Maggie Society has helped thousands of dogs in ENC

Sweet Pea, an 8-week old Shepherd mix, is one of the many dogs available for adoption through The Maggie Society. Submitted photo

What started as a concept has been a saving grace for many canines in Eastern North Carolina.

Thousands of dogs have been rescued through The Maggie Society, a Wilson-based organization dedicated to helping homeless, neglected and abandoned animals find homes. Foster workers provide the dogs with temporary homes, teaching house manners and helping them integrate toward being in a family environment, while other volunteers assist in transporting the canines to permanent locations.

“My husband and I were involved in other rescue organizations and we saw a greater need for a foster-base rescue here in Wilson and Eastern North Carolina,” Maggie Society Founder Laurie Blumfield said. “There are so many dogs in need of homes and we gave it a shot.”

Blumfield said the community has been more than welcoming in its support through necessities and volunteering time.

“We have wonderful people who have donated financially and with products such as cleaning supplies, dog food, leashes, towels, bleach and wipes,” Blumfield said. “We put the call out and the community either drops it off or sends supplies through Amazon Prime.”

She continued, “We also have a foster application online people can fill out. We check on vetting and make sure the dogs are up-to-date on vaccines to ensure safety. We’re definitely appreciative for those who can provide commitment and TLC for the dogs.”

Among those volunteering with The Maggie Society is Kinston resident Hope Woolard, who said she hopes others locally assist.

“This has been a great organization and over the years my family and I have rescued 93 dogs, finding them all homes,” Woolard said. “We’re always looking for foster families and I would be a part of anyone’s support group in Kinston if they’re willing to volunteer their time.”

For more information about The Maggie Society, to donate or fill out a foster application, visit themaggiesociety.com.