ARK Testimonials

Along the way, we receive kind words and messages of thanks. These mini testimonials make us feel appreciated, but more importantly they let us know that we’re doing our job. 

From partners with whom we’ve worked cases

Atlas

You guys are absolutely wonderful, kind hearted, caring people! Thank you for everything you do for all these dogs. Idk what we would’ve done without all your help and support! – Manchester Animal Shelter

Big hugs to the staff at ARK for all the support with helping us place Atlas. Atlas was surrendered to us at Animal Control and we wanted to find the most appropriate Husky savvy  home for this sweet boy and ARK came to the rescue.  It’s always a pleasure to work with the ARK crew. – Westfield Adoption Counselor 

ARK is a gift to this world. – Max’s foster mom

“What an incredible job you did with Nyla …You are the real deal.” – Boston Dog Lawyer

I just want to thank all of you [including Bullied Breeds Rescue] so much for your efforts in helping Toby (and Jasmine and Trooper.) These dogs are thankfully all onto better and much brighter days and it would not have happened without you. I cannot stop singing your praises. – Westfield ACO 

A Place for Ace has been collaborating with ARK for several years and are so grateful for their experience and expertise in networking many of our adorable, but harder to place pups. We have had many dogs adopted as a direct result of ARKs efforts! – A Place for Ace Dog Rescue

From owners who thought they needed  to rehome but kept their dogs with our support

Rocket

I can’t thank you and ARK enough for all you’ve done. I appreciate the time, money, and effort so much. And I appreciate your words too. I’ve learned a lot about myself throughout this journey too. I wish you all the best in future endeavors and I’m beyond excited for all the people and dogs you’re going to help. – Apollo’s owner

Thank you [for helping us] get a better understanding of Rocket’s behavior and some help has been incredible. We learned a lot and feel way more comfortable with Rocket and his needs, too. I really appreciate everything you have done for us. – Rocket’s owner

This is an owner with a baby who was one of the very few who decided to work with a trainer to manage the safety of her child while maintaining responsibility for the dog she previously adopted! – ARK’s volunteer trainer remarking about a responsible mom and dog owner

From owners we’ve helped with rehoming

Wally

Thanks so much for helping us rehome Barley. You helped make a tough situation bearable. and we are so grateful for your kindness and empathy. He seems to be loving his new home.” – Barley’s former owner

 Thank you for all your help and affirmations! Thank you again for all your help during a time when things felt kind of hopeless.” – Momo’s former owner

I just wanted to reach out and thank you for all of your help with Hercules. You helped me and him through tough times and he has ended up in such a loving home. – Hercules’ former owner

I appreciate what you do, it was so nice to have someone actually willing to hear Milo’s full story vs. jumping to judgment because of a few bites. I imagine many dog owners aren’t able to find that needed help and have to make bad decisions. Heartbreaking to think about. – Milo’s former owner

Thanks so much for speaking with us yesterday afternoon. We feel much less alone in this difficult process. We are hopeful that with your help, Wally has a chance at finding a good home. – Wally’s former owner

I wanted to thank you again for your support during this awful time. I made a donation to ARK and will continue to think of your organization each year when we make donations. – Honey’s former owner

Thank you so much, Mary Lou…you and Diane have been amazing! You made the hardest thing I have ever had to do so much more manageable. Lucky’s new owner/mom is fantastic. Thanks again!! – Lucky’s former owner

Thank you and the ARK team for all the effort. Definitely worth it now that the girls are in great homes. What you guys do is amazing. – Coco and Penny’s former owner (the dogs were given to her kids as Christmas gifts without the parents’ knowledge) 

The adoption is getting finalized today. He’s picking Luna up this afternoon! I’m shocked how fast this all has moved. Thank you again for everything. You guys have been so helpful! – Luna’s former owner 

Thank you both so much, I am truly indebted to you both. – Max’s former owner

From adopters

Johnny

The two of us have truly become the best of friends and I fall in love with his goofy self more and more everyday. I can’t even begin to thank ARK enough for connecting me to my best friend!  – Johnny’s adopter

Kane is doing amazing, he has settled down and fit in with the family, he has a good routine …he sleeps with me. I just can’t believe how lucky I got and he got to have my family and me. Kane just needed a chance and he is growing into that dog he wants to be. – Kane’s adopter

I really appreciate that you have been right here the whole way!!!!  – Apollo’s adopter

Thor

Animal Rescue Konnection(ARK)  was a god send! They helped me get my boy out of the SPCA and out of trouble. Without ARK I may not have my boy today!

