Bay State Animal Cooperative
A Safe, Loving, No Kill Rescue for our Animals
Board of Directors
Marcia Motta
Founder and President
I founded the Bay State Animal Cooperative, a 501(c)3 animal rescue organization in 2009 and proudly serve as the volunteer President, foster caregiver, treasurer and trapper. As an animal advocate since childhood, I am proud to stand by other passionate volunteers and directors that help mold this organization. I have supported a no-kill philosophy since I can remember and it is the back-bone of my everyday life with animals.
Animal rescue, advocacy, support and welfare has been my destiny and I have actively pursued this passion since the early 1980’s. Though it all began in 1964 a small town in NH where I raised with an array of rodents, rabbits, dogs, reptiles and great “human” family support.
I currently share my home with two dogs, Bailey and Anderson, and my cat, Talia, in addition to several long foster cats. I have two grown independent daughters and a son who all share their lives with adopted cats and dogs.
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Emmanuel College. I have completed many animal science and veterinary technician courses. In 2017, I passed the Veterinary Technician National Exam and am a Massachusetts Certified Veterinary Technician. Additionally, I have held many roles over the years involving animals including; TNR specialist, executive director of another no-kill rescue group, member of the mass animal coalition, and partner with animal control officers, rescues, businesses and schools to educate and assist with feline rescue and adoption.
As a professional pet sitter and dog walker I feel lucky to be able to share every day with animals while assisting pet owners. The coordination of many past and present part-time professions has allowed me to rescue, care for, adopt and spay/neuter thousands of felines over the past 20 years of my life while experiencing many memories with my friends and family.
Though life is hectic and a bit overwhelming at times, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Rita Crowell
Vice President
I am a retired high school Science Department Director with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Masters degree. I taught for 30 years and have had various volunteer experiences throughout that time.
My experience with BSAC has grown by stages. BSAC was the group that I first encountered as a result of kitten visitors in my yard. I needed help and BSAC had suggestions and advice. After a short time, my interest in cats, the attitude of the public towards cats, and how I could help to make the lives of cats and kittens better sent me in a new direction. Educating individuals to help themselves and the cats in their neighborhoods are important to me. BSAC provided the framework for my interests and a way to move forward to provide that help. The goals of the organization are core values that I can support. As a result I became the BSAC shelter manager at a place where myself, and many volunteers would house and care for cats and kittens that were waiting for forever homes.
I am an ardent supporter of animal rights using various internet petition sites, including paid memberships to many animal support groups
My present position at BSAC is vice president. I perform various volunteer functions in the group:
Maintain the pictures and bios on Petfinder of our available cats and kittens
Track of all trapping equipment (including pickup and delivery)
- Perform TNR (trap, neuter, return) in the community and track colony locations
- Provide temporary foster care for many cats and kittens that are transitioning to foster or adoptive homes
- Build and maintain shelters and feeding stations for feral cat colonies
- Transport cats to doctor appointments, spay/neuter
- Post pictures and biographies of our cats in a flyer that is
- distributed to vet offices and clinics and pet stores
- Process adoption applications, when added help is needed
Michele Taranto
Director
I am the volunteer coordinator with the Bay State Animal Cooperative and could not be happier with my choice of volunteer work. I was first introduced to Bay State approximately 18 years ago when I was looking for a companion for my adult cat. I was introduced to a friendly feral cat named Cinnamon, and while my family thought my cat was too attached to me to share his home, it could not have been a better fit. They were best friends, and Cinnamon is still with me today at 20 years old!
I started out volunteering with fundraising and administration and was happy to expand my services to volunteer coordinator and working with the cats within our adoption center. I am proud to be a member of BSAC not only because of their no-kill philosophy, but also with its dedication to providing valuable resources to reduce animal overpopulation, assisting pet owners who would otherwise have not humane alternative and educating young and old about rescuing and caring for animals. I also attracted to BSAC as the organization takes in special needs and older cats and will care for them until the exact fit if found...as long as it take. There is no better feeling than finding the purrfect forever home for our beloved felines and brightening the lives of their new families.
I currently have three cats, all adopted through BSAC. I am a Realtor with Keller Williams and love the fact that I not only help find homes for people but for cats who, without BSAC, might not benefit from a second chance to be part of a loving family.
Lesley Rogers
Director of Programs
Although my official start in animal welfare was only within the past few years, I have been an animal lover throughout my life. I grew up with cats and currently have two rescues, Kiki and Munchie, and I couldn’t imagine my days without them! In addition, my home is frequently utilized as an emergency haven for cats that must immediately be removed from a dangerous situation. Providing them with the love and gentle attention they need to gain reassurance in humans before moving on to a more permanent placement is incredibly rewarding.
