Greater Androscoggin Humane Society

12/18/2024

Santa sends his thanks to our friends at Support Solutions, Inc for hosting the us for photos on Sunday. 🎅🏼❤️

We were pleased that so many community members joined us to have photos taken and show their support for the GAHS.

All photos from Sunday have been sent! 🎁 If you were expecting photo and have not receive it yet, please check your spam folder and reach out to [email protected] with questions.

12/17/2024

Top 10 Holiday Pet Safety Tips from the GAHS!

Keep Decorations Out of Reach
Tinsel, ornaments, and string lights may look tempting, but they can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed. Keep them safely out of paw’s reach!

Skip the Toxic Treats
Many holiday foods, like chocolate, grapes, raisins, and anything sweetened with xylitol, are toxic to pets. Stick to pet-safe treats to keep tails wagging.

Secure the Christmas Tree
Anchor your tree to prevent tipping, and avoid placing breakable ornaments on low branches. Curious climbers might see it as a jungle gym!

Watch the Wrapping Paper
Ribbons, bows, and tape can be choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed. Clean up gift wrap promptly to avoid accidents.

Be Careful with Candles
Keep lit candles out of reach of curious noses and wagging tails to prevent burns or accidental fires.

Mind the Festive Plants
Poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and lilies can be toxic to pets if ingested. Opt for pet-safe greenery or artificial alternatives.

Provide a Quiet Space
Holiday gatherings can overwhelm pets. Set up a cozy, quiet spot where they can retreat and relax away from the noise.

Keep Alcohol Out of Reach
Drinks left unattended can be harmful to pets. Make sure glasses are out of reach to prevent accidental sips.

Protect Them from the Cold
If your pets venture outdoors, keep them warm with proper clothing or limit time outside. Watch for icy paws and wipe them off when they come in.

Stick to Their Routine
The holidays can be hectic, but keeping your pet’s feeding, walking, and playtime schedule consistent helps reduce stress.

Spread the joy, not the worry! Share these tips to keep all furry friends safe this holiday season.

And if you’re looking to welcome a new pet home, consider beautiful Jenna! Visit her profile at https://gahumane.org/adopt/pet/jenna/.

12/17/2024

On the 12 Days of Cat-mas, Sonny & Cher Bring Double the Love!

Meet Sonny and Cher, a bonded pair of senior sweethearts hoping to find a cozy, peaceful home where they can enjoy their golden years together. This dynamic duo may not sing, but they’re sure to warm your heart this holiday season with their gentle and loving personalities. They are currently in foster and are available by appointment only.

Sonny is a kindhearted gentleman with a quiet affection that blossoms once he feels safe. Though a bit shy at first, his sweet nature shines with patience and understanding. Sonny loves quiet snuggles, cozy nap spots, and the joy of simply feeling loved. While he has hyperthyroidism, he currently shows no symptoms and doesn’t require medication—he just needs a serene home to relax and enjoy life with Cher by his side.

Cher, his equally gentle partner, is a shy beauty who takes her time to trust, but her soft purrs and sweet snuggles are well worth the wait. She loves basking in sunny spots and curling up for naps, bringing warmth and calm to any room she’s in. Once she feels at ease, Cher becomes a loyal companion who thrives on gentle attention and love.

Together, Sonny and Cher share an unbreakable bond, providing each other with comfort and happiness. They’re looking for a quiet, indoor-only home without children, other cats, or dogs, where they can be the center of attention. Their serene companionship will add a touch of holiday magic to the lucky family who welcomes them home.

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful and loving duo to complete your family this Cat-mas season, Sonny and Cher are ready to fill your home with warmth, joy, and unconditional love. Please submit an adoption survey online at https://gahumane.org/adopt/how-to-adopt/ and a staff member can reach out to set up a visit.

Now through Christmas, several of our long-term and special needs are having their adoption fees waived due to the generosity of a sponsor!

12/17/2024

Our sweet Finnigan—where do we even begin? ❤️

Finn has come so far in building his confidence during his time with us. Though he’s been through a lot at a young age, we know he has the potential to embrace all the fun and joy the world has to offer. He just needs a little help getting there!