I was very upset he was taken from me and wasn’t sure how to get him back and ARK helped me by making phone calls to the people that needed to be contacted and the following week I had my pup back. Thank you so much ARK. Your caring and helpful ways will NEVER be forgotten!

Kim Landreth

ARK Comment: Often people don’t know what to do when certain things happen affecting the welfare of their pets. ARK researches the facts of each case, informs owners of their rights and provides alternative solutions. Here it was simply a matter of miscommunication and a third party was needed to clear it up.

Daisy

I was thinking of you today and wanted to say thank you for helping us find Daisy. She is doing so great. I love her lots and she is a great member of our family. I was working in the garden all morning and she stayed right with me even when one of my sons friends came and left in a car. I told her to stay and she did.

We just got chicks and she is not going after them at all, although I would not trust her alone with them. She runs around the yard like a football player carrying her toys in her mouth. She also starts at the top of our grassy hill and shimmies back and forth on her back all the way down the hill it is the funniest thing ever. Total goofball is how I would describe her.

I am constantly amazed at how great she does and how much she has learned and the more time that goes by the better she behaves, and the more she learns.

It is not perfect. If I walk her on the road she still lunges at passing cars, and if a neighbor dog wonders onto our property, she barks her head off, I don’t know what she would do if she could get to them, maybe just play. She is great with Tubie our old beagle now, even during meals. So we overcame that problem. She has made friends with some one of my son’s friend’s dogs but we don’t see them often and she is very enthusiastic, extra excited. We are extra careful and watch her every second just in case, but no fights so far.

We have had previous dogs that loved to ride in the car or truck. not Daisy, she will go to the car or truck with us, look at us and run back to the door of the house. If we have to take her she does ok, not getting sick or anything. I guess she is just not into riding.

When I think of it I’ll bring my iPad out so that you can see her playing in the yard.
Just wanted you to hear a success story. I see so many dogs posted that I would love to help but 2 dogs is good for now and when we do get another it will have to be of Daisies choosing or gradual introduction at the least.

All the best,
Ellen

ARK Comment: Daisy was in a very busy city shelter. There were simply no open foster homes. We started networking her straight to adoption. With the proper screening a wonderful match was made.

Hanzel

Six weeks after Hanzel’s adoption, his new mom sent ARK this update: “Last night…my husband and I were on the floor enjoying our nightly cuddle session with Hanzel. A day does not go by that we don’t say out loud how lucky we feel that Hanzel is in our lives. 


He is so loving, and funny and obstinate – perfect for us really. He is loving the pandemic. [We] are both working from home right now. Jason and is upstairs and I am down. Hanzel splits his day working for Steel-Pro and then Trekkers. Thank you so much for the work that you do and bringing Hanzel into our lives. We are richer because of him.”

-Hanzel’s adopters (Amie and Jason)

Note: Hanzel was a long-stay shelter dog in Manchester, MA. Once a new enrichment director was hired, things soon changed for him and others in the same situation. Soon after networking Hanzel, an amazing couple adopted him even after the first meet and greet didn’t go well. They realized Hanzel needed them and gave him time and patience to adjust. Now they can’t fathom life without him. Though his shelter behavior was deemed ‘bad,’ once he was in a real home with loving people, he transformed into the Hanzel we all believed was behind that bark. Like so many other dogs who manifest behavioral issues behind bars, Hanzel proved “home-able.”

Duke

Duke is a beautiful two-year old German Shepherd. If it weren’t for his stubborn refusal to get into a car, Duke would be dead. Because of instances of bad behavior, a well-known shelter gave Duke’s owner Sharyn and her husband (both could no longer care for him) one option – an appointment for euthanasia.


Staff who recommended this never met this healthy, young dog whose only problem was a lack of training and socialization. After being notified by Animal Control Officer Kirsten Hirschle of Westover, MA, ARK arranged
for Duke to attend training to be a more balance dog. We also found another family who had a GSD of their own. They adopted Duke, but the two dogs were not getting along. However, time spent in training and the adoption gave Duke’s original owners time to move and get their health back. It’s highly usual to have rescue pets reunited with owners so this story is special.

The couple welcomed Duke back home and used the training cues Duke gained during his time away. While agonizing over what to do with Duke during their illnesses and housing transition, Duke’s “Mom” stated, “Duke was not particularly good with strangers and home health care, and maintenance workers further stressed our boy. We asked for help. I called multiple groups and was told the only option was humane euthanasia. We reached out and called and emailed everyone. Finally the town’s dog officer and ARK stepped in. We are so thankful for ARK’s help and not giving up on our Duke….just glad you got involved.”

