Stoughton Woman Gives Animal Control Gifts For Her Birthday

STOUGHTON, MA — Animal Control Officer Joshua Heal was out of work for a few months with an injury. And when he returned to work Tuesday, he came back to a "fantastic surprise" thanks to one Stoughton woman. Instead of asking for gifts for her 40th birthday, Janice Lourenco had her friends and family give her pet supplies, which she donated to the animal control department.

For Lourenco, June 19 wasn't just her 40th birthday party, but a huge milestone because at 28, she was diagnosed with Leukemia.

"Not every girl wants to admit they're 40, but for me it was a big deal ..." Lourenco told Patch. "I never thought I'd make it to 30, never mind 40.

Lourenco said she had a cookout at her parents house with all her friends and family. She told them she didn't want gifts, but wanted to do something special Stoughton Animal Control.

Lourenco said she was happy to help because it will make all the dogs and cats at animal control feel more comfortable, but for her it was more personal. She adopted her dog Peetie, an 8-year-old Miniature Pinscher from Stoughton Animal Control five years ago. The dog spent two months with animal control, and non one claimed him, so Lourenco decided to make Peetie a part of the family.

"I can’t believe he was found in the street and no one came to claim him," Lourenco said.

Heal said the supplies included food, toys, towels, treats, and more for both cats and dogs. He said the supplies will go a long way in helping the department take care of the animals they bring in.

"I take stray animals to the shelter all the time, and anytime someone can help it's amazing," Heal told Patch.

Lourenco said she couldn't have made the large donation without her friends and family. She said she never doubted that they'd come through for her.

"They didn’t surprise me, I knew they wouldn’t let me down, and I’m just overwhelmed," Lourenco said.