EVERY COMMUNITY has animals that have been lost, given up, or abandoned. Estherville Animal Shelter has been giving these dogs and cats a second chance to find their forever homes for more than 60 years.
“Everybody cries when they bring their animals in,” said Muriel Gurren. It’s been that way since her family first started caring for the area’s surrendered animals in 1952. The no-kill shelter currently has 25 cats and 8 dogs available for adoption, a number that she expects to rise throughout the spring and summer months.
THE PROMISE OF RESCUE
All of the dogs have come from private homes into the shelter for a variety of reasons.
Oliver, a 7-year-old Pit bull, came in five years ago. The temporary boarding arrangement turned long-term when the owners never came back to retrieve him.
Pit bulls are known to be a smart and strong-willed breed that can be a loyal addition to your family. Sensitive to other dogs, Pit bulls like Oliver need a special home with patient caregivers who are willing to show him lots of attention – and who are willing to receive lots from him in return.
With the Pit bull pair of Pete and Polly, first only one was adopted, but shortly after the family came back and adopted the other, as well.
Many of the animals are well known to the shelter’s staff and volunteers who help inform prospective owners about them beforehand.
“They are great dogs. They all have their own personality,” said Gurren.
A PURR-FECT OPPORTUNITY TO ADOPT
Cats are plentiful at Estherville. They have cats with leukemia and other illnesses in separate houses, but emphasize that although their immune systems are compromised, they often require no more care than any other feline would.
“If you have leukemia, you’re not bad. We’ve had Chula, a long-haired tortoise calico, since 2011. Everybody loves her. She’s such a great cat,” said Gurren.
Working with the Adirondack Veterinary Clinic, Estherville staff ensures all their animals are well cared for. When you adopt animals from a shelter, you save an animal’s life, and help spread the message that these wonderful animals deserve another chance, while also encouraging others to do the same.
In addition to running the shelter, Gurren works at Progressive Mode Hair Studio in Saratoga Springs. Estherville relies on personal and business donations to help supplement funds and holds regular garage sales to generate money for the shelter.
Kitty litter is their biggest continuous need, but blankets, sheets, towels and rugs are also in short supply.
Estherville Animal Shelter’s Spring Luncheon, will be held at the Van Patten Golf Club on April 7 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.
Volunteers bring Estherville’s cats to the center of Wilton Mall the first Sunday of every month (excluding Easter Sunday) to encourage adoptions. Cat adoption fee is $75.
Estherville Animal Shelter on 100 Russell Road in Greenfield Center is open every day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please call 518-893-7451 for more information.