ACO Hirschle of Westover, MA stated: “I wanted to thank all of you once again for facilitating all of this for Duke. When you are essentially a “one man show” it’s such a relief to know that there are people you can lean on in situations like this. Thank you for all you do and making these 2nd chances happen for all of these dog that have somehow been short changed during their life!”

Once Duke returned, Sharyn said Duke appreciated her working remotely during covid-19. She said, “He sits next to me while I work…We are very glad to have him back… Thanks for all your help!”

Pip

We are a dog family – we love dogs and we had a dog-family member by the name of Pip. When Pip bit our son of 3 years it was a very traumatizing moment for us and we realized that as much of a family member and friend Pip was to us, he wasn’t best suited for a household with young children.

We sought advice from family, friends, and our vet. Our vet mentioned that most shelters/rescues wouldn’t take him because of the bite history – he suggested we try to reach out to friends to see if we could rehome or to put him down. We called just about every shelter – even a cattle dog rescue, all said no to Pip. We heard comments like, “Not all dogs can be saved.” It was disheartening and we had lost almost all hope.

One of the shelters we reached out to referred us to Mary Lou of Animal Rescue Konnection (ARK). One of the first statements she made to us was, “Every dog can be rehomed, it’s just a matter of time.” She gave us hope in our time of need.

Mary Lou gave us ideas to ensure our son’s safety while waiting for rehoming. We luckily had friends who could foster Pip, however, before we knew it Mary Lou contacted us again just a little over 2 weeks later with a possible rehome option. It was on a farm in Vermont with a wonderful lady by the name of Sharon who makes farm fresh all-natural soaps. She had a dog, two cats, 10 goats, 1 horse, and about 6 chickens, but no small children. We scheduled a trip up to Vermont that very next weekend. The entire family went on the trip. Our thoughts were, if it works out and it is a fit for Pip, then we would drop him off, otherwise it was a family trip up to a farm in Vermont.

We arranged for an overnight home visit for Pip. When we received the message from Sharon the next morning that we could head back home – Pip would stay with her, it was both bitter and sweet. However, it was also healing and relieving for our family saying goodbye knowing we gave Pip a loving home.

We are and will be forever grateful to Mary Lou, the ARK program, and Sharon for ensuring Pip was safely and happily rehomed.

–Pip’s former owner

Cinna

Even though Cinna wasn’t working out for our family, we did truly care for him and his well-being. By the time we reached out to ARK, we had been rejected from six rescues and shelters, As an added pressure, we had a new baby on the way, and we knew the dog would not do well with the unpredictability a baby brings to a home.

As an added pressure, we had a new baby on the way, and we knew the dog would not do well with the unpredictability a baby brings to a home. We felt totally abandoned by the system. We were absolutely desperate for help.

Right away, the experience was different. That first phone conversation was like talking to an angel. Finally, someone listened to us and suggested there could be a positive outcome. ARK jumped into action right away, helping us make a profile for Cinna and looking for a foster home.

Fast forward a month, and the baby comes home. As predicted, Cinna did not adjust well to this change. We made the desperate decision to surrender him to a shelter [name withheld]. The shelter again said he wouldn’t be a good fit, but that they would give him a chance. It turns out, the shelter had decided to euthanize him after only a day and a half. We couldn’t believe it.

We let ARK know what happened and they reached out to the shelter immediately. ARK helped us get Cinna back and into a temporary foster. We were so happy that ARK had stepped in when they did. Euthanizing the dog was the worst possible outcome we could think of, and we were
able to avoid it.

After ARK stepped in, Cinna went to an amazing foster who has been sending us pictures and videos and updating us on his progress. It was better than we could have imagined. ARK helped us turn a desperate situation into a really positive one.

-Cinna’s former owner

Bodhi

In addition to being the ONLY rescue who would accept this dog because of an incident of aggression, for which I will be forever grateful, I think ARK did an excellent job making use of the materials we provided to show other sides of his temperament.

This included a short film his trainer generously made for the purpose of demonstrating this dog’s enormous capacity for learning and obedience, despite the behavioral issues which made it essential to rehome.

