I S S U E 2

According to Christina Ortiz, press officer at the ASPCA, people who need to dispose of an animal are required to notify the Department of Sanitation, place the animal in a plastic bag and set it on the curbside. They are also free to call the Humane Society of New York so arrangements can be made to take it to an animal burial or ship it, along with other animals that have died, to be mass cremated.

Sandra DeFeo, co-executive director of the Humane Society, said it is rare that people bring in their pets to the Humane Society. When they do, it is up to the owner to either take it to a crematory or arrange for a burial. The Humane Society of New York contracts with the Pet Crematory Agency in West Babylon, N.Y. The society does charge a fee to have an animal brought in for disposal, as well as to put it to sleep if it is sick or dying.

"It's a very personal decision," said DeFeo. "Cremation is a very responsible thing to do. It disposes of the body in a way that is sanitary and safe."

DeFeo said people should always check that the crematory is a reputable and reliable organization, so they know what they're getting into. She said most people take their pets to their veternarians.

According to Zewistowski, crematories are not allowed in New York City due to possible zoning issues. The only exceptions are the Bide-A-Wee Shelter in Wantheh, L.I., Animal Health Center in Manhattan and the Pet Crematory Agency in West Babylon, all of which have special licenses. On Mondays and Wednesdays, the Hartsdale Pet Cemetary has two vans that go out to over 200 veterinarians as far as Danbury, Connecticut.

"Hartsdale is absolutely fabulous," said Goodman, her bright red hair flopping in her eyes as she scrambles to the door to finally see Shayna's vet. The dog has a minor case of arthritis in her back legs. But it's certainly not life threatening, Goodman reassures. And off they go for a check-up, making sure this one's healthy and happy for as long as she can be.

Fido in the garbage? Best not, even in New York City

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