We, the undersigned, are residents, advocates, and members of the rescue and animal welfare community who are deeply concerned about the lack of adequate oversight, support, and intervention in local rescue operations.

The recent tragedy at Happy Cat Sanctuary—where countless animals suffered and died—is a devastating reminder of what can happen when our systems fail. This is not just about one sanctuary; it’s about the broader lack of consistent oversight, mental health support, and structural resources for rescue organizations. When these things go unchecked in any part of the rescue community, the consequences can be heartbreaking—not only for the animals, but for the people trying to protect them. Chris gave everything to protect those animals. He created a literal sanctuary. He deserved protection and support from the government as well, not to shoulder it on his own.

This is not an isolated incident. It is part of a larger pattern of under-resourced rescues, lack of municipal accountability, and an absence of proactive wellness checks and mental health support for those in caretaking roles.

We urge the Council to:

Add this issue to the April 8th meeting agenda.

Investigate what went wrong and how oversight failed.

Propose tangible solutions to prevent this from happening again—such as regular, trauma-informed inspections, support for rescue operators, and clear reporting protocols for concerns.

Even if we cannot all be physically present at the meeting, our voices carry weight. Our grief, our frustration, and our hope for change deserve to be heard.

We call for justice—not just retroactively, but preventatively. We stand for the animals, the rescuers, and for a system rooted in accountability and compassion.

Many are assuming I’m claiming that Chris did something wrong, when in fact.. I’m trying to spread awareness of how his compassion should be the standard. There should be laws made in his name. What he was doing, as well as countless others, should be supported, recognized, and lifted. 

Chris Arsenault’s image is included here not to assign blame, but to honor the real and painful complexity of this tragedy. This petition is not an accusation against any individual. It is a call to action—for better systems, better support, and better outcomes for both animals and the people who care for them. We believe in compassion, not condemnation.