Unfortunately, resources were limited. The town’s animal control facility was temporarily closed for construction, and the local humane society was already at capacity. With no clear place to bring the animals, Officer Treem was left with few options and an urgent need to find help.

Treem began networking out, taking a few cats at a time to shelters in the area and farther out. Then, Treem called Lollypop Farm, nearly two hours away. Without hesitation, the Lollypop Farm Foster and Rescue team jumped into action to help take 22 cats from the case.

The frightened felines were transported over 100 miles to Lollypop Farm. Many were infested with fleas and suffering from ear mites, but remarkably, they were otherwise in good health. Here, each one was given comfort, care, and the promise of a better tomorrow.

Thanks to Lollypop Farm’s incredible foster network, these furry friends didn’t have to stay in the shelter for long. Most of them are kittens, just months old, who are now in foster care learning to trust people and settle into home life. Once they’re ready, they’ll be looking for families to love them. Their journey is only possible because compassionate people came together. It’s the generosity of fosters, donors, and supporters like you that empowers Lollypop Farm to respond in moments of crisis and to make a lasting impact on animal welfare across New York State.

Lollypop Farm often tries to help when other shelters are full or emergencies arise, because every pet deserves a second chance — no matter where they come from. With many rescues and shelters often at capacity, providing support to each other can help save more lives. Our Rescue and Transport Coordinator, Susie, works daily to connect animals with opportunities for healing and hope, whether that means finding them help elsewhere or bringing them here to Lollypop Farm.

Please note: the investigation in this case is ongoing and part of the New Hartford Police Department’s jurisdiction. Thanks to the hard work from Animal Control Officer Treem and the team in New Hartford, 54 cats have been removed from the property as of July 25th, and more traps have been set in case more are hiding. Charges have been filed, but are still pending.

There are so many ways to get involved and help animals find the loving homes they deserve. Learn how you can adopt, foster, or donate to help pets like these find the loving homes they deserve.

The post From New Hartford to Lollypop Farm: 22 Cats Transport Journey appeared first on Lollypop Farm.

Far from home, Pepper was nervous in her new surroundings, but lucky for her the Behavior and Training team knew just what to do. “For some of the pets that come to Lollypop Farm, the shelter environment can be overwhelming,” says Brittany Smith, a member of the behavior and training team at Lollypop Farm.  “One of the best things we can do for nervous animals is provide breaks from the noises, smells, and activity happening in the kennels. In some cases, we’ll ask office staff to help foster these pets in their offices.”

Pepper was introduced to staff member Ashley Zeh. She had a quiet office, away from the hustle and bustle of the shelter. It was a perfect place for Pepper to relax and gain confidence at Lollypop Farm over time.

“Pepper was really nervous at first. She stared at me, curious, and a bit worried that first day,” says Ashley. “But every day she came out of her shell a little bit more. Eventually she was doing a little dance every time I came to get her.”

As Pepper spent more time in the office and with her new friend Ashley, she grew more and more confident. Soon, Pepper made new friends around the shelter. Many would give her treats! Combined with the clicker training the behavior and training staff was doing with Pepper, she was well on her way to being a happy, playful pup.

A more confident Pepper was finally ready to find a new home.  When Terese and Dick Bouchard saw Pepper in a Facebook post, they knew they had to meet her.  It couldn’t have been a better fit! They had a farm and had owned dogs their entire lives, so they had lots of first hand animal experience. The Bouchard’s would take it slow until Pepper felt at home on the farm.

So, Ashley asked Pepper for one last hug, and helped the Bouchards put Pepper in their car. Pepper was on the last leg of her incredible journey and going home.

The post From Southern belle to “Paw-ffice” friend appeared first on Lollypop Farm.