Perinton, N.Y. — Security concerns over potential protests are prompting a big change for a longtime fundraising event.
Lollypop Farm announced Wednesday this year’s Tails of Hope Telethon will be pretaped due to growing concerns of demonstrations during the initial live broadcast scheduled for Saturday, March 7.
MORE: 2025 Tails of Hope Telethon raises $545,050 for Lollypop Farm
In a statement, Lollypop said “this responsible decision was made with the best interests of everyone involved in mind,” adding that “ensuring a safe environment for our people, our community and the animals in our care must come first.”
Last week, Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, addressed community questions about animal welfare and the legal framework that informs humane law enforcement decisions. These conversations reflect our ongoing commitment to listening, learning, and improving how we serve animals and the people who care about them.Since that time, we have become aware of organized plans to protest our annual Tails of Hope Telethon scheduled for Saturday, March 7. After careful internal planning and with the safety and well-being of our staff, volunteers, partners, supporters, community members, and animals as our highest priority, we made the thoughtful and proactive decision to shift this year’s Telethon from a live broadcast to a pre-taped format.This responsible decision was made with the best interests of everyone involved in mind. While we respect the right of individuals to express their views, ensuring a safe environment for our people, our community, and the animals in our care must come first.Importantly, the 30th annual Tails of Hope Telethon is still happening. The Telethon will air Saturday, March 7, from 3–9 p.m. on 13WHAM and 13WHAM.com and will continue to raise critical funds and awareness in support of the lifesaving programs, veterinary care, and compassionate services that help thousands of animals and the people who love them each year. While the format of the broadcast has changed, the purpose, impact, and heart of the Telethon have not.We are grateful for the steadfast support of our sponsors and partners, who remain fully aligned with our mission and continue to stand beside us. Together, we are united in our commitment to helping animals in need and advancing our lifesaving mission.
The show will still air on March 7 from 3 to 9 p.m. on 13WHAM and will be livestreamed here on 13WHAM.com.
Comment with Bubbles
JOIN THE CONVERSATION (22)
MORE: Grant to help upgrade technology for Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement | Lollypop Farm launches new mobile veterinary clinic