I received my BA in English/Sociology and MS in Human Resource Development and spent most of my professional life in HR and office management. When the pandemic hit in 2020, I decided there was no better time to focus on what I’ve always wanted to do, which is to save and improve the lives of animals. I started out at a large shelter in Boston, learning the ropes of animal care and shelter programs and policies, and then moved on to a cat-only shelter in a directorial role. During this time, I also earned a certificate in Animal Shelter Management and it has given me a wealth of knowledge on best practices and goals for successful and impactful animal-centric organizations.
I am so happy to have joined BSAC. I was drawn to the philosophy of not only no-kill, but that we are not limited to any single way of helping animals and the people who love them. We recognize that while we strive to place animals in homes through adoption, there are other functions we can fulfill that are just as critical and meaningful like spay/neuter and vet care assistance, community outreach events such as our annual dog wash, providing opportunities for education in the fields of animal welfare and pet ownership, and supporting long term fosters with animals that may remain in our care for their entire lifetime.
In my role, I will continue to work on all aspects of BSAC’s mission and partner with our wonderful team to pinpoint even more ways we can assist our community.
Kristi McCarthy
Director of Operations
Having been an animal lover from a young age, I am so happy to be able to volunteer with BSAC as Director of Operations. Growing up, our family had a range of pets, including dogs, cats, bunnies, fish, and even a snapping turtle at one point. I first learned of BSAC years ago while my sister was volunteering for them. Our first cat, Louie, was adopted through Bay State and he was the most wonderful kitty!! BSAC’s no-kill philosophy and humane approach to animal rescue is what
drew me to volunteer with the organization. Volunteering for this amazing organization allows me to continue to foster my love of animals, specifically cats.
Outside of BSAC, I am a kindergarten teacher. Working with animals can sometimes be a nice reprieve from working with kids! I also have an adorable Old English Sheepdog named Remi.
Jessica Jesenik
Clerk
Jessica brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion to BSAC as the Clerk to the Board of Directors. Since adopting her cat, Lexie, from BSAC in 2009, Jessica has experienced firsthand the transformative power of animal companionship. For over two decades, she has admired the significant contributions BSAC has made to the community and the difference the organization has made in the lives of so many suffering animals.
As Volunteer Clerk, she takes a step toward deeper understanding of the nonprofit's operations and is excited to contribute more directly to its mission.
Professionally, Jessica is the Global Nonprofit Industry Lead at SoftwareOne Impact. SoftwareOne Impact is a dedicated group within the larger global technology and software services company, SoftwareOne. In her full-time work, she has the pleasure of helping nonprofit organizations across various causes with technology solutions that amplify their mission and enhance their service delivery. This role reflects her dedication to making a meaningful difference in the world, leveraging her expertise to support nonprofits in scaling their impact.
Jessica is an animal advocate at heart and believes in the power of technology to foster positive change. She is enthusiastic about the future and possibilities for BSAC.
www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-jesenik-2389575a
Meet Our Cats
Featured Cats for Adoption Applications can be downloaded here
Basil (Bonded with Mira)
Meet Basil
Mira and Basil are two adorable cats available for adoption. They are a bonded pair, which means they must be adopted together. Having come from a hoarding situation, they are understandably shy and wary of humans. However, they are gradually making progress in their foster home. When alone in their foster room, they explore and relax together on the cat tree. Basil, in particular, has started to come out more to play and enjoy some snacks. Watching Mira and Basil cuddle up together is heartwarming, as they share a special bond. Adopting a bonded pair like Mira and Basil can be incredibly rewarding. It can be challenging to introduce cats to each other, but with a bonded pair, you get twice the love and help two best friends stay together. Basil has an adorably goofy face that will surely make you smile and laugh. Mira, while more reserved, clearly loves and protects Basil. Her thoughtful and intelligent eyes, along with her love for treats, make her truly endearing. Basil was recently diagnosed with a grade 3 heart murmur and we took him to a cardiologist for a full workup. No medical intervention is required at this time. Mira and Basil require patience, but the reward of helping cats like them gain confidence is immense. They are making progress every day and deserve a loving forever home where they can continue to thrive together.
If you are interested in adopting Mira and Basil, you can complete a non-commitment application on our website: www.baystateanimals.org or cut and paste the application link below: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIZOY9nMLLFFSLbblBd7C8A_0KBaorWtAvhbGoElNJDII-Jw/viewform?c=0&w=1
We have a $175 adoption fee for each cat ($350 for the pair) that includes; spay or neuter, age appropriate vaccines, feline leukemia test, FIV test if over 6 months of age, microchip, flea treatment and roundworm treatment as needed, additional treatments as deemed necessary. Thank you and if you do not hear from one of our volunteers in a reasonable amount of time please do not hesitate
Meet Momma Brady
About Momma Brady
Meet Momma Brady!