At about a year old, Finn is a bundle of youthful energy and love. While he can be nervous around new people at first, he bonds deeply once trust is built. His future family should be prepared for a couple of meet-and-greets before Finn feels confident enough to go home.

Finn is a spirited explorer who will thrive with an active family eager to show him the great outdoors. That said, the hustle and bustle of city life can be overwhelming for him, so he’s looking for a quiet neighborhood or countryside home. A low-traffic household where guests are patient and willing to give him time to warm up would be perfect. Finn loves deeply but appreciates moving at his own pace.

This sweet guy has shown how much he enjoys the company of other dogs, especially playful, goofy ones like his best friend here at the shelter! If you have a canine companion, be sure to bring them along for a meet-and-greet to see if they’re a match. As for cats, Finn hasn’t lived with feline friends before, so slow, proper introductions will be key. Our staff is happy to provide tips to ensure a smooth transition.

Finn is looking for an adult-only home with a family committed to continuing his socialization through positive and exciting interactions. He’s available by appointment only, and we kindly ask that you submit an adoption survey first so our team can chat with you about Mr. Finny.

This winter, help Finnigan find the cozy, loving home he deserves— submit your adoption survey today at https://gahumane.org/adopt/pet/finn-available-by-appointment/.

12/16/2024

On the 12 Days of Cat-mas, Tilapia Hopes to Find Her Home!

Tilapia is a vision of winter magic with her stunning all-white coat and a heart as soft as freshly fallen snow. This sweet but shy lady takes her time warming up to new surroundings, but with patience and love, she’ll blossom into the loyal companion of your holiday dreams.

Tilapia is looking for a calm and peaceful home where she can come out of her shell at her own pace. She may prefer to be the only cat in the household, and while her feelings about dogs remain a mystery, she’s sure about one thing—a quiet, kid-free home is her holiday wish.

If your heart is full of patience and your home is ready for a touch of snowy elegance, Tilapia could be the perfect addition to your family this Cat-mas season. Come meet her today and help make her holiday dreams come true!

Now through Christmas, several of our long-term and special needs are having their adoption fees waived due to the generosity of a sponsor! Eligible cats will be identified with a special photo on the website, as well as haves special designation on their kennels at the shelter . Standard adoption policies remain in place; our primary goal will always be find the perfect home for each cat.

We're open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 11-5pm and Saturday 11-4pm. Visits and adoptions are done on a first come, first serve basis and submitting your adoption survey online does not place a hold, it simply saves a step when you come in.

View profiles for all of our available cats at savingpetsinmaine.org/cats/.

12/15/2024

This holiday season, Koda is dreaming of a cozy home where he can snuggle up by the tree and be showered with love.

At 7 years young, this sweet boy is the perfect mix of calm and active—he’s ready to join you for a brisk winter walk and then settle in for warm snuggles on the couch. Koda may be a little shy at first, but like the magic of the holidays, his loving personality quickly shines through.

Koda walks beautifully on leash and would thrive in a quiet household where he can be the star of the show. He has lived with other dogs before and did well, but to keep the peace (like a perfect holiday dinner), his treats and meals should be served separately. Slow introductions to canine friends in the home will be key, or Koda would also enjoy having a canine buddy to meet up with for "hot cocoa and holiday gossip sessions" instead. He’s hoping for a home with teens aged 14+ and no cats, please!

If Koda sounds like the perfect addition to your family this holiday season, come in and meet him. Maybe you’ll be the one to make his Christmas wish come true!

You can view all of our available canines at savingpetsinmaine.org/dogs/. We're open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 11-5pm and Saturday 11-4pm. Visits and adoptions are done on a first come, first serve basis and submitting your adoption survey online does not place a hold, it simply saves a step when you come in.

12/15/2024

Every pet is welcome! 🎅🏼

Your $10 donation will get a digital image sent by email and help support needy pets in our community.

12/15/2024

The stage is set and photographer is ready! Santa arrives at 1pm and will be ready to pose for a photo with your pet.

