christy Counts to be the executive director of the Watershed Animal Fund. Ms. Counts has been tasked with “seeking innovative programs with exemplary institutions and individuals to better the lives of companion animals.” At a recent tour of the ASPCA’s Behavioral Rehabilitation Center, currently located in Madison, New Jersey, Ms. Counts was impressed with the expertise of the staff and the success of our rehabilitation program. The program has developed and implements special behavior modifi­cation protocols to help fearful and under-socialized dogs (most of whom have been victims of cruelty) to overcome their tremendous fear so that they can be adopted safely into loving homes.

“The ASPCA is doing incredible work rescuing abused dogs who live in constant fear-dogs who otherwise may not have had a second chance,” said Ms. Counts. “With a dedicated staff and specialized rehabilitation, these dogs can learn to enjoy human interaction and lives as pets. We are thrilled to support this work.”

Ms. Arnall, who owns three dogs and 11 horses, believes that “we owe a debt of gratitude to the companion animals who are so loving and loyal to us; I am fortunate to have the opportunity to support programs that prioritize their care.”

To learn more about the ASPCA, visit aspca.org.