Volunteers have been publicly disrespected and animals at the shelter underserved. On March 16, 2012 the volunteers who worked inside the animal shelter directly with the animals were dismissed and notified by email. They were also instructed to reapply as volunteers when the suspension is lifted and they might be allowed to return. Many volunteers have been there for 10 years and more and gave 5 days a week for years to the shelter. In January the 87 year old mother of one long time volunteer was told she was no longer welcome at the shelter and she never did anything wrong or caused a problem. These people deserve the town's respect and the animals deserve the love and compassion and care the volunteers gave them.