FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Operation Mutt Move
The Animal Welfare Society of Kennebunk and The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, lead agencies in a mission to care for 240 dogs and pups since the well- publicized seizure on August 21st, met with representatives hailing from all over the United States early Thursday morning to begin a long-anticipated transport of the Buxton puppy mill dogs from the site of the initial seizure to a new Portland facility.
The day began at the Buxton Town Hall parking lot where approximately 100 people gathered for this very crucial leg of a continuing journey. As the sun rose, workers were instructed on the dayÕs itinerary. Camaraderie filled the air and hugs and handshakes were a common sight. People grabbed a bite of breakfast and a cup of coffee from the Salvation Army Disaster Service Vehicle as others readied dog crates for load out. ÒGo slowly.Ó Animal Welfare SocietyÕs Executive Director, Steve Jacobsen reminded workers. ÒOur goal is to move these dogs safely. Treat them as if they were your own dog.Ó The move, although a bright spot in an otherwise very dark situation, could prove to be very stressful to the mutt migrants, but was necessary to provide the best possible care for what could be a long time.
The Humane Society of the United StateÕs Jeff Eyre and The Animal Rescue League of BostonÕs Alan Burgal were in charge of the actual transport of the approximate 150 animals providing 2 vehicles designed specifically for this purpose. Dogs were packed comfortably and efficiently and the expected 6 runs were whittled down to a meager 3. To everyoneÕs delight, the transport went off without a hitch and the dogs and pups appeared surprisingly at ease as they entered their new surroundings.
The meticulous attention to detail on behalf of The Animal Refuge LeagueÕs Susan Britt and The Animal Welfare SocietyÕs Bobbi Allen, the Portland facilityÕs management team, paid off in spades with all involved working as one well-oiled machine. Everyone was instructed to work quietly and methodically to ensure not only the safety and security of the dogs, but their comfort as well.
People continue to call and e-mail both shelters in hopes of adopting one of the dog or pups and are urged to check our website for updates. If the dogs become available they will be posted.