Additionally, ARK guided me through the process so I was able to write a contract and provide the new owners with everything they needed to get off to a good start. Because this dog was a pure bred poodle, ARK received an enormous volume of applications and was able to identify and match one family through the strength of their application and phone interview as the best for Bodhi. It was indeed a perfect match. The skill and compassion ARK showed through this very difficult process were extraordinary. I believe they are leaders in this crowded arena of rescue organizations. Professionals in every way! 

I follow Bodhi on the Instagram account his new owners created for him. He appears to be very well loved and completely acclimated to his new family. The adoptive owners posted they had a visit from Bodhi’s trainer who commended the owners for the excellent work they were doing with his continued obedience training.

-Bodhi’s former owner

Ivan

We adopted this handsome boy a month ago [Jan 2019]. He is the most amazing creature we have ever met and my husband and I have ARK to thank. What an amazing organization! I am thankful we stumbled upon ARK when we did or we would have never had the opportunity to meet Ivan (formerly Pedro) and find the missing puzzle piece in our family!! Thank you!!!

–Ivan’s new family

Addie

Just a few months after her adoption, Addie performed a truly heroic deed for her family. One very early morning, she awoke her deep sleeper “mom” to let her know “dad” was having a severe seizure. Emergency responders arrived and once at the hospital “dad” was OK.

The outcome could have been worse had Addie not jumped into action. In response to this story, Addie’s advocate emailed this:

“That is such a wonderful story and I am so happy that Addie showed her gratitude…in such a loving way…Animals are so amazing. Go Addie!!!! I will definitely share this amazing story. Addie’s rescue wouldn’t have been possible if not for ARK’s tireless efforts. Your group is a Godsend for rescuers like us, the Marblehead Animal Shelter volunteers.”

-Dyan Katz, Marblehead Shelter Volunteer and Addie’s Advocate, Jan. 14, 2019

Teddy

We can’t thank the people at ARK enough for their incredible help and dedication in getting Teddy to a new home. Teddy was an owner surrender dog in Georgia who moved north and was adopted – but it turned out not to be a good fit for the home he was in. 

He came up with a stage 2 heart murmur which made him hard to adopt in the first place. And then he had a minor bite incident that made him even harder to adopt out. But we believed Teddy was such a good boy at heart and knew he deserved a home. The people at ARK are amazing at getting any dog seen by the public – and using their network of resources to help get animals placed. The outpouring of support for Teddy was incredible and we had dozens of qualified adopters and foster offers in a matter of days. Teddy is now in a loving home thanks to the work of ARK.

Churro

Churro is one handsome boy who had been through so much in his life. His fear led to an aggressive incident that had us faced with the decision of moving him back to Georgia to spend his life in a sanctuary or finding a board and train situation for him.

The people at ARK worked tirelessly with us to get him exposure so that so many people could see how wonderful a boy he is. We can’t thank them enough for their efforts. Though we have had to move him a few times we still believe he is destined to find a great home. Fortunately, the Middletown Human Society in NY couldn’t resist Churro’s face and will take him on and work with him and try to find him an appropriate home very soon.

-Mindy Wogan, PAWS Project Foundation

Cody

Let me tell you about a handsome boy named Cody! A beautiful yellow lab that just needed a chance.  See, Cody had resource guarding issues. Cody came into my life when I became aware that he was at a local shelter.

Unfortunately, as with many shelters across America, resources are low and need is high. Therefore, he was not able to get the specialized training that he needed and quite frankly his options had run out. I was determined to save him. He deserved to be saved. He mattered.

I reached out to ARK and without question they said yes! We will help you! They took Cody under their wing and we found him a foster home. Within days the foster family fell in love with him. They worked with his resource guarding and decided to make their home his last! Cody found his forever home!

Without ARK he would never have had a second chance. Thank you for all that you do! Thank you for what you did for Cody! You make a difference

… God Bless You!
Forever grateful, Sandy

Amy

I cannot thank ARK enough for the help I received in finding a home for Amy, a little misunderstood black and white pup. Amy was brought back from Texas with her owner when she moved back home to Massachusetts. She was never properly socialized around many other dogs. Upon their arrival back in MA they moved in with the owners mom.

Since that house was a bit more hectic with visitors from other family members, and many men, Amy had a hard time adjusting. She was so terrified that she would growl and bark whenever anyone entered the home – especially men. No one in the home took the time to work with her on her fears and/or socialization sadly.

Eventually it became too much for her owner’s mother to handle and her siblings refused to go visit so Amy needed to find a new home. I was asked to try to help as they knew this was a dog that could not just be rehomed but needed someone that would ensure she went to a great home that understood her fears and behaviors and would work with them.

