Overshadowed by the gruesome stories and pictures of animal abuse in Westport has been the extraordinary effort by groups and individuals. Bright lights are too many to mention but here are a few:

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). When it became evident that this disaster was too much for close-to-home groups to tackle alone, the call went out to the ASPCA. What happened next has been a wonder to watch. ASPCA marshaled manpower and materials from around North America and has somehow brought order, momentum and compassion to what might otherwise be an organizational mess. It is involved in triage for the victims, resettlement of the survivors, prosecution of the perpetrators. Under ASPCA care, the tiniest creature leaves that misery with good food and water, clean bedding and the likelihood of a better life. Remarkably, ASPCA is fueled entirely by donations.

• Animal Rescue League of Boston … Every time there is need for animal abuse assistance in Westport (far too often) this group answers the call. From ‘Jersey’ the little blind dog to this disaster, the League’s veterinarians and volunteers have been faithful friends to Westport and its animals.

• Westport Police Department … They were first responders to this hell hole and town police have been much more. They have been vocal about their frustration that this keeps happening here and with an ineffectual “inspection” system, and they have spoken out despite behind-the-scenes pushback from a few among the powers-that-be. Everyone claims to be appalled but a history of silence and looking the other way are a big reason that animal cruelty thrives in Westport. Hats off to the police for realizing that it will take more than a few arrests to bring real change.

• Countless individuals … Especially noteworthy are those people from all around who show up with gifts of hay, food, supplies and offers of help. Some make no secret that they are furious and ashamed that this has happened in their town — “this whole situation disgusts me,” a woman said when she drove up with a promise of lettuce and vegetables from her farm.

This sad saga has put the spotlight on a few of the worst in our region, and many of the best.