Rescued animals need new caregiver

ALBION, Ind. (WANE) - A local animal rescue facility will soon lose an important member of its family, its veterinarian.

For four years, Dr. Jay Kumaran has volunteered his expertise working with animals housed at Albion's Black Pine Animal Park. His passion is something the park's Executive Director, Lori Gagen said will be missed.

"He means a huge amount to us," Gagen said. "He's helped us take care of over fifty different species of animals."

Kumaran spends about one day a month donating time to the animal sanctuary; time he says pales in comparison to others involved in the not-for-profit.

"There are people in there that donate twenty hours every week," Kumaran said. "My hats off to them!"

Kumaran, 69, plans to soon retire and move out of state with his wife. That leaves managers and more importantly, the animals in need of a new caregiver.

"We're just looking for someone with a big heart, with patience to work with us," Gagen said.

Black Pine provides a sanctuary for nearly 100 animals. They include tigers, bobcats and many others with tarnished histories of neglect and abandonment. Kumaran said his replacement would not need specialized experience with exotic animals.

"Just by virtue of being a veterinarian, you're already exposed to about six or seven species... You can always extrapolate from that," Kumaran said.

Black Pine officials do not necessarily need a local doctor. Much of the help needed will be on a consultant basis. The park staffs trained employees and volunteers prepared to work with animals under a veterinarian's supervision and guidance.

Veterinarians interested in learning more about Black Pine or offering services should call (260) 636-7383.