YOUR STORIES: Surprise Donation Makes Big Impact at Vincennes Animal Shelter

VINCENNES, Ind. (We Are Knox County) - What began as an ordinary day at the Vincennes Animal Shelter quickly turned into something extraordinary—thanks to a surprise visit from a familiar face.

Dr. Renee Bartlett, a longtime friend and supporter of the shelter, walked through the doors last Wednesday with an unexpected gift: a $40,000 donation.

“It took your breath away. It absolutely took your breath away,” said Shelter Director Leah Reagan.

The generous contribution is already making a difference.

Reagan told WAKC News Now that the donation will help cover medical care, food and supplies, and additional updates to the shelter’s facility.

“All those concerns you have—about how we’re going to be able to afford to do this for this animal or that for that animal—it’s going to alleviate some of that pressure,” Reagan said.

Dr. Bartlett’s commitment to the shelter runs deep, touching the lives of not just the staff, but every animal she’s helped along the way.

Reagan says she visits at least once a week and has done everything from adopting animals to personally covering the cost of heartworm treatments.

“Way back when I first started here—back in 2013—she would pull up with a whole truckload of donations: dog food, cat food, cat litter, and all kinds of things we needed,” Reagan recalled.

Reagan says Dr. Bartlett holds a special place in the hearts of both the staff and the animals at the shelter.

“She is definitely a part of our shelter family. We’re happy to have her here with us.”

While the donation is a standout moment for the shelter, Reagan says it’s not just about the big gifts.

Community support—big and small—makes the shelter’s mission possible.

Whether it's walking dogs, cuddling with cats, or dropping off a few blankets and treats, Reagan says it all adds up. “This is not our shelter, this is the community’s shelter so. The community support means everything to us. We couldn’t do it without it.”

The Vincennes Animal Shelter welcomes anyone looking to make a difference.

The shelter is located at 1128 River Road in Vincennes, and is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: WAKC News Now asked Dr. Renee Bartlett for an interview, but our request was declined.