April Rescue Collaboration

VAACA responded to a critical call for help on Friday, April 25, involving 26 unvetted/unaltered dogs and four goats in need of immediate care. The owner acknowledged her inability to provide adequate care and, facing foreclosure, expressed gratitude for our prompt intervention. We quickly mobilized a network of rescue groups and shelters and, through a collaborative effort, secured placement for all dogs within two days. Windham County Humane Society accommodated eight dogs, while P.E.T.S. of the Kingdom, Potter's Angels Rescue , North Country Animal League , Friends of Duke Rescue , Friends For Life Dog Rescue , and Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter facilitated placements for the remaining animals. Missy Gilbert from The Little Red Barn Sanctuary assessed the goats and provided urgent medical care to stabilize their condition until a suitable new home is found. This outcome could not have been achieved without the collective support of rescues and shelters statewide, which joined forces to enable urgent placement even while operating at full capacity.
This rescue operation will result in significant expenses of approximately $20,000, and we are reaching out to the community for support to help cover these costs and ensure our continued ability to respond effectively in such situations. Please consider donating to the care of these animals and share our fundraiser.

Hank's Story

Hank was one of VAACA’s first emergency situations. Hank’s story exemplifies the continued need for animal support and advocacy. We must be their voice. Many people ask what they can do to help with this epidemic occurring in our own state. In early December of 2024, Hank, a 1.5 yr old Rottweiler that once weighed over 100 lbs and was found locked inside a home in St. Albans at just 53 lbs. The owner shut off all utilities and left him to die, cold and alone. Luckily someone found him before it was too late. After being rushed to the vets and provided emergency care, he was moved into a medical foster. He received a body condition score of 1 out of 9 by two separate veterinarians, determining he was in the the final stage of starvation before death. When an animal is this emaciated, feeding them too much too soon can kill them so the refeeding process is slow starting at just 1/3 can of prescribed food PER DAY separated in small meals every few hours. After reviewing many applications, Hank landed himself the most perfect home with his two amazing parents. He now has 90 acres to explore with his parents who will take him everywhere with them, he will never be alone again! His first night was spent sleeping between them which I’m sure he was thrilled with. He has so much love to give and he will get that ten-fold in his new home. We are also happy to report that on Christmas Eve, his previous owner was charged with felony cruelty to animals.