In 1984, The Ark Animal Shelter, a 501(c)(3) no-kill not-for-profit, opened its doors at 60 Barber Lane in Cherryfield. Fast forward 40 years, a new shelter was just completed on the same property and renamed The Ark Pope Memorial Animal Shelter, thanks to a substantial donation from the Lyman Pope, Jr. Foundation. This foundation was founded by New Hampshire nonagenarian, Lyman Pope, Jr, who has donated millions of dollars to many Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire shelters to increase the quality and comfort of animals’ lives during their stay.
Dani Bauer, Executive Director for The Ark Pope Animal Shelter, said they’re all very excited about the facility and appreciative of their benefactor’s generosity. “He’s so amazing,” she said of Pope, adding that the dynamic gentleman’s a joy to talk with. “We love it, it’s night and day,” she said of their new digs compared to the old, dated kennel. They’re all in one building now, which is optimum for teamwork. The space is light and bright and was designed as a true shelter—larger kennels, soundproof walls, designated quarantine rooms, drains for hosing floors, proper grooming areas, radiant heat, and a backup generator. What a wonderful way to celebrate their 40th anniversary of serving the community and its animals!
The shelter, which focuses only on area pets, has many terrific services like the successful Golden Years Program. This is for those residents sixty-five and up who may adopt senior dogs, who are often the most challenging to place. As an added bonus, they only ask for a donation instead of an adoption fee. These dogs have been vetted, are up to date on vaccines, and are spayed or neutered.
The shelter needs fosters for a variety of reasons. By taking one of their adoptables into your home, you are freeing up a spot for another dog. It will socialize him, and if he is a resident pet, gets him used to others. You’ll be able to provide the adoption team with valuable personality information, which allows the team to make the best match. Fostering is also great for senior dogs as they can be anxious in a shelter and not “show” well.
Like to shop? Take time to visit their thrift shop in Blue Hill to support the nonprofit. Not only does it fund both the shelter’s low-cost spay/neuter program and all in-house spay/neuter procedures, but it also keeps their mission alive in Hancock County and the Blue Hill Peninsula. Inventory includes but isn’t limited to household goods/small kitchen appliances, pottery, lamps, hardware/tools, linens, crafts/fabric, small furniture, children’s toys/books, sports/garden items, games/puzzles, jewelry, and artwork, as well as pet-related items. Good quality, new and gently used donations are gratefully accepted during business hours. (thearkpets.org/thrift-shop/)
Volunteers are encouraged to apply online for walking pets and light administrative work. Donations, especially wet dog and cat food, bleach, durable paper towels, and TIDE with Bleach Alternative laundry detergent are needed. See the full list on their website, link below.
Watch their Facebook page for specifics on their Grand Opening Celebration to be held July 6 during the Cherryfield Days. Tours of the new shelter will be offered; there will be activities and lots of fun. (thearkpets.org/about/)
BORIS
Adult, Pit Bull TerrierOur chunky little warthog is awaiting his new home. He is a little peculiar about the men that he lets near him and gets a little cross when first meeting people of the same gender. If he loves you, he really loves you though! It would be best for Boris to be the only animal in the home, and it’d be best for him to go to a home with no children, unless they are older and can really be respectful of his personal space. Boris can get pretty excited sometimes and can be a little much. His most favorite thing to do ever is show you how good his loves are. The hugs that Boris jumps up and gives you go unmatched!
FMI: www.thearkpets.org, Hours: Tue – Sat 12 – 4 p.m. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY closed Sunday and Monday. (207) 546-3484
REBA,
1 year old, Red DobermanReba is very active, great on leash and loves to learn. She’s very bouncy, loves a good play, adores being outside, and can’t ever eat enough treats! She does not do well with cats, and it is better for her to be in a home without children. She would probably be alright with one other dog in the home, but she may need multiple meet & greets to get comfortable first. Reba should go to an active household and would probably do good with agility training! She is looking for a loving and active family. Just look at that face, saying no is impossible!
FMI: www.thearkpets.org, Hours: Tue – Sat 12 – 4 p.m. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY closed Sunday and Monday. (207) 546-3484