I contacted ARK as I had worked with them in the past and they never refused to help. Amy is now in an amazing home and is flourishing. She is working on her behaviors and she has come a long way. Some of the dogs deemed “aggressive” are actuality just terrified and need someone that can show them love and patience and that people are not all bad.

I am beyond grateful because if this dog had been surrendered to a shelter she would not have done well and her full potential may not ever have come through to show what an amazing loving dog she could be if given the proper resources.

I also need to add that I helped ARK with one of their foster pups that escaped his foster. They were instrumental in getting this dog safe and never stopped communicating with myself, the ACO or the foster. They listened to every suggestion and were beside me and the foster every step of the way, putting up flyers – and I mean hundreds of flyers. No matter what, they were determined this dog was going to be found safe even if it did not have a “real” home or owner. I highly recommend ARK and am so very grateful for them and all they do for these dogs.

– Karen Hovsepian

Haze

I wanted to help my in-laws rehome Haze, their Pit Bull Terrier, because their health isn’t good, they have limited income, and they can no longer care for him.

He was headed to a Humane Society where I was told he’d be euthanized because of many obstacles that made him “unadoptable.” Haze was being kept in a room all day and night, let out twice a day to eat and do his business. He wasn’t up-to-date on shots, leash-trained, socialized, or exercised. He has itchy skin allergies and needs ongoing meds which he wasn’t getting. This caused hot spots, sores, and hair loss. Plus, Haze wasn’t altered.

Despite all this, I knew he deserved a second chance. Haze is a handsome blue-nose who is friendly, obedient, and house-trained. He’d never bitten a person or animal. He loves people, hugs, and attention. He is an amazing tail-wagger. This was a great dog, I thought, surely he would make a wonderful companion and family member for someone. I really believed he could be trained, get healthier, and with love regain that sparkle in his hazel eyes.

The Head of Household gave me until July 1st, or 6 weeks, to find Haze a home. So I quickly started calling, e-mailing, and filling out forms. I received many answers, but no organization would take him. He had too many things against him, especially not being fixed, and most didn’t have room. However, one group called me back right away. Mary Lou at Animal Rescue Konnection (ARK) talked to me for a half hour and sent me an email full of several strategies and agencies to try, including places with low-cost neutering. I followed her instructions and many responded. One group offered help with neutering funds and a few others were sorry, but most did not have a positive outlook for Haze. It really made me question my efforts, but Mary Lou gave me hope. She really believes that all dogs can be saved. Pam, also from ARK designed a beautiful flyer for Haze, complete with a bio and pics. She posted and shared it online. Meanwhile, Mary Lou kept in touch about my progress and gave me more ideas.

Within three weeks we started getting interest! Five people contacted us, but the first family to call proved a perfect match! I was thinking it was too good to be true and I think Mary Lou did too! She sent me an adoption questionnaire and other information about ensuring the family was right for Haze. The family’s experience with pit bulls, love of animals, home and yard, knowledge of veterinary needs and quality food, and their philosophy about dogs being family members was beyond my dreams for Haze. Within one minute of meeting Haze he kissed and hugged his new Mom and Dad and happily jumped in their car to start his new life.

Today is July 1st. Instead of facing euthanasia, this 70-pound lap dog is facing a life full of fun with a family that adores him. The adopters send me pictures and updates regularly. Haze is happier and healthier than ever, and has a neutering appointment next month.

All of these so-called “unadoptable” dogs deserve this opportunity. Thank you to ARK for patiently supporting my re-homing efforts!

-Diane Swift, ARK

Darby

This is not the tail of human frailty but a testament to the lengths to which a few determined individuals will go to save the life of a dog whose life was uprooted through no fault of his own.

Darby was a rescue from down south and epitomized unbridled joy. He does not walk but scampers to greet you as if you have been gone for days when you have only left the room. He was mine and I was his. Unfortunately, I found myself in a position of shelter insecurity and I had to send him to a boarding facility. When I finally entered a residential program where I was told I could have Darby with me, within a day I was told he would have to vacate the premises based on his breed as he fell under the umbrella of “bully breeds”. Then he was placed in a foster situation that did not pan out as there was a biting incident with another dog. This is where his fate became dire.

I was told by the foster Mom that there was a Boston shelter that would take him and though it broke my heart I was at the point of only wanting a secure and stable environment for Darby. This turned out not to be true due to the bite incident with the other dog. In fact phone call after phone call elicited the same response that my only option was to humanely euthanize him. I literally combed through the list of approved shelters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Even organizations that focus on the bully breed’s did not respond. Darby and I were running out of time with only 2 weeks remaining.

