SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Year after year, Syracuse is named one of the snowiest cities in America, according to sources such as The Old Farmer’s Almanac. 2026 has been no different. Syracuse has received nearly 80 inches of snow thus far, and there are still 35 days until spring.
These harsh winter conditions don’t stop the CNY SPCA, however. The CNY SPCA is a non-profit animal rescue organization located on East Molloy Road near the I-90 and I-481 interchange.
“We’re the voice for those who can’t speak for themselves. Animals that have been forgotten or just deserted because they were given up on—we help give animals like that a chance. Another chance at life,” staff member Celica Edick said.
While the ASPCA, which stands for American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, has chapters all across the country, there are multiple located around the Central New York region. Other locations besides the CNY SPCA in Syracuse include the Oswego and Finger Lakes SPCA.
Each rescue faces its own respective challenges, but the CNY SPCA has some unique ones. Nearly two weeks ago, staff protested for the removal of the previous board of directors. Due to these tensions, staffing is at a record low.
“I have been getting a lot more work at the front desk than usual. But that’s only currently, and it’ll go back to a calm schedule in the future,” volunteer Sue Schenosky said.
While shortages are one issue, living in Central New York brings a unique set of challenges that are not always the most ideal for the animals.
“We’re usually able to take most of our dogs out throughout the entire day for a good couple of minutes—sometimes half an hour. But with the winter and how cold it is, we can’t really do that. They have to go out to the play yard sometimes, but if it’s even much colder than that, then we maybe take them outside to the front for like five minutes,” Edick said.
Edick said that despite everything going on, the entire staff of volunteers and paid employees continue their hard work and hope that normalcy can be restored.