City of Utica Develops Strategic Partnership with Rover’s Do Over and Wanderers’ Rest to Elevate Animal Welfare and Community Engagement

Utica, NY – July 9, 2024 – After operating without a contract for over a year, the responsibility for caring for stray dogs fell into the hands of City Officials. Recognizing the need to reevaluate and enhance their approach to addressing city strays, the City is proud to announce an innovative collaboration aimed at improving the lives of stray dogs and fostering stronger community bonds.

Beyond immediate improvements and the successful contract agreement with Wanderers’ Rest, the City seized the opportunity to address the unique challenges of overflow dogs housed at the city maintenance garage. They have now developed an additional partnership with a local nonprofit animal rescue organization, Rover’s Do Over (RDO), based in Frankfort, NY.

Utica City Mayor Michael Galime stated, “We are on a mission that transcends mere policy. We envision a lasting impact on animal welfare by continuing to implement best practices and building a more connected community. As we work toward our mission, we recognize that being financially responsible is essential. By optimizing our resources and using innovative solutions, we can achieve our goals while ensuring long-term financial stability.”

Rover’s Do Over is volunteering its expertise to the City of Utica through a partnership that coincides with the City’s current contract. By aligning efforts, they aim to create a seamless transition for dogs moving between the City and Wanderers’ Rest while assisting with the care of overflow stray dogs under the City’s care. Chelsea Williamson, RDO Founder, emphasized, “As a vital link bridging the city and the community, we recognize the significance of transparency. Our goal is to champion animal welfare in Utica, streamline the adoption process and ensure every dog finds a loving forever home.”

The Utica Police Department also plays a pivotal role in the partnership and Mayor Galime further stated, “We commend the Police Department’s willingness to take action and provide support for these animals during the transition period. Additionally, their open communication and cooperative approach in collaborating with Wanderers’ Rest and Rover’s Do Over demonstrates the mutual commitment to improving the welfare of our city’s animals.”

The collaborative effort believes that resources and education play a pivotal role in creating a compassionate and responsible community. They will provide community outreach to increase awareness of responsible pet ownership, pet owner resources, animal welfare and the importance of adoption.

Wanderers’ Rest is dedicated to providing the highest quality care and compassion for the animals entrusted to them. Sarah Murdie, Executive Director of Wanderers’ Rest, stated, “This joint effort allows us to combine resources and work together to strengthen our commitment to enhancing adoptability and increasing the rate of re-homing pets while educating and leading our community to a more humane society.”

Since its inception in January 2024, Rover’s Do Over has successfully found placements for 107 dogs in need. With a mission that extends beyond animal rescue, RDO aims to redefine the role animal rescue plays in the community. “Success lies in our collective effort to find solutions for these animals. Unity is the key to making a real difference in their lives. Let us prioritize the well-being of the dogs above all else,” Williamson concluded.

For more information about Rover’s Do Over and how you can get involved, please visit www.roversdoover.com. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, fostering, adopting, or donating, there are many ways to support RDO’s mission. Follow Rover’s Do Over on social media for the latest updates and events, or contact them directly at roversdoover@gmail.com.

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Contact:

Chelsea Williamson, Founder, Rover’s Do Over, at (315) 731-0980;
Michael P. Galime, Mayor, City of Utica, at (315) 792-0100 X 5;
Sarah Murdie, Executive Director, Wanderers’ Rest, at (315) 697-2796