The last month has gone to the dogs!

 Sorry for the bad pun, but I couldn’t resist.  

 As I look out my window I see what looks like a M.A.S.H. unit for dogs.  After the first few hectic days of hastily putting up pens and shelters, we filled them with 21 dogs from the Katrina hurricane.  Most dogs however are now in veterinary offices being treated for broken bones, chemical burns, heartworm, intestinal parasites and many other health problems. Some are in foster homes pending permanent adoption after January 1.  This was suggested by the Louisiana State Veterinary office to allow guardians ample time to search for their lost pets on Petfinder.com . 

We are extremely grateful to the many veterinarians who have donated their services for these refugees. Also, thank you to everyone who donated food, supplies, housing, and funds!  And of course, many thanks to the volunteers who faithfully walk the dogs each day and help us care for them.   

GREAT NEWS!  Lulu and Arnie are going home.   We will be returning them to their 80 year old guardian on Monday!  I hope she likes Arnie’s new hair cut.  When I first called their names, the excitement in their eyes and wiggling bodies said, “Finally, you know who I am!”   It made the last few tiring weeks worth the effort.  On Sunday we leave for our third trip to the Gulf to transport dogs that were surrendered by their owners to the Mississippi Humane Society.  We owe a big thank you to Daimler-Chrysler for again loaning a large van for the journey. 

If you are interested in fostering or adopting a Katrina dog, please see our website for a Foster Application and more information. 

Of course we have not ignored our farm animal friends during this time.  Two weeks ago we took in a sweet little goat named Dara who was found by the Harbor Humane Society.  She fit right into the herd and doesn’t bark at all. 

One of my concerns about the incoming residents is the cold.  These dogs will leave 90 degree weather to our crisp Michigan autumn.  If you would like to help, please consider donating dog coats, gift certificates for major pet supply stores or funds to buy needed supplies.  Help us continue to save these precious lives. 

For those of you in the Ann Arbor area…..attached is a flyer with details about an upcoming Fundraising event for the Katrina dogs.

 Thank-you!