AUGUSTA, Maine — The Kennebec Valley Humane Society kicked off its spring fundraising Sunday with its first ever “Tails and Tunes” event.
More than 100 people and their pets gathered to shop from local vendors, grab food, and catch some live music—all to support the animal shelter.
“We believe in healing, hope, and second chances,” Hillary Roberts, Kennebec Valley Humane Society executive director, said.
The humane society opened a new facility in December with more space for the nearly 2,000 animals it cares for annually.
But its work isn't done—with rising costs of animal care, staff are continuing to look for donations from the community.
“We will still be looking to always elevate who we are and what we do, and make sure we're providing the absolute best care for the animals that we serve,” Roberts said.
Nancy Shuman, the donor for whom the new shelter is named, has made taking care of animals her life’s mission.
“Animals need us, they really do. They rely on human beings to live,” she said.
Shuman and her husband Charlie rescued their dog Mac from Georgia, where most of the shelters are kill shelters. The couple has been supporting the humane society for years, and their donation helped to make the new location possible.
“Look at all these people and all these happy animals,” Charlie said. “That’s why we did it.”
Among the happy animals were Ollie and Mayhem, adopted from the shelter by Madelyn Shields and Emma Beyor.
“There are so many dogs, and a lot of them are high needs, like Mayhem. She [Beyor] really saved him, she gave him the training he needed,” Shields said. “There are so many good dogs just like Ollie. I mean I don't need anything fancy, I just wanted a dog to love, and there are so many of them that are just out there.”
The Kennebec Valley Humane Society emphasized the importance of adopting pets.
“They’re saving the life of an animal, and they're really providing a safety net and a warm loving home for a dog or cat that maybe hasn't had the easiest road in their past, but hopefully has a bright future ahead of them,” Roberts said.
If you are interested in adopting an animal from the shelter, you can go to its website.