Orphans of the Storm
Mews-letter
Winter 2021
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Dear friend of our orphans,
The year 2020 was been full of ups and downs.
We saw a flood that was one of our worst but brought out the best in our community.
COVID-19 took a toll on us. We remain shut down and unable to conduct many of our fundraisers. We suffered a shortage of kennel staff, lost some long-time volunteers and one of our staff, as well as several pets that were special to us.
However, while the shelter remains closed, we continue to find homes for our animals. In fact, 2020 brought us many "happy endings" as 610 pets were adopted -- the highest adoption number in five years.
Other things I have to be grateful for are:
- the staff who never let me down,
- volunteers who kept coming,
- supporters who never stopped giving,
- adopters who kept adopting,
- fosters who never said “no” to me,
- veterinarians who helped in a moment’s notice,
- businesses that supported us even when business was not the best,
- fellow rescues who reached out and believed in us.
We were fortunate to win a $5,000 grant from Petco, thanks to volunteer Nicole Kalanavich who submitted OOTS alumni Paris' story. Thanks also to all who voted.
Her story reflects how many of us made it through 2020, with the help of our pets.
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We were also on the Hallmark Channel and I believe more opportunities are to come for us in the new year.
We get so very busy that we don’t always say “thank you” to each one, but know I am forever grateful and humbled by so many. We would not be here since 1969 without all of your support …
We are starting the next chapter in Orphans of the Storm with the gift of land by the county commissioners.
Hopefully, we will soon not have to worry about flooding and have a shelter that is much healthier and pleasant for the pets while they await new homes, a better work environment for the staff and for volunteers to spend time with the pets, and for people visiting to adopt pets. “Thank you” doesn’t even convey what this means to us.
Again, I say “thank you” to all who support us in any way.
I appreciate each and every one of you.
We may not always agree or have the same beliefs. But we are all here for the animals ... and we will achieve more working together than separately ... it definitely takes a village!
Happy 2021!
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2020
1,068 Orphans Helped
621 adoptions (426 dogs & 195 cats), 447 (transfers/ home-to-home adoptions)
16,828 Volunteer Hours
Thanks to Phil Tack for tallying our volunteer hours.
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Orphans of the Storm helps more than 200 animals every month by sheltering, adopting, transporting and fostering. Thanks for your help for all of these animals! |
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SEPTEMBER
45 Adoptions
34 dogs, 11 cats
1,339.75 Volunteer Hours
254 dog walking
87.25 cat socializing
960 foster, 38.5 other
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OCTOBER
35 Adoptions
22 dogs, 13 cats
1,312 Volunteer Hours
219.75 dog walking
45.25 cat socializing
960 foster, 87 other
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NOVEMBER
42 Adoptions
34 dogs, 8 cats
1,530.25 Volunteer Hours
316.75 dog walking
80.5 cat socializing
990 foster, 143 other
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DECEMBER
62 Adoptions
33 dogs, 29 cats
1,816 Volunteer Hours
173.75 dog walking
31.25 cat socializing
1540 foster, 71 other
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Give TLC to timid animals.
Spending time in the play yard with special pets & group playtime.
Someone to help with our foster home program,
Help with yard work & weeding.
Volunteer at the Pittsburgh Mills PetSmart.
Promote animals in need of extra help finding homes including photos and new ways to promote them.
Transport animals to vet appointments.
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Foster Homes: More than puppies & kittens! |
Our foster homes save lives.
Max is a senior dog whose owner died. He had nowhere to go. Click on Max's video to see his "happy tail."
Luckily, foster home Diana Goslin, took Max in until he found his wonderful forever home!
Talk to Bethann if you are interested in fostering puppies, kittens, or special needs pets.
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Dear Charlotte,
I love my person but sometimes it seems we speak a different language. How can I help my person understand what makes me feel safe, and what scares me?
Speechless in Shelocta
Dear Speechless,
I understand. Sometimes a wagging tail and puppy-dog eyes just doesn't fully cover what you have to say.
Encourage your person to watch this video I found on communicating with us dogs -- it will help your person understand you and the dogs at the shelter better!
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Video reflects 2019 figures. |
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Please forward to friends & family! |
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