Local Resources For Pets in Distress in the Olympia WA Area

Today's local newspaper had a VERY upsetting front page story about the seizure of some animals that were in such poor (starved) condition, that just looking at the photos made my heart ache. There were 3 dogs, 4 horses and a pot bellied pig - and apparently their condition had so deteriorated that if the Thurston County Animal Services had not stepped in, it likely would have been too late for some.

I admit I am a total softie when it comes to animals, and have pretty much always had dogs and cats as part of my family. So the thought of such neglected animals is heartbreaking and infuriating - but also makes me realize that sometimes the pet owners are also distressed (financially or otherwise) and don't realize there are local resources they could turn to if they cannot take care of their animals properly.

In the Olympia area, we are lucky to have Concern for Animals actively helping people manage veterinary costs or helping to find new homes for pets when needed. There is also the Hooved Animal Rescue of Thurston County - they took charge of the care of the starved horses that were seized and can provide foster homes for horses in need.

Many or most of the local veterinarians are also wonderful resources for connecting people who have room in their hearts and homes for a new pet, and those who need to find that new home for a pet they can no longer keep or care for.

Also serving all of Western Washington, is a group called Old Dog Haven, helping provide hospice, foster homes and permanent homes for dogs who are eight years old or older. These older dogs often are very hard to adopt out, and often have significant health issues which may lead people to abandoning them just at the time the dogs most need someone to make sure their final days are comfortable ones.

So, I am trying hard to realize there may be a reason why the owner of the seized Olympia animals just could not take proper care of them. But also wanting to help spread the word that it is no kind of answer at all to just let a helpless animal suffer and starve. There are resources out there to help - and the Thurston County Animal Services will also accept animals, whether strays or pets that have to be given up for some reason.

Our furry 4-legged friends rely on us - don't let them down!!