Wow!  Paws Walk, 2022 is coming June 5th,  and I am going to do everything I can to make sure the thousands of companion animals that come through our doors get every opportunity to have a second chance at a wonderful life!  And, without a doubt, if history serves me well, many of you will help me help the shelter realize its goal of a home for every animal!

This is about my 25th year fundraising for and working this event...from a tentative request for $250 the first year, to a bolder vision, raising around $5,300 last year!  What a testimony to the love so many friends and family, and even people I didn't know,  have for their beloved pets, realizing that thousands aren't so lucky.  As I began my journey with the shelter 25 years ago, my life changed every time I showed up and my compassion was traumatized for each animal just waiting for that one person or family to realize an animal looking back at them from a kennel or cage was just the right fit!  

As the years went on, I realized the work of the NHSPCA was so involved!  There was education of children and adopters, and the public in general. The legislation to increase animal welfare in NH was ongoing and a tough fight; seizures from hoarding and neglect, abuse and misunderstanding of animals' needs came year after year.  I witnessed that first -hand over and over, but never so impact- fully as with the 36 Shepherds we finally gained custody of some time ago.  Our beloved Heidi is one of those Shepherds, and she has enriched our lives more than we have hers, no doubt.  When transfers from other states whose laws aren't strong enough or who don't  spay and neuter enough to make a difference in the numbers of strays, come to the shelter, I quietly say to them and myself that they'll be okay now, life is going to change.  Getting people to see the need and the ethics behind having animals is hard work, but the staff of the NHSPCA never gives up. I witness the staff's love and tireless work each and every time I show up to do some little task at the shelter, as that is what I can physically do now to help.  I try to make a difference, and this is one way I do.  

Help me to be successful in making sure progress is made and sick, unwanted, surrendered, neglected, or abused animals are compassionately rehomed after being loved and cared for by the NHSPCA staff.  It is not inexpensive to treat ill animals, and usually it requires a long time to regain health.  Food is often specialized to the needs of the population, and that can cost a bundle!  Training is a big factor in rehoming, and our staff is well equipped to make that happen, thankfully!

I hope you're all in!  I hope we, together, make a new world for the animals lucky enough to come through our doors.  I know I always say that, but it is so true and so encouraging for our NHSPCA to be among the best!  Hope to hear from you as you continue to love your very own companions!

Stephanie, Heidi, Lillian and Gracie (current companion residents)