Stacie Reed - Volunteer

How can you help! Here’s my story.

Hello, I’m Stacie Reed a volunteer at Stratford Animal Rescue Assoc. (STARS).

When I first walked through the doors of the Stratford Animal Rescue 13 years ago, I didn't know what to expect. I thought I was there just to walk some dogs and clean some poo. I quickly realized that what we do here is far more profound: we help shattered hearts learn to trust again.

Over my years volunteering, I’ve seen a lot—the terrified dogs shivering in the back of the kennel, the shy dogs who won't come out from under their beds, and the "medical cases" that seemed hopeless.

I remember one specific dog that was a surrendered senior who was so shut down, he wouldn't eat when people were around, his head hung low and his tail was pulled tight under his body. He was scared, confused, and grieving the only home he’d ever known. For the first two weeks, we did nothing but sit in his kennel with him as he laid there looking so sad, we’d read a book aloud, not even looking at him. It’s slow work. It’s unglamorous. It’s often heartbreaking. But then, one day, it happened. He walked over, sniffed my hand, and gently rested his heavy head on my knee. He didn't just want a treat; he wanted a connection. That moment—the moment a scared animal realizes they are safe—is why I keep coming back. That transformation is why I am asking for your help today.

Here is the reality of rescue:

• It requires resources: That gentle, specialized care means food, calming supplements, and sometimes costly behavioral training.
• It requires urgent medical attention: Many animals come in needing immediate costly vet care that our operating budget struggles to cover.
• It requires patience: socializing, taking time, in a safe, comfortable environment is crucial for that healing process.

I’ve seen firsthand how our rescue can transform a broken animal into a beloved family member. But we cannot do it alone.

Your donation today would directly fund the care that saves lives! 

• $5 can buy food for a shelter animal
• $25 can provide a warm bed, a toy, and specialized food for a scared dog or cat.
• $50 can help cover the vaccinations for a cat or dog in need.
• $100 can help provide emergency medical care for a senior dog or cat
• $200 can help spay or neuter a dog or cat.

Please, help me continue the work of turning "scared" into "adopted." Be the reason a shelter pet feels safe tonight.

The Shelter Slumber Pawty is a collaborative fundraising event across the country that brings together animal welfare organizations to raise funds and awareness for shelter animals. This event directly funds medical care, enrichment, training, and the extras that go far beyond what the municipal budget covers at my animal shelter. This makes a real difference for animals in our care. 

During these 24 hours, myself and other participating volunteers will eat, sleep and 'pawty' with our adoptable shelter animals all while raising funds for their essential needs. The event will be live streamed so please join in on the fun! 

I’ve got my PJ’s ready- it’s Slumber Pawty time!!