Sometimes the most unfortunate circumstances can bring about the greatest good. COVID-19 has brought a world of change for everyone, but it has also catapulted Dakin’s need to care for animals wherever they are — in our shelter, in foster homes, and in their homes — more than ever.
Over the last five to 10 years, animal overpopulation in New England has been brought to manageable levels for shelters because people are on board with spay and neuter efforts to minimize animal suffering. In response to that, our focus has shifted to the most vulnerable animals in need. Those who enter our shelter are those who are the most in need of help (medically or behaviorally), but where we can make the greatest impact is by helping those right where they are — in their homes.
Just under 50% of Massachusetts homes have pets, and a large portion of these pets do not have access to affordable care, guidance for behavior challenges or pet food assistance to get through a temporary hardship.
Dakin has increasingly moved to caring for pets who have homes. We know in most circumstances it is better to keep pets with their people than to separate them and bring them to a shelter. Shelter surrenders usually happen because medical or behavioral issues have become too unmanageable or life’s circumstances too overwhelming. Our programs are in place to help people overcome these hurdles and keep their pets by their side. This is why we must be proactive versus reactive in our approach to best serve animals.
With unemployment rates in the Pioneer Valley quadrupled since the beginning of this year, many people who didn’t need our help before need it now. For example, last summer our vaccine clinic served 279 patients. This summer that number was over 1,000. People are also requesting help from our pet food aid program in record numbers.
You are an invaluable partner in Dakin’s evolution. Your support allows us to stay connected to pets and our community, while reconfiguring our programs to meet individual and collective needs that continue to change. We thank you for that.
We see a shift in our future; a need to focus on more medically-based programs and services that help community animals stay healthy and in their homes. If COVID-19 has proven anything, it has illustrated how helpful and life-saving our furry friends can be to us. We have relied on them for companionship after months of isolation, laughter during times of sadness and love when our ties to family and friends have been limited. We believe everyone has a right to share their life with an animal and that it is not just a privilege for some. Take care and be well.
Carmine DiCenso is the executive director of Dakin Humane Society, which has adoption centers in Springfield and Leverett.