In a triumphant year for the Marshall Pet Adoption Center (MPAC), dedicated staff and volunteers worked tirelessly throughout 2023 to secure a brighter future for adoptable pets in Marshall and Harrison County. The shelter proudly announced a successful 93 percent save rate for the animals under its care.
MPAC recorded 1,164 intakes, currently housing 193 animals within the shelter. Notably, the organization achieved a significant milestone by eliminating euthanasia due to space constraints for the first time in its history.
This achievement is attributed to innovative programs initiated by MPAC, collaborating with Friends of Marshall Animals (FOMA). Together, they established a robust transportation program, facilitating the transfer of 730 animals to different shelters across New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Carrolton, Texas, alleviating space pressures in East Texas.
Reflecting on the accomplishment, FOMA representatives expressed gratitude, stating, “In 2019, sending just nine animals was a herculean effort. This year, we sent over 730! We couldn’t have done it without your support and the help of our network of transport drivers.”
Through the support of Ken Shapen, FOMA acquired a dedicated transportation van for the new year, valued at $44,000 with repairs and upgrades, to maintain consistent animal transport operations.
FOMA’s robust foster program, boasting a network of 65 potential fosters, currently cares for 27 pets from MPAC. The organization acknowledges the crucial role of over 110 new volunteers, emphasizing the importance of a strong volunteer base in achieving their mission.
MPAC’s “Let’s Fix Marshall” campaign made strides in addressing local stray animal issues by providing over 200 spay and neuter surgery vouchers to those in need. The shelter also sterilized 86 feral and semi-feral cats through the efforts of the Trap/Neutralize/Return team.
Looking ahead to 2024, MPAC and FOMA have outlined ambitious goals in their new year plan:
Implement ShelterLuv shelter management software.
Procure Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) drug for enhanced Parvovirus treatment.
Introduce in-house heartworm treatment and implement a robust protocol.
Identify medical crises and develop enhanced solutions for the well-being of shelter dogs and cats.
Modify, create, and implement additional medical curriculum for volunteers with an extended training program.
Ensure sterilization, immunizations, microchipping, and socialization for every shelter pet prior to adoption.
Expand opportunities for socialization and communal play for dogs to prevent mental deterioration.
Sustain and enhance the save rate to maintain no-kill status.
Amplify social media presence and share positive narratives about MPAC achievements.
Justify an increase to MPAC’s budget to ensure the proper care of shelter animals.
With a spirit of determination and community support, MPAC and FOMA are poised to build on their successes and achieve these inspirational goals in the coming year.
