By Susan Spisak
Cover photo: Holly & Griffin
Meet our third Hometown Hero Honoree, big-hearted Holly Kresge, the Front End Supervisor at Farmington’s Franklin County Animal Shelter (FCAS). She has a special affection for pets in need, particularly often-overlooked seniors. November is an ideal time to share her story as many organizations spotlight older animals through observances such as Adopt a Senior Pet Month, National Senior Pet Month, Celebrate Senior Pets Month, and Senior Pet Health Awareness Month.
Holly was nominated by Peri Starr, the shelter’s Social Media & Fundraising Coordinator, “Holly is well-known for her tendency to take home the kind of dogs that need the most patience and love - seniors. At any point, she can have three or four of the oldest, most hobbled and crusty little dogs, and Holly will see through the matted fur and tattered ears, right into their souls….She scoops them up and loves them like they're royalty, giving them love and safety until their last days.”
HOLLY & MOLLY
There was the three-pound Chihuahua named Molly whose owner passed, so the 13-year-old landed at FCAS. The little dog had seizures and a heart murmur. Holly knew it was the right thing to be her hospice foster, caring for her until she passed. She nurtured and doted on her, even taking her to the office. As far as Molly was concerned, she’d found her new person. (Holly said the shelter paid for all her medical expenses. This is a great reason for animal lovers who can’t afford all expenses to foster.)
Then she fell madly for and outright adopted the 13-year-old Griffin. The mostly blind little “Poodlish mix” is now 16, and Holly said affectionately that he’s a hot mess.
Her next foster dog, whom she called Ernest, was special to her. Due to the circumstances of his intake, she can’t share his backstory, nor any details. But she loved him and cared for him for the six months she had him until he passed.
HOLLY & ERNEST
A southern intake from Mississippi immediately stole her heart, and she didn’t waste time on fostering. Holly adopted the 6-month-old pup named Ladybird. Now 4, she’s enjoying her second chance at life.
Holly didn’t stop with dogs in need. “I did foster seven 2-week-old kittens until they were 10 weeks old and could be adopted. I got them as bottle babies.”
Holly and her family—husband Joseph, and son Thomas—have all pitched in. They now have four dogs—Griffin, Chloe (they’ve had the 4-year-old for as many years), Ladybird, and recent edition, 1-year-old Maple, thanks to Joseph. Her husband saw a “dog-free-to-good-home” ad and made the call for the youngster. Obviously, in addition to seniors, they gravitate towards canines that need a soft place to grow, flourish, and have fun.
HOLLY & THOMAS
This highly-spirited gal made the decision to apply for the shelter position seven years ago—she wanted a change and loves all animals. Previously, she had been a loyal employee for two decades at the same family eatery, where she wore many hats.
Holly brought her talent for efficiently juggling responsibilities to FCAS. She processes employee and volunteer applications, manages animal intake—including strays and owner surrenders—and oversees adoptions, shelter paperwork, and coordination with Animal Control Officers. “Her natural tendency to nurture and rescue has not only shown that this career change was perfect, but her big heart has been a huge asset to all of us here at the shelter, and in our community,” said Peri.
The decision to get into animal work makes further sense as the family has a 13-acre homestead, which she calls a “big yard.” (I howled with laughter at the understatement!) They have pigs, chickens (she sells their eggs), goats, cats, and yes, all the dogs. She credits her 24-year-old son Thomas for helping her with all the animals. She said he is on the spectrum, but high functioning, and when he isn’t at his own job, he loves the chores, and the animals are all drawn to him.
Peri also nominated Holly for the positive impact she has on the shelter and community. “With a persistent goal to find the best situation for all of them, she is adamant about making sure anyone who is interested in adopting an animal, who may have more needs than others, is well aware of the responsibilities. She can be much the same with people, offering a listening ear, and a few words of encouragement.” Peri added that Holly works her magic to help people achieve their goals of adopting a new best friend while offering advice and information along the way.
Holly goes above and beyond in many other ways. “Whether it’s cooking hot dogs at the concession stand, finding discounts for adoption fees, or helping out an elder with a feral cat problem, Holly will help. She donates her free time and her own money to the shelter, fosters animals no one else will adopt, and shares her love and dedication with everyone who works with her.” She added that working in an animal shelter can be hard on sensitive people, but Holly pulls through with grace each and every day.
We may consider publishing more Hometown Hero Honorees, the program that honors extraordinary dogs and the people who make a difference in communities across Maine. If you have a story, please submit to jenn@downeastdognews.com.