To the editor:

Veterinarian Dr. Ernie J. Finocchio, DVM, is receiving countless human accolades for his passionate and compassionate work as he retires from the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals where he served as its president.

He is beloved by many, including this former volunteer who used to tend the shelter gardens.

But the doctor's largest and most grateful fan base and the one that will be unable to speak or write words of gratitude at this important moment is composed of thousands of animals, birds and reptiles.

They are the ones -- some rescued from horrible situations -- who survived and thrived under his leadership, or whose pain and suffering were so great that they had to be eased with love out of this lifetime. Dr. Finocchio was there for them all.

He was as generous with pats and hugs and kindliness — for humans as well as critters — as he was with his unceasing fervor for enforcing and strengthening laws related to animal abuse and neglect.

Dr. Finocchio, thank you from all of us who have been fortunate enough to be blessed by your presence.

Betsy Shea-Taylor

Providence