Joy Gendusa

Joy is the Founder and CEO of PostcardMania. After more than seventeen years of leading one of the most innovative and successful postcard marketing companies in the industry, Joy has obtained a level of marketing expertise that is sought after for counsel and speaking engagements all over the country. But here at the Maniac Marketing Blog, you get her knowledge at absolutely no cost to you. She will be dropping by often to share wisdom and experience on a wide range of topics, from direct mail to business management, and even email marketing and website development. Read More

Maniacs Give Back: Pinellas County Animal Services

Posted on June 3, 2025 by Joy Gendusa

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Recently, Maniacs gathered together to help the SPCA, an organization dedicated to the adoption of dogs and cats without a home in Pinellas County. They walked dogs, read to the dogs and cats, and some Maniacs even took home a furry friend. Check out the day we spent with the SPCA and our new furry friends here!

maniacs give back pinellas county animal services

The average length of stay for a dog in a shelter before being adopted is 27 days and 55 days for a cat, but it can be much longer depending on the age, color, or breed of the animal. Each day can be difficult for a dog or cat without a home.

According to the SPCA, in 2024, 2,278 dogs and 2,361 cats entered their shelter. At the end of the year, 1,214 dogs were adopted or returned to the owner, and 1,525 cats were adopted or returned to the owner. The remainders either passed away or were transferred to other shelters. This means the adoption rate was as low as 53% for dogs and 64% for cats (typically more cats are adopted than dogs).

With such a great need in the community to provide a loving home for dogs and cats without a permanent home, PostcardMania participated in two volunteer events to show support. On November 11, 2024, 20 maniacs went to Pinellas County Animal Services and walked 30 dogs. After the event, one maniac adopted a dog.

Then, earlier this year , four maniacs went back to the shelter and walked 30 dogs and some read books to the animals as well. This time, two dogs and one cat got a forever home!

Some of our Maniacs shared their experiences volunteering and bringing home a pet from the shelter…

Samantha Stewart is the PR Coordinator at PostcardMania and organized the volunteer events. She said: “The event was a total breeze! The team had everything down to a science, making sure we all felt confident and ready in our roles. The grounds were scenic and tidy—perfectly manicured with a foot path that led to waterfront views. And the animals were incredibly friendly, adding an extra layer of charm to the whole experience.

“As a dog-friendly company, our team finds deep purpose in supporting animals in need. After the hurricane, while many resources were directed towards helping people, countless animals were displaced or rehomed due to the hardships. This led to a surge in intake at the shelter, but unfortunately, support and supplies didn’t keep pace with the increased demand. Our maniacs stepped up, even if just for a day, to help ease that pressure and make a real difference. Due to the success of the event, we’ve decided to make it a permanent addition to the rotation of charities and volunteer organizations we regularly support, such as Feeding Tampa Bay, Pinellas Hope, and Meals on Wheels. “We’re committed to continuing our efforts to give back to the community through fundraisers and other volunteer activities.

“For me personally, the greatest joy was witnessing three of our staff members leave with their new forever companions. While the primary objective of the event was to offer much-needed socialization and exercise for the animals, any increase in adoption rates felt like an immense bonus. There is truly no greater reward than seeing someone arrive with no intention of adopting, only to form such a deep connection with an animal that they choose to follow through with an adoption. As someone who has been actively involved in animal fostering and rescue, that moment profoundly touched my heart!”

Kia Johnson, Campaign Coordinator, Adopted 1 Cat

She said, “I really enjoyed being able to bring smiles to not only the worker’s faces who look over and form a bond with the animals, but also being able to make a difference in the animal’s demeanor felt really good.

“I have always been a dog mom/girl but the last few years have really changed my mind about cats and I have been open to the ‘Cat distribution system’ to send me a cat that felt right. When the volunteer opportunity came up, I made up my mind that I would adopt. The sweet boy my husband and I have affectionally named Sir Mittens made the decision really easy and by far is the nicest cat I’ve had the pleasure of interacting with.”

Allie Burris, Marketing Consultant, Adopted 1 dog

She said: “I loved being able to take time to give to a shelter that helps so much with our furry friends! These animals need so much love, and I am glad we were able to provide them with some.

“I decided to adopt Baylee because I knew she was the perfect fit for me. The first time I took her out of her cage, she melted into my arms and stole my heart. I knew I could not walk away without her. She is the happiest dog ever considering someone dumped her during the last hurricane. She is the best decision I have ever made!

“While I was there, I volunteered to walk some dogs. Alexa Acosta and I paired together and got to walk a couple different sweet pups! All of the dogs were so excited to get some fresh air and stretch their legs. Seeing them wag their tails and smile warmed my heart so much.

“Thank you Sam for putting on such an amazing event that gave me my furever friend!”