It’s National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week! Celebrated annually on the first full week of November, The Humane Society of the United States has designated November 4th – 10th, 2024 as National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week 2024. Recent news of Westbrook’s Valley Shore Animal Welfare League “going through a transition” has spurred rumors and debates online. Although the news of what this transition entails is yet to be shared, I thought it might be a good idea to discuss what we currently know and the important role animal shelters play in the community. Because no matter what’s happening at VSAWL, the work of animal shelters is as challenging as it is invaluable!
Westbrook’s Valley Shore Animal Welfare League
Valley Shore Animal Welfare League
has been serving the Westbrook area since 1972. Per their website, the shelter was founded “by a group of women that saw an increasing need for animal-oriented programs along the shoreline of Connecticut.” Today, VSAWL owns and operates a no-kill shelter for cats and dogs.
Valley Shore Animal Welfare League’s Uncertain Future
According to an article by WTNH, “Without notice Lord said the Board President and Secretary took out the remaining four dogs and four cats last Thursday leaving the shelter empty.” In the article, Delilah Lord, who serves as the shelter’s Director, stated that she was recently told to no longer accept intakes. The handful of adoptable pets that were at the shelter were said to have been relocated. The article was last updated on October 28th, 2024.
The Board of Directors approached rumors and last week’s protest on social media stating that the shelter is going through a transition and that, as volunteers that work directly with the animals, they are dedicated to doing the best for the animals and the community. In essence, the statement asked the community to allow them time to make a plan and figure things out. The post can be found here; it was published on October 17th. As with most 501(c)(3) and volunteer-based organizations, the organization depends on the generosity of donors and volunteers to function.
Benefits of a Well-Run Shelter
I believe that there are many benefits of maintaining a well-run shelter in the community. While I do not know the ins and outs of Valley Shore Animal Welfare League’s transition, I find it’s important to better understand the big picture. Of course, the following benefits are generalized, but they tend to be universal.
Reuniting Lost Pets
Animal shelters serve as a first-line of defense for pets that are lost. Found pets are usually taken to local shelters to be scanned for a microchip and be reunited with their families. Thanks to animal shelters, lost pets have a place to go until their families are located. And, pet parents can improve the odds of being reunited with their missing pets by visiting the local shelter and engaging their help.
Promoting Public Health and Safety
One of the primary benefits of a well-maintained animal shelter is its contribution to public health and safety. By taking in stray and abandoned animals, shelters help reduce the number of animals roaming the streets. This not only prevents potential traffic accidents but also minimizes the spread of diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
Additionally, shelters often provide essential veterinary care, including vaccinations and spaying/neutering services, which further contribute to controlling the pet population and preventing the spread of diseases.
Fostering Community Engagement
Animal shelters serve as hubs for community engagement and education. They often organize events such as pet adoption fairs, educational workshops, and volunteer programs that bring community members together. These activities not only raise awareness about responsible pet ownership but also create opportunities for social interaction and community bonding. Many shelters partner with local schools to educate children about animal care and welfare, helping to nurture a generation of compassionate and responsible pet owners.
Economic Benefits
Animal shelters can have a positive economic impact on communities. They create job opportunities for local residents, including veterinarians, animal care specialists, and administrative staff. Moreover, the presence of a shelter can stimulate local businesses related to pet care, such as pet supply stores, grooming services, and veterinary clinics. This economic ripple effect can contribute to the overall prosperity of the community.
Enhancing Public Safety
Research suggests that communities with accessible animal shelters tend to be safer. The presence of pets, particularly dogs, can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities in residential areas. Additionally, by providing a safe haven for stray or aggressive animals, shelters help reduce the risk of animal-related incidents in the community.
Promoting Animal Welfare
At its core, a well-run animal shelter is dedicated to improving the lives of animals. These facilities provide food, shelter, and medical care to animals in need, often rehabilitating those that have suffered abuse or neglect. By promoting adoption and educating the public about responsible pet ownership, shelters play a crucial role in reducing animal homelessness and preventing the euthanasia of adoptable pets.
Supporting Mental Health
Interacting with animals has been shown to have numerous mental health benefits. Animal shelters provide opportunities for community members to volunteer, fostering a sense of purpose and connection. For individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, spending time with shelter animals can be therapeutic. Some shelters even organize programs where people can read to shelter pets, walk dogs, and help with socialization and enrichment, benefiting both the animals and the volunteers.
As a rescue advocate, I am hopeful that Valley Shore Animal Welfare League’s leadership will do the right thing for the community and the animals. I genuinely believe that anyone that volunteers their time with an organization like VSAWL is dedicated and committed to animal welfare and what’s best for the community at large. I do hope there is a resolution very soon. Please comment below if you hear any updates before I do. In the meantime, I’m wishing a Happy National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week to all the generous humans that donate their money, time, and commitment to animal shelters. Your work truly is invaluable!
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Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
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