19/08/2023
After more than 11 years rescuing, providing care and finding homes for more than 5500 dogs and cats, we have made the difficult decision to cease rescue operations by mid-September of this year. The pandemic and the ensuing economic conditions have brought many challenges to the rescuing and sheltering world, both in Maine and across the entire country. After much consideration of those and other factors over the last several months, we have concluded ceasing operations is the best course of action for our organization. While this was not an easy decision, we feel it is necessary.
We are incredibly proud of and extremely grateful for all of our fosters who offered love and temporary shelter, both here in Maine and in Georgia and Alabama. We are also incredibly indebted to our many additional volunteers who transported these animals from the shelters to safety and to those who offered time and talent to assist with daily operations. As a foster based rescue saving these animals would not have been possible without these extraordinary individuals and we will always consider our fosters and volunteers the backbone of our Maine Lab Rescue family.
To our donors and supporters all over the country, you allowed us to rescue and bring hope and health to animals who were sick, injured and, in many cases, unlikely to see another day. We could not have done this without your kind words, generous donations, assistance sharing our posts and your prayers.
To the many veterinarians, spay neuter clinics, and their caring staff, both in New England as well as in Georgia and Alabama, we are deeply grateful to you for helping our animals become healthy and ready for adoption.
To the small handful of partner rescues, primarily in Puerto Rico and Mississippi, that we have worked with over the years, thank you for entrusting us with the continued care and placement of the dogs and cats you worked so hard to save and send to Maine. We are incredibly humbled that you chose to work with us.
To the transporters who routinely brought our dogs and cats to Maine from Southern states, you were and will continue to be one of the very important bridges between life and death for all rescued animals. We know it isn’t easy work and we salute you for all you’ve done to get these pups and kitties north for the next step of their journey.
Heartfelt thanks to those who have graciously let us host adoption events over the last 11 years at their establishments, allowing us to showcase and adopt out our available pets.
And especially to our adopters, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You are the reason we have been able to save so many lives. Without you welcoming new companions into your homes we would not have been able to offer any of these animals a chance to live, love and find places in your hearts. A great number of our MLR families have adopted multiple dogs and cats from us over the years and, when asked, many have also stepped up to become fosters for us. You are all amazing families.
At this time, we have completely ceased intake and are working now to place Faye, the one MLR pup still looking for her own family. Please share her photo to help us find just the right home for her. Faye’s adoption fee is fully sponsored.
Faye is a good girl, but, is she a perfect dog? The answer is, like many dogs, no. But we do not think a dog has to be perfect, to be a great companion.
Faye loves her people and foster fursiblings and cousins. She is housetrained, good in the house (with minimal dog proofing), walks well on a leash, loves her chew toys and a good nap on the couch. Faye dislikes, or perhaps more accurately, really likes to chase and harass small animals such as squirrels, chipmunks, cats, birds, bugs, bees or butterflies. Faye’s new family should be cat and small critter free.
Faye can also be reactive, and we’ve found that her biggest trigger right now is children, which is why she will only be placed in an adult only home.
Faye’s ideal forever home would also include another dog (or dogs) with parents who are knowledgeable about fear behavior and reactivity issues in dogs, and who are also willing to work with her to address these issues.
Faye is a smart and sensitive pup, who, despite her reactivity, does like to go new places and experience new things. She is both cautious and curious.
Faye’s foster mom believes she would be able to form and enjoy relationships with other dogs outside her home, given proper introductions. She also feels that with time, training and patience, Faye can meet and greet and happily coexist with non-family members, perhaps even children.
UPDATE: Faye has been adopted. ♥️♥️
While the news of our closing will bring sadness to many hearts, please know that your stories, photos of adventures and the love that we have all shared as MLR family are a strong testimony to our shared love of animals and the desire to rescue and adopt those in need. The need to Rescue, Rehome and Repeat does not end when we close our doors. It is our fervent hope that you continue to support animal rescues, shelters and animals in need. We encourage you to consider fostering, volunteering, donating and supporting them any way you can. They and the animals need you more now than ever. They are counting on you.
Much love and eternal gratitude,
Erlene, Deb and Stacey
Maine Lab Rescue
MLR Georgia, Inc.
