As we make progress into this new year, we look back at our accomplishments in 2024. We are proud to say that we helped more than 50 cats and 10 dogs.
The Aark is currently home to 99 cats. We have two diabetic cats, one cat with cerebellar hypoplasia, six with feline AIDS, four with feline leukemia, two with hyperthyroidism, two tripods (having only three legs), two with one eye — and the list goes on.
(Courtesy of Lorraine Monfils)
Our sanctuary runs on volunteers and receives no town or state funding. If you look at our accomplishments and then realize that we receive no town or state funding, then you can understand why we are so proud of our accomplishments.
Our volunteers are second to none and they work extremely hard. They believe that every animal’s life is meaningful and they pour their hearts and souls into their work. To most, The Ark is their second family. They cry when we lose one and they smile with every cat or dog that we successfully rescue.
The world of animal rescue isn’t always easy. Our hearts break with some of the things that we see. When all is said and done, all animal rescue organizations need more volunteers.
They say there is strength in numbers, and we couldn’t agree more. So here is a challenge for all the animal lovers out there: if you have a few extra hours a week, go volunteer at your local shelter or sanctuary. There are so many deserving animals out there that just need someone to be their voice. There are so many animals out there in need, and you could be that special someone to help them transition from being homeless to being adopted into a loving family.
Don’t have time to volunteer ? Maybe you could sponsor an animal in need or drop off much-needed supplies.
There are so many ways you can help, but the first step is to make the commitment to do something. We promise you that you won’t regret it. Making a difference in the life of an animal is an amazing feeling, so go ahead and take that first step. Become someone’s hero today.
Thank you for your continued support and, as always, thank you for reading our column.
The Ark Animal Sanctuary is located at 102 Old Woodstock Rd., Houlton. Visit them online at arkanimalsanctuary.org/home, call 532-7387 or check out their Facebook page.
