Spring Prep For Pets!
While it may not feel like spring just yet, things are starting to warm up—and we’re getting ready. At Plymouth Helping Hands for Animals, spring often brings a busy season.
So what does that look like for us? We’re keeping our pantries stocked, preparing for higher demand, and staying ready to support pets and the people who care for them.
In March alone, veterinary assistance requests have already reached $10,000—an early reminder of how quickly the need can grow this time of year.
This week, we’re sharing a couple of stories that reflect that work in action, along with a few simple ways to get your pets ready for the season ahead.
Pets & People We've Helped
The support we provide shows up in many different ways.
Sometimes it’s helping a pet stay on track with necessary, ongoing medical care—and other times it’s supporting proactive decisions that set pets up for a healthier future. Here are two recent examples.
Milo’s Story
Milo is a dog living with Addison’s Disease, a hormonal condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough essential hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. With consistent lifelong treatment, dogs with this condition can continue to live well, but without it, the illness can become life-threatening.
Milo requires a monthly injection to manage his condition. His owner travels to MSPCA Angell in Boston every four weeks to access reliable and cost-effective care. Even with careful planning, the ongoing cost of treatment can be a challenge.
We have helped cover two months of Milo’s injections, easing that burden and ensuring his care continues without interruption.
Ruby’s Story
Ruby is a young kitten whose owner made the responsible decision to have her spayed at the appropriate age.
Spaying is an important part of preventive care. It helps avoid unwanted litters, reduces the risk of certain cancers and uterine infections, and supports long-term health.
Being able to support care like this is just one of the ways we help pets get off to a strong, healthy start.
Pet Safety Is In Full Bloom!
As we head into spring, a few simple steps can help keep pets feeling their best for the season ahead.
Start Flea & Tick Prevention
Tick season will be here before we know it. Starting (or staying consistent with) preventatives now helps protect pets as activity picks up and reduces the risk of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease.
Check For Winter Hazards
Melting snow can uncover things that weren’t visible all winter. A quick scan of yards and walking routes can help avoid hidden hazards.
Ease Back Into Exercise
With more daylight comes more time outside—but after a quieter winter, a gradual return to longer walks helps prevent strain or injury.
Get Ahead Of Shedding Season
Brushing now can help manage seasonal coat changes and keep pets more comfortable as temperatures shift.
Schedule A Wellness Visit
Spring fills up fast. Scheduling wellness visits, vaccinations, or preventative care now can save time and stress later.
Good Things Happening
There’s been a lot happening lately, and we’re grateful to be part of a community that continues to show up in big ways.
Dancing With Our Stars: A Huge Success!
Last Friday’s Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Dancing With Our Stars event brought a full night of energy, community, and support for local businesses.
Helping Hands Co-President Deb Balboni hit the dance floor and led the way in fundraising, bringing in an record-breaking $20,100 for the Plymouth One Fund.
In total, this year’s dancers raised more than $76,000 to support local businesses. It was a fun and meaningful night, and we’re proud to have been part of it!
Donation Drive Reminder
There’s still a little time left to take part in the March pet food donation drive graciously hosted by The Barker House in Plympton. Donations help keep bowls full and ensure we can continue providing support to pets in need throughout our community.
Donations can be dropped off through March 31st at:
The Barker House, 4 Elm Street, Plympton, MA.
Here For What Comes Next
Every season looks a little different—but our mission remains the same: helping pets who need care and the people doing their best to provide it.
Behind the scenes, the need for support continues every day. Whether it’s helping with ongoing medical care, supporting preventative decisions, or providing resources that keep pets where they belong, this work is always moving forward.
We’re grateful to be part of a community that shows up for pets and their people—and we’re looking forward to the season ahead!
