How are you? Those three small words mean so much more these days. Today, ‘How are you’ means everything. It means are you healthy, well, able to work from home, take care of your kids, your parents, your pets. Are you able to go out for a walk or go to the grocery store? Do you have someone who is looking out for you through all this frightening news? Are you okay?
We truly hope that you are okay and staying healthy. We want you to know that we are here continuing to look out for the animals.
Life is much different than it was just a few weeks ago, and each day seems to bring new questions and uncertainty. But one thing will never change – our commitment to our community’s most vulnerable pets. Thank you for your continued support of our lifesaving work, especially now.
As the safety net for animals and their families in our community, I want to assure you that we are here to help during these difficult times. As our community responds to the COVID-19 crisis, we’re caring for the animals every day. We are following the Governor’s Stay-At-Home order and the shelter and our programs are closed for now. Our essential shelter employees have formed two teams to continue to care for the animals, while helping to reduce exposure risk. We have moved some animals to foster care to help decrease the numbers waiting in the shelter. Now, at least, they will be in homes with people who will love and care for them. A few virtual introductions of animals have taken place resulting in birds, guinea pigs and a cat finding a forever home, even amidst the chaos.
New ways of accomplishing our mission are definitely emerging. We continue to offer our Safe Pet program providing victims of domestic violence with a safe place to bring their pets as they attempt to leave a dangerous situation. Unfortunately, indicators suggest that this will be a greater need as the self-quarantine period continues. The Safe Pet program is also available to people who have become homeless. It is impossible to predict how much demand will increase through this uncertain time.
Pet owners hit hardest by COVID-19 will soon be facing immense financial burdens which may result in increased needs or pet surrenders. We have already begun receiving requests for pet food assistance. Through our Food Share program, we are helping to feed community dogs, cats, even horses. We anticipate a higher demand for this work as well. Keeping animals in their homes is critical work and we are so grateful to be able to help. Thanks to supporters like you, we are here for the community that needs us.
As as this crisis intensifies, we will need your support more than ever. While we care for the animals, and our staff, we know that the months ahead are going to be difficult. We have already had to postpone programs, cancel fundraising events, and turn away donations of critical supply items. We need your support more than ever to help New Hampshire’s pets in need. You can ensure life-saving care can continue.
I hope you are able to make an emergency gift to our general fund. Your gift will be put to work immediately and will help us continue to keep going. With your help, we can make sure that every animal brought to us gets the help and love they deserve.
From every animal here at the NHSPCA and the staff that care for them, thank you for your continued support.
Be well,
Lisa Dennison
Executive Director
New Hampshire SPCA
P.S. At this time, and according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19 and “there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare.” Please consult those websites for the latest information. We are actively monitoring COVID-19 recommendations from the CDC, AVMA, state, and local organizations. Please continue to check back frequently for updates.
