100 Pounds of Pure Love

Too often, dogs and cats in shelters across the country are at risk of euthanasia simply due to overcrowding and lack of resources. To help prevent this – and to stem the tide of pet overpopulation in other geographic areas – Baypath welcomes cats and dogs from states such as Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Midwestern states and from countries like South Korea.

Baypath has long standing partnerships with incredible groups on the ground in these regions and others, who advocate tirelessly for deserving animals to be given a second chance at life in the Northeast. Once these lucky animals arrive safely at our shelter, our dedicated team gets right to work fulfilling our mission of matching them with loving families. Each year, we help several hundred out-of-state cats and dogs, thanks to our national and international partnerships.

We are frequently asked to accept and find homes for large, older dogs, who are often less favorable to adopters compared to smaller, younger canines. One such dog, Bandet, arrived at Baypath after a special shelter worker in Georgia looked into his big brown eyes and knew he deserved a second chance at a loving home! Our shelter manager, Nikki Baltas, also fell in love with this big lug, who was then transported to MA. Who could blame them – one look into those soulful eyes and you are hooked!

At 8 years of age, Bandet was not very happy being part of shelter life, whining and crying when left alone. Sensing his unease, our foster program director, Lauren Dimartino, immediately began looking for a foster home. While patiently waiting, Bandet became Baypath’s ‘desk manager,’ spending his days assisting staff in the shelter lobby, which alleviated his separation anxiety. Before long, his true colors began to shine through – Bandet was a laidback gentle giant who eagerly greeted everyone who came through our doors!

Thanks to the Noonan’s, amazing members of the Baypath family who have both adopted and fostered, Bandet didn’t have to wait long to find the perfect home. Not only was he doted upon on land, he also became the Noonan’s first mate – lazily lounging on their boat and even donning a pink sunhat! Although originally a foster, the Noonan Family decided to keep Bandet as part of their family, renaming him Samson.

The Noonan’s report they are very happy with their newest furry family member, sharing: “He loves to go for walks and car rides and boat rides too. He gets along with all dogs and I never have to worry about him. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful dog.”

I say, by the smile on Samson’s face, he certainly seems equally as blessed!

We are so very grateful to our fosters and adopters for giving dogs like Samson a second chance, that they may not have received elsewhere. Baypath prides itself on being a resource to animals of all sizes, ages, breeds, colors and medical issues.