Protecting animals and preserving communities. We are a nonprofit 501(c)3 no kill animal shelter and rescue. POA was formed in 1975 to rescue abandoned, abused and stray cats and dogs. Today we are one of the oldest and most respected animal welfare organizations in the northeast. POA is here to stay! You will not find a more dedicated, experienced or thorough resource for improving the lives of Connecticut cats and dogs. We confine our focus to our home state because this is where our infrastructure and resources reside, as well as our leadership.