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Remembering Lisa Rodgers, a Philadelphia animal champion

Philadelphia has lost a true animal champion. Lisa Rodgers, chief operations officer with the Pennsylvania SPCA, succumbed to her battle with cancer Monday. She was 47.

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Remembering Lisa Rodgers, a Philadelphia animal champion

POSTED: Friday, July 17, 2009, 1:51 PM

Amy Worden, Inquirer Staff Writer

Philadelphia has lost a true animal champion. Lisa Ann Rodgers, chief operations officer with the Pennsylvania SPCA, succumbed to her battle with cancer Monday. She was 47.

Rodgers, who initially wanted to be a vet, dedicated her life to animals helping thousands of unwanted cats and dogs and other critters who found shelter at the PSPCA. She was instrumental in coordinating efforts with the Animal Planet television network which broadcast a series "Animal Cops: Philadelphia." The show episodes highlighted the brave work of the PSPCA's animal control officers and veterinarians as they confronted animal abuse, whether in city dog fighting rings or rural puppy mills.

Her funeral is Tuesday in Cheltenham.

My colleague John Morrison wrote her obituary for the Daily News.

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Comments (1)

0 like this / 0 don't • Posted 10:03 AM, 07/19/2009

The last few days have been tough! Thinking about how much fun we had and the impact Lisa had on my life. She was instrumental in shaping me into the woman I am today...one who loves to learn, thirsts for knowledge and has a unique way of making each person feel special. That was Lisa. Her beautiful smile and infectious laugh will linger in my memory and my heart forever! There is no doubt that we will hear and read how she touched so many lives so very deeply. May Eternal Rest be yours, my Cecilian Sister, my friend! Until we meet again, I'll see you on the other side...

— dcmitch523

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About this blog

Amy Worden is a politics and government reporter for the Inquirer. In that capacity she has explored a range of animal issues from dog kennel law improvements and horse slaughter to the comeback of peregrine falcons and pigeon hunts. From hamsters to horses, animals have always been part of her life. To pass along a tip or contact Amy, click here. Reach Amy at aworden@phillynews.com.