Veterinarian and animal rights advocate remembered for her love and dedication to animals
Many pet owners in western New New Brunswick were saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Mildred Allison on Tuesday, March 4.
Dr. Allison started DunRoamin’ Stray and Rescue in Florenceville-Bristol, a non-profit, no-kill shelter that helps sick, injured, and abused strays. The veterinarian also started A Dozen Roses Animal Rescue, which finds loving homes for cats and dogs who have been neglected or turned out because of temperament, breed, or overcrowding in the current shelter system.
Mandy Hamilton is a former veterinary technician who worked with Dr. Allison at the Florenceville Vet Clinic from 2011 to 2017.
“Working alongside Mil… was unforgettable,” said Hamilton. “She was such a storyteller with a brand of humour that was all her own and was unapologetically herself at all times.”
After leaving the clinic, Hamilton continued working with Dr. Allison when she volunteered with DunRoamin’.
“Being able to witness her passion for animals and dedication to advocacy was inspiring. I’m beyond grateful for the time I spent with her, and from my glimpse into that brief window of her life, I know that this is a profound loss for so many.”
Hamilton’s comments are echoed by everyone who has ever worked with Dr. Allison.
“While most of us go through our lives with the goal of trying to do our best, be successful, and support our friends and family, Dr. Alison not only met this goal but surpassed it,” said Dr. Berdina Baker, Vice President of the New Brunswick Veterinary Medical Association.
Baker says Dr. Alison’s impact will be everlasting because of her generosity in sharing her wisdom with others who share her passion for animal welfare.
“From allowing (me) to volunteer at the Florenceville Veterinary clinic, to being able to work alongside her, (Dr. Alison) shared her wisdom, knowledge, and of course, a bit of her red-headed determination.”
A Dozen Roses Vice President Valerie Furge said Dr. Allison couldn’t say no to a pet in need, which is how A Dozen Roses started.
“(She became) aware of a dog that would be euthanized and needed a place to stay for the night en route to a no-kill shelter. This caused her to think there needed to be a place for dogs who didn’t fit the traditional shelter system.”
Since the organization opened in 2021, it has found forever homes for approximately 200 dogs.
Furge said Dr. Alison treated approximately 80 per cent of the animals that went through A Dozen Roses and was instrumental in their care.
Since opening in 1999, DunRoamin’ has been a beloved Carleton County organization, helping to treat over 5,000 stray cats and dogs over its 26 years.
When she wasn’t busy saving animals, Dr. Allison enjoyed writing and published her book, “Until One Has Loved an Animal: How Pets Affected One Vet’s Soul,” in 2013.
In announcing Dr. Allison’s passing, DunRoamin posted a tribute on their webpage, which included an image of Mildred visiting pets at Rainbow Bridge.
“The world suffered a profound loss with the passing of Dr. Mildred Allison this past Tuesday,” the post reads. “Mildred founded DunRoamin’ Stray and Rescue and A Dozen Roses Animal Rescue, passionately leading by example as a fierce advocate for change. She was a mentor to so many and a voice for the voiceless, impacting thousands of lives for the better. She will be remembered not only for the lives she saved but for the inspiration she gave to countless others to continue her fight. Rest in peace, Mildred, with your loyal pack by your side as your incredible legacy lives on.”
