Providing a Safe, Soft Spot for Pets to Land
By Susan Spisak
Suzanne Madore, aka Suz, came on board as Animal Welfare Society’s (AWS) Marketing Communications Manager a few months back, and she’s thrilled. She previously dwelled in corporate America utilizing her marketing/social media skills, but as a decade-long volunteer at Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland she was familiar with shelter work, and this move marks an exciting new chapter. “This is all the stuff I love to do. It’s a great spot, good vibes,” she said about AWS. “Everything we do is to help animals and our community thrive.”
Founded in 1967, the private 501(c)(3) Animal Welfare Society is located at 46 Holland Road in Kennebunk. AWS serves eighteen municipalities, and they care for stray, abandoned, and owner relinquished animals. They also work with out-of-state partners to take in pets, following all state guidelines, many from southern shelters facing capacity thresholds.
They have an animal shelter, adoption center, and a full-service, in-house veterinary clinic with experienced, dedicated vets and techs. Suz said that top-notch clinic staff has blown her away––they offer spay/neuter, wellness exams, preventative care, and microchipping for pets, all at affordable prices. Additionally, AWS hosts free rabies vaccines and microchip clinics––stay tuned for their next event this fall.
Their 2025 Community Impact numbers are impressive. Suz shared that last year they adopted out 290 dogs and reunited 97 lost ones with their owners. “That’s why microchipping is so important,” she emphasized. They served a total of 27,210 pets and pet families. The clinic performed 3,902 spay/neuter surgeries,1,200 pets were adopted, and volunteers dedicated over 10,500 hours.
As part of their Stay@Home program, aptly titled “Keeping Bellies Full & Hearts Happy,” they provided over 36,000 lbs. of pet food, including 181 local pet families via Meals on Wheels, keeping pets with their families.
Suz said fosters are always needed for short and long-term stays such as for puppies, pets who have been at AWS for a bit, or those stressed in the shelter environment. Being in foster care can be relaxing and allows their true personality to shine, expediting adoption.
In addition, homes are needed for pets who are part of their Stay@Home emergency sheltering program. This assists pet owners residing in York County who are experiencing a temporary crisis and need a safe place for pets to stay while they navigate their situation, such as domestic violence, secure housing, or illness.
They’d like more volunteers for their Dog Dates program. “It’s a great way to have a connection with a dog and get out for a few hours,” explained Suz. Going on a walk, taking them to a pet store, playing fetch, or getting the dog a pup cup would be a terrific afternoon! Suz said it’s as easy as filling out the Dog Date form in detail so the team can ensure a perfect match and you’ll both have a great time.
Support them by donating through their website or purchasing items from their Chewy and Amazon Wish Lists. Visit animalwelfaresociety.org/ for all info, links, apps, and adoptable dogs. Check out Xaria, Caesar, Odette, and Roscoe if they’re still with them. They are all wonderful pups but need specific adopters.
For adoption information: https://animalwelfaresociety.org/adoption/
XARIA
3.5 years old, Mixed Breed
Xaria is a stunning girl who enjoys quiet time outdoors. She bonds to her people and is loyal and true blue. Her personality is quiet, shy, and loving. Xaria will do best with older children in the home. She needs an understanding family who can provide structure and guidance. Her adoption fee is $250.
ODETTE
4.5 years old, Mixed Breed
Odette is shy at first but when she’s comfortable, she can be a fun-loving goofball. She’s going to thrive in a low-key environment. She’s picky about her canine friends, and no small pets. Odette needs an understanding family who can provide structure and guidance. Her good qualities include being affectionate, loyal, loving, and she’s house and crate-trained. Odette is looking for outdoor adventures! Her adoption fee is $250.
MOCHA
1 year old, Rottweiler
Mocha is a big personality wrapped up in a lovable Rottweiler sized package. She’s social, silly and always ready to bring some fun to the day. Whether she’s out exploring, learning something new, or soaking up attention from her people, Mocha approaches life with enthusiasm and keeps things interesting wherever she goes. To meet Mocha, please give us a call at (207) 985-3244 to schedule a time to meet her!