Cats and dogs arrive at The Ark under many different circumstances, in all different conditions, with their own unique stories. Sometimes we know their stories; they were surrendered out of love in their best interests; they were neglected and malnourished; they were abused and faced true horror. Sometimes we don’t know what they’ve been through, and we can only guess if they were lost, abandoned, or worse.

Regardless of their past, we do our absolute best to help each animal heal, provide them comfort and safety, and get them home safely through reunion or adoption. Each successful story brings us joy, and yet, some stories just stick with you a little longer. Jax, Dolly, and Figaro are stories we won’t be forgetting.

Jax & Dolly

Last year, a large-scale animal seizure was conducted by the Maine State Animal Welfare Program. To carry it out, they requested assistance from shelters state-wide. Although we’re small, we always help with these cases to the best of our ability, because they are truly the worst of the worst. Even knowing that, we were not prepared for the horror we faced. 27 dogs starving, medically neglected, and living in filth. Unfortunately, it was too late for at least 6 other dogs.

That was the day we met Jax & Dolly. These two were especially heartbreaking for us – this nightmare was supposed to be their safe haven after being rescued in the south. We could not imagine someone “rescuing” a dog just to put them through even more trauma. Understandably, Jax & Dolly faced a long journey to build trust, health, and a sense of safety. Not enough can be said for the power of loving foster homes. With patience, kindness, and compassion, both dogs eventually healed and were ready for adoption.

In the most heartwarming of outcomes, neither foster home was ready to say goodbye. Despite the hurdles they faced in helping these pups overcome their traumas and fears, the bond was forged and both pups were adopted by their respective fosters. Even better, Jax & Dolly’s families are good friends, meaning these two dogs, who had been through so much together, will get to remain friends forever. And that’s the kind of outcome we wish for each and every one of the pets that walks through our doors.

Figaro

Figaro was an entirely different type of story. This senior cat had a loving home, but tragedy struck. He was seriously injured by the family dogs. When he was rushed to the vet, there were so many considerations. Not only his age and the extent of his injuries, but also his future. Clearly, he would not be able to live with the pets that injured him. His treatment and recovery would be lengthy and involved. With all of the factors at play, humane euthanasia had to be considered. However, Figaro showed that despite his injury and age, he still had spunk. That fighting spirit led him to The Ark.

He arrived with most of his body shaved, stitches, drains in his wounds, and a feisty but friendly attitude. Figaro’s needs were round-the-clock, so he quickly found himself in a foster home dedicated to his recovery. Throughout his ordeal, he never lost his appetite for life, food, or exploring. It was no surprise to us that when he was ready for adoption, he quickly caught the eye of one of our long-term volunteers. She scooped him up and the rest is history. Now, he lives a better life than most of the people we know! Seaside, with a doting mom, cat siblings, and a pug.