LEWISTON — Executive Director Steven Dostie has announced that the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society received $63,700 in grant funding to purchase and outfit a Sprinter transport van.

Thanks to the generosity of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Petco Foundation and the Laura J. Niles Foundation the society received the funding to purchase the van in November and completed the necessary outfitting necessary to transport animals in January.

“We are fortunate here in Maine that due to the effectiveness of the many aggressive spay/neuter programs available, we very rarely see litters of puppies surrendered to us,” said Dostie. “Unfortunately, rural areas in the southern part of the country still receive more puppies and dogs than they are able to place locally. This funding will not only help our shelter save more lives by transporting animals both locally and from the south; it also furthers progress for animal welfare both nationally and within the State of Maine. The vehicle will also be available to assist in the event of a necessary emergency animal relocation as well as any needs that may arise within our State Animal Welfare Department.”

The shelter, at 55 Strawberry Ave., provides a safe haven for more than 5,500 sick, homeless and abused animals in the greater Androscoggin area per year. The primary support for the shelter comes from fundraising events and donations of concerned citizens.

To learn more about volunteering or adopting call 783-2311 or visit www.SavingPetsInMaine.org or www.facebook/GAHumane.

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