Kelly Arsenault, the founder and president of Pronepups.org, talks to Mark Robinson about rescuing Papillons and Pomeranians on the "Happy, Healthy Pets" radio podcast. They were joined by Bryanna Santoro, a Jr. volunteer at P.R.O.N.E. who donates her time to the rescue.
Humane Breeders
Humane breeders do not sell their puppies to pet shops. Nor do they sell to a personal home without proper screening. Typically, humane breeders specialize in just a breed or two, because each requires specialized knowledge. A humane breeder puts a lot of time and energy into the dogs they nurture.
Unfortunately, not all breeders are humane! So rescues often develop around specific dog breeds who have suffered at the hands of puppy mills.
P.R.O.N.E.
Papillon Rescue of the North East (PRONE) was founded in 2012. The nonprofit organization is made up of dedicated volunteers. In addition to helping Papillons and Pomeranians, they also rescue Chihuahuas and other small dogs who weigh up to 12 pounds.
The organization's mission is to rescue and rehabilitate the dogs in their care, so each one can go on to lead a life of health and happiness. PRONE volunteers have all given their time and energy for many years to saving these particular breeds.
For the Love of Dogs
This is Sterling, one of Kelly's Papillons.
Kelly Arsenault became involved in rescuing dogs about 10 years ago. She is also a real estate agent; she began hearing about dogs who needed to be re-homed when homeowners either lost their homes or were relocated.
Kelly currently has 7 rescue dogs at her own home. Thirteen-year-old Bryanna helps the rescue with its various activities, sometimes feeds the dogs, and generally provides an extra set of hands wherever needed. She hopes to eventually become a veterinarian.
Papillons have stolen Kelly's heart:
"They bring so much joy to somebody's life! They're an exciting dog. They just know how to bring you out of a mood, if you're in a bad mood. They're a special breed."
From Foster to Forever
All of the dogs at PRONE are given the dental and medical care they need. They are also spayed and neutered.
The rescued dogs are placed in carefully screened foster homes, where they can develop trust again. Sometimes the foster family falls in love and decides to adopt the dog! Otherwise, when the dogs are ready, they are put up for adoption into forever homes.
PRONE rescues about 30 dogs each year. People interested in learning more about adopting one of the dogs cared for by P.R.O.N.E. can go to their pronepups.org
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