Supporting animal care and welfare is crucial for creating a compassionate community. In Maine, you can directly contribute to the well-being of animals through the Animal Care And Welfare Program. This initiative focuses on key areas to improve the lives of companion animals throughout the state.
One of the most impactful ways the program works is through the Companion Animal Sterilization Fund. This fund is dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation and its associated challenges. By providing financial assistance for spaying and neutering cats and dogs, the program aims to prevent unwanted litters. This proactive approach leads to multiple benefits, including fewer animals entering shelters, decreased rates of shelter euthanasia, and a reduction in the number of feral cats and dog bites reported annually.
You can easily support this vital fund when filing your state income taxes. Look for The Companion Animal Sterilization Fund check-off box on your Maine State Tax Form. By simply checking this box, you can make a voluntary contribution that directly supports spaying and neutering services across Maine.
Beyond the tax form check-off, there are other avenues to contribute to animal welfare in Maine. Consider purchasing a Support Animal Welfare specialty license plate. Proceeds from these plates are equally divided between the Animal Welfare Auxiliary Fund and the Companion Animal Sterilization Fund, providing dual support for animal welfare initiatives.
Direct donations are also gratefully accepted and play a significant role in combating animal cruelty and pet overpopulation. You can make a secure online donation to directly support the fight against animal abuse in Maine.
For those needing assistance or wishing to report animal cruelty or neglect, the Animal Welfare Office is readily accessible. During business hours (8 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday), you can contact them via phone or email. When reporting a complaint, please include your name and phone number, the animal owner’s name (if known), the physical address where the animal is located, a description of the animals, and the nature of your complaint.
Contact Information for Animal Welfare Office (Non-Emergency):
- (207) 287-3846
- (877) 269-9200 (Toll Free within Maine)
- [email protected]
For after-hours emergencies, please contact the Maine State Police Barracks in Bangor at 207-973-3700. They will then connect you with an Animal Welfare Program representative for urgent situations.
The Animal Care and Welfare Program in Maine relies on community support to effectively protect animals and promote responsible pet ownership. Your contribution, no matter the size, can make a real difference in the lives of animals throughout the state.