At some point I was advised to contact Mary Lou at Ark specializing in dogs in need of a second chance and although she was out of town, she returned phone calls and I was immediately given support and hope.

I still am unsure what went on behind the scenes other than a tenacious dedication that all dogs lives matter. They not only continually stayed in touch but were able to secure him a foster. This was a dog who was facing euthanazia a week and a half earlier. Their dedication does not end there but Pam, an ARK volunteer, will be fostering him on the weekends. Have I mentioned she drove three hours to collect him?

My own shame and regret over my inability to secure safe housing for me and my boy, Darby, was ultimately replaced with joy when I found Ark.

I only wish that more organizations were as open minded and as dedicated to each animal. I also wish to disseminate information on this wonderful and effectual organization to anyone who will listen. If I had money, this is the organization I would financially support.

Even now that Darby is in foster care they have patiently answered my texts and are keeping me posted on his status. Ultimately they want what is best for Darby and did not negate him as a statistic after one unfortunate incident. There need to be more Animal rescue organizations like Ark to drastically reduce unnecessary euthanization.

-Stacey Caplin

ARK Comment: We believe when an owner contacts a rescue or shelter the first option given to them should not be to euthanize their dog. Detailed questions related to the situations and circumstances yield much information often time enabling successful fostering and re-homing.

Haiti

Circumstances arose and I was unable to keep my pitbull dog of 7 years. I had tried over 10 agencies via phone calls and email and none of them were willing to help due to my dog’s breed and age.

Thankfully, I was put in touch with Animal Rescue Konnection. They immediately started to work to help us with finding a new home for our dog. Time was of the essence in my case and I needed a speedy resolution.

They were upfront and honest about the process taking time and my needing to put my own effort into helping with the situation because ultimately my dog was my responsibility Not ARK’s. But ARK was there to assist us and provide support. Since I was stressed and in an overwhelming situation, the questions and comments I received seemed to be judgmental and I became defensive. As we all know, it is hard to read “tone” over email and I took what was said the wrong way.

After taking a step back, I realized that part of my reception to Mary Lou’s comments was some of my own guilt and sadness for having to re-home my dog of 7 years. Mary Lou didn’t let my defensiveness sway her willingness to continue to help place my dog. Ultimately, we both wanted the same thing – to safely and properly re-home my dog. Amazingly, we got the message that ARK had found a spot for my dog. The expediency of the whole process was both a relief and a sadness because it meant our beloved dog was leaving. I want to thank Animal Rescue Konnection AND Scituate Animal Shelter and volunteers that provided transport and safe arrival of my dog to her new location. I can’t thank you all enough.

-Tiffany Sullivan

ARK Comment: We firmly believe shelters have a duty and responsibility to our community dogs. To refuse a community dog in need, especially without thoroughly exploring each dog and their circumstance, is irresponsible.

Nala

I’d like to start off by saying that ARK was a lifesaver to me and my dog Nala, who is a pit bull. It started when my ex-roommate let my dog out without a leash unattended and she went after the neighbor’s dog. I live in a mobile home park and they weren’t too happy.

They said if I didn’t get rid of my dog they would evict me. This was around Christmas. I was so upset and very depressed. I suffer from bipolar and anxiety disorder. I was frantic about finding a no kill shelter but no one could help! That’s when one day a representative from ARK had gotten back to me from one of the shelters and said that they would help me try to keep her. Well this person I didn’t even know and she didn’t know me went above and beyond what I even dreamed she would do!! ARK had me get letters from my Dr and had my dog evaluated to get a good citizen canine certificate. They also worked with a lawyer to mediate with the place I’m living. ARK also went has far as having a professional photo session done with me and my dog!!! They spent a lot of time and effort to help me when no one else would!! Well the end result is I get to keep my dog!! I can’t even put into words on what ARK has done for us and I can never repay them for everything they have done!! ARK is a godsend!!!
Thank you ARK!!

-Chris Olivolo

ARK Comment: In 2016 ARK formally launched their Life Preserver Program for Owner Surrenders.

Step 1- Find out why the owner feels they need to surrender the dog.

Step 2- Help them keep their dog if at all possible no matter what it takes.

Sophie

I had a 10-year-old dog named Sophie who I needed to find a new home for. After trying everything I could to find a good home for her on my own I sought out shelters and rescue leagues to take her but I was turned down every time.


