CENTRAL POINT, OR – On Wednesday of this week (May 19th), Dogs for Better Lives (DBL) closed on two properties in Falmouth, MA, including a thriving pet resort and veterinary clinic, that will become the future Northeast Campus for DBL.
Originally launched in Southern Oregon’s Applegate Valley in 1977, DBL now encompasses two campuses and four satellite offices across the country. Over the last two years DBL has been actively searching for an east coast location, to augment its national operations, while better supporting east coast dogs, clients, and volunteers.
As part of DBL’s 2020 Vision and four-year strategic plan, growth and expansion are critical to acquiring, professionally training, and placing more Assistance Dogs across the country. In this case, ultimately placing more Assistance Dogs along the east coast from the Northeast Campus and relying less on cross-country transportation from the west coast.
“This is a monumental moment for Dogs for Better Lives, and one more step towards executing our four-year strategic plan, that supports the long-range vision in growing this organization into a truly national footprint,” stated CEO Bryan Williams. “I’m so proud of everyone who put so many hours into making this project a reality.”
The properties acquired in Falmouth, MA consist of a former veterinary clinic and an existing pet boarding facility. The pet boarding facility will continue to operate as it has been, with some significant upgrades to its facilities, including renovation of kennels, painting, flooring, and upgrading outside exercise yards.
Sarah McCracken joined DBL and its leadership team in late February and is overseeing the acquisition and management of the Northeast Campus, as its Executive Director. Sarah comes to DBL with an extensive background in Assistance Dog training and management, having most recently worked for Canine Companions for Independence in a similar role.
“Today’s closing on our future Northeast Campus is truly a milestone for Dogs for Better Lives,” stated Executive Director – Northeast Region, Sarah McCracken. “We’re excited to be advancing forward on building renovations, acquiring puppy raisers, and eventually bringing dogs-in-training onto this new campus.”
The existing and successful Pet Resort on the Falmouth, MA property will continue to operate, while going through some facility upgrades, mentioned above. Already, DBL’s Northeast team is looking for puppy raisers, having just secured their first Massachusetts’ raiser last week.
“On behalf of DBL’s National Board, we are thrilled to see this Northeast Campus begin to take shape, ultimately becoming our second campus, and more importantly, our east coast campus, stated Board Chairman, David Hollingsworth. “Resources, logistics, and growth, will all be in play here, as DBL further implements its 2020 Vision and strategic plan.”
To learn more about ways to support DBL and/or become a Puppy Raiser, visit our website’s “Get Involved” section… https://dogsforbetterlives.org/get-involved/.
[Read full news release as PDF here]
I’m so happy for DBL and for all of you who have had any part in making this happen. Your mission is expanding and I have no doubt it almost has to continue expanding because the need is so great and DBL’s heart is so pure. If only I were younger and more active I would ask what can I do to be a part of this worthy cause. Financial support seems not to be enough so I try to use word of mouth to bring your mission to the attention of anyone and everyone whose ear I can bend. And there are an endless supply of ears. Years of ears!!
Thank you TJ! Your comment and willingness to share by word-of-mouth is more valuable than you realize. Keep on doing what you’re doing! – Harvey
I am so thrilled to hear of the Dogs for Better LivesKs second home in Falmouth Ma. Congratulations 🎈🎉🎊. I’m excited as Falmouth isn’t too far from our summer western Massachusetts home. CanI come visit the new site?
Marne, thank you for your note. We’ll be under renovation for a period of time, but please check back with us later this summer. In the meantime, if you’re not already, be sure to sign up for our eNewsletter, to stay up-to-date with announcements regarding our North East Campus. – Harvey
Welcome to Falmouth.
Our dog has attended daycare and loves it.
Look forward to seeing your changes.
Congrats
Thank you Trisha. Daycare will continue and we hope that you will continue to use this service. Look forward to meeting you in the near future. We’re looking for puppy raisers, if you have interest. – Harvey
Congratulations! So excited for DBL and all the many lives this expansion will benefit.
Thank you Jill! We couldn’t agree more. – Harvey
Will you still do doggie day care?
Beverly, we will continue providing doggie daycare services. Look forward to meeting you in the near future. – Harvey
Great. It is wonderful that all of this became available and that you were able to take advantage of the availability
of these desirable properties. Keep up the good work. There are many people waiting for the right dog to change
their lives. I am glad that my brother Don and I became a part of this organization.😎❤❤😎
Thank you Dorothy. We couldn’t agree more. We’re also very appreciative of your and Don’s support. – Harvey
This is so exciting! I have rented a cottage for the month of September in Yarmouth this year and hoping renovations are complete and I will be able to visit! I might even have my successor dog by then!? Noni Smyth from Central California.
Noni, Please check back with us in September. Hopefully between now and then, we’ve made some great progress. Have a great summer! – Harvey