VINCENNES, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — One Southern Indiana animal shelter got a big surprise that’s making a big difference for its furry residents.
A longtime supporter stopped by the Vincennes Animal Shelter with a generous donation that’s already helping provide care and comfort for animals that reside there while waiting for their forever home.
It was a typical day at the Vincennes Animal Shelter—until a familiar face walked through the door with something no one expected. What happened next is already making a lasting impact.
When you work with animals, you learn to expect the unexpected—but a recent surprise at the Vincennes Animal Shelter left the staff—and the animals—jumping for joy.
“It took your breath away. It absolutely took your breath away,” said Leah Reagan, Shelter Director.
Meet Dr. Renee Bartlett. She’s been a friend to the staff and animals at the shelter for years. Last Wednesday, she walked into the shelter and handed over a check for forty thousand dollars.
Shelter Director Leah Reagan says Dr. Bartlett’s generous donation is a huge relief for the shelter and the animals they care for.
“All those concerns you have—about how we’re going to be able to afford to do this for this animal or that for that animal—it’s going to alleviate some of that pressure,” said Reagan.
As mentioned earlier, Dr. Bartlett is no stranger to the shelter. In fact, I’m told she stops by at least once a week. According to Reagan, Dr. Bartlett has done everything she can to support the shelter over the years—from adopting animals to paying for heartworm treatments.
“Way back when I first started here—back in 2013—she would pull up with a whole truckload of donations: dog food, cat food, cat litter, and all kinds of things we needed,” said Reagan.
Reagan says the money Dr. Bartlett donated will support a variety of needs, including medical care, food and supplies, and additional updates to the shelter. Reagan said that Dr. Bartlett means the world to everyone who works at the shelter – and to every animal here.
“She is definitely a part of our shelter family. We’re happy to have her here with us,” said Reagan.
This donation was a big moment—but Reagan says it’s the everyday support that really keeps the shelter going.
Whether it’s walking dogs, cuddling with the cats, or dropping off a few blankets and a box of treats—it all makes a difference to the animals who temporarily call this place home.
“This is not our shelter. This is the community’s shelter. So, the community support means everything to us. We couldn’t do it without the community’s support,” said Reagan.
If you want to help, the shelter has plenty of ways to get involved. Reagan said anyone who wants to make a difference is welcome to stop by anytime. The Vincennes Animal Shelter, located at 1128 River Road in Vincennes, is open Monday through Saturday from 9 to 4.
This story was provided by Nathan Springfield, from We Are Knox County.