Mama Brady has been an extraordinary mother to her six adorable kittens — 3 boys and 3 girls — who are now ready to find their own homes. With her babies soon leaving the nest, Mama Brady is looking for her own forever home where she can be the center of attention and adored by her humans.
Sweet and gentle, Mama Brady loves being petted and will melt your heart with her calm demeanor and affectionate nature. This beautiful girl is ready to bring love and joy into your life — are you ready to let her steal your heart?
If you are interested in adopting Mama Brady, you can complete a non-commitment application on our website: www.baystateanimals.org or cut and paste the application link below: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIZOY9nMLLFFSLbblBd7C8A_0KBaorWtAvhbGoElNJDII-Jw/viewform?c=0&w=1
We have a $175 adoption fee for each cat that includes; spay or neuter, age appropriate vaccines, feline leukemia test, FIV test if over 6 months of age, microchip, flea treatment and roundworm treatment as needed, additional treatments as deemed necessary. Thank you and if you do not hear from one of our volunteers in a reasonable amount of time please do not hesitate to contact us at: info@baystateanimals.org
Meet Salem
About Salem
**Meet Salem: Your New Shy and Sweet Companion!**
Salem is a gentle, affectionate girl searching for her forever home. After raising her kittens, she's ready to leave her mothering days behind and find a place where she can be truly cherished.
Salem may be a bit reserved at first, but don't let her shyness fool you. With a little patience and understanding, she’ll reveal her loving nature and become a loyal and devoted friend. Once she feels safe and secure, her sweet personality will shine through.
If you have a quiet home and a warm heart, Salem might just be the perfect addition to your family.
Adoption Details:
If you are interested in adopting Salem, you can complete a non-commitment application on our website: www.baystateanimals.org or cut and paste the application link below: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIZOY9nMLLFFSLbblBd7C8A_0KBaorWtAvhbGoElNJDII-Jw/viewform?c=0&w=1
We have a $175 adoption fee for each cat that includes; spay or neuter, age appropriate vaccines, feline leukemia test, FIV test if over 6 months of age, microchip, flea treatment and roundworm treatment as needed, additional treatments as deemed necessary. Thank you and if you do not hear from one of our volunteers in a reasonable amount of time please do not hesitate to contact us at: info@baystateanimals.org
Meet Mira
About Mira
Mira and Basil are two adorable cats available for adoption. They are a bonded pair, which means they must be adopted together. Having come from a hoarding situation, they are understandably shy and wary of humans. However, they are gradually making progress in their foster home. When alone in their foster room, they explore and relax together on the cat tree. Basil, in particular, has started to come out more to play and enjoy some snacks. Watching Mira and Basil cuddle up together is heartwarming, as they share a special bond. Adopting a bonded pair like Mira and Basil can be incredibly rewarding. It can be challenging to introduce cats to each other, but with a bonded pair, you get twice the love and help two best friends stay together. Basil has an adorably goofy face that will surely make you smile and laugh. Mira, while more reserved, clearly loves and protects Basil. Her thoughtful and intelligent eyes, along with her love for treats, make her truly endearing. Basil was recently diagnosed with a grade 3 heart murmur and we took him to a cardiologist for a full workup. No medical intervention is required at this time. Mira and Basil require patience, but the reward of helping cats like them gain confidence is immense. They are making progress every day and deserve a loving forever home where they can continue to thrive together.
If you are interested in adopting Mira and Basil, you can complete a non-commitment application on our website: www.baystateanimals.org or cut and paste the application link below: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIZOY9nMLLFFSLbblBd7C8A_0KBaorWtAvhbGoElNJDII-Jw/viewform?c=0&w=1
We have a $175 adoption fee for each cat ($350 for the pair) that includes; spay or neuter, age appropriate vaccines, feline leukemia test, FIV test if over 6 months of age, microchip, flea treatment and roundworm treatment as needed, additional treatments as deemed necessary. Thank you and if you do not hear from one of our volunteers in a reasonable amount of time please do not hesitate
Meet Pineapple
About Pineapple
UPDATE: Pineapple had a dental exam. This poor boy needs all of his teeth removed. Major issues. Additionally, during his time outdoors his tail had been de-gloved at some point and has not healed properly. We will try antibiotics and debriding but he may need a portion amputated. He’s beyond forgiving of what humans have done to him. BSAC will address his medical issues but he is still ready for his forever GOOD humans to show him true love!!!!
Donations towards his estimated $2,500 bill welcomed
Meet Pineapple! This sweet boy originally hails from the sunshine state of Florida and traveled all the way to Mass to find his forever home. After an unfortunate false start with his previous owner, Pineapple found his way to us and we are so excited to get him on his way to his happily ever after. If you're looking for a new best friend, you've found him! Pineapple wastes no time curling up on an empty lap and appreciates love and attention from admiring humans.
