LEWISTON — The Greater Androscoggin Humane Society has announced the receipt of a $55,000 grant from the Petco Foundation. This grant will not only be used to support the expenses and preparation costs of readying pets for adoption, it will also expand upon their life-saving work with the purchase of surgical equipment and additional cat housing specifically for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) and FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) positive cats.

“This generous investment is going to allow us to save more animals efficiently,” said Donna Kincer, Development Director. 

In addition to a new blood machine for pre-anesthetic bloodwork, funds granted will also allow for the purchase of dental kits for both cats and dogs, new surgical tools and a microscope.

“With the addition of these items, we will better utilize our resources by doing many of the tests and/or procedures at the shelter in lieu of sending them out,” said Kincer.

The Greater Androscoggin Humane Society provides a safe haven for more than 4,500 sick, homeless and abused animals in the greater Androscoggin area each year. The primary support for the shelter comes from fundraising events and donations of concerned citizens.

The Greater Androscoggin Humane Society is located at 55 Strawberry Ave. Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering at the shelter or adopting an animal should call 207-783-2311 or visit the website at www.SavingPetsInMaine.org. People can also join them on www.facebook/GAHumane.

Thanks to a grant from the Petco Foundation, the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society was able to purchase additional cat housing specifically to house FIV and FeLV positive cats while they await adoption. While these cats can live normal lives, in a shelter environment it is best to keep them away from the rest of the population to lessen the potential of others being exposed to the virus.