Some of them said it was because of her age others said they just didn’t have room. Until finally I was put in contact with Mary Lou and the Animal Rescue Konnection (ARK), they did an evaluation and found an amazing foster home that same day! I don’t know what I would have done if it wasn’t for Mary Lou and Animal Rescue Konnection (ARK) I might have had to put Sophie down.
-Michelle D’Arcangelo

ARK comment: Thank you to the shelters and rescues that open their doors to older pups and dogs that may have medical or behavioral issues. We highly respect local shelters that have a policy that make it a priority to ‘shelter and rescue’ all of their own community dogs in need. Not until each community focuses on their own community dogs’ needs first can we attain a true no kill state

Finn & Athena

I am an ACO and ARK has helped me twice by placing 2 Pitbulls. One named Finn who I found abandoned behind Bridgewater Correctional Complex.


Finn is now living a great life thanks to ARK for never giving up on him! The other pittie was Athena, they took the time to network her for us. They ended up reaching out to the exact type of person Athena needed in her life!

Thank you ARK for your compassion. Both of these dogs mean a lot to me and I appreciate your help.

-Lisa McKay, Bridgewater MA, Animal Control Officer, Animal Inspector

ARK comment:  Thank you to all the Animal Control Officers in Massachusetts for their work with the abandoned and homeless animal population.

Freckles

Freckles came to Alliance for Animals in January, 2012. She came in for a spay, but as the husband filled out the paper work, the staff witnessed the wife swearing at her and kicking her.


We decided to ask them if they would be willing to surrender her to us and they were happy to do so. Freckles was a pitbull mix, approximately 9 months old and very cute.
It was immediately obvious that Freckles was lacking even minimum training or exercise. She was hyper, was not house-trained, and was completely unsocialized with other dogs. She was extremely affectionate with people but had no idea how to behave indoors.

It was very difficult for Freckles to cope with our clinic environment, with cats and dogs coming in and out all day. Most dogs find it difficult not to be able to interact with the animals but for Freckles it was impossible. She barked nonstop and lunged toward the counter trying to get to the dogs. It was hard for everyone. We started sending her to day care when we had appointments and enlisting the aid of a dog trainer on off days but we knew the only hope for Freckles would be foster care in a quiet home. She was unadoptable in the current situation.

It took many months but we finally found her an ideal foster home with a retired couple in a quiet suburb of Boston. We also continued her obedience training. Freckles is an extremely smart dog and all she needed was a chance to learn how to focus. Her foster home was very loving but not experienced in dog training. Nevertheless, Freckles finally relaxed and when the couple became grandparents, she really took to the new baby girl. It was clear that she would never be aggressive with humans after so much exposure to countless people of all ages, sizes, types, singlely or in groups, but we still thought that she would not be able to get along with dogs and would need a home as the only pet. She had been introduced to staff pets – two male pitbulls one at a time. She was good with those dogs, but there was no opportunity to introduce her to any other dogs, and she continued to behave inappropriately with dogs she encountered on walks.

Time for Freckles was becoming short because her foster parents would be going to California and there was nowhere for Freckles. We were very scared for Freckles. There was only one month left and after appeals to hundreds of rescue organizations and individuals no one had responded. Then we found ARK.
ARK volunteer Laurel came to evaluate Freckles according to their standard evaluation process and she easily passed. Next they introduced another female pitbull to Freckles and she did great. They agreed to assist us in finding a foster or permanent home on an urgent basis. They took new pictures for our website, Petfinders, and Adopt-A- Pet, re-wrote our online story about her, and put the word out to their many contacts.

Attracted by Freckles’ new pictures a wonderful couple contacted us about Freckles. They have a large piece of land on the Cape where they do wildlife rehabilitation and rescue. They work from home and would always be with her, Freckles could sleep in the bed with them – in short, the perfect home for our precious girl. Now it is January 2013 and Freckles lives with other dogs, races and plays the way all dogs should, goes on long walk and has the forever home we dreamed of but feared would never come.
Thank you ARK for all your care and dedication. As the saying goes, it took a village and a lot of work and time but the life of a good dog was saved.

-Alliance for Animals

ARK comment: Sometimes all that is needed is new photos, spiffed up bios and fresh networking. ARK assists with all of that.

