In 2004, Eileen and her husband Don bought the mascot package at our Fur Ball so that Joey could demonstrate to our community what wonderful pets may be adopted at shelters and so he could use his sweet and winning ways to promote the use of identification tags and microchips for the safety of pets. He was a truly delightful mascot and we enjoyed the year with him so much. He was always calm and patient and treated every person and animal with love and gentleness. When we did media spots, Joey always behaved like the gentleman he was and won everyone’s heart.
Joey passed away last week of heart failure in Eileen’s arms. No dog could ever be luckier than to be Eileen’s pet. She not only showers love and the best of care on them but she makes sure that they help her to show other people how deeply rewarding it is to save animals’ lives. Eileen has done truly remarkable things to support the Richmond SPCA selflessly and generously and to protect animals with great courage and determination. She is a heroine to us. We were so proud for Joey to be our mascot and our hearts grieve with her for his loss.
Robin Robertson Starr is the chief executive officer of the Richmond SPCA. To read her biography or that of our other bloggers, please click here. Before posting a comment, please review our comment guidelines. Please note that our comment policy requires both your first and last name to be used as your screen name.
i feel the pain- so sorry
Posted by: annie pelfrey | July 25, 2013 at 09:00 PM
I am so deeply sorry to hear about Joey.
Eileen is truly an outstanding animal advocate on all levels.
it is such a privilege to know her.
Eileen is indeed a very special lady.
again, I am so saddened at her and Don's loss of such a wonderful companion and family member.
Pat Manning
Posted by: Pat Manning | July 30, 2013 at 02:32 PM