Join us until 3pm at Support Solutions, Inc.

12/15/2024

Give a gift that truly saves lives this holiday season!

When you Adopt A Kennel at the GAHS, you’re giving the gift of care, love, and comfort to countless animals all year long—and your support shines bright for all to see!

Name the kennel after a loved one, honor a cherished pet’s memory, or dedicate it on behalf of a business. You choose the dedication on the tag - so it’s a beautiful way to honor your loved one!

Choose from a cat condo, a dog kennel, or a small animal enclosure—it’s the perfect gift for the pet-lover in your life or the person who has everything. No matter how you label it, the message is always love.

Learn more and make a difference at https://gahumane.org/give/sponsor-an-animal/

12/14/2024

Don’t miss the chance to support pets in our community AND get a sweet holiday keepsake!

Bring your pet to Support Solutions, Inc tomorrow from 1-3pm to have their photo taken with Santa. Your $10 donation will directly support the animals, programs and services of the GAHS.

12/14/2024

Hayden and Katie were delightful, but the star of the show is Gomez for sure! Thank you to NEWS CENTER Maine for inviting this handsome boy into the studio for today’s Fetch Me a Home segment.

“Look at that handsome face! Gomez is a smart and funny boy who will happily show off the tricks he knows in exchange for treats or a tennis ball.”

Learn more about Gomez and all of our dogs at savingpetsinmaine.org/dogs/ then stop by. We’ll be open from 11am to 4pm today.

Gomez is old enough to have some training but young enough to still want a fun family to play with.

12/14/2024

Introducing Kitty, the queen of sass and star of the sixth day of Cat-mas! And don’t forget - all of our 12 Days of Cat-mas felines have sponsored adoption fees now through Christmas.

This regal little lady knows she’s royalty and expects to be treated as such. With her strong opinions and flair for the dramatic, Kitty likes everything in her world to be absolutely purrfect.

Kitty spends her days people-watching from her throne (aka her kennel) and lounging in true diva style. While she prefers a home without other cats or young children, she’s perfectly happy to grace canine companions with her royal approval.

Moving to a new palace might take Kitty a bit of time to adjust, but with patience, understanding, and maybe a few holiday treats, she’ll show you her softer side. If you’re looking for a feisty, fabulous feline to rule your home, Kitty might be the purrfect addition to your family this Christmas!

Let Kitty bring a little extra sparkle and sass to your holiday season—come meet her today! We will be open 11-4pm and you can view everyone on our website at savingpetsinmaine.org/cats.

12/14/2024

“Hello!

I remembered that you mentioned loving updates on the babies adopted from your shelter, so I wanted to share an update about two kitties we brought home in August.

We drove over an hour in anticipation of adopting a kitten (formerly Vega) for my daughter. However, while we were there, my son fell in love with another kitty (formerly Peggy Lee). How could we resist air muffins, that sweet face, and a heartfelt “Please, Mom, can we get her?” So, instead of one kitten, we came home with a kitten and a cat.

We didn’t plan on becoming a three-cat household again, but as they say, fate laughs at well-laid plans. It feels like Heidi (Peggy Lee) and Gabby (Vega) have always been part of our family. They adjusted quickly to life with our elderly kitty and two dogs, and they’ve formed a special bond with one another. We often find them snuggled up together, and their evening zoomie sessions have become a beloved part of our routine!

We’ve all fallen completely in love with them, and as a mom and an animal lover, I’m so glad my husband and I said yes to not just one, but two wonderful kitties. Thank you for bringing them into our lives!”

12/13/2024

A blizzard of love is in the forecast!

Our residents are hoping to bust out of the shelter for a holiday break, so the GAHS’ Let It Snow: Holiday Foster Fun is heading this way! If you’ve ever wondered if fostering would be a good fit for your family, this defined commitment might be the perfect way to test it out.

Visit the shelter to be matched up with an eligible pet and bring them home on

Friday, Dec. 20 from 1pm to 6pm or Saturday, Dec. 21 from 1pm to 5pm. Get a jump on things and submit your application today at https://form.jotform.com/222975854124058.