Bella

I was first put in contact with Mary Lou with Animal Rescue Konnection when I needed to find a new home for my puppy due to allergies and the rescues I contacted could not help me. Mary Lou contacted me the day before Thanksgiving and gave me multiple resources to start getting Bella on different adoption websites to start the process of finding her a new forever home.


Mary Lou was instrumental in finding Bella’s new home (her adopter’s found her off of one of the adoption websites Mary Lou helped us with) – from the first posting on the adoption websites to the time we said goodbye to our four legged friend, Mary Lou helped us every step of the way. She took the time out to help with the private adoption when that is not something that the rescues normally do. We are forever grateful that there are people out there like her.

-Meghan Valley

ARK comment: We will assist owner surrenders willing to do the work to properly re-home their dog. We provide resources, tips and tricks on many different levels to empower dog owners every step of the way

Beau

I know I keep repeating this over and over but we are the luckiest people to have this dog as part of our lives. I really can’t thank you enough. 


He adores our grandchildren, and all children, he loves people, period. He’s playful with other animals and extremely sweet and kind. There has never been one accident in our home. Not once. He doesn’t sleep in or use a crate but stays in his bed, in our room until morning. He doesn’t even try to wake us before 8 sometimes 9 in the morning. He doesn’t jump for food, eat off tables, he is such the sweetheart.
Thank you, thank you, thank you all.

-Maureen

ARK Comment: Beau was an owner surrender. Unfortunately for Beau his owner refused to do the work required to rehome Beau. We took over and with the assistance of MassPaws, he found his true forever home.

Lance

I wanted to send you a special picture of Lance In his favorite place doing his favorite thing lol, for his big day today. Today marks a special day for us here. Today is Lances 2 year mark on his “Gotcha” day 🙂


It was 2 years ago today that we met to do our meet n greet and take him to be a part of our family. Little did I know how much of an impact Lance would have on our family and me. He is truly the best and most loving dog I‘ve ever known.

He has pulled me from the depths of depression and brought life back into me with his unconditional love. He completed our family that day and I want to thank ARK and Broken Tail Rescue for providing us with the best dog ever, and my best friend.
Because of Lance being in my life I no longer have the need for any anxiety meds because he has shown me how to live life to the fullest. I always say Lance is the one who rescued me. Thank you ARK for all you do and have done ♡♡♡

-Jammie Davis

ARK comment: Lance is an example of a dog that wasn’t doing well in a shelter. We are grateful for the shelters who value and use outside resources to help animals not doing well in their current environment. The minute Lance was moved to a foster home with Broken Tail Rescue, his stress decreased and his true personality came through.

Jenni

I just wanted to start off by saying that as I write this; Jenni is lying with her head on my lap. My name is Shane and I am a 22 year old male who just graduated from the University of Vermont.  I have been looking to adopt a dog of my own for almost a year.


I am an avid outdoorsman and love hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, skiing and watersports of all kind in all types of weather. I was mainly looking for a buddy that can accompany me on all of my adventures.

I came across Jenni when I was originally looking at another pit but from the day I met the first pit in my life I knew I wanted one and had to rescue one of my own. They are the most cuddly, loving, loyal breed I have ever met. Jenni is all of those things and even more. The day I met her she ran from Ellen’s car and shoved her head straight into my lap and it was clear that all she wanted was love. She wanted someone to love her and care about her. I am willing to give Jenni all of that and more and all that she has to do is return the love. Every morning when I wake up she loves our morning hikes along the Merrimack River. I come home from lunch and she is so excited to see me she greets me with kisses and hugs and we get to go on our short walk. We end the day together by taking one long hike or walk around the neighborhood or on some local trails. She loves to pull me on my skateboard and shows it by giving the biggest smile ever.

I work in a dog friendly office and have the pleasure to bring Jenni to the office 2-3 times a week. Everybody has fallen in love with her. There is not a single one of my co-workers that has a bad thing to say a about Jenni. All that she wants is love and you can easily tell that. When she gets some loving she is the sweetest dog ever.

I know people will think that Jenni is the lucky one in this situation but I truly think that I lucked out. Jenni is so happy doing the things that I love best outside and can’t wait for her to join me on so many more adventures throughout my life. 

On top of all of this, my days end by Jenni lying her head on my chest letting me know it is time for bed. She sleeps next to me all night long.

ARK Comment:  Thank you to people out there like Shane who understand the value of true commitment and responsibility.  Jenni was treated poorly by her previous owners-no real abuse but not the crème de la crème of society shall we say.  But she hit the jackpot with her adopter and went from society’s low  to society’s high. And she never looked back.