Our Mission

Kenway’s Cause is a 501c3 non profit organization who focuses solely on animal welfare in the city of Hartford, CT. We work closely with animal control and will intervene to provide medical care when an injured stray is picked up. As the city does not provide immediate medical attention and treatment, the only option prior to the existence of Kenway’s Cause was to euthanize the animals. Since our inception we have paid for emergency surgeries, x-rays, ultrasounds, and various tests and forms of treatment.

Kenway’s Cause also provides support to adoptive families and rescue organizations should a dog adopted from the City of Hartford Animal Shelter have a pre-existing medical condition or behavioral issues. Our goal is to provide financial relief to help with treatment and/or rehabilitation.

Over the years we have become heavily involved with TNR (trap-neuter-release) to help the stray cat overpopulation in the city. These cats are humanely trapped and taken to the vet where they are spayed/neutered and vaccinated. They are then either released back to their colony if they are feral, or if they are found to be friendly, we take them in and find them forever homes.

And last, but certainly not least, we work with pet owners in the City of Hartford who are struggling financially to care for their pets. We can provide everything from basic supplies such as food and toys, to medical assistance, and help getting their pets vaccinated and spayed/neutered.

Kenway’s Cause is determined to do all we can for the animals.

Our Story

In June of 2011, Hartford Animal Control Officer Sherry DeGenova received a call regarding a dog found along a set of railroad tracks. When she arrived at the scene she noticed a black plastic garbage bag in a puddle. While approaching the bag, it suddenly moved, and when she opened it she was instantly brought to her knees.

Inside was an abused, neglected, emaciated and innocent dog clinging to life. A gentle soul thrown out like garbage and left for dead. Their eyes made a connection and he pled for her help. She immediately scooped the dog up and drove to the vet as fast as she could. The dog was placed on IV fluids, body warmers and all of the necessary medical assistance to facilitate his recovery.

The sad reality is that the dog didn’t make it.

Unfortunately this type of abuse is seen far too often, and in many instances these poor animals don’t stand a chance at survival. The passing of this dog left a lasting impression on Sherry.

In his honor she named him Kenway, which means Brave Warrior. You see, Kenway fought very hard to live. His breed was almost unrecognizable, and he was an adult that resembled the size of a puppy. The condition he was found in showed he fought every day: he had mange, was deprived of food, water, shelter, veterinary care, and most of all love and affection.

Kenway is the legacy we honor today.