Jesse Adams, a renowned animal rescuer and the co-founder of RainCoast Dog Rescue, has dedicated his life to finding new homes for pets in need. However, his journey with animal welfare is more complex and multifaceted than just rescuing dogs. Early Life and Inspiration
Jesse Adams’ love for animals was instilled in him from a young age by his mother, who worked in government wildlife management for decades. They had a household filled with various animals, which taught Adams the importance of treating animals with love, respect, and compassion. This upbringing shaped his values and motivated him to pursue a career in animal welfare. Challenges in Animal Rescue
Adams faces numerous challenges in his work, including the post-COVID-19 era, where people decided to adopt dogs without fully considering the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. When the world opened up again, they turned to rescuers to offload them, leaving many in a difficult situation.
- Irresponsibility
- Abandonment
- Lack of preparation
These reasons are often cited as the primary reasons behind the influx of dogs being abandoned. Adams notes that the work can be emotionally, physically, and spiritually demanding, but it is a rewarding experience to see animals rehabilitated and trusting again. Pet Project and Community Engagement
RainCoast Dog Rescue offers resources beyond its rescue service through the Pet Project. This initiative provides free supplies, veterinary care, training, and education to low-income households, supportive housing units, remote communities, and Indigenous communities. By doing so, RainCoast aims to make pet ownership easier and more accessible to those who need it most.
| Programs | Free supplies | Vet care | Training | Education |
| Initiative | For low-income households | For supportive housing units | For remote communities | For Indigenous communities |
“We get so much stuff donated that we can go into places like low-income homes, supportive housing units, remote communities, and Indigenous communities and offer free supplies, vet care, training, and education,”
said Jesse Adams. Advocating for Animal Welfare
Adams has been involved in local First Nations communities, providing spay and neuter clinics and speaking at schools and universities. He has also partnered with UVic law students to develop a new framework of standards and bylaws for animal welfare. Progressive Community
The Cowichan Tribes community is one of the progressive communities Adams has worked with. He notes that they are “very progressive” and “very proud” of their work. The new framework of standards and bylaws is a significant achievement, and it will take time for the community to implement it, but Adams is optimistic about the future.
- Developing a new framework of standards and bylaws
- Partnering with UVic law students
- Providing spay and neuter clinics
Soke Transition House Society and Local Community Engagement
RainCoast Dog Rescue collaborates with the Sooke Transition House Society, helping women who use their services to find temporary placements for their animals. This support is crucial for these women, as some transition houses do not allow animals, leaving them at risk of being abused.
Conclusion
While Jesse Adams’ work with RainCoast Dog Rescue is focused on rescuing dogs, it is more than just a pet rescue. It is a testament to his dedication to animal welfare and his commitment to making a positive impact on his community. By providing resources, advocating for animal welfare, and engaging with local communities, Adams is working towards creating a better world for animals and their owners. As he says, “If you see something that doesn’t seem right — if you see something that seems abusive — don’t hold it in. Report it. Say something about it. Be vocal.
