JBAR News
Summer gives us the perfect moment to pause, look back and acknowledge how far we’ve come. So, on behalf of everyone at Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support.
Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a new friend, your commitment has had a profound impact on the lives of the animals we care for and protect every day. Over the past year, we’ve watched neglected, abandoned, newborn and injured animals heal and thrive as they step into bright new futures.
But, as we celebrate our wins, the work continues, and your generosity, time, and voice prove how much we can achieve together.
As we look to the future, we are eager to expand our outreach, care, and education programs – but we can’t do it without you. We hope you will continue walking with us on this incredible journey. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer or simply spread the word about our mission, you are the heartbeat of our success.
Every animal deserves more than a kennel. They deserve a couch, a walk, a safe place to land, and someone to believe in them. So, thank you for being a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. We are so grateful for your partnership. Together, we will continue to change the lives of countless animals.
Did You Know?
Summer is a tricky time for pets in south Florida. Our heat and humidity bring risks from heatstroke to sunburns. To keep your furry friends safe:
· Walk them only in the early morning or evening and avoid scorching pavement. If you must walk your dog on cement or asphalt, test the surface with your hand first to avoid burned paws.
· Never leave your pet in a parked car. Car interiors can reach deadly temperatures in a matter of minutes, even with the windows cracked or when parked in the shade.
· Make sure your pet always has fresh, clean drinking water and access to shelter that protects them from the hot sun.
· Supervise your pets around water. Even dogs that enjoy swimming don’t know their own limits and may need help getting out of the water. If you take your pet on a boat with you, get them a brightly colored life vest.
And…it’s fireworks season, so pick a room that can provide a safe space for your pet during the fireworks. You want them to be comfortable with the room before the action starts.
Finally…watch out for Bofu toads! They secrete a toxin that can be deadly, so keep your dog or cat away from them. If your pet tries to lick or mouth one, know that time is critical:
· Symptoms – including drooling, pawing at the face, disorientation, stumbling, seizures and vomiting – can appear in as little as 15 minutes
· Use a wet washcloth or towel to wipe your pet’s gums and tongue
· Do not use a hose: running water can push the toxin into the throat
· Take your pet to the nearest veterinarian immediately
Spotlight on a volunteer: Meet Susanne Robichaud
When you leave the army after eight years, what do you do? For Susanne (Susie) Robichaud, the answer was to find a purpose – and she found it at Justin Bartlett.
One of our passionate volunteers, Susie reports that she tried working with a variety of organizations, but none resonated – until she walked through our doors and realized this was where her heart was and where she could do the most good.
Throwing herself into our work, she started with big dogs, quickly realizing that a 75-pound dog just wants to crawl into a lap and be loved. “Many of these dogs reminded me of my time in the military: they need skills, they need patience, they need love and trust – because they’re all amazing,” she says.
When we opened The Meadows, Susie made it her mission to involve veterans in need, so they can experience the connection and peace she finds there. She hit the ground running, joining the VA Mental Health Council and registering us on the West Palm Beach VA Hospital list for volunteers.
It’s been a spiritual journey for Susie, leading her to work on our monthly Paws for gatherings, which are all about mind/body wellness. And, her passion for our animals inspired her to purchase a separate cabin for our senior and special-needs dogs who periodically need a quiet haven. At The Meadows, she gives her energy and time to dogs who need it, and, when she drives home, she says, she knows she has done her bit to nurture them – and she is filled with peace.
Today, she’s the proud parent of three Justin Bartlett Rescue cats and a 65-pound dog named Bowie. The best part: Bowie was born at our rescue, spent three years with us, and is now an emotional support dog (named after Susie’s favorite singer!).
“I visit The Meadows three times a week and look for dogs in need,” she says. “Whether they are puppies or seniors, they all deserve a place to chill and run – and feel loved. The saying ‘who rescued whom’ isn’t just a cliché – it happened to me. I found my purpose in the eyes of the dogs and cats at Justin Bartlett.”
COMING SOON!
JUSTIN BARTLETT ANIMAL HOSPITAL
DEERFIELD BEACH
Our non-profit sister organization, Justin Bartlett Animal Hospital, will soon be helping animals in Deerfield Beach! Our address will be: 540 S Federal Hwy, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441.
We are there if and when you need us.
Mark Your Calendar!
Events that raise funds, spread our message and help get our puppies and kittens adopted support all of Justin Bartlett’s animals. Please mark your calendars and watch for details on these upcoming evenings. We look forward to seeing you soon!
· September 20 – Queens Ball
· November 1 – 4th Annual Animal Aid – The Concert
· November 1 – Poker Run