Welcome To The Friends of the Plymouth Pound

The Friends of the Plymouth Pound was started in 1985 by a small group of concerned citizens assisting the animal control officer in the historic town of Plymouth, Massachusetts. Since its incorporation in 1989, our mission has been to reduce pet overpopulation through adoption and foster care, low-cost spaying/neutering assistance, and educational outreach.

We are a non-profit, all volunteer private organization; therefore we do not receive any state or federal funding. The Friends of the Plymouth Pound relies solely on donations from its supporters, as well as the care and devotion of its dedicated volunteers. Join in our efforts to ensure the continuation of our programs to help end the needless suffering of abandoned, abused, neglected and unwanted pets. Your contribution can make a difference in saving their lives by providing food, shelter, medical care, transportation and other services. If you would like to help us in our on-going efforts to care for animals in need click here.

An Open Letter About Devocalization

Friends of the Plymouth Pound joins MSPCA/Angell, Animal Rescue League, Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association and other humane organizations in opposition to convenience devocalization—cutting and removing a pet’s vocal cords simply because he barks or meows a lot. We urge the Massachusetts Legislature to pass An Act Prohibiting Devocalization of Dogs and Cats, which would ban this practice for non-medical reasons, and hope you will too.

Some breeds vocalize more than others. This must be an integral part of the potential pet owner’s decision making process. Similarly, dogs left alone all day without exercise or interaction may express their loneliness and boredom by barking excessively. Making wise choices is what it means to be a responsible pet owner. Animals should not be penalized with risky, painful and absolutely unnecessary surgery for that failure. There is no benefit to the animal.

As a rescue volunteer for 30 years, I assure you: Devocalization does not guarantee “noisy” pets a secure home..in fact when they are no longer wanted..they are given up just as their "barking" friends are.... Friends of the Plymouth Pound would rather that dogs and cats be surrendered to a humane organization than devocalized, so they will have a chance for a loving, forever home. Those who profit from devocalization disagree. Please call your state legislators today.

Sincerely,
Gayle Fitzpatrick
President

P.S. Please urge your state rep and senator (this is not Ted Kennedy!) to “co-sponsor An Act Prohibiting Devocalization of Dogs and Cats,” sponsored by Rep. Lida Harkins. Say you’re a constituent, and this is a front-burner issue for you. To find your legislators, send your snail mail address to CPRPets@aol.com. Or call the State House at 800-462-8683.