A New Leash on Life
The New Leash on Life Program gives animal lovers the reassurance that their companion animals left behind will spend their quiet years being cared for in loving homes.
Upon admission to the New Leash on Life Program, each animal receives a complete veterinary examination from medical staff knowledgeable in geriatric and shelter medicine. They are placed into our New Leash on Life residences in our shelters where they are carefully monitored and provided with daily medical support and socialization until a permanent loving home is found.
Full-time staff and volunteers provide the cats and dogs with companionship, quality playtime and exercise along with the required daily care.
To enter into this program, your pet must pass our medical and behavior examinations.
How do I participate in the program?
Most people include a provision in their will with the necessary funds set aside to provide for the costs of their pets. For more information, please contact Darlene Larsen at Bideawee (410 East 38th Street, New York, NY 10016) so that when we are called upon we can act quickly to admit your animal to our care. You can also call her at 646.619.7231.
What happens in your medical and behavior examinations?
The medical examination is to ensure that your animal is free of any contagious diseases that could risk the health of our other residents. We test cats and dogs for common, communicable illnesses and diseases. A recent medical history or records from your pet will also help us in the examination.
Most animals are able to live happy healthy lives in temporary communal living centers. Though rare, some animals experience acute stress reactions to living in close quarters to other animals, usually demonstrated by the development of aggression toward other animals or people.
The behavior examination is performed by our expertly trained behaviorists to assess if the pet is social and will be able to adjust comfortably to a different living environment. Our trainers are always available to help resident animals develop good manners and re-direct, if possible, any fearful or anxious behaviors that may delay adjustment to the new environment.
What happens if my animals don't pass these tests?
To preserve the mental and physical health and safety of both our current residents and the animal applicant, Bideawee may decline admittance.
To address any medical or behavioral issues your animal is currently experiencing. Please take advantage of Bideawee's veterinary services or training seminars and sessions.
May I tour the Adoption Centers and/or New Leash on Life Residences?
Tours are always encouraged. To schedule an appointment please contact our Planned Giving Department.
What will happen to my animal(s) upon admission?
All animals admitted to Bideawee are first placed in isolation for several days to ensure that they have not recently contracted a communicable ailment such as a cold or infection. The animal is then immediately transferred to the Adoption Center or New Leash on Life residences. We attempt to keep all sibling groups together as this eases the transition.
My animal has a medical condition; are you able to give the care required?
We have facilities specifically designed to provide medical care to geriatric animals. The medical staff cares for the animals in a full-service medical suite.
What is your policy on euthanasia?
Bideawee only euthanizes an animal if it is incurably ill and suffering.
I want my animals to stay together, either in the Adoption Center or retirement home, and should they be adopted, I would like them to be adopted together. Is this permitted?
Bideawee does our best to accommodate this request. However, to ensure that your circumstances meet our adoption guidelines, we encourage you to call us.
Should my animals be placed in the Adoption Center, may I request that they be placed in only Manhattan, Wantagh, or Westhampton?
Yes.
What documents does Bideawee need to have on file?
Having these documents helps Bideawee quickly admit your animal to our care when we are called upon to do so.
Do you have recommended legal language that I should use in my Will?
Yes! We are happy to provide this language upon request.
I wish to sign up for the program, but don't wish to have a Will to probate. Do you have any suggestions?
There are several alternatives to creating a Will should you wish to avoid probate, such as creating a Trust or naming Bideawee as the recipient of your retirement benefits. However, you should consult with your legal counsel before finalizing your plans for your animals.
For more information, please contact us.
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