As we enter the new year, Dakin staff often reflect on the significant moments that have changed the lives of animals and people over the past 12 months. These moments were made possible by people who care about animals. Community support helps us reach and push even harder towards our goal of creating a world where services that support the human-animal bond are accessible to all companion animals. no longer vulnerable.
Last February, Dakin helped a developing situation in Vermont. Several dogs were found living outdoors in frigid conditions on short leashes, eating only frozen water and scanty food. Dakin took in his four dangerously thin dogs and created a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs. In such cases, when animal rights groups ask us to help animals, we are able to say yes, thanks to the generosity of our supporters who want to make a difference in their lives. increase. And we are grateful for that.
Then we welcomed Beanie, who was part of the litter that lived in the (mostly) enclosed underside of the outdoor stairs. I worked tirelessly to keep my 3-month-old Beanie and her siblings out of the cold. Beanie had a glow that was felt by everyone who interacted with her. I was quite surprised.
She made a name for herself as the “poster kitty” for the new event, 5k Will Run for Cookies, held last spring. We shared her inspiring story with the race participants. As with all Dakin animals, our hearts warmed when she was taken in by her loving family.
One day last May, Dakin was visited by the Good Samaritan. He found a box with his 28 guinea pigs placed next to the litter box. Many were pregnant or tested positive for ringworm. Thus began a months-long journey to better health and eventual adoption. All guinea pigs spent those months in the comfort of a caring foster home. Our wonderful foster parents welcomed these pets with open arms, making the recovery process for each guinea pig much less stressful and full of love.
As the summer began, Dakin’s Pet Health Center (PHC) opened thanks to a generous $250,000 lead gift from the John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Foundation. This helped cover some of the initial costs. PHC is a non-emergency veterinary resource run by Dakin for pet cats and dogs that expands existing veterinary services to better support pets and people in the community and reduce the number of barriers to veterinary care. reduce the Recently, PHC served her 1,000th customer. This is a remarkable milestone achieved by our hard working team helping dedicated pet parents in our community.
Later that season, we were able to help animal lovers in Franklin County who were helping vulnerable and stray cats. In one year, the number had grown from his 10 to 70. Many of the kittens needed immediate medical attention and we were able to provide it.
When the Humane Society of America embarked on the daunting task of removing 4,000 beagles from breeding facilities, they sought help from select shelters. We welcomed 20 beagle puppies who needed a mild treatment before they melted the hearts of their future families. 2022 saw Dakin welcome pets through the BISSELL Pet Foundation and the ASPCA Animal Relocation Program, and other significant transportation partnerships expanded .
Springfield’s sudden parvovirus outbreak in early fall prompted a rapid mobilization of staff and volunteers from Dakin and other local animal welfare organizations. From outpatient treatment of sick dogs to his four free onsite vaccination events (plus his one at American International College), in partnership with Thomas J. he has helped over 400 dogs vaccinate clinics. The health of animals in the area improved greatly when it was brought in for O’Connor Animal Care & Adoption Center.
As we embrace all the wonderful possibilities we have heading into the new year, we invite you to be part of the vital team that connects people and pets.
Whether you want to give gifts, volunteer, raise animals, or contribute in other important ways, you know the joy of watching animals thrive and giving. , visit dakinhumane.org.
I wish you a bright and happy new year.
Lee Chambers is a Media Relations and Development Specialist at the Dakin Humane Society. Dakin provides effective and innovative services to animals in need and their caregivers.
