The Pope Memorial SPCA of Concord-Merrimack County (PMSPCA) unexpectedly took in 40 companion animals on September 15 from all over Merrimack County. Responding to multiple community calls throughout the day, 21 felines and one canine living in sub-par conditions were rescued from a single apartment in the Greater Concord area, now known as the “Apartment 22.” In addition to the apartment seize, over a dozen more stray or injured felines were brought into the PMSPCA facility by members of the public.

On average, the Pope Memorial SPCA will take in a dozen stray animals every week, in addition to community surrenders and transported animals from partner shelters. The unexpected influx of animals came as shelter staff were busy putting together the final touches in preparing for the 2016 Walk for the Animals, one of the shelter’s signature fundraisers, held on September 17 in Concord.

“Unexpectedly receiving dozens of our community’s animals in a day comes at a very busy time, but it truly goes to show why we are here,” stated Cathy Emerson, Director of Operations for the Pope Memorial SPCA. “What matters now is that each one of these animals receives top-notch care and medical attention while we prepare for our fundraiser. We thank the community for all of their support throughout the year – especially during times like these.”

Out of the 40 animals, the majority taken in were a year old or under. Kittens as young as a day old were found hiding in the apartment and are receiving specialized around-the-clock care. The PMSPCA would like to take the opportunity to remind the public about the importance of spaying and neutering companion animals and community felines.

Each animal from the day’s activities are currently under medical evaluation and care directed by the PMSPCA’s medical staff and animal care team.   All animals will undergo multiple evaluations, be spayed or neutered, brought up-to-date on all age-appropriate vaccinations, microchipped, and behaviorally evaluated before being placed up for adoption in the coming weeks.

The PMSCPA is a non-profit organization that operates on public donations. Those who want to assist in the care of these animals, including the “Apartment 22,” are encouraged to make their tax-deductible donation directly to the Pope Memorial SPCA, 94 Silk Farm Road, Concord NH 03301 or visit PopeMemorialSPCA.org.

Questions can be directed to Lori Taylor, Interim Executive Director, at LTaylor@nullPopeMemorialSPCA.org or 856-8756 x225.