Peppermint Pig Animal Rescue in eastern Cincinnati is a 100% volunteer, foster-based rescue dedicated to helping dogs, cats and other animals in need find safe, loving homes. Southwest Ohio Parent talked to Debbie Owens, a volunteer at Peppermint Pig, to learn more about this organization helping animals in Ohio.
The thrift and gift store is unique. How does it help support the animals?
All monetary donations and proceeds from selling donated goods go directly to the rescue, rehabilitation and care of needy animals in our community. We rescue most of our adoptable pets from open intake shelters, high-kill shelters, and work to rescue and transport from rural areas with high euthanasia rates. Some of our rescues are owner surrenders/surrendered to a vet for medical/financial reasons or found as strays and not claimed. We are primarily a dog and cat rescue, although we do try to help other companion animals (such as birds, reptiles and guinea pigs) when we can.
What role do foster families play?
Our foster families are vital because we can only rescue an animal if we have a foster home for them. Placing the animal directly with a welcoming family is part of the journey we desire for each rescue. Many of our animals have no known background. We want them to begin acclimating to their new lifestyle immediately. When they are adopted, the new family can continue to provide for the animals’ needs, and they will thrive.
Peppermint Pig provides its fosters with all supplies needed to take care of the animal while in their care. Our fosters provide the love and a warm spot to sleep. All of our animals are spayed or neutered and fully up to date on required vaccines as part of the adoption contract.
Are there age-appropriate ways for kids and families to get involved even if they’re not able to adopt an animal?
Yes! We are a non-profit, operated entirely by volunteers. ALL donations received go toward taking care of our rescues. We welcome donations from lemonade stands, craft sales and reading challenges. Kids care about taking care of animals!
Our mission is also education. Kids and families can help by bringing awareness to the needs of strays or injured animals in our community. Not just Peppermint Pig Animal Rescue. There are many small rescues that would appreciate their support.
What is one thing you wish every child knew before bringing a pet into the family?
Adopting a pet is a fantastic experience, but also a serious commitment. Peppermint Pig makes a lifetime commitment to each animal we rescue, and we educate our adopters to understand and accept that commitment, as well. Animals require a safe home, good food, clean water, but also daily attention, training and love.
While every adoption is a success story for Peppermint Pig, there are some that are more impactful and linger in our hearts. The puppies that are picked up on the side of the road, kittens struggling to survive the elements, young mommas that need to be spayed to save them from a lifetime of unplanned pregnancies, or just an animal that ended up with a family whose needs didn’t align, so the family wants the best for the animal and chooses to find a new forever home. We help all that we can.
