It is refreshing to know that one place can give hundreds a second chance at life and receive absolutely nothing in return, except, the satisfaction that they have made a difference. 10 years ago, Dr. Linda McCollough, owner and veterinarian of Haile Plantation Animal Clinic, began to find homes for unwanted animals. After treating and finding homes for a litter of kittens left at her clinic, she established Haile's Angels Pet Rescue Inc., which would have numerous advantages over other adoption organizations. "Aside from being located at a veterinarian clinic," Adoption Coordinator Lori Reiman said, "we do our best to further proper animal care and health by having Dr. McCollough directly involved with all adoptions." The organization is located within a small number of quiet buildings in Haile Plantation. Upon entering the building, a friendly number of Haile's Angels employees will greet you, along with any number of animals available for adoption. The smell is overwhelming and a little hard to get used to, but after hearing the types of animals that are being sheltered, it makes sense. "We have had squirrels, raccoons, bunnies and guinea pigs brought to us in the past," Reiman said. "Even a few pigs!" The goal of this non-profit organization is to prevent adoptable animals from being euthanized and to place them into loving, caring and safe homes. A large number and variety of animals are brought to Haile's Angels every year because of its determination to reach this goal. "An animal is never euthanized due to time," Reiman said. "So long as the animal is healthy and adoptable, either a foster home or a permanent spot in our boarding area is provided." Although the pet rescue will provide a permanent spot for these animals, the main focus of the organization is to get as many animals adopted as possible. An animal will never be removed from the center based on looks or age. The year is unusually slow, bringing in one animal a week. During kitten and puppy season and especially when students head home, the pet rescue takes in anywhere from three to 10 animals a week, leaving workers desperate for families looking to adopt. The adoption process requires that potential adopters fill out an adoption application and contract. The contract provides conditions that the adopter must follow in order to adopt the animal, such as bringing the animal back to Haile's Angels for shots and vaccines, which are already included in the adoption fee of $125. Another condition included in the contract is the adopter's pledge to be a good owner. Following the application and contract is an interview with an adoption coordinator, who may or may not require a home visit before allowing the adoption. "We like to see how the possible new owners interact with the pet," Reiman said. "We also make sure all other pets in that household are up to date with vaccines and are spayed or neutered by getting a veterinarian reference." The animals usually come from Alachua County Animal Services or the public. About 244 animals are adopted per year, and on average about 20 animals are adopted per month. More than 60 animals remain in the program at the moment and are available for adoption. Reiman is confident that all the animals in the Haile's Angels program are healthy. The animals are up to date on vaccines, are de-wormed and are either spayed or neutered. An adopter will be assured that all adult dogs are heartworm negative and all cats and kittens are feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus negative. If, however, an animal has serious, painful and untreatable issues, or if the animal is aggressive enough that it cannot be restrained, the animal is removed from the center and brought to another pet rescue or adoption shelter, Reiman said. Sometimes, with behavioral issues, the organization will have Pepe, a J & K Canine Academy professional trainer, come out to try and correct the animal's behavior, although, some are lost causes. "It is very sad," Reiman said. "As a rescue organization we would like to save everything, but you must stay realistic in your quest." Haile's Angels Pet Rescue Inc. wants the public to know that if they cannot bring a pet into their home, there are still numerous ways they can help. The organization has an adopt-a-thon every weekend in June and July. Haile's Angels accepts volunteers who wish to come out and meet potential adopters and educate people about animal welfare. Other ways the public can help include donations of money, food and office supplies. The organization will also accept pet beds, blankets, cat litter, litter boxes, newspaper, crates and bowls. Another idea is to place a donation jar at your place of work. Linda Reiman has one final question for you: "Would you like to adopt an animal today?" | 