If you are interested in adopting Pineapple, you can complete a non-commitment application on our website: www.baystateanimals.org or cut and paste the application link below:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIZOY9nMLLFFSLbblBd7C8A_0KBaorWtAvhbGoElNJDII-Jw/viewform?c=0&w=1
We have a $175 adoption fee for our cats that includes; spay or neuter, age appropriate vaccines, feline leukemia test, FIV test if over 6 months of age, microchip, flea treatment and roundworm treatment as needed, additional treatments as deemed necessary.
Thank you and if you do not hear from one of our volunteers in a reasonable amount of time please do not hesitate to reach out to us!
Meet Earl
About Earl
Earl is almost 12 and has a pink nose. Earl could probably live with other cats but we do not know his dog preference as he has not been exposed to dogs.
Earl enjoys pats but does not like to be held. Earl is independent and not afraid of strangers.
Earl has a cardiac condition requiring daily medications. Though he is currently acting like a kitten he is surely compromised and needs a new owner ready to take on this challenge. He’s worth every bit of the care he needs. It’s all about making sure Earl lives a healthy retirement.
Children should be fine for Earl.
Up to date on all shots and I have all medical records.Sponsor Our Long Term Foster Cats.....
These semi-feral cats live a comfortable life together, but they need your sponsorship. Please consider a monthly contribution to sponsor one of these cats so we can continue to keep them safe! We need special food, medication and veterinary care for these beautiful cats and your help is needed!
To sponsor, please pledge any denomination through the website or send a monthly check to:
Bay State Animal Cooperative, Inc. PO BOX # 932 Norwood, MA 02062 to support these long term fosters expenses.
Let’s first first clarify what we consider a long-term foster cat. A long term foster cat is one we have taken in as a surrender or rescued during a trap-neuter-return situation. A long term foster could be a compromised cat taken from a local kill shelter that was not willing to spend their funds or their time on an “unadoptable, imperfect” cat, and in our professional opinion is worth saving and loving in the manner they deserve.
We too have determined these creatures to be atypical and adoption is not a great option but long term fostering fits their needs.
What makes a cat a long term foster cat in our opinion, depends on many factors. In some cases, the cats can be aggressive towards humans, but love fellow kitties. In some cases, the cat is rescued with one or more diseases, injuries, or ailments that most adoptive parents are not looking for. In some cases, the kitties were rescued or surrendered for all the right reasons, but in the end, were determined to be creatures who would not do well in the general human population.
Like all things, the ability to sustain a long term foster cat’s existence, depends upon resources, and many many sacrifices. Sacrifices and resources shared by the long-term foster caretakers and our organization.
We need sponsors to help us help them for the entirety of their lives.
Help us to continue the care for our long-term fosters.
What your monthly donation makes possible:
$10: litter for 1 month
$12: flea treatment for 1 month
$15: food for 1 month
$20:
$25: Annual exam and core annual vaccines
$35: annual wellness or senior blood work
$50: sick/disease related work ups to evaluate quality of life.
Quality of life, priceless!
Meet Pete
About Pete
Where does his story begin? Pete was rescued from the great outdoors like so many other kittens. He and his siblings were on the older side of kittenhood and slightly harder to socialize. Ideally 8 - 12 weeks of age is an ideal guideline for easier socialization leading to adoption. Pete and his siblings were 3 to 4 months and needless to say, their socializing was a bit longer. However they were ready for new homes and he and his 2 siblings were all adopted to the same fabulous family. Pete, however, did not transition well and cowed in the corners, slithered from place to place, (unlike how he acted at his fosters) and it was agreed by the new parents and BSAC that he should return to the only home he'd ever known - his foster. Pete loved being back in what is now his "long-term" foster where he demonstrates common behaviours of outdoor kitties. As such, he is considered "un-adoptable". He marks his territory, bullies the new foster cats, but has grown to love his humans and select roommates.Controlling his environment has curbed his need to express bad behaviours. That's just what we do!
How can you help Pete? Consider sponsoring him with a monthly donation in his name through our website or send a check to Bay State Animal Cooperative, Inc. PO BOX # 932 Norwood, MA 02062
JR
JR
Snuggle time! Its important we all share the same bed.
Indoor/Outdoor cat sanctuary
Volunteer
WHAT WE NEED:
Volunteer Coordinators
Foster Parents
Adoption Coordinators
Adoption Counselors (we will train you)
Animal Transport- to and from vet appointments
Fund-Raising Coordinators
- Administrative Assistants
Pick up and transport of donated food-in your car or truck (mileage is tax-deductible!)
Grant Writers
and more...new ideas are always welcome!
Please fill out a volunteer application form on-line.
Connect With Us
Our Social media links:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
