The Impact of Our Humane Agent, Melinda Patterson

Melinda, has served as our Humane Agent since May, having previously worked in Animal Control at the Derry Police Department, and before that, holding a similar role at the Lowell (MA) Police Department.

After four months in the role, her take is that this job is never the same two days in a row.  And she wouldn’t have it any other way. “First and foremost, I’m here for the pets,” she says. “They can’t speak for themselves, so we work for them.”

She spends much of her time in the field, setting traps for stray cats.  Summer is “kitten season” and this summer there has been a significant influx of found cats. Cats are first checked for microchips to see if they have owners. “In that instance, it’s pretty awesome to reunite missing pets and owners,” she says.

Cats deemed unowned are vaccinated and neutered. Those who seem social and enjoy people are put up for adoption, and for cats who clearly prefer the outdoor life we find barn homes. “All those outcomes are good ones for the cats and the community,” she says. “That is a big part of the job.”

Other aspects of her job require quick responses to animals in distress. “You might get a call about a building being condemned, which may have cats living it. Or about a dog outside in freezing weather that requires a welfare check,” she says. “So, often there is an urgent nature to the work.”

The SPCA often assists law enforcement with investigations of neglect and animal cruelty along with other partners. “Local law enforcement, local veterinarians, the office of the State Veterinarian and shelters like PM SPCA jump in when needed. Our community is fortunate to have that level of cooperation and collaboration,” she says.

Melinda’s love of animals stemmed from a childhood where her family had dogs, cats, and birds, among other pets. Prior to animal welfare becoming her career, Melinda worked in the education field, while at the same time running a dog walking and pet sitting business. “I was never far away from this work,” she said. When it comes to ‘pet parenting’, Melinda offers this advice for pet owners who might be struggling- “If you need help, please ask. Whether its access to our pet food pantry, our clinics, or advice on pet care, we want to be a helpful resource.”

Melinda shared that while all the aspects of her job are rewarding, she is often overwhelmed by the amazing evolution that can take place when a pet is rescued.  “Some of these pets are so scared, it’s heart-breaking. And the recovery can take a long time. But when a pet isn’t scared anymore and it finally feels happy and safe with its new adopted family- that’s a pretty amazing thing.”