Once you are matched with a pet, you’ll be able to decide if a one or two week foster fits better for your home. Pets will retum to shelter on Saturday, Dec. 28 from 9am to 11 am or Saturday, Jan. 4 from 9am to 11am.

We ask you to supply the love, but we’ll take care of everything else! A fun “vacation supplies” kit will be sent home with food, toys and everything you’ll need. We hope you’ll help advertise the pet- take photos, videos, tell friends and family about them and hopefully you’ll help us fund their new home.

Please remember, not every animal will want a busy holiday experience – many will appreciate a quiet, calm room to sleep and decompress from the shelter. If you’ll be having a quiet holiday, we’ve got lots of great animals to keep you company.

Questions? Please reach out to [email protected].

We’ve never been so excited for the snow!

12/13/2024

Luna is ready to light up your life this holiday season!

This sweet girl has made nothing but best friends during her time at the shelter—she loves everyone, no matter their shape, size, or age. Luna even joined us for the Auburn Christmas Parade, where she eagerly greeted hundreds of people with wagging tail and happy "hellos."

A young, active pup with a big personality, Luna is searching for an equally active household to call her own. We’re pretty sure she’s part hound because she lovesss to talk, and trust us—it’s absolutely adorable!

Luna is fantastic with other dogs and would love a canine sibling (or two) to play with in her new home. She’s even lived with cats and did well, plus she adores kids. Truly, she’s the whole package wrapped up with a bow—and as cute as a button to boot!

If you think Luna might be the perfect addition to your family, bring everyone in to meet her, canine companions and kiddos included. This festive gal is ready to start the new year with her forever family by her side!

12/13/2024

On the fourth day of Cat-mas, Smokey is here to steal the spotlight!

This free-spirited boy marches to the beat of his own drum, and his individualistic purrsonality is what makes him truly special. In a calm and serene environment, Smokey shines as an admirable and pleasant companion. He’s refreshingly direct about his wants and needs—perfect for cat lovers who appreciate a feline with a strong sense of self.

Smokey understands that settling into a new home can take time, but with an understanding and patient family, he’ll quickly find his rhythm and routine. He dreams of a home where he’s the center of attention—no other pets or children, just peace, quiet, and plenty of time to enjoy the finer things in life. Smokey’s favorite activities include chasing interactive toys, indulging in a little “hunting,” and lounging in a sunny window or atop a cat tree, watching the world go by.

If you’re looking for a loyal companion to grow and connect with this holiday season, Smokey might just be the purrfect match. Come meet him and make his Cat-mas wish for a forever home come true!

12/12/2024

A joyful chorus of barks & meows are going out to the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Northeast Charter and Tour Co Inc and Northeast Bank for including the GAHS in their annual Stuff the Bus campaign.

We are happy that we were able to participate as a drop off location and even more excited that once again items for pets were included in families’ wish lists, as well as items for shelter animals. We are forever grateful to be part of a community that values pets and the important place they hold in the hearts of their family.

And THANK YOU to our thoughtful community members who embraced the spirit of Stuff the Bus and made donations. Many families will have a brighter Christmas thanks to your generosity!

We are already looking forward to joining in on the fun next year!

12/12/2024

Carmen is ready to dash into your life and make this holiday season unforgettable!

This sweet girl may be a little shy at first, but once she warms up, she’s full of love and joy. Carmen’s foster family reports that she’s doing great with house and crate training, and she had a blast playing with kiddos and joining them for sledding adventures. She’s definitely embracing the magic of a Maine winter!

Carmen has done wonderfully with other dogs and cats in her foster home, so feel free to bring any canine companions along for a meet-and-greet. She’s the definition of “easy peasy” and is happy to join in on whatever plans you have—whether it’s a snowy hike or a cozy evening by the fire.

We ask that Carmen's whole family comes in to meet her before she heads home to make sure it’s a perfect fit. If you’re looking for a furry friend to add a little extra joy to your holidays and beyond, come meet Carmen—she might just be the gift you’ve been waiting for!

View all of our adoptable dogs at savingpetsinmaine.org/dogs.