Many in Westchester know Tara as she has spent the better part of the last decade fighting for animals - all animals, especially those that others would have given up on. Her work in animal welfare unsurprisingly lead to her owning 5 rescued dogs from all walks of life and behavioural needs and a homing pigeon that found itself unable to make the journey home. Tara has devoted her life to saving the lives of those who don't have a voice to save themselves, but today it is Tara who needs our help.

This morning 5/14 an hour after leaving for work at the animal shelter she manages, Tara received a call that her home was on fire. Tara raced back home to find that the fire had claimed the life of her pigeon, but that her 5 dogs has made it out. The dogs were all taken to a nearby vet due to smoke inhalation and burns. We do not know yet the full extent of their injuries, but 2 of the 5 are being transported to Cornell as they in critical condition. As you can imagine, this is the most unfortunately and unfathomable tragedy that could happen to someone like Tara, who would quite literally go to hell and back for her pets.

While we wait for more developments on the condition for her fur children, I am asking for your generosity in easing the burden on his savior of animals. Between the vet bills, Cornell specialist care, and demage to the home, Tara will be facing a mountain of expenses that would be difficult for anyone, but particularly for someone who is in her line of work. Her personal Venmo is @tmercado19 if you would prefer to reach out directly. All donations will go directly to the veterinary bills for Tali (shepherd mix), Ava (pocket pittie), Winston (senior pittie), Drake(St. Bernard), and Goldie (senior greyhound) and the damage caused by the fire. Thank you !!