Jessie En Route To Helen Woodward Animal Center

Helen Woodward Animal Center is a place where “people help animals and animals help people.” With an aim to treat all creatures with respect and compassion, the Center reaches out to those in need during times of adversity. Today, we are coming to the aid of Jessie, an 18-month-old Golden Retriever involved in a tragic strangulation death in New York.

By now, most of you have likely heard the heartbreaking story of Kaitlyn Hassard, the six-year-old girl accidentally strangled by her beloved Golden Retriever, Jessie, while playing in the backyard of their home on Long Island. Jessie, a good-natured dog who enjoyed playing tug-o-war with her human siblings, caught hold of Kaitlyn’s scarf during one of their usual games. Sadly, the 70-pound retriever, being much stronger than the 40-pound young girl, managed to tighten the scarf around Kaitlyn, causing her asphyxiation.

Truly, there are no words which can convey the sorrow inherent to this situation. The distress and grief felt by Kaitlyn’s family, friends and community are unimaginable. Yet, despite their loss, the family recognizes that Jessie was not responsible for this tragedy.

Since the beginning of time, countless children and their adored pets have played together as best friends. Jessie and Kaitlyn were engaged in this same custom, playing a game of tug-o-war, which they had done so often as playmates. Understanding Jessie’s actions were not a manifestation of malice or viciousness, Kaitlyn’s family displayed extraordinary benevolence in asking that Jessie be allowed to live her life in peace in a loving home outside of the New York area.

Familiar with our reputation, the Brookhaven Animal Shelter on Long Island, Jessie’s present residence, called Helen Woodward Animal Center to help fulfill the family’s wishes. We, of course, opened our doors and our hearts to Jessie. She will arrive at the Center on Thursday, February 2, 2006, where she will be greeted by our good friend Dr. Victoria Lea Voith, an animal behaviorist from Western University Veterinary School. Typically, when we rescue a needy animal, airlines have been willing to partner with us by donating the airfare for the animal and its handler. Unfortunately, in this case, we were unable to secure a partner. As such, we will bear the cost of Jessie and her handler’s trip, from New York to San Diego.

After arriving at the Center, Jessie will be evaluated by Dr. Voith and will receive training to curb her tug-o-war instincts. Provided there are no health or behavioral issues, the Center will do what we do best -- place Jessie in a new, loving family.

The staff and volunteers at the Center pride ourselves on being a resource for not only our immediate community but to all animals in distress. Thank you, our friends and partners, for supporting us in our mission to help people and animals.