A look back through time
80 years At the monmouth county spca
Where We Started
The Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was founded in 1945 by Ms. Tracy with other animal lovers and humanitarians to care for the community’s homeless, neglected and abused animals.
At this time, board members were caring for the animals in their own homes. It was a simple operation, but one that began a legacy of animal rescue throughout Monmouth County and the state of New Jersey.
Our Story
1945
Taking Big Steps
The MCSPCA was officially incorporated in 1945. Land on a former chicken farm was acquired on Wall St. by soliciting donations. The shelter operated out of an old house with wire pens for many years.
1964
A New Era
Dennis Bailey takes over the shelter and works to improve the state of things, as board members were taking turns paying the heat and electric bills. Working with local PD and ACO Gloria Cook, the shelter was able to help thousands of animals.
1983
Program Growth
Mrs. Daly started the spay and neuter program at the SPCA with the help of local veterinarians. Affordable spay/neuter and the prevention of overpopulation has remained the cornerstone of the MCSPCA’s mission. The staff grew to 14 caretakers, over 7,000 animals came through the doors, and 600 animal cruelty cases were investigated.
1995
Celebrating 50 Years
Big things happened starting in 1995, including the construction of a new shelter clinic, the opening of the Maureen O’Brien Thrift Store, expansion of fundraising events, and the eventual remodeling of the shelter in 2006 under Executive Director Ursula Goetz.
2015
Making History
Ross Licitra becomes the Executive Director and begins making significant changes to shelter operations as well as how Humane Law Enforcement is conducted in the county and eventually throughout the entire state of New Jersey. The MCSPCA also began providing animal control services to towns. In 2016 the MCSPCA investigated, coordinated, and prosecuted the largest reported canine hoarding case in the state, with over 270 dogs rescued
2017
Trendsetters
Under the guidance of Dr. Anthony DeCarlo, the shelter’s clinic grew into one of the first full-service animal hospitals operating out of a shelter in the area, serving both owned and shelter pets.
2025
Today
Today, the MCSPCA continues to operate with its original mission, but on a much larger scale. Programs are being added and expanded every year for the benefit of animals and community members of all ages.
In the News
“It is not enough to love animals; we must actively preserve and protect them. It’s our duty and responsibility as custodians of this planet.“
Daphne Sheldrick
Then… And Now
In 1984, the MCSPCA had only 14 staff members. Now, with almost 100 full and part time employees, the shelter has been able to expand our reach and programs throughout the county and beyond.
In the late 60’s, Dennis Bailey would ride around once a week with Chief Philips looking for stray animals to take in. Now, the MCSPCA contracts with 22 towns in Monmouth County and is on call 24/7 for animals in need.
In the 1940’s, the MCSPCA’s annual operating budget was $16,000. Today it costs upwards of $7,000,000 to operate the shelter each year.
In 1965, the MCSPCA Board President thanked the two volunteer fundraising auxiliaries for raising “many thousands of dollars through their fashion shows, luncheons, card parties, rummage sales, and tag days.”
In 2025, the professional development team raises millions of dollars each year through social media, grant writing, and events like the Polar Plunge and Fur Ball Gala. The more things change, the more they stay the same! People who love their pets, still like to parade them through the MCSPCA’s Dog Walk – 80 years strong!
What the Future Holds
Every year, the MCSPCA continues to adopt out thousands of animals to their forever homes, investigate hundreds of animal cruelty cases, and respond to thousands of animal control calls.
Thanks to the generosity of the members of this community, the MCSPCA has also renovated the Vogel Veterinary Hospital, built a barn for additional food storage, and expanded existing programs all with the goal of being able to serve more animals.
We have also re-vamped our humane education programs, re-instated Animal Rescue Summer Camp, and expanded the Behavior Training Academy.
The Monmouth County SPCA has become one of the most respected animal shelters in New Jersey, serving as a mentor to shelters across the state. We will continue to expand our reach to speak for those without a voice and save more animals.
The 80 Point Pet Quest
Calling all Humane Heroes
Help us celebrate 80 years of the Monmouth County SPCA by embarking on a journey to spread our mission in 80 ways!
Complete tasks from the list to total 80 points and win cool prizes! Click the link below to get started!
