E60: What makes Kelley Long with Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue a good neighbor?  

Finding Forever Homes: The Inspiring Story of Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue

For 21 years, Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue has been transforming the lives of animals and humans alike in Kennesaw, Georgia. As revealed in a recent Good Neighbor Podcast episode, this non-profit organization has built an impressive legacy of saving dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and even the occasional horse, giving them second chances at loving homes. Located in downtown Kennesaw, their rescue center serves as a beacon of hope for animals in need throughout the community.

The organization's Executive Director, Kelly Long, shared her remarkable personal journey from corporate America to animal rescue. Like many of us, Kelly was once ensconced in the high-stress world of mortgage banking. Her life took an unexpected turn when she adopted two male cattle dog mix siblings who, in her words, "literally ate my sofa." Despite the challenges, these dogs completely transformed Kelly's heart and perspective. This profound connection with her adopted pets inspired her to begin volunteering with Mostly Mutts about a decade ago, which eventually evolved into her current leadership role. Her story exemplifies how following one's passion can lead to more fulfilling work and profound personal transformation.

One of the most valuable aspects of the interview was Kelly's effort to dispel common misconceptions about animal shelters and rescue organizations. She emphasized the collaborative relationship between Mostly Mutts and local animal control facilities, noting that these facilities don't hastily euthanize animals as many people fear. Instead, they work diligently to find homes for the animals in their care. Kelly also addressed concerns about aggressive behavior in rescue animals, explaining their thorough temperament assessment process. Each animal at Mostly Mutts works with professional trainers who not only teach basic obedience but also identify any potential behavioral issues that might affect adoption. This careful screening ensures that families can find pets that match their lifestyle and needs.

Perhaps most impressive is Mostly Mutts' commitment to post-adoption support. Recognizing that bringing a new pet home can be both joyful and challenging, they offer free training for the life of any dog adopted from their facility. Their training center, located in the basement of their thrift store on Bells Ferry Road, provides everything from basic obedience classes to personalized consultations. This ongoing support system helps ensure successful adoptions and strengthens the bond between pets and their new families. It also removes a significant barrier to adoption, as professional training can otherwise be quite expensive for many potential pet owners.

At its core, Mostly Mutts is "an organization with a lot of heart," as Kelly beautifully summarized. They offer numerous volunteer opportunities for community members who want to contribute to their mission, even if they aren't currently able to adopt. Whether you're looking to add a furry family member to your home, seeking meaningful volunteer work, or simply want to support a worthy cause, Mostly Mutts welcomes your involvement. Their website, MostlyMutts.org, provides comprehensive information about adoption processes, volunteer opportunities, and their thrift store, making it easy for anyone interested to get involved.

To learn more about Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue go to: 

https://www.mostlymutts.org/

Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue

(